I embarked on a unique holiday—not to a distant land, but within my own backyard. Living in Bath, one of the UK’s most treasured UNESCO World Heritage cities, I’m surrounded daily by landmarks that attract visitors worldwide: The Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey, and The Roman Baths. While some locals resent tourists, I welcome them; they remind me to remain grateful for this beautiful place and to never take it for granted.
Inspired by their wonder, I decided to see Bath through their eyes. Packing a few essentials, I ventured across the city for a short adventure at The Roseate Villa, bypassing the usual hassles of travel—no airports, no heavy luggage, no passport stress—just a simple twenty-minute stroll.
Nestled by the tranquil Henrietta Park and steps from Great Pulteney Street’s iconic Georgian townhouses, The Roseate Villa stands as one of Bath’s most perfectly situated hotels. Dating from Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee celebration, this boutique 21-room hotel exudes charm and elegance.
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Our penthouse welcomed us with a delightful array of French macaroons, mini cheesecake, and caramel-covered strawberries. The room was thoughtfully appointed with a minibar, flat-screen TV, a spacious overhead shower, and breathtaking views of Henrietta Park.
Bath bustles with visitors, making many central restaurants lively and crowded, but The Roseate’s Henrietta Bar and Restaurant offers a serene, intimate haven. Surrounded by just a handful of tables and the warmth of a fireplace, it felt like the perfect spot for a special occasion.
I savored my first-ever ham hock and chicken terrine, complemented by pickled vegetables and a rich sauce that elevated the dish. My main course was a sirloin steak with Caesar salad, peppercorn sauce, and some of the best chips I’ve ever tasted—the secret was the crispy skin left on for added texture. Despite feeling full, I indulged in a vanilla panna cotta halo with mango sorbet, fresh strawberries, and crunchy almond pieces. We also enjoyed an exclusive cocktail reminiscent of a liquid cherry Bakewell, crafted from Mozart, Chambord, and Giffard liqueurs—a highlight of my evening.
The next morning, breakfast was a leisurely affair. Instead of a buffet, dishes were served with care: fresh fruit salad in a quaint mason jar, fluffy pancakes topped with honey, fried bananas, blueberry compote, and French press coffee. It was the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication.
Refreshed, I explored Bath’s lesser-known sights, including the Beazer Maze by the river and the vast, ladder-lined Toppings bookshop in a grand Victorian building. I capped the morning with a stroll through Henrietta Park, appreciating the green space from The Roseate’s perspective.
For afternoon tea, we returned to The Roseate to enjoy a traditional English experience. The Bath City Blend tea, crafted in 1888 to complement the city’s hard water, was a fitting choice. The tea service included two scones each, ten dainty sandwiches, and eight exquisite little cakes—an indulgence meant to be savored slowly with a good friend.
Travel often inspires us to go far away, and that’s a wonderful thing. Yet sometimes, the greatest discovery lies in simply pausing and seeing home anew. My stay at The Roseate Villa transformed my everyday surroundings into a fresh, delightful experience. Whether visiting from afar or nearby, this boutique retreat offers a perfect escape without leaving the city.
The Roseate Villa welcomes guests with rooms starting at £85.