Royal Crescent

Royal Crescent Travel Guide

Introduction

The Royal Crescent in Bath, England, stands as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. This magnificent row of 30 Grade I Listed terrace houses showcases the beauty of Georgian architecture and history. The Royal Crescent is a perfect blend of elegance, serenity, and historical importance, making it a highlight for visitors to Bath.

History

Constructed between 1767 and 1775 by the esteemed architect John Wood the Younger, the Royal Crescent is a stunning example of Georgian architecture. It features a graceful curve of 30 Grade I Listed terrace houses, all surrounding a beautifully maintained lawn that overlooks Royal Victoria Park. The crescent is notable for its ha-ha, a design element intended to keep grazing animals away from the more formal garden areas. Over the years, many prominent figures have resided or stayed in the Royal Crescent, with some honored through plaques affixed to the respective buildings.

How to Get There

Reaching the Royal Crescent is straightforward, with several transportation options available:

– **By Train:** Bath Spa is the main railway station, located about a 20-minute walk from the Royal Crescent. High-speed trains operate from London Paddington.
– **On Foot:** If you’re already in Bath, simply walk to the Royal Crescent, where No.1 is located at the eastern end.
– **By Bus or Coach:** Coaches and buses arrive at Bath bus station, which is a 20-minute walk from the Royal Crescent. National Express provides regular services from London Victoria, and local bus routes operated by First Buses will drop you nearby.
– **By Car:** The closest parking facility is Charlotte Street, just a five-minute walk away. There are several central car parks in Bath, and a Park and Ride service is also available.

Things to See

The Royal Crescent features several attractions worth exploring:

– **No.1 Royal Crescent:** This museum offers an engaging glimpse into Georgian life, showcasing how people lived in Bath during the late 1700s. The museum is divided into two sections: No.1 Royal Crescent and 1A, the adjacent domestic wing. Visitors can discover the lifestyle of the gentry and the daily lives of their servants.
– **The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa:** This opulent hotel provides a serene retreat for those looking to unwind and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
– **Commemorative Plaques:** Various notable residents are honored with plaques attached to their respective buildings.

Ticket Information

Ticket prices for No.1 Royal Crescent vary based on the season and ticket type:

– **Adult Annual Pass:** £15.50
– **Concession Annual Pass:** £13.50
– **Under 18s Free:** Accompanied by an adult
– **Bath Preservation Trust Members:** Free entry with proof of membership
– **Multi-Museum Tickets:** Admission to No.1 Royal Crescent along with the Herschel Museum of Astronomy or Beckford’s Tower. Prices vary depending on the selected combination of museums.

Tips for Visiting

1. **Pre-book Your Tour:** It is recommended to pre-book your visit to No.1 Royal Crescent, as walk-in availability is limited each day.
2. **Accessibility:** A step-free route is available for access to the ground and basement floors of the main museum and the ground and first floors of the domestic wing. However, this route excludes four rooms, which can be explored through a virtual iPad tour.
3. **Parking:** The nearest car park is Charlotte Street, but note that a minimum stay of 4 hours is required.
4. **Guided Tours:** Both guided and self-led tours are offered, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.
5. **Accessibility Needs:** If you have specific accessibility requirements, please contact the museum in advance to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
6. **Bloomberg Connects App:** The museum provides guides through the free arts and cultural app developed by Bloomberg Philanthropies, enhancing the onsite experience with photo, audio, and video features.

A visit to the Royal Crescent is essential for anyone with an interest in history, architecture, and culture. With its breathtaking Georgian design, rich historical background, and immersive museum experience, it promises to offer something for everyone.