The Gainsborough Bath Spa is my favourite spa experience in the United Kingdom, and I don’t say that lightly. It is also the only hotel in Britain where you can lower yourself into naturally warm, mineral-rich thermal water that has been rising beneath this city for two thousand years. Not a heated pool doing a Roman impression. The actual water. I visited on a quiet Tuesday in May, the day after walking twenty thousand steps around Bristol, and had the thermal pool almost entirely to myself. That is just one good reason to consider The Gainsborough Hotel and Spa in Bath for your next trip – and here in this review I’ve included everything that is good to know like prices and facilities.
The Gainsborough Bath Spa Review
I was really looking forward to experiencing the spa at The Gainsborough hotel in Bath, as well as writing this review, and especially so since I had been walking almost 20k steps the previous day, whilst exploring Bristol. It was such a luxurious feeling to leave the outside world for a couple of hours and step into the thermal waters. It was exactly what I needed to feel restored and ready to then explore Bath for the next couple of days. There was also something so special about experiencing the thermal waters of Bath and then learning more about the water’s importance for the city. This experience really enhanced my stay and I would warmly recommend it if you are wanting a spa hotel or experience in the city.
How to get here
The hotel and spa is located right by the city centre of Bath and only a 7 minute walk from the train and bus station. The Bristol Airport is within an hour’s drive. I got the train across from Bristol, which only took 11 minutes and on my way back to the airport took the direct airport bus which is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
♥ Read my full guide to the best things to see and do in Bath!
The Spa at The Gainsborough
When I checked into the spa I first got a refreshing welcome drink whilst doing a little aromatherapy session. At the session I got to pick a scent which was then blended with bath salts to use inside the spa. As well as slippers and a bathrobe I also got a little card with the instructions on the recommended order to enjoy the facilities. The whole ritual is designed to go between hot and cold and I followed it step by step which felt really relaxing. I almost got the spa entirely to myself as there were only one or two other people here at the same time as me – on a weekday in May.
The centrepiece is the stunning thermal pool, surrounded by elegant stone architecture and complemented by hydrotherapy facilities, saunas, steam rooms and tranquil relaxation spaces. Most of the facilities are on the same floor, but the relaxation area is upstairs where you can get infused water and just rest on a chair or sunbed. I nearly fell asleep whilst resting on one of the sunbeds. Just writing this now, makes me long to go back to that moment.
The spa access is included for hotel guests at The Gainsborough Bath Spa during certain hours, and it’s also possible to enquire about day access prices or treatments for additional time in the spa areas.
What I loved about the spa at The Gainsborough
There were many things I loved about my spa day at The Gainsborough in Bath that I want to mention in this review. I would go so far as to say it’s my favourite spa experience in the United Kingdom. Closely followed by The Machrie on Islay and the Marine Hotel in North Berwick.
- Beautiful surroundings and lots of natural light
- Infused water to enjoy in the lounge area
- Recommendations for what order to enjoy the different thermal pools, saunas and ice ritual mixing warm and cold which feels really invigorating
- Pleasant temperature for just resting in the sunchairs
- Very friendly and helpful spa team
Relax like the Romans
For nearly 2,000 years, people have travelled to Bath to experience the city’s naturally warm, mineral-rich thermal waters. The Gainsborough offers one of the most luxurious ways to continue that tradition. As the only hotel in Bath with direct access to the natural thermal springs, the Spa Village lets you soak in the same healing waters that have drawn visitors here since Roman times. Whether you spend an hour unwinding after a day of sightseeing or dedicate an entire afternoon to wellness, it’s easy to understand why Bath has remained synonymous with relaxation for centuries.
Treatments
While the thermal waters are the heart of the Spa Village experience, the treatment menu provides the perfect opportunity to elevate your visit even further. From soothing full-body massages to therapeutic facials and restorative body rituals. Each treatment is designed to complement the spa’s tranquil atmosphere and leave you feeling refreshed from head to toe. The spa also offers tailored experiences for couples and bespoke treatments that can be personalised to your individual needs.
Signature experiences include the Gainsborough Signature Massage. A Swedish-inspired full-body treatment that incorporates aromatic essential oils, warm lavender towels and a relaxing foot massage. Alongside personalised ELEMIS facials that are adapted to your skin’s unique requirements. Whether you’re looking to ease tired muscles after a day of exploring Bath or simply indulge in a little self-care, the experienced therapists ensure every treatment feels luxurious and unhurried.
