Living on one of Britain’s most iconic streets is a dream for many, but for residents of Bath’s Royal Crescent, it comes with some surprising challenges. Famous for its stunning Georgian architecture and as a key filming location for the hit Netflix series Bridgerton, the crescent attracts tourists from around the world—some of whom have crossed the line by wandering into residents’ homes uninvited.
The Royal Crescent, a sweeping row of 30 Grade I-listed terrace houses built between 1767 and 1775, is a striking landmark recognized worldwide. It serves as the backdrop for numerous scenes in Bridgerton, with 1 Royal Crescent depicted as the Featherington family’s London residence. The show’s popularity has only increased the foot traffic from visitors eager to photograph the multi-million-pound properties.
While locals cherish their historic street and its community feel, they’ve encountered unusual and sometimes intrusive behavior from tourists. Michelle Little, who has lived at Royal Crescent since 1997, recalls numerous occasions when tourists casually entered her home or peeked through doors to snap photos. “You could be unloading your car, and tourists just walk in and start exploring,” she explains. Her sons have even learned to politely usher visitors out.
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Some visitors display a mix of curiosity and misunderstanding about modern living in these historic homes. Michelle remembers an American tourist who asked repeatedly if the house had running water and electricity—at one point, even trying to climb the staircase to check.
Despite occasional frustrations, Michelle finds a unique charm in the street’s atmosphere. “The Royal Crescent is like a village compressed into one street,” she says. The demographic has shifted over the years, with younger residents moving in and bringing fresh energy.
Jack Betenson, who moved into a flat on the Crescent two years ago, enjoys the lively vibe the tourists bring, even though his fiancée is less enthusiastic. “It’s busy and exciting—the busiest part of the Crescent, really,” he says. Jack appreciates the blend of tranquility and convenience, calling it “one of the nicest addresses in the UK.”
For Elizabeth Pickett, 82, who inherited her property and moved back after years abroad, the Crescent offers a perfect balance of sunshine, views, and walkability. “I can walk to town, and I enjoy seeing people from all over the world,” she says, though she acknowledges that many flats are second homes and remain empty for much of the year.
Another resident appreciates the street’s peacefulness despite the steady stream of visitors. She enjoys creating moments of joy, like placing sculptures outside that make tourists smile, adding to the friendly atmosphere.
While living on the Royal Crescent certainly has its quirks—especially when Bridgerton fans mistake it for an open set—residents generally treasure their historic surroundings and close-knit community. For them, the beauty and history of the Crescent outweigh the occasional intrusion by enthusiastic tourists.