Bath is affectionately known as one of the most beautiful cities in England, and with many incredible examples of Georgian architecture, mixed with a host of world class museums, Roman history, natural thermal spas and boutique shops, it’s no wonder that visitors have been visiting Bath for well over 2,000 years.

Here are seven reasons why you should come to Bath this year…

1. Uncover a UNESCO World Heritage Site

2017 marks 30 years since the city of Bath was awarded its UNESCO World Heritage status. Come and see our picturesque Georgian crescents, terraces and squares, all nestled in a valley surrounded by sweeping green countryside.

> Don’t miss the Royal Crescent, Circus, Assembly Rooms and Roman Baths.

2. Celebrate 250 years of the Royal Crescent

2017 marks 250 years since the foundation stone was laid on the Royal Crescent, on 19th May 1767.

Today, the Royal Crescent is so much more than just a curved row of 30 terraced houses. This world-renowned icon is one of the most impressive representations of architectural innovation and imagination of Georgian Britain.

Join us in a year-long celebration of 250 years of the Royal Crescent in Bath with a varied programme of events, trails, workshops, concerts, film screening, exhibitions and talks.

3. Walk in Jane Austen’s Footsteps

Jane Austen made Bath her home for 5 years, between 1801–1806. As 2017 marks 200 years since her death, why not celebrate Britain’s famous female author by taking a tour of Jane Austen’s Bath? Promenade around Sydney Gardens, a place where Jane would have enjoyed public breakfasts, before finding out more about her life at the Jane Austen Centre.

4. Soak in Bath’s Famous Thermal Spa Water

Take a dip in Bath’s restorative thermal waters that are rich in health giving minerals. Soak up the rooftop views from the open air pool at Thermae Bath Spa, or book into a luxurious spa day at the Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel.

You can discover more about Bath’s history in relation to the famous waters at the Roman Baths, one of the most impressive Roman remains in the world!

5. Immerse yourself in Bath’s Cultural Scene

For a city so small, Bath has more museums and galleries than many cities twice its size.

The Holburne Museum and Victoria Art Gallery are both free to enter and house incredible collections of artwork, from Gainsborough masterpieces to exhibitions from local artists. See the thermal steam water rise at the Roman Baths, discover the life of Jane Austen at the Centre dedicated to her, uncover far eastern delights at the Museum of East Asian Art, stand is the spot where Uranus was discovered at the Herschel Museum and find out about Bath’s Georgian legacy at No.1 Royal Crescent.

> Explore more museum and galleries in Bath.

6. Experience World-Class Festivals

One of the beauties of Bath is that it’s a city for all the seasons and is worth visiting at any time of the year. This is partly down to the impressive numbers of festivals that fill Bath’s annual calendar.

In Spring, you can stretch your legs during Bath Half Marathon or enjoy a good laugh at Bath Comedy Festival. Summer sees the launch of brand new Bath Festival, kicking off with local favourite, Party in the City. Bath Fringe, Iford Arts, Forest of Imagination, Bike Bath and Bath Carnival are all back again for Summer 2017 too. The year draws to a close with the Jane Austen Festival, Great Bath Feast and Film Festival in Autumn and the Bath Mozartfest and Bath Christmas Market in Winter.

7. Breathe in an Abundance of Fresh Air

If you’re undecided between a city break or staying somewhere in countryside, Bath offers the best of both worlds. As a small and walkable city, you get the buzz of a modern and exciting city with leafy walks around the corner.

The Bath Skyline walk is a breath of fresh air. This six mile circular walk takes you through hills and forests and offers up spectacular views of the cityscape. As a garden city, there are also plenty of open green spaces to stretch your legs and relax in right in the city centre. Royal Victoria Park’s botanical garden is a calm and beautiful oasis to escape from the hustle and bustle.

Bonus! Shop a plethora of Independent Stores

If you’re looking to indulge in a bit of retail therapy whilst in Bath, then make sure you stray from the beaten track and visit Bath’s independent shops. We’ve got all the big brand names, but then so does every city. What’s really special is when you stumble upon a wonderful independent store that you just won’t find anywhere else.

Some of our favourites are; The Foodie Bugle for food, drinks and homewares, Toppings for your next big read, One Two Five gallery for beautiful ceramics and clothing, Charlotte Brunswick for melt-in-your-mouth chocolate and the San Francisco Fudge Factory for – you guessed it – fudge.