Spa Days at The Gainsborough
If you are not staying at the hotel during your time in Bath it is also possible to book in for a spa day at The Gainsborough at set prices. The spa day include a 50 minute spa treatment paired with an afternoon tea as well as a glass of Prosecco. Or alternatively an 85 minute spa treatment. You also get a personalised aromatherapy blending session, the bath house experience for 4 hours of access, robes, towels & slippers as well as a welcome drink and post treatment herbal tea.
Prices: the Spa Day experience at The Gainsborough in Bath starts from £195 per person.
The Rooms
The hotel bedrooms at The Gainsborough Bath Spa provide a luxurious retreat. A lovely space to return to after a day spent exploring Bath or unwinding in the thermal waters. The interiors strike a balance between the city’s Georgian heritage and contemporary five-star comfort. Calming neutral tones, elegant furnishings and thoughtful touches make the rooms feel refined without being overly formal. Large windows fill many of the rooms with natural light. While marble bathrooms, exceptionally comfortable beds and premium amenities help create a true sense of indulgence.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, it’s worth considering one of the Bath Spa Rooms or Suites. These feature beautiful freestanding bathtubs that can be filled directly with Bath’s famous naturally warm thermal waters. Offering a private spa experience that very few hotels in the UK can provide. It’s a memorable addition that perfectly complements a stay centerd around relaxation and wellness.
The Bar
Before my visit to the spa, I also had the pleasure of enjoying a little whisky cocktail at the bar inside the hotel. They made a lovely Old Fashioned for me. I also had a look at the whisky list which included a lovely selection from a variety of distilleries like The Macallan and Bruichladdich.
It is a lovely space to enjoy a cocktail or glass of something in-between your Bath adventures.
On the Move to The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel
The Gainsborough Bath Spa offers far more than a luxury hotel stay and that is something I really want to highlight in this review. It provides a chance to experience one of Bath’s defining traditions in a truly memorable way. From soaking in the city’s naturally warm thermal waters. To unwinding with a spa treatment and retreating to beautifully appointed bedrooms. Every part of the experience is designed to encourage you to slow down and relax. What makes the hotel particularly special is the connection to Bath’s rich history. Allowing guests to enjoy the same thermal waters that have attracted visitors for almost two millennia, but in an elegant and contemporary setting.
I would recommend this experience in particular to couples seeking a romantic city break, anyone celebrating a special occasion and wellness enthusiasts. As well as any visitors who want to experience Bath’s famous thermal waters in the most luxurious setting. It’s an especially rewarding choice for those looking to combine sightseeing with genuine relaxation. Making it easy to appreciate the city’s historic spa culture while enjoying modern five-star comfort.
Additional Information
- Address: Beau St, Bath BA1 1QY
- Website: https://www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk/
- Price Range: Room prices starting at £197 per night
- Check-In/Check-Out: From 16.00 and before 11.00
- Amenities: Restaurant, bar, WiFi, swimming pool, sauna, steam room, thermal hot springs
- Dog-Friendly: Unfortunately The Gainsborough is not dog-friendly
FAQ – The Gainsborough Bath Spa
It is possible to visit the spa with a spa day experience, which starts from £195 per person.
The spa is known for being the only hotel in the UK with direct access to thermal springs.
The hotel and spa is owned by YTL Hotels and is also affiliated with Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
Yes, for a luxurious thermal bath experience, the Gainsborough is certainly worth it. The facilities are lovely and the space is beautiful. Furthermore, I would happily return for another spa experience.
Need more inspiration for your trip to Bristol – or its neighbour city Bath?
- Things to Do in Bath: A Luxury Guide to England’s Elegant Spa City
- Bath England Hotel Guide: Luxury Stays in a Historic Spa City
- The Roseate Villa Bath: A Boutique Hotel Full of English Charm
- Best Things to Do Bristol: Top Sights, Food & Hidden Gems
- Bristol Lido & Townhouse Review: A Hidden Retreat in the Heart of Bristol
- A Guide to the Best Bristol Hotels: Boutique & Luxury Stays
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Meet Moa, our multi-talented writer from Sweden who now calls Edinburgh, Scotland home. With over a decade exploring Europe’s hidden corners—from Nordic landscapes to alpine villages—Moa brings a unique perspective shaped by her years as a travel guide in the Swiss and Austrian Alps. As a whisky book author and freelance drinks writer, she has an eye for exceptional food and beverage experiences, while her background as a photographer ensures she never misses a scenic moment. Whether she’s discovering old European cities or chasing golden hour in mountain villages, Moa’s stories blend cultural insight with a dash of adventure and plenty of authenticity.
