VISITS AND VACATIONS

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Things to do on a day trip to Bath

As you might expect from a place called Bath, this city is famous for its water. Its naturally hot spring water made it a favourite with the Romans, who built, of course, some baths. It's also the backdrop to some of Jane Austen's famous novels. Put all that together, and you've got a World Heritage Site straight out of a BBC period drama. Ready to explore? Here's what to do if you're heading to Bath for a day or weekend trip.

1. See the beautifully preserved Great Bath

These Roman Baths have been one of the most visited places in Britain for more than 2,000 years. Go to see the Great Bath, the Roman Temple, and to taste the mineral-packed spa water which comes out of a special water fountain. The Beau Street Hoard is also worth seeing. That's the 17, 577 Roman coins that were found under the new Gainsborough Hotel in 2007.

2. Have a soak in a rooftop spa pool

Bad news: you can't take a dip in the Great Bath. Good news: you can visit the atmospheric Thermae Bath Spa rooftop pool for a dip. Alternatively, book into a hotel for a spa experience of your own.

3. Visit Pulteney Bridge

The Grade I listed Pulteney Bridge is a real rarity. You'll find shops, cafes and restaurants inside, and there are only four others in the world like it.

4. Walk all the way around the Royal Crescent

Bath is probably most famous for its Georgian crescents. You might recognise the Royal Crescent from period dramas, but even if you're not a fan of those, you'll probably like the views of  Royal Victoria Park. Known as the best address in Bath, No.1 Royal Crescent was opened as a museum in 2013.

5. Learn about Bath's history in a museum

Bath has got loads of museums, so keep these on your list for a rainy day.

Fashion Museum. If you like the idea of seeing more than 100,000 pieces of clothing and footwear, and dressing up like a Victorian, this is the place for you.

If you do go, your ticket also gets you into the Assembly Rooms. That was the entertainment centre of Georgian times, where you could dance, drink tea, play cards or just "be seen".

and as always have a chilled day from the Viking