A walk to Bath

A few weeks ago I had to go into Bath and, as it was such a lovely day, I decided to document my route. I am very lucky to live just outside this World Heritage City and I still feel exceptionally lucky to be able to call this home.

The first glimpse of the suburbs of Bath, a parade of Georgian houses in the distance

After a walk I enter Sydney Gardens which has one of my favourite houses in Bath. I covet that lounge with its wonderful bay and flat roof terrace. It is possible to enter the gardens through a door in the Ionic Columned porch. A wonderful space to sit and soak up the sunshine.

The pathway continues to mature trees and a pedestrian bridge.

Looking to the right, the towpath travels along the Kennet and Avon canal through Bathampton, Dundas, Avoncliffe and beyond.

To the left, it flows through the Gardens and through Bath, onto Bristol. It is possible to moor in this basin providing excellent access to the theatre and other attractions.

Continuing through the gardens (they seem really big but they aren't although they are fairly spacious) there is this lovely replica of the temple to Minerva. The pediment is based on the freeze found at the Roman Baths.

Nearing the road there is this lovely example of Edwardian(?) toilets. When I first arrived they were abandoned to the plants. It is great to be able to see the structure and I really hope these can be restored.

 

As can be seen, the state of preservation is pretty good and I personally think they are interesting and pretty and I would love to be able to use them as intended.

In keeping with several city gardens the majority of houses surrounding it were provided with direct access. This means it is possible to pass from Sydney Gardens directly into the gardens of the Holburne Museum, with its new attractive glass extension.

I think the change from modern to Georgian is well handled.

The walk then takes me past this little summer house, which I think is adorable.

Once I pass this, I can take in the view of the famous Great Pulteney Street.

Looking back where I have come from, the beauty of Holburne museum can be enjoyed.

Walking along the wide expanse that is Great Pulteney Street it is easy to imagine how impressive this would have been when it was established. There are several side streets, one leads down to another garden but on the left hand side is the Recreation Ground. The park side of the grounds are entered by these wonderful 1930s turnstiles.

The right hand side of the grounds forms the infamous Rec, home of Bath Rugby.

Continuing down Great Pulteney Street, there are some lovely sights. The Windsor Hotel, where I spent my wedding night.

And a lovely balcony.

At the end of the street is Laura's Place and I take a quick detour to the end of the close. This is the Rec, on match day this is a popular spot for a free glimpse of the action.

Then I turn back to Laura's Place and cross over Pulteney Bridge.

 

Continuing straight on, past the traffic lights I then turn left to be greeted by Bath Abbey. Time for me to do a bit of shopping.

I hope you enjoyed seeing my route into the city.

 

Posted with Blogsy