Harington’s Hotel

The Harington's City Hotel occupies an unassuming though historic corner building that dates back more than 300 years -- the property is named after its original owner, John Harington, who has been credited with inventing the flushing toilet (hence "the John"). The guesthouse is now owned by a married couple, Peter and Melissa, who provide guests with a warm welcome and attentive, though unobtrusive, hospitality that contributes to the hotel's laid-back boutique vibe. Inside pastel-toned walls are decorated with a mix of oil paintings and quirky prints, while furnishings are an eclectic blend of antique-style pieces and homey soft seating. A light and airy dining room overlooking the cobblestone street makes a pleasant spot to relax, while a modest-size bar area provides evening drinks for the largely weekending tourists who make up the clientele. 

The hotel is centrally located on a quaint cobbled side street lined with the Bath's 18th-century Georgian architecture. All the city's main tourist attractions are well within walking distance, including the ancient Roman Baths and Thermae Baths, both within a four-minute walk. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants in the surrounding area, and despite its central location, the spot is particularly quiet with little through traffic. The main Spa Bath train station is less than 10 minutes away on foot, and there's hotel-owned private parking (for a fee) within a four-minute walk of the hotel.

The hotel has 13 rooms, each of which has been individually styled in decor that ranges from a smart black-and-white scheme with sleek modern furnishings to playful, vibrantly wallpapered spaces with antique-style pieces. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and free Wi-Fi, as well as a few luxury touches such as Egyptian cotton sheets, large fluffy towels, and high-end toiletries. Bathrooms are compact and either have shower stalls or shower/tub combos. While the location is generally quiet, there's little soundproofing between rooms. Some of the Standard Rooms can feel cramped though Superior and Feature Rooms are spacious with extra perks such as bathrobes. Bear in mind there's no elevator, and some rooms are on the third floor. 

The hotel serves a cooked breakfast, including a full English with smoked kippers (included in the rate) in a pleasantly bright dining room overlooking the street. There's also a small bar-lounge area for coffee or evening drinks, as well as an outdoor hot tub in a small secluded courtyard -- there is a small fee, however, that covers the loan of robes and slippers, or more for a half-bottle of Champagne.