From secret alleyways below street level, up to the top of the grandest boulevards – we here at Reside spend a lot of time pounding the pavements of Bath.
We also spend a lot of time taking photographs. From the properties themselves, to the neighbourhoods and surrounding areas in which they sit, it’s our job to notice the details while not losing sight of the bigger picture.
We’ve decided to assemble some of our favourite Viewpoints of Bath for this week’s Reside5.
From cityscapes to the natural world, most of these photos are ours, while some we recommend…all are lovely.
We hope you enjoy! If you want to share one of your own – just give us a Tweet or find us on Facebook.
1. Bath Approach Golf Course
Weston road, BA1 2DS
Twitter: @aquaterral
Golf courses are generally known for their well-manicured greens. Yet ‘The Approach’ also happens to be situated within the boundaries of pretty Victoria Park. Not only that, but a majority of the play is both up and down hill. Therein lies the challenge but also the beauty, as you’ll be privy to some sweeping views of the city.
Don’t consider yourself a golfer? Well, this council owned pitch and putt is completely public and perfect for beginners and experts alike. There’s no need to book either, just turn up. Don’t forget the camera!
2. Bathwick Hill, BA2
Twitter: @bathwickhill
Bathwick Hill captures the spirit of gentility that is synonymous with Bath. This picture was taken looking down its steep slope towards the city centre in the distance.
But beyond the views sit special details too. Many of the buildings on Bathwick Hill are listed. Tuscan columns lurk behind Neo-Grecian gates, while wrought iron verandas are married with Rococo flourishes.
A short detour down Golf Course Road, and you’ll be rewarded with a view of the impressive Sham Castle.
3. Thermae Bath Spa
The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath St, BA1 1SJ
Twitter: @thermaebathspa
(photo credit: thermaebathspa.com)
A surprising number of long-time Bath residents have yet to visit the ‘only natural spa in Britain.’ If you are one of them, isn’t it high time you took the plunge?
The Open-Air Rooftop Pool is not to be missed. Open day and night, we think it’s best viewed at twilight with the sun casting colours across the face of nearby Bath Abbey. You can book a ‘Twilight Package’ for just yourself or for two. It includes a 3hr spa session, grazing menu and complimentary robes.
While photographs are not permitted, some would argue there is no better camera than your mind’s eye (and in this case, we can’t help but agree).
4. Alexandra Park
Shakespeare Ave, BA2
Twitter: @AlexandraPark3
Situated atop Beechen Cliff, the panoramic views from Alexandra Park are simply magnificent. We love the juxtaposition of its surrounding wooded vales with the cream coloured city below.
Thanks to a team of volunteers who planted hundreds of bulbs back in December, you can be sure to find blossoms of colour greeting you throughout the spring.
This Saturday 13 April from 2 – 4pm is the park’s annual Spring Event. Representatives of activities held in the park such as Bowls, Petanque/Boule and Boot Camp Fitness will be on hand to answer questions and encourage participation. Meanwhile, the Royal Horticultural Society will be busy planting edibles. Teas and cakes will also be on offer. Entrance to the event is free and open to all.
5. Bath Abbey
12 Kingston Buildings, Bath BA1 1LT
Twitter: @bathabbey
(photo credit: theworldaheadandhomebehind.wordpress.com)
You’ve probably passed it a million times, but have you ever trudged your way up Bath Abbey’s 212 steps all the way to the top?
A friendly guide helps you along, offering historical facts enroute with a glimpse behind the clock face and inside the workings of the bells.
Once at the top, you can linger as long as you like – snapping pics in every direction. There’s the cricket ground and pavilion on one side, a great view up High Street, and even a chance to see the Roman Baths without paying the entrance fee or having to wait in line.
Tours depart every hour. We’re putting a reminder in the diary to visit during the Christmas Market, as it’s the only time of year tower tours take place after dark.
So what do you think? Any secret viewpoints we should know about? Let us know and we’ll share it on Twitter or Facebook.
