As the UK lockdown eases, many of us are eager to escape the confines of our homes and enjoy a refreshing change of scenery. This is especially the case for city dwellers. 

If you’re keen to exchange traffic and hectic commutes for rolling countryside and gentle riverside walks, come to Bath. There’s plenty to see and do in the city centre, but for a quiet, relaxing break – head just outside of the centre. 

You’ll discover rural idylls and beautiful pockets of peace, perfect for a socially distanced getaway. Drink in the quiet and take life at a slower pace, all while being within reach of Bath city centre should you fancy a visit. 

Here’s our guide to the best places to stay in Bath for a quiet, relaxing escape:

The Looking Glass House

Architecturally designed and built right into the hillside, the Looking Glass House seriously delivers when it comes to elegance. Spread across two floors with two bedrooms and three bathrooms, this unique home can sleep up to 4 people. It’s been awarded 5 Star Gold by Visit England for its light-flooded, beautifully designed interiors, along with enormous private garden, terraces and breathtaking views. 

The Looking Glass House nestles into a quiet spot near Perrymead, but it’s just a 15-minute walk into Bath. 

Crescent Cottage

Located in the picturesque village area of Widcombe, this traditional stone cottage has been cleverly renovated to offer stunning modern interiors – without losing any of its pretty cottage charm. Three bedrooms (sleeping 6 people in total) are spread over multiple floors, with the master bedroom offering fabulous views across Bath. The highlight of Crescent Cottage though has to be its private courtyard garden, accessed through bifold doors from the living area. It’s the perfect spot for alfresco dining. 

Greenbanks House

If you’re searching for a quiet, tranquil spot but love to be close to the restaurants, shops, bars and attractions of the city, Greenbanks House offers the best of both worlds. Sleeping up to 11 people, this spacious home has generous wrap-around gardens, making it feel like a countryside retreat – even though you’re only a short walk from Bath city centre. There’s even a sun-filled conservatory, plus five bedrooms and four bathrooms. 

Church St House

A gorgeous Bath stone house sleeping up to 8 people, Church St House enjoys an unbeatable location in a historic and beautiful enclave of Bath – with views over a National Trust Landscape. Along with impeccable bedrooms and enormous living spaces spread across four floors, there’s also two separate seating areas in the charming walled garden. 

Planning a celebration? 

If you love the sound of a semi-rural escape and have a big birthday coming up, why not round up friends and family and book one of our larger properties?  Take your pick from movie-star glamour at Week Farm Manor, a dream country home which sleeps up to 20 people. It’s above a beautiful valley, with incredible views, and boasts luxuries such as a 12-seater hot tub and games room. You’ll have 98 acres to yourselves, so it’s a perfect pick for privacy. 

Another fabulous option for larger groups is Forthright Farm Manor, a boutique country retreat in a peaceful Somerset Valley suitable for up to 14 people. It’s a Grade II listed home with sumptuous interiors, a wonderful sun terrace and choice of glamorous bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas. 

Remember that you may have to wait until lockdown guidelines change in order to book a break for a larger group that contains people outside of your household or ‘bubble’. And take a look here at our COVID-19 advice and information for booking a stay with Bath Holiday Rentals.