The Historic Archway of Bath on York Street
Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
Located at 5 York Street in the heart of Bath, the Archway is a Grade I listed late 19th-century structure that spans York Street. Originally built around 1889, it served as a conduit carrying hot water from the Victorian spa to the laundry across the road. This architectural gem connects the Roman Baths with adjacent buildings and reflects Bath’s rich heritage, blending functional engineering with elegant design in the UNESCO World Heritage city centre.
A brief summary to Archway
- 5 York St, Bath, BA1 1NH, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight to fully appreciate the stonework details and the surrounding historic streetscape.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey for a comprehensive historical experience.
- Bring a camera for picturesque views framed by the Archway along York Street.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the area involves walking on historic cobblestone streets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Walking
From Bath Abbey, walking to the Archway takes about 10 minutes along Abbey Church Yard and York Street. The route is on paved, historic streets with some cobblestones and is accessible for most visitors.
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Public Transport
Take any local bus to Bath Bus Station, then walk approximately 7 minutes east along Southgate Street and York Street to reach the Archway. Bus services run frequently, and the walk involves urban pavements with some uneven surfaces.
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Walking
From Bath Spa Train Station, it’s a 20-minute walk via Dorchester Street, Manvers Street, and North Parade Road to York Street. The walk is mostly flat on city pavements, suitable for most fitness levels.
Archway location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Archway
A Testament to Victorian Engineering and Bath’s Spa Heritage
The Archway in Bath is a remarkable example of Victorian-era infrastructure designed with both utility and aesthetic appeal. Constructed circa 1889, this stone bridge spans York Street, carrying hot water from the famous Roman Baths spa to its laundry facilities located across the road. This function was essential to the operation of the spa complex, highlighting the innovative engineering solutions of the time that supported Bath’s thriving spa culture.Architectural Elegance in a Historic Setting
Though primarily functional, the Archway is also an architectural landmark, proudly standing as a Grade I listed structure. Its stone construction and design harmonize with Bath’s renowned Georgian and Victorian architecture, contributing to the city’s distinctive historic streetscape. The Archway’s presence enhances the character of York Street, offering visitors a tangible link to the city’s spa legacy and urban development during the late 19th century.Connection Between Iconic Bath Attractions
Strategically located, the Archway physically and symbolically connects the Roman Baths complex with surrounding buildings, integrating the spa’s operations into the urban fabric. Visitors strolling along York Street can appreciate the Archway as both a passageway and a historical artifact, evoking the daily workings of Bath’s spa industry in its heyday. Its proximity to other landmarks such as Bath Abbey and the Pump Room enriches the visitor experience within this UNESCO World Heritage Site.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The Archway offers a quiet, evocative spot amid Bath’s bustling city centre. Its stone arch frames views along York Street, inviting reflection on the city’s layered history. The structure’s enduring presence amidst modern life provides a serene contrast and a scenic backdrop for photography enthusiasts and history lovers alike. The surrounding area is lively yet retains a tranquil charm, making the Archway a unique blend of urban vitality and historic ambiance.Preservation and Cultural Significance
As a Grade I listed monument, the Archway is protected for its exceptional architectural and historic interest. It stands as a cultural symbol of Bath’s spa heritage and Victorian ingenuity. Conservation efforts ensure that this structure remains a vital part of the city’s heritage landscape, continuing to educate and inspire visitors about Bath’s unique past and its evolution as a world-famous spa destination.Exploring the Archway’s Context
Visitors can explore the Archway alongside nearby attractions such as the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and the Pump Room. This area offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and culture, with the Archway serving as a subtle yet significant landmark within this ensemble. Its presence reminds visitors of the practical infrastructure that supported Bath’s historic spa industry, adding depth to the city’s narrative beyond its grand facades.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Archway
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Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
The Pump Room Restaurant
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Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
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Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
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Experience the rich history and delectable flavors at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum in Bath, where tradition meets taste.
Monks Mill
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Discover Monks Mill, a rare medieval watermill ruin nestled in Bath’s picturesque Parade Gardens, echoing centuries of monastic industry and wool trade heritage.
The EASTGATE
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Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
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Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
Bath Quays Waterside
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A vibrant, sustainable waterside regeneration reconnecting Bath’s city centre with its historic river heritage and green public spaces.
Green Park Station
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Historic railway station turned vibrant market hub offering fresh local produce, unique crafts, lively eateries, and cultural events in Bath.
Henrietta Park
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Discover the tranquility of Henrietta Park in Bath, a serene escape filled with beautiful gardens and lush greenery perfect for relaxation.
