The Royal Crescent in Bath has been one of Britain’s most desired and exclusive addresses for over 250 years. The beautiful regency townhouses that line the iconic architectural landmark have mostly been turned into apartments these days, but slap bang in the middle are two conjoined townhouses that are home to one of the most distinguished luxury hotels in the country.
Arriving at The Royal Crescent Hotel
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa offers what most hotels around the world cannot; a central city location in a historic building, with stunning gardens that are surrounded by the hotel’s own buildings and rooms. It affords guests privacy and seclusion, and a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city center.
We arrived by car, apologized to the valet for the state of it (there may have been a dozen or so heeled shoes in the boot – always kept there ‘for emergencies’), and were promptly checked in to the Ralph Allen suite. Every guest who stays at the Royal Crescent Hotel is able to leave their car with the valet who will park it and return it whenever it is needed. Another rare feat for a luxury hotel: to provide city center parking for every single guest.
Staying in The Ralph Allen Suite
The Ralph Allen suite was one of the most beautiful suites I have ever stayed in. My love for this suite was up there with the Royal Davui villa I stayed in just recently, and this is mainly due to the space and interior design. The spacious suite features a large living room, a cosy second bedroom with a day bed, and a good-sized double bedroom that can be turned into a twin.
The walk-in wardrobe was a welcome addition, and the marble bathroom has a his and hers sink, but could do with an update (and a separate shower and bath, rather than a shower-over-bath combo). Throughout the suite is soft lilacs, creams, and pinks, full-length regency style windows, and mirrors and art work adorn the walls. Chandeliers hang from the ceiling, the crystals adding even more opulence to an already opulent suite of rooms.
The suite experience ensures you really do get the most of staying in a large regency townhouse, as the Ralph Allen suite has two big full-length double doors to enter, and is fairly private with it’s own staircase shared only with one other suite.
Dining at The Royal Crescent Hotel
Dining at the hotel is a must, as it’s home to the Dower House restaurant. At its helm is executive chef David Campbell, whose food is simply sublime. Every dish was a mouthwatering concoction of flavours, and the sommelier was spot on with our wine recommendation when I gave the simple instruction of ‘I like creamy slightly oaky Chardonnay’s. Nothing sweet or fruity!’
Breakfast is a similarly luxurious affair with a selection of A La Carte menu items as well as a small but high-quality buffet.
The Spa at The Royal Crescent Hotel
The spa is the star attraction at The Royal Crescent Hotel, with an expert team of spa therapists and a herbal steam inhalation room, Himalayan-salt infused sauna, relaxation pool, and a vitality spa pool. The spa garden is a small oasis, providing a beautiful view to look at from the relaxation pool, and a feeling of oneness with the nature that surrounds the Royal Crescent Hotel.
The Verdict
Our time at The Royal Crescent was relaxing and peaceful, let down only by the fact we didn’t stay longer. It is one of those very special British hotels that really has got luxury right. From the moment you arrive you do not have to lift a finger or think about anything, the staff take it all out of your hands to ensure your stay is as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. We will certainly be back, and this time for a much longer stay!
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Catherine Lux is a food and travel contributor at AGLAIA, and a luxury lifestyle blogger documenting her life on her blog, Lux Life London. With Lux Life London having a large focus on travel and food, she loves nothing more than long-haul flights, excellent restaurants, and relaxing with friends in the coolest places in town.
