A guide to Bath’s spa sanctuaries: Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel v The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

For centuries, the historic city of Bath has been the ultimate destination for those seeking rest, rejuvenation, and the therapeutic benefits of thermal waters. A Georgian wonderland, with lots of beautiful sites and an intrinsically restful atmosphere, amongst its prize destinations are two spectacular properties: Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel and The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa.

While both offer five-star luxury, exquisite dining, and world-class wellness, they each cater to slightly different versions of the ideal spa escape, so here we offer a few insights to help you choose the right one for your next Bath spa break.

Historic settings and luxury accommodation

Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel: A grand regency estate

Tucked away in a peaceful corner of the city, Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel stands proudly within seven acres of private, beautifully landscaped grounds. The hotel resides in a magnificent Regency property dating back to 1835, originally constructed as a private residence for General Augustus Andrews.

With 129 stylish rooms and suites, including an opulent Presidential Suite, the accommodation offers relaxed comfort and enchanting views of the surrounding gardens. It provides an expansive country house feel while remaining a pleasant stroll across Pulteney Bridge from Bath’s historic core. On a practical note, there’s also plenty of free on-site parking and electric vehicle charging points for those who are driving.

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa: An architectural masterpiece

For those who want a postcard perfect experience of Bath, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa occupies two historic townhouses right in the centre of John Wood’s architectural triumph, completed in 1775. This Grade I listed landmark has operated as a luxury hotel since 1971, offering an intimate, boutique feel with just 45 unique rooms and suites.

Refurbished in phases by the design firm Woodhouse & Law, the interiors marry vibrant contemporary colour with restored antiques and historic architecture. Guests can wander through manicured English country gardens, hiding away in a private sanctuary in the heart of the city, just minutes from Royal Victoria Park.

The culinary experiences

Fine dining in a historic ballroom at Vellore

At the Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel, dining is an elegant affair. The award-winning Vellore Restaurant, which holds two AA Rosettes, is uniquely situated in the hotel’s former grand ballroom. Here, dishes are crafted using locally sourced ingredients, while for a more relaxed experience, guests can enjoy teas, coffees, and light bites in the drawing room, sample cocktails at the Colonnade Bar, or unwind out on the Alfresco & Terrace while watching local wildlife.

Modern British luxury at Montagu’s Mews

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is home to Montagu’s Mews, an exceptional restaurant and bar holding three AA Rosettes. Inspired by Elizabeth Montagu, the 18th-century writer, salonière, and original resident of No. 16, the space captures a refined salon vibe, while Head Chef Martin Blake and his team serve masterful dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The experience is heightened by lively seasonal events, including relaxed midweek Jazz Nights and vibrant summer DJ sets on the outdoor terrace.

The spa and wellness experiences

Extensive thermal suite at Macdonald Bath Spa

The spa at Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel hinges on its beautiful thermal circuit. Designed with a comprehensive range of wet facilities, it is perfect for spending hours moving between different temperatures to stimulate circulation and ease tension.

• The facilities: There’s an indoor swimming pool, an outdoor hydrotherapy pool, a whirlpool, massage showers, a traditional sauna, an aromatherapy steam room, an ice room, an infrared heat cabin, and a dedicated relaxation room.
• The treatments: Across seven treatment rooms (including a couples’ suite and a manicure area), therapists use products from ELEMIS and ishga for a deeply holistic experience.

Peace and serenity at The Bath House Spa

The spa at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa leans into a deeply peaceful experience inside its historic Georgian Bath House. The entire experience feels like a sanctuary dedicated to holistic wellbeing.

• The facilities: There’s a gorgeous 12-metre heated relaxation pool, a Vitality pool equipped with targeted massage jets, a herbal steam room, a state-of-the-art gym, and a deeply detoxifying Himalayan salt-infused sauna.
• The treatments: The spa features six beautiful treatment rooms and works in exclusive partnership with GROUND Wellbeing. These 100% natural, vegan products are used in head-to-toe therapies designed to nurture the body and mind. Afterwards, a seasonal highlight includes enjoying a traditional cream tea out in the peaceful Spa Garden, which is teeming with wildlife.

Which Bath spa should you choose?

Both spa hotels offer beautiful experiences that are a wonderful representation of the hospitality and wellbeing heritage Bath is so famous for, meaning you can’t make a wrong choice - it’s just a question of which you might prefer for different occasions.

• Choose Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel if: You are looking for a spacious estate with expansive gardens, a broader selection of thermal and hydrotherapy facilities to explore, plenty of parking, and the grandeur of award-winning dining.
• Choose The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa if: You want an intimate, boutique five-star experience rich in history and architectural heritage. It’s a place for holistic but luxurious pampering in a peaceful space and romantic dining experiences - ideal for couples and celebrations.