USP Georgian elegance – the hotel is in Bath’s Royal Crescent and the porter is dressed in Edwardian garb – with thoroughly modern treatments.

AMBIENCE Peaceful but respectful; no mobiles. Eastern-style harmonious stone and wood with perfect symmetry everywhere. Herbal teas served with fresh rose petals. The steam room pumped out eucalyptus, which was brilliant for wheezers like me.

EXPERIENCE Luxurious without being oppressive. My therapist Rose was intuitive, committed and knowledgeable. The Restorative Facial using the Bath House Number range for sensitive skin was stunning.

FOOD Sexy but healthy, with exotic signature dishes: sea bass with caramelised fennel and liquorice-scented butter sauce; mullet with foie gras, spiced carrot, red wine sauce. Fantastic caraway bread.

IN CROWD “Smart Bath” set. The actress Jane Seymour (but not when we were there). Professionals from London keen for a reliably elegant but chic country hit, and happy female souls who use the spa for a day treatment package including a super-duper lunch.

WALLET WATCH The Royal Crescent Hotel & Bath House Spa, in Bath (01225 823333), costs from £305 a room per night based on two people sharing and a minimum two-night stay. Includes dinner one evening, English breakfast and full use of the Bath House. A Restorative Massage or Radiance Facial costs £60.

NEED TO KNOW For information on the Royal Crescent Hotel & Bath House Spa, and luxury activities and accommodation in Southwest England, visit www.indulgesouthwest.co.uk

Readers’ reviews
A universal thumbs up for treatments for the six readers who had been to the Bath House. The spa staff were rated as “knowledgeable” and “friendly” but only as “ok” by a couple of visitors. “Tranquil, elegant and luxurious” seemed to be the verdict on the ambience. Although most people felt it offered value for money only half said they would return.

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