Postal Museum is housed in the original Bath post office, which issued the world's first postage stamp, the Penny Black on 2nd May 1840. The Bath Postal Museum opened in 1979 to trace the history of mail delivery from 2000 B.C. to the present day. Historic artifacts such as antique postboxes are on display alongside images and models depicting the trajectory of the postal system. The film room offers a short film dramatizing the beginnings of the postal service. Don't miss the library, children's activities and special exhibition room.
Situated at the junction of the A4 and Gloucester Road, Alice Park is ideal for a quick summer stop-off. During weekends in summer, the cafe opens giving visitors the welcome opportunity to purchase cold drinks and snacks. Picnic tables are also available. The children's play area is dominated by an enormous sand-pit, which proves popular with the kids (if not the parents!) and kids can wear themselves out on the helter-skelter slide, climbing frame and swings. Younger children are fascinated by the pond life that can be seen in the wildlife pond but keep a close rein on little-ones because the water is unfenced and deeper than it looks.
Sally Lunn's is the oldest known house in Bath. The present timber-framed building dates from 1492 and Roman and Medieval remains have been found below the cellar floor. Sally Lunn, a young French girl, did not arrive until 1680. She brought with her a recipe for the sweet, brioche-style bread that has become known as the Sally Lunn Bun. The tearooms are sadly not designed for the numerous visitors wanting to experience a taste of the famous Sally Lunn Bun, which makes for a cozy dining experience. You can, however, savor the exceptional light bites dating back to those times that are still offered here. For history enthusiasts, the kitchen museum is a great avenue to check out the historic kitchen used by none other than the lady herself.
The Bath Assembly Rooms have been the meeting place for public entertainment since the 1700s. The Ball Room is the largest space, and is used for dance, concerts, exhibitions and conversation. The Octagon Room's shape was suited for card playing among the menfolk, while the women often retired at the tea room. An additional card room was added at the back, which now serves as a bar area. The architecture is quintessentially Georgian and exudes a timeless elegance. Costumes of the kind worn in the 18th Century as well as exquisite garments, old and new, are housed in the Fashion Museum on the lower floor of the building.
The Jane Austen Centre is located in Gay Street where Jane Austen once lived. The permanent exhibition in this Georgian house offers a look at the life and times of Bath's most famous citizen. Staff give regular introductory talks, following which you may browse through the exhibition at your leisure. Settings and costumes illustrate the city in Austen's time, while a video presentation gives glimpses of her daily life and how living in Bath influenced her novels. If you fancy dressing in period costume and posing for the camera, make an appointment for a sitting with the professional photographer. The gift shop offers various Jane Austen souvenirs, books, stationery, lace, cards and gifts.
The Guerrilla Galleries houses contemporary and youthful paintings made by artists in the country. There are specimens of graffiti art too that are interesting and eye-catching. It also showcases street art that is fast becoming a trend in Bristol. It is one of the most popular places for acquiring modern art today. Each exhibit is carefully selected by the gallery staff. They are also happy to assist you in your selection, and are very friendly and approachable. Be sure to visit here and grab a few specimens of creativity.
Although it has been the seat of the Dukes of Beaufort since the 17th Century, it is since 1949 that Badminton House has gained real fame, as this was when the annual Badminton Horse Trials started being held here. This three-day event is held in the park of the country house, and has become one of the main attractions of the small village of Badminton. It is one of the biggest equestrian events anywhere in the world. The house is not open for public visits, but has many facilities for private events. This historic venue also makes the perfect setting for weddings.
The unassuming Grade II listed building amidst the World Heritage Site's glory was built back in 1750. Steeped in a history that spans over two centuries, take a guided tour of the establishment to get a glimpse of 18th Century Bath. The Old Orchard Street Theatre was the pioneering Theatre Royal outside the British capital. The celebrated actress Sarah Siddons graced the stage at the Masonic Hall. Visit the former burial site of French elite and soak in the serenity of the Catholic Chapel, a site once used to ordain Bishops. Browse through Masonic art and quintessential Georgian architecture. The hall continues to be the venue for numerous cultural and social events.
Church of St Mary in Wedmore is a Grade I listed building, which was built in the 15th Century. The church can be visited to admire its architecture. especially the tower and the chambered windows. Visitors can also spend time chit-chatting and enjoy the coffee and cake offered by the church. The church is open for visitors during day.
Weston Big Wood is stretched across 37.48 hectare (92.61 acres) of land. It borrows its name from Weston-in-Gordano village and is biological Site of Special Scientific Interest and nature reserve. The woodland has tree main entry points, and part of it is managed by Avon Wildlife Trust. So come here and experience the rare species of flora and fauna and also enjoy the ancient sites.
The Church of St Thomas a Becket, Shirenewton, dates back to the 13th Century. As was the trend at that time, the church was built to serve the dual purpose of a place of worship and a defensive structure. This duality is evident from the architectural style of the square fortified tower. In 1853 the church was partially rebuilt, and underwent large-scale restoration which led to a loss of a great number of historical and religious artefacts along with the original architectural style. However, this church has still managed to maintain its character and charm. Housed within are a number of memorials that are of special interest to anyone with an appreciation for local history, and on the north and south walls of the chancel the six corbel stones have been carved in the form of human heads, including one of St. Thomas a Beckett. These and many other factors make this church of interest to visitors who are seeking out a warm and comfortable place to pray, as well as those interested in history and architecture,
The Bruton Dovecote is a traditional 16th-century dovecote in Bruton, Somerset. Initially it was used as a house and maybe a watchtower. The square tower was constructed using local and Doulting stone. The structure is also called The Pigeon Tower due to the 200 pigeon holes within its interiors. The site rests on a lush verdant field ideal for a picnic or quick game of football. The building has been designated as Grade II by English Heritage and is also considered an ancient monument. Car parking arrangements have been made. The historically significant monument has been placed under the care of the National Trust.