Bath

Readers of Jane Austen might be interested to learn that Bath, a popular vacation spot for 18th century British gentry, has actually been populated since the Iron Age. It is the site of natural hot, sulfurous springs and the Romans built a lavish bathhouse there in the 1st century. It is also home to the magnificent Bath Abbey, built in the 10th century. Today, it is still a major vacation destination, bustling with shops and museums. The city and surrounding countryside are both charming.

 Front of Bath Abbey.

 Close-up of the ladder with angels on Bath Abbey.

 Roman Baths.

The water in the Roman baths is untreated so only the ducks get to bathe there. Humans can go to one of the many spas in town.

Source of the hot water spring.

It's difficult to see in the picture, but the water is steaming.

 What remains of the facade of the temple to Minerva that was part of the bath complex. This facade is an unusual mixture of Roman and Celtic motifs. It is also one of the few Roman antiquities in England that is not imported from elsewhere.

 Bath pigs decorated by various artists all around the city. Why pigs? Perhaps because of the tradition of pig farming in the area.

 City green space. The whole city just invites relaxation!

Table and chairs at a cafe called "The Mad Hatter's Tea Party"