141 Newbridge Hill, Bath, United Kingdom | (888) 710-7049
All rooms have lovely decor, flat-screen TVs and iPod docks
Private marble bathrooms; some have sunken tubs
Some rooms have mini-fridges and direct garden access
Beautiful grounds with lush gardens
Delicious farm-to-table style breakfast included in the rates
"Honesty" bar and lounge with a grand piano are nice perks
Free parking and in-room Wi-Fi
Wash-and-fold laundry service for no additional fee
20- to 30-minute walk from the downtown area, or a short cab ride
No on-site restaurant (but free breakfast is served in the dining area)
Children three and under are not allowed (a pro for some)
No pool, spa, or gym
This exquisite bed-and-breakfast located just outside of downtown Bath is all luxury in a rural setting. Built into what was once the country home of the Duke of Wellington, this hotel features ornate details -- from a grandfather clock to a grand piano to a tiny antique figurine. The rooms each have their own "flavor" and your experience will be predicated on which of the 12 rooms you book; however, all are clean, cozy, and romantic with details like marble bathrooms and antique combs and mirrors. Classic charm is supported by modern-day amenities like flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and luxe toiletries. Direct garden access from select rooms complete the picture of this beautiful English countryside escape. However, amenities, such as a full restaurant and gym, are missing.
Scene
A relaxed, private, and romantic country escape
Everything about this bed-and-breakfast in the English countryside oozes charm and class. Pulling up to the manicured grounds and beautiful stone structure, one immediately gets the feeling of being transported back to 19th-century England. The lobby is small -- as would be expected with a quaint property -- but greets guests with gilded luxury thanks to its wooden accents, large golden wall mirror, framed oil paintings, and comfortable leather chairs. The softly hued ambiance is warm and intimate, with personal attention given to make sure guests feel at home. There’s a drawing room/lounge with a grand piano and an "honor" bar where you can grab your own cocktail or aperitif and enjoy a view of the gardens and countryside in the evening.
Location
In a residential area outside of downtown Bath
Located in a quaint residential area about a 20- to 30-minute walk or short -- albeit sometimes pricey -- cab ride from downtown Bath, Apsley House Hotel is situated on a semi-busy suburban road just west of Bath's city center. The area surrounding the hotel is quiet with a rural vibe, lovely landscaping, and lots of greenery. The hotel is situated next to a primary school that has recess in the hotel's backyard, and there's sometimes the sound of children playing in the mornings and afternoons. The Bath Lawn Tennis Club, Roman Baths, and Bath Abbey are all within a reasonable distance, though you will need to drive or be ready for a hike to get there.
Rooms
Uniquely decorated and cozy with modern amenities
Staying at the Apsley House will provide an experience far removed from a standard chain hotel. There are 12 uniquely decorated rooms within the main house that are all pristine, and each has a separate theme ranging from the Romantic room -- which has a four-poster canopy bed and Wedgwood blue colors throughout -- to the richly purple Vitoria room, to the slightly more masculine and conservatively colored Wellington room. The spacious bathrooms are marble with heated towel racks and include rainfall showerheads and Molton Brown toiletries; some have sunken tubs and bidets as well. Modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and iPod docks blend in with the antique Georgian decor. There’s a separate coach house that can be booked as well which has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, French doors leading to garden patios, and common areas.
Features
Great freebies include breakfast, Wi-Fi, and laundry, but few amenities: There's no gym, full restaurant, or spa.
Every morning there’s a formal breakfast served in the dining room accompanied by classical music. Emphasis is put on using local vendors for a farm-to-table effect, featuring traditional English fare made to order. There’s a no-fee laundry service available where clothes will be machine washed and folded for you if you need to refresh the items you brought. Parking is also free if you have a car, which you will need if you don't wish to walk into Bath; however, there is a bus stop close by and cabs are easily attainable. There's no gym or full restaurant, though.