Bath’s Royal Crescent Hotel masterfully marries old and new – just like Bridgerton
Arriving at Bath's Royal Crescent Hotel feels like stepping straight into an episode of Bridgerton – and not just because the street's honey-coloured architecture forms the backdrop of the show. The hotel is grand and picture-perfect, with charming nods to its Regency roots – yet there’s a distinctly modern feel at every turn.
Located on the most famous street in Bath – and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – you could almost walk past the modest entrance to the hotel, which looks just like all the other doors on the road.
But, don’t be fooled, inside it’s an all-but-subtle affair – and one that would certainly get the approval of the ‘Ton.
A recent refurbishment is a lesson in letting the bones of a property shine through modern updates. In the communal areas, glorious Georgian features, like sweeping staircases, intricate cornice detailing, wall plates and panelled walls, are complemented by contemporary pastel furnishings, Pooky lights and vibrant artwork.
It masterfully marries old and new – just like the hit Netflix series.
Rooms
Each of the hotel’s 45 rooms (with Deluxe Bedrooms, Heritage Bedrooms, Master Bedrooms and Family Master Bedrooms on offer), have also been reimagined in this recent refurbishment, with colour palettes based on historical Georgian tones by Farrow & Ball.
The 11 inspiring suites are the work of Clayton & Company and Project Manager, Becky Astley, who designed each room based on current wallpaper and fabric trends, using bold colour palettes against neutral backdrops.
Restaurant
Downstairs, the hotel’s 3 AA Rosette restaurant Montagu’s Mews is a tickled pink affair – somewhat reminiscent of Sketch's former bubblegum dining room in London and Lady Danbury’s breathtaking pillared home. These eye-catching yet well-balanced interiors at Montagu’s Mews are the brainchild of Shelley Reiner, Director of London-based interior design company, Suited.
The restaurant itself is headed up by award-winning head chef Martin Blake and – with 18 years of experience under his belt – customers are in safe hands.
Martin's ethos of simplicity, brilliant execution, and quality local ingredients shines across the dishes on offer – most notably the tasting menus, where every single course is a talking point (it's hard to pick a favourite). Starting with his signature moreish milk bread, his culinary vision shows off well-balanced beef tartar and local lamb in all its glory.
The restaurant is named after, and inspired by, Elizabeth Montagu – the original resident of number 16 Royal Crescent, who was a writer and advocate for women’s education. Just like the rest of the hotel, you can't help but leave the space learning something about the building's rich history.
Spa
Of course, no trip to the Royal Crescent Hotel – or Bath for that matter – would be complete without a spa break. The hotel’s serene offering is just a 20-second walk through the lavender-filled gardens and is housed in a converted coach house.
The main bulk of the spa is a modest offering with a cosy steam room, jacuzzi and a 12.5-metre pool – however, the space oozes charm with dramatic, church-like arched windows and a doorway forming the backdrop.
The hotel's sublime service lies at the heart of its overall luxurious experience. Staff are attentive and experienced, but not intrusive and know the power of personal touches (they even handwrite your own name on your door during your stay).
Location
What's more, the hotel's enviable postcode is a great base for a weekend escape in Bath. A short walk down the road will take you past the Grade-I townhouses that star in the opening scenes of Bridgerton – as well as the Featherington family's fictional home, which is right next door (at No.1).
Whether you decide to visit during the summer months when the impressive gardens are buzzing with bees, or during winter when the Bath Christmas Markets are just around the corner, The Royal Crescent Hotel is an all-year luxury destination that offers a five-star Regency-era spa retreat.
An overnight stay costs from £405 per room, including breakfast and use of The Spa & Bath House.
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