Bath, Somerset and Glastonbury

BATH & ROMAN BATHS

After breakfast at the hotel, we take to the ancient, cobbled streets of Bath for a guided tour. It’s unsurprising that the whole city has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, boasting an incredible and fascinating display of Roman remains and contrasting 18th-century architecture. Perfectly blending Roman and Georgian influences, the city centre is a pleasure to explore with its harmonious honey-hued buildings.
It was the Romans who first discovered Bath’s potential by siting a bathhouse here, which lead to the development of a settlement in the area. So, after our guided walking tour of the city centre, we will visit one of the best-preserved Roman bathhouses in the world, taking advantage of the hot springs located here which reach temperatures of up to 46C.

With plenty more to discover, enjoy a free afternoon to explore Bath. The Royal Crescent is another highlight of course, so perhaps visit the No. 1 Royal Crescent museum for a glimpse into wealthy Georgian life, behind the beautiful façade of these iconic townhouses. Literature fans may want to head to the Jane Austen Centre to find out more about the author’s life in the city in the early 1800s. Then there’s Royal Victoria Park, with its botanical gardens, an inspiring place to spend a leisurely afternoon.

WELLS, GLASTONBURY & CHEDDAR GORGE

Today begins with a visit to one of the smallest cathedral cities in the UK, Wells. Despite not significantly changing in over 800 years, this picturesque corner of Somerset still retains its old-world charm. With its amber toned exterior, Wells Cathedral is the earliest English Cathedral to be built in the Gothic style, having been built from 1190, and looks truly impressive. Look up to see over 300 breathtaking 13th century figures of saints and kings which adorn the west front, with a majestic interior matches the grandeur of the exterior. Nearby Bishop’s Palace, set within 14 acres of tranquil gardens and surrounded by a moat, has been home to the Bishop of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. We will have a guided tour of the palace and gardens to find out more about this incredible landmark, with some free time for lunch. It’s thought to be the most impressive Bishop’s house still in use in England, followed by free time to admire the Cathedral itself.

Known for its annual music festival but with a long and illustrious history, we continue to Glastonbury. The village itself is built around a set of ruins of a former abbey, which you will have time to explore with free time for lunch. Famed for mystical associations, Glastonbury Abbey dates back to the 7th century and is thought to be the oldest Christian foundation in the UK.

Food lovers will be excited at the next stop, as will those who appreciate natural beauty, as we head to Cheddar Gorge. We call at the true ‘home’ of the famous cheese, the only place in the village itself where cheese is made, to experience part of the cheese-making process at a family-owned artisan cheesemaker. Gough’s Cave in Cheddar Gorge, is, in fact, the original historical Cheddar Cheese larder. This is because the Cheddar Gorge caves in have environmental conditions perfect for cheese maturing; constant temperature and high humidity. In turn, these create the distinct flavor and texture.
After driving through the dramatic Cheddar Gorge to admire the natural beauty of this amazing limestone geological formation, we make our way through the rural landscape of the Mendip Hills, returning to Bath in the late afternoon.

AVEBURY, LACOCK AND AFTERNOON TEA

This morning begins with a trip to one of the best-preserved prehistoric sites in Britain, Avebury, in nearby Wiltshire. A historical gem, the history of this Neolithic stone circle dates back almost 6,000 years, with a mystery purpose that is still not known to this day. Also the largest stone circle in Britain, it originally featured about 100 stones, with two smaller stone circles enclosed within it, which indicate it may have been used for ceremonies or rituals. Unlike nearby Stonehenge, you can actually walk inside the stone circle at Avebury. This we do, giving a truly interactive experience.

Our next stop a place where it feels time has almost stood still, Lacock. This incredibly well-preserved National Trust village is a famous filming location, appearing in Harry Potter, Downton Abbey and Pride and Prejudice, amongst others. We will have time to explore the wonderful village itself and the nearby 13th-century abbey. Our time in this quintessential British place is rounded off a fittingly timeless tradition, as we enjoy afternoon tea before returning to Bath.

RETURN HOME

Today we return home with memories of Somerset. Perhaps enjoy some shopping in the local independents or enjoy a leisurely stroll around Bath’s picture-perfect Royal Victoria Park before returning.