There are many reasons to set up residency in Bath and North East Somerset,
Historic and cultural attractions
The city of Bath has been designated as a cultural site on the World Heritage list, for its ancient Roman remains and 18th century Georgian architecture.
The waters are still a big draw, both at the ancient Roman Baths and the thoroughly modern Thermae Bath Spa, which houses the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain you can bathe in.
The city and surrounding Somerset countryside has a long and colourful history, with many famous visitors and residents which help to make it one of the most visited locations in Europe.
The iconic Royal Crescent is an impressive landmark overlooking Royal Victoria Park, while Pulteney Bridge is an English Heritage Grade 1 listed building and one of only four bridges in the world with shops across the full span of both sides.
High performing educational establishments
The area is well-served by educational establishments, with a number of independent schools as well as good quality state-funded provision. There are two universities – the University of Bath and Bath Spa University, as well as Bath School of Art and Design, Norland College, Bath College and Weston College in nearby Weston-super-Mare.
Spectacular scenery
Two thirds of the Bath and North East Somerset area is covered by green belt. It stretches from the outskirts of Bristol, south into the Mendip Hills and east to the southern Cotswolds, both of which are areas of outstanding natural beauty. The Forest of Avon acts as the lungs for the region, while the picturesque Kennet and Avon Canal carves its way across the countryside from Bristol towards London.
Picturesque towns, cities and villages
Travel connections
Regular high-speed train services from Bath Spa means it takes just 90 minutes to get into London Paddington. There are also frequent services by coach to London Victoria, as well as Heathrow and Gatwick airports. Meanwhile Bristol Airport is within easy reach, offering direct services to over 100 destinations across Europe.
Bath itself is easily accessible from the M4 motorway, and benefits from three Park and Ride services which operate seven days a week, with services into the city running every 15 minutes.
Shopping
Bath’s compact, visitor-friendly city centre is packed with retailers large and small. SouthGate is a lively retail complex that’s home to some of the biggest brands of the high street. Meanwhile, surrounding Bath Abbey in the heart of the city is a maze of intriguing alleyways with one-of-a-kind independent boutiques selling glassware, fashion and accessories. The scene is made all the more picturesque when festive chalets pop up as part of the annual Christmas Market.
Festivals and Events
Here’s a list of some of the many events in the area:
- The Bath Half Marathon – or BathHalf – is one of the most popular city centre road events in the UK, with a two lap course that straddles both sides of the River Avon
- The Bath Festival is a celebration of music and literature with a diverse programme of events running throughout May, culminating in Party in the City – an evening of music and entertainment
- The Royal Bath and West Show is a celebration of rural life over three days in May at the showground in Shepton Mallet
- Pub in the Park brings together live music with Michelin-starred chefs all served up in Royal Victoria Park in Bath every June
- Take a ride on the Real Ale train or the Santa Special on The Somerset and Dorset Railway at Midsomer Norton
- Europe’s largest annual meeting of hot air balloons tales place every August at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
- The Keynsham Fake Festival is a tribute-based music event in a giant marquee at Keynsham Rugby Club
- The Bath Children’s Literature Festival (ten days across late September and early October) is Europe’s largest festival of children’s literature
- The FilmBath Festival runs in November, featuring documentary features, silent films and live Q&As
- Somerset carnivals combine grand firework displays with street processions, fairgrounds and street food, and run throughout the county
- The music of Mozart lies at the heart of the annual Bath MozartFest which runs every November at various venues across the city
- The Bath Christmas Market features around 150 twinkling chalets spread across Bath’s picturesque Georgian streets
