The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

If you want to know what it might have been like to stay in Bath as a part of the aristocracy, stay at this hotel. (It's a Grade 1 listed building, meaning it's historically protected). In fact, the TV show Downton Abbey is purportedly based on events that happened on The Royal Crescent, a famous street where the British elite once resided. Today, celebrities -- from Hollywood starlets to heads of state -- are often seen milling about the grounds. The common areas are plentiful, ranging from the lovely, expansive one-acre gardens to the classically English studies and libraries adorned with oil paintings, velvet settees, plush armchairs, crystal chandeliers, and cozy fireplaces. Even the stairways have Corinthian columns. There’s a decided feeling of elegance no matter which way you turn.

Situated mere minutes from the city center but also across from the Botanical Gardens in Victoria Park, this hotel puts you right at the doorstep of Bath’s major attractions. Notable stops within walking distance include the Jane Austen Centre, Museum of East Asian Art, and Roman Baths. Built into two townhouses on what is arguably the most famed street in Bath, the location is very convenient for those in town for business or pleasure.There's quite a bit of foot traffic on the cobblestones outside the property, but somehow the Royal Crescent still manages to maintain a quiet and private atmosphere.

Because this hotel is a Grade 1 listed building, alterations to the structure or rooms require government approval. The result is that these rooms are not standardized and there’s variability in sizes and features. Some units have fireplaces, separate living areas, and larger bathrooms with tubs in addition to showers. What is consistent with every room is the quality of the space, the cleanliness, and the attention to detail. The understated, sophisticated decor blends contemporary and period details. Modern amenities include free in-room Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and docking stations, while interesting details like silk wallpaper and four-poster beds in some rooms point to the hotel's Georgian heritage. The marble bathrooms include robes, slippers, and top-of-the-line toiletries. For even more privacy, book a suite with garden access; they’re located in the back of the property with doors opening right onto the grounds. Chocolates upon arrival and turndown service at night are just a few additional touches.

The upscale spa on this property, refurbished in March 2017, is heaven. Built into separate carriage houses, it not only offers a variety of services in multiple treatment rooms, but has a sauna and steam room as well. There are also two lovely indoor pools in the spa area: a relaxation pool (retiled after our visit) and a new vitality pool with jetted area, but these are small and serve as more of heated dipping pools. The surrounding ambiance is unique, thanks to bamboo pillars, stone floors, and walls with high arched windows. Hot and tepid wooden tubs are in the space as well. The fitness center is not huge but well-equipped with several different types of cardio equipment (spaced a little close together but manageable), free weights, pulley machines, exercise balls, and even a Power Plate.

There are a handful of small, elegant meeting rooms available if you're in town for business, and wedding receptions and ceremonies can also be arranged on the property. The award-winning restaurant and bar The Dower House is decorated simply in shades of cream and Wedgwood blue with dark-wood armchairs and floral chandeliers and paintings. The French doors on one side open up to the patio; there the hotel serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner while striving to maintain an adult atmosphere. If you have antsy young children in tow you might be better off grabbing a bite at The Dower, which has an all-day children's menu.

There's also a posh full afternoon tea service available, served overlooking the gardens in warmer months and in the drawing rooms in winter. For a special splurge check out the Champagne Afternoon Tea. Valet parking is free for guests, and cabs also queue up at the Royal Crescent regularly.