WT3 - WALK: Five Georgian Crescents

Bath is blessed with having eight Georgian crescents, each a graceful and uplifting symphony in creamy Bath Stone. This walk around the city’s beautiful, and steep, northern slopes takes in five of the crescents, as well as its most complete Georgian square. Most of the route is off the beaten tourist track, covering parts of Bath that visitors rarely get to explore and even many locals are unfamiliar with. 

Led by a qualified Blue Badge tour guide, the tour will explain the significance of the crescents in relation to Bath’s topography. There will be panoramic views across the bowl of the city to enjoy, residents’ associations private gardens to snoop on, and maybe sheep to spot. You’ll see a host of eye-catching architectural details – ornate pediments and keystones, decorative wrought-iron overthrows and snuffers, and much else besides. You’ll also hear about some of the Upper Town’s significant former residents, among them Sir William Holburne, whose collection forms the nucleus of the Holburne Museum, the prolific painter Thomas Barker, and William Beckford, who built Beckford’s Tower high up on Lansdown Hill. Expect literary links too, including to Charles Dickens and Jane Austen. 

Important note: the walk includes climbing a steep slope and flight of steps, so a certain level of fitness is required. However, the walking pace will be gentle, with frequent stops. 

Organised by Fred Mawer Tours (https://www.fredmawertours.co.uk).