Jade Burke travelled to Bath’s historical Royal Crescent Hotel to take a tour around its Georgian-inspired meeting rooms and sample its award-winning restaurant.
Nestled within the infamous Royal Crescent Road in Bath, sits the Royal Crescent Hotel and its unique 45 rooms, spa and restaurant. Back in 1950, house number 16 was transformed into a guest house, and in 1971 was combined with number 15 to create the iconic hotel. And since then it has established itself as one of the most desirable addresses in the city.
At just an hour and a half away from central London, it’s strange to think that such a traditional, Georgian location sits, just waiting for eager travellers to explore its surroundings. Entering the foyer, I am escorted into the cosy Drawing Room while a roaring fire provides some much-needed warmth from the chilly wind.
Soon enough I am chauffeured to my room, which is located in the main house up a winding staircase. I notice each door is branded with a gold name plate, where guests’ names are written – a pleasant personal touch. Before heading into my room, I can’t help but notice how grand the door is – it’s possibly almost three times my height, and before I know it I am transported into a Georgian masterpiece.
The suite boasts a lounge, bedroom, spare room and bathroom, complete with a mixture of modern and classical furniture styles, creating a home from home feel. A purple colour scheme is carried throughout – a theme I am told that is unique to this room, as no bedroom is the same in the Royal Crescent. My room also overlooks the picturesque gardens, and I’m informed that the hotel boasts an acre of land. At the bottom of the grounds sits the hotel’s spa, garden villa, restaurant and bar, along with several other guest rooms.
The suite boasts a lounge, bedroom, spare room and bathroom, complete with a mixture of modern and classical furniture styles, creating a home from home feel.
Taking a tour around, it’s clear the Royal Crescent doesn’t leave its guests wanting for anything, as a concierge service ensures luggage is taken from place to place, while room service is on hand to deliver fresh cups of tea throughout the day. Staff even greet and escort each individual guest to their room, a service I can only admire. I feel it is thanks to the that the staff are able to deliver such a versatile and attentive offering.
Compared to a conglomerate hotel, that plays host to over 100 rooms, the service here is unsurpassed. I am keen to see what the hotel can offer in terms of meeting and conference spaces, and it seems it can cater for most needs. The Library can offer space for small meetings and private dining, while below it sits The Sheridan – a larger room designed for bigger groups and meetings. I’m also told that the space is hugely popular with brides-to-be, thanks to its neutral colour scheme and natural lighting.
When the weather is on your side, lunch can even be held in the stunning gardens, where all guests are served a buffet-style working lunch to enjoy. Clients can bring people together for a team-building retreat with exclusive use of the entire hotel. Each of the 45 rooms, spa, restaurant and bar, as well as the gardens, can be made available exclusively for private use, should you wish to take clients to an unforgettable getaway.
Guests also need not worry about finding somewhere to park in the city. Valet parking is on hand and offers a space for each room within the hotel, if customers are looking to drive. If you are seeking an indulgent trip, then the Crescent’s spa can ensure every need is met. A sauna, jacuzzi, swimming pool and treatments, including massages, pedicures and more, can provide a much needed pamper after a day of meetings. I opted for the pedicure – it didn’t disappoint. Dower House is the on-site restaurant, recognised for its award-winning dishes served by executive head chef, David Campbell.
Each of the 45 rooms, spa, restaurant and bar, as well as the gardens, can be made available exclusively for private use, should you wish to take clients to an unforgettable getaway.
An eclectic selection of meals fills the menu, including roasted scallops, goats’ curd, venison, duck breast and pear tart Tatin, while a sommelier is on hand to match every dish to the restaurant’s impressive array of wines. I make my way there during the evening of my stay and sample some of its exciting combinations, including the stone bass and chocolate tart. With a full belly, I head back to my room.
No matter what time of the day, the Crescent’s staff pander to your every need, as I notice that my curtains have been drawn, the bed’s scatter pillows have been neatly placed on the floor, and a mat wishing me a good night’s sleep has even been placed delicately beside the bed – another personal treat that proves how welcoming the hotel really is.
If you are seeking a bespoke service in an intimate setting, be sure to check in and head to Bath for your next business trip, as the Royal Crescent Hotel certainly has it all.
