The Royal Crescent

One of Baths iconic historical buildings and a must see when one visits Bath. The Royal Crescent, one of Bath's most iconic landmarks, was built between 1767 and 1775 and designed by John Wood the Younger. This impressive landmark is arranged around a perfect lawn overlooking Royal Victoria Park and forms a sweeping crescent of 30 Grade I Listed terrace houses. It is without doubt one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture anywhere in the UK.

If you're coming to Bath for the first time, walking through The Circus en route to the Royal Crescent is a must. Even if architecture isn't necessarily your thing - it's a spectacular and impressive sight, and an iconic landmark here in the city. Also walking is good for you, so grab a coffee and meander through the city (maybe pack a picnic, a good book, and a blanket to enjoy in the expansive parkland opposite the houses after you've take a few photos). So what is it? Thirty identical terraced townhouses of Bath stone in a perfect crescent shape created by John Wood, The Younger in the mid-ish 1700's. And yes, you'll probably see the ha-ha - it's a low stone structure that separates/partitions the upper and lower lawns (allowing for an uninterrupted, sweeping view of Royal Victoria Park, and - once upon a time - it stopped the livestock from wandering up to the building itself). There's several different incredible views of The Crescent throughout the city - walking up to it initially from Brock St, for example, is pretty breathtaking the first time; looking up at The Crescent through the trees, past the green space along Royal Ave; and, from Alexandra Park (which gives you views of all the staple Bath spots).

If you are coming to Bath make sure you don't overlook walking to the circus and the Royal crescent. Spend as long as you like in the parks or walking the road, but it's a must see when visiting Bath.