Things to do | Art, Culture & Heritage | Spa towns

Spa towns

Go with the flow

The Romans discovered the healing benefits of natural spa waters thousands of years ago. And we're lucky enough to have so many mineral-rich springs in Britain which we continue to enjoy. Why not go with the flow and experience the therapeutic waters of one of Britain's best spa towns?

Bath

Woman relaxing in the New Royal Bath at Thermae Bath Spa, Britain's original and only thermal bath spa set in the busy city of Bath, England © Britainonview / Jon Spaull
Bath is surely the most well-known spa town in Britain; the Romans discovered its natural mineral-rich hot waters over 2000 years ago. Believe it or not, Bath is home to the best preserved Roman baths in the world – even better than in Rome itself! Bath is so rich in heritage and spa antiquities, the entire city is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Best of all you can now take a therapeutic dip yourself at the new Thermae Bath Spa – Britain’s only natural thermal public spa.
 

Harrogate Spa

Harrogate in Yorkshire is the picture of English gentility with a spa history that goes back 400 years. Discover the stories of Harrogate’s past and taste the smelly sulphur waters at the Royal Pump Room Museum, or indulge yourself at the newly redeveloped Victorian Turkish Baths. With its elaborate arched roofs and original Arabic mosaics, it’s the perfect place to enjoy hot chambers, plunge baths and decadent treatments. And don’t forget to look out for the listed toilet!

Cheltenham Spa

Durdle Door, Dorset Source:© lovestruck. (Flickr)
Cheltenham became a spa town in 1716 and is one of the most complete Regency towns in