Written by Menswear Style in Travel on the 2nd December 2014

As we drove down the famous Royal Crescent street on our first visit to Bath, we were instantly hit by the charm of the grand and historic buildings which are built using Bath stone since the early 18th century. It’s amazing to see true unspoilt buildings where you can truly imagine you’ve gone back in time. Even the high street stores are built using this charming brick.

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, located in the middle of this breath-taking curved street is a five star, 45 room and suite Relais & Chateaux property. The hotel is set within a Grade 1 listed Georgian townhouse and in 2013 it received a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence.

The hotel has recently undergone a meticulous renovation and restoration process. Under new ownership and following this multi-million pound refurbishment, the hotel is positioning itself as a ‘British Icon Reborn’ – a quintessential English luxury hotel, reconsidered for the 21st century. 

With the door staff wearing long coats and the hotel maids wearing traditional housekeeping uniforms, you can easily think you’ve stumbled on the set of a Downton Abbey episode.

The Room

While all the rooms are all newly refurbished, bespoke design has preserved and highlighted the period features of the Georgian property. Every room has been artfully curated to give it a distinctive character, with classic antique pieces such as four-poster beds or roll top baths. 

These seamlessly blend with contemporary design touches, including the latest mod cons. Our room was a comfortable mid-size but we did miss having the in-room tea and coffee making facilities.

The Dover House Restaurant 

We’ve reviewed a fair few luxury hotels this year and if we had a 2014 award for a hotel's restaurant, The Dover House would certainly get it. This was true fine dining with artistic, playful and full flavour plates. The service was superb and the setting is priceless. 

Overlooking the leafy and secluded gardens of The Royal Crescent, the AA 3 Rosette award-winning Dower House Restaurant offers fine dining in elegant surroundings. Head Chef David Campbell and his team create modern takes on classic dishes. These are paired with wines from a comprehensive cellar, expertly managed by Sommelier Jean Marc Leitao.

With soft gold and blue fabrics, and feature walls of hand-stitched silk wallpaper, the elegant interior design creates a distinguished atmosphere. In the summer months, the terrace and manicured lawns are an idyllic setting for al fresco dining. 

The Montagu Bar 

The Montagu is a sophisticated bar with an extensive Cocktail Menu and selection of fine champagnes and wines from the hotel’s award-winning cellar. Offering cocktails such as Riviera Fizz and Grand Lion as well as a carefully selected menu of nibbles, light bites and more substantial dishes, The Montagu is one of Bath’s most glamorous hot spots.

Spa 

If only we lived near enough to bath to visit on a regular basis. The therapist gave us the best full body massage we’ve ever had... and we’ve been to Vietnam! The Spa is housed in a separate Georgian building accessed via the gardens. Design- wise, interiors embrace ancient and modern spa culture simultaneously - with Georgian stone met by natural woods, bamboo pebble and slate. 

Focusing its spa philosophy on the elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water, The Spa blends modern and ancient wellness therapies. It also houses a 12-metre relaxation pool, hot tubs, sauna, steam room, hammam and Fitness Room.

There are seven treatment rooms and therapies can be chosen from the Face Collection, Massage & Body Collection and Hammam Collection. There is also a men’s treatments as well as additional beauty therapies on offer. Spa goers can also choose from a selection of packages including a Half Day Retreat, a Romantic Hideaway and a Serene Day Retreat. The Signature Treatment is the 90 minute ‘The Hero’, designed in collaboration with ESPA. This incorporates skin cleansing, body massage and a focus on facial complexion.

We review the 5 star luxury hotel 'The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa' set on the famous Royal Crescent in Bath England.