About

The Royal Crescent is one of Bath’s most iconic landmarks, built between 1767 and 1775 and designed by the renowned architect John Wood the Younger. This stunning example of Georgian architecture remains one of the greatest in the United Kingdom.

For a more detailed history, see A Brief History of the Royal Crescent.

Architecture and design of the Royal Crescent

The Royal Crescent consists of 30 Grade I Listed terrace houses, arranged around a perfect lawn overlooking Royal Victoria Park. Its sweeping crescent shape stretches 500 feet long and features a unique ha-ha, a sunken wall originally designed to keep grazing animals away from the formal garden areas.

Why is the Royal Crescent famous for Georgian architecture?
The Royal Crescent is considered a masterpiece of Georgian design, showcasing symmetry, classical proportions, and elegance that define 18th-century British architecture.

Notable residents

Many notable people have either lived or stayed in the Royal Crescent since it was built, and some are commemorated on special plaques attached to the relevant buildings.

No.1 Royal Crescent and The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

Today, the Royal Crescent serves multiple purposes:

• The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa: A five-star luxury hotel offering elegance, comfort, and tranquility.

• No. 1 Royal Crescent Museum: A museum dedicated to Georgian life, showcasing interiors, furniture, and lifestyle of the 18th century.

• Private Housing: Several of the houses remain private residences, maintaining the Crescent’s traditional charm.

The Royal Crescent as a filming location

It is also a popular filming location for big and small screen productions. Bridgerton and Jane Austen's Persuasion included many scenes shot at the Royal Crescent, and it was also featured in the 2008 film The Duchess starring Keira Knightley.

The famous yellow door controversy

Perhaps the most controversial moment in the Crescent’s history, however, occurred during the 1970s, when the resident of No. 22, Miss Annabel Wellesley-Colley, painted her front door yellow instead of the traditional white.

Miss Wellesley-Colley had to fight two enforcement orders from Bath City Council and defend herself at a public enquiry, before it was finally declared that the door could remain yellow, which is just how you will see it today!

Visiting the Royal Crescent: Tips and Highlights

When visiting the Royal Crescent, don’t miss:

• The central lawn and ha-ha for perfect photo opportunities.

• The museum at No. 1 to experience authentic Georgian life.

• The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa for luxury dining or afternoon tea.

• Walking tours to spot historical plaques and famous houses.

Best time to visit the Royal Crescent in Bath?
Spring and summer offer the most vibrant views of the gardens, but the Crescent is photogenic year-round.