Thermae Bath Spa is Britain’s first natural thermal spa. Situated in the center of Bath, Thermae Bath Spa, with its warm, mineral-rich waters, is a day spa that combines contemporary design with the historic spa to bring guests a bathing experience that Romans enjoyed over 2,000 years ago.
This was my first visit to Bath, England, so Thermae Bath Spa gave me the royal treatment. I went straight to the rooftop pool and took in the views of the Bath skyline and Bath Abbey. All spa treatments include entry into the main facility, a 2-hour spa session with access to the rooftop pool, Minerva Bath, wellness suite and Springs Restaurant. There is an additional fee for dining at Springs Restaurant.
Minerva Bath, named after the Roman Goddess of health and wisdom, is the largest of the thermal baths. This is the place to lounge, float on a foam noodle, or relax in the lazy river. It’s certainly the best place to “take the waters” when it’s raining outside in this UNESCO World Heritage City.
Thermae Bath Spa treatment
I selected the Hot Stones Vichy massage, a stone, oil and water hydro therapy treatment. The hot stones, followed with a full body exfoliation, felt heavenly. I nearly floated upstairs to the Wellness Suite.
Wellness Suite
The Romans didn’t have the advantage of the Wellness Suite in 863BC, but I took full advantage of this luxurious space. The showers offered fragrant air, changing colors and music. Next there were two aroma steam rooms with an ice chamber in between the saunas for keeping you cool between treatments.
My favorite room was the Celestial Relaxation Room with 5 heated tile loungers and a celestial audio video presentation. The downside of this experience was that the door pops open ever few minutes as spa goers anxiously await their turn to relax.
Cross Bath
If you prefer an intimate, open air thermal bath, head across the street to the Cross Bath. Dating back to 1783, it’s the only place in the country that you can witness the natural spring water rise up to the surface and it’s packed with 42 different minerals. The Cross Bath may be rented out for a private party of ten; perfect for a spa day with friends.
Look for the Prince Bladud stone relief by the top of the surrounding wall. As the myth goes, Bladud accidentally discovered the ‘healing’ powers of the waters when his leprosy-suffering pigs rolled in the steaming mud (as pigs will!) and were cured. Bladud also suffered from leprosy, and so applied the steaming mud to his own skin – and was cured too. As legend has it, he went on to found Bath, and become king of the Britons and father to King Lear.
Springs Restaurant at Thermae Bath Spa
Plan to have lunch at Springs Restaurant – at the very least, order the Callebaut hot chocolate! It is delicious; possibly the best cup of hot cocoa that I’ve ever tasted. The fresh baked breads, blue cheese tart, warm goat cheese and chicken ceasar salad are splendid. Order the shortbread if you have room!
Need to know: Thermae Bath spa packages star at £48. Entry to Cross Baths starts at £18; always check the website for current prices. Thermae Bath Spa provides robes, towels and slippers, as well as shampoo.
Insider Tip: The twilight package at Thermae Bath Spa is the best place to catch a Bath sunset. All-inclusive twilight packages may be booked in advance Monday – Friday from 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. For additional insider tips follow luxury travel writer @Nancydbrown on Twitter or Instagram @Nancydbrown and @Thermae Bath Spa on Instagram.
If You Go:
Thermae Bath Spa 0122 33 1234
The Hetling Pump Room
Hot Bath Street
Bath, England BA1 15J
Thermae Bath Spa review, YouTube video and all photography by travel writer Nancy D. Brown. As is typical in the industry, I received a complimentary spa treatment, however, all opinions are my own.
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