One of the draws of staying in Bath is that it is a city nestled between miles of untouched scenery and terrific landscapes, boasting farmyards, woodland, fields and more. Because of the natural surroundings, a stay in Bath means having the choice of staying either in the city centre or on the outskirts where you’ll find more rural accommodation and the chance to see more of the wonderful countryside that this part of Somerset offers. Staying in more rural locations will also give you the opportunity to experience life in small communities, many with interesting histories and charming shops and cafes for you to enjoy if you fancy a break from the bustle of the city centre.
Staying outside the city will give you a few more self-catering options. There are barns and cottages in the surrounding towns and villages where you will be able to stay in a comfortable ‘home from home’ in quiet surroundings with the freedom of being able to come and go as you please and enjoy Bath at your own pace. Choosing self-catering in the city centre might offer you a penthouse apartment or converted Georgian townhouse, but going a bit further out will give you splendid cottages, former dairies, converted barns and chapels,making it an ideal place for a rural retreat.
The wide open countryside boasts golf courses and hotels, with courses onsite for you to get in a few swings, while you are on your holidays. Bath is home to several golf courses, many of which are located in rural scenery with spectacular views of the city or with miles of the unbroken countryside all around. Bath Golf Club is one of England’s finest and oldest inland courses and is right on the doorstep, whereas Lansdown Golf Course is on the outskirts. Further out still, you can experience playing at the courses in Orchardleigh, Midsomer Norton or Farrington Gurney where there are golf clubs hidden away in the surrounding towns and villages. Heading out of the city for a few rounds of golf and a little exploring is one of many great reasons to choose a more rural retreat when holidaying in the city. All the surrounding golf courses are within a short distance of the city centre and boast superb facilities.
Combining city and rural life will allow you to really get the best of both worlds and see Bath from all angles. If you want to get a better sense of the place, take a look at some of the hotels, guesthouses and other properties in the neighbouring countryside. You will never have to travel too far to find something enticing to do and staying further out will guarantee you the chance to have a meal in one of Somerset’s independent eateries which tend to use fresh, local produce. Choosing to stay outside the city centre also means you aren’t confined and will give you easy access to both the centre and star rated attractions like Stonehenge, Longleat Safari Park and Cheddar Gorge. Choosing to stay outside the city will also give you access to the city of Bristol, if you wanted to add another city to your itinerary.
Take a look at the accommodation on the outskirts of the city and be spoilt for choice with country hotels, spa retreats, self-catering apartments, farm holidays and B&Bs.