Although the Celts found it first, the Romans brought life to the baths in the UK. People have been coming to Bath in Somerset for thousands of years to dip into the naturally warm spring waters. From the Celts to the Romans, through the Georgian period and up to now, people have been flocking to this beautiful city to indulge in the waters. That is, until the 1970’s, when the springs were closed to bathers for sake of caution, as there were safety concerns. The new baths opened in 2006 and have been the spa break haven ever since.
Bath Thermae Spa is Britain’s one and only natural thermal spa. The waters are pristine, warm, crystal clear, and contain over 40 minerals, thought to be incredibly therapeutic. You’ll marvel at the unique blend of the “old” historic spa buildings combined with the “new” contemporary design of the New Royal Bath. There are no memberships, you need only purchase a 2-hour, 4-hour, or day-long spa session.
When you enter the spa, you’ll get a wristband that allows access to all parts of the new facility. The band acts as a key, to access to your personal locker, and the “smart” wristband enables you to make purchases at the in-house restaurant. No need to carry keys or money!
On the ground floor is the indoor Minerva Bath. The round shape and the colorful lighting set the tone for a relaxing afternoon. The warm waters in the Minerva Bath are accentuated by a whirlpool and revitalizing massage jets. A steam room is available with four separate “steam pods” that are infused with varied aromatic scents. You can also take refreshing waterfall shower.
There may be nothing more relaxing and rejuvenating than soaking in the heated waters from the open-air rooftop pool. Day or night, you can immerse yourself while taking in the beautiful skyline of the city. From the pool you can see Bath Abbey and listen to the tolling of the bells.
With 42 different spa treatments available to choose from, the Bath Thermae Spa is the place for the quintessential spa break. You could opt for a gentle hot stone treatment, a relaxing bamboo massage, or an aromatherapy hot oil massage. The signature treatment at Thermae is the Watsu. This treatment in the historic Hot Bath, you will float in the mineral rich waters, while your muscles are being gently stretched, guided and massaged by highly a skilled therapist.
In a separate building, just across the street, is the Cross Bath. The Cross has its own changing rooms and its own open-air thermal bath fed by an independent spring. The pool can be used for quick visits or as a unique venue for you and up to 12 friends for a private bath.
Many B and B’s in Bath offer unique spa break packages with the Thermae Spa. Some include champagne, tours of the Roman Bath Museum, and the Pump Room.