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
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Discover the timeless beauty and historical significance of the Bath Assembly Rooms, a stunning example of Georgian architecture and social culture.
The Circus
0.7 km
A breathtaking Georgian circle of townhouses blending classical design with ancient symbolism in the heart of Bath.
Museum of Bath Architecture
0.7 km
Explore Bath’s architectural evolution from medieval roots to Georgian grandeur in a compact, richly detailed museum setting.
No. 1 Royal Crescent
0.8 km
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Georgian architecture and history at No. 1 Royal Crescent, a heritage museum in the heart of Bath.
The Royal Crescent
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Georgian perfection in stone: 150 metres of architectural harmony overlooking Bath's parkland landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bath's Historic Venues
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Experience elegant Georgian dining and historic charm with live classical music overlooking Bath’s iconic Roman Baths.
The Roman Baths
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Step into ancient history at The Roman Baths, where steaming hot springs and Roman ruins reveal 2,000 years of Bath’s heritage.
Elton House
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Experience Georgian grandeur and modern comfort in the heart of Bath’s historic city centre at Elton House.
Best of Bath Walking Tours
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Discover Bath’s Georgian elegance and rich history on an engaging small-group walking tour led by expert local guide Bob Andrews.
The Crystal Palace, Bath
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Experience the charm of Bath at The Crystal Palace, a historic pub offering delicious food, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bath Ghost Tours
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Experience the haunted history of Bath with Bath Ghost Tours, where chilling tales meet captivating storytelling in a stunning city.
The Giant Plane Tree
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A majestic 18th-century London plane tree offering a serene and historic oasis at the heart of Bath’s Abbey Green.
Bath Walking Tours
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Explore Bath’s rich history and stunning architecture on expert-led walking tours from Abbey Courtyard.
Fudge Kitchen Ltd - Bath
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Discover Bath’s artisan fudge haven where tradition, creativity, and quirky charm blend into every creamy bite.
Marshal Wade's House
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A rare early 18th-century Palladian townhouse in Bath’s historic heart, blending classical elegance with rich heritage and modern comfort.
Bath Abbey
0.1 km
Discover Bath Abbey’s breathtaking Gothic architecture, centuries of history, and vibrant spiritual life in the heart of historic Bath.
North Parade, Bath
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Discover North Parade, Bath’s elegant Georgian street blending historic charm with scenic riverside views in the heart of this UNESCO city.
The Cross Bath
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Experience the timeless healing waters of Bath’s historic Cross Bath, a Georgian thermal spa steeped in ancient legend and royal tradition.
Hetling Pump Room
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Discover Bath’s historic spa heritage at the elegant Hetling Pump Room, a gateway to the city’s mineral waters and medical past.
Bizarre Bath
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Experience Bath’s quirkiest comedy walk blending street theatre, local antics, and laughter in a lively 90-minute evening stroll.
Essential places to dine
OAK Restaurant
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Discover OAK Restaurant in Bath: exquisite vegetarian small plates crafted with local, seasonal ingredients in a cozy, historic setting.
Bill's Bath Restaurant
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A vibrant British restaurant in central Bath, perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner near the Theatre Royal and Bath Abbey.
Tagine Zhor
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Experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality of Morocco in the heart of Bath at Tagine Zhor, a vibrant and authentic Moroccan dining destination.
Browns Bath
0.2 km
Classic British brasserie dining in Bath’s historic Old Police Station with seasonal menus and handcrafted cocktails.
Jars Meze
0.2 km
Authentic Greek meze and Mediterranean warmth in Bath's most intimate family-run taverna.
Noya's Kitchen
0.2 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese home cooking in a charming Grade II listed Georgian setting in the heart of Bath.
Yak Yeti Yak
0.2 km
Authentic Nepalese cuisine and Himalayan hospitality in a vibrant basement gem.
Sotto Sotto
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic vaulted cellar setting beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Thai Balcony Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Thai dining with a charming balcony view in the heart of Bath’s vibrant Seven Dials district.
Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Bath at Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant.
Joya Italian Steakhouse
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant Italian steakhouse where you grill your own premium hot stone steak in a lively riverside setting.
Bonghy Bo
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant Asian fusion scene with Bonghy Bo’s eclectic menu and intimate, stylish setting.
Las Iguanas - Bath
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Experience bold Latin American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Bath’s lively Seven Dials district.
Raphael Restaurant
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A relaxed, wine-focused restaurant in a Georgian townhouse, serving modern British dishes with seasonal, local ingredients in the heart of Bath.
The Elder Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with a focus on seasonal wild game in Bath’s elegant Georgian setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pinkart
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Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local artistry at Pinkart, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of historic Bath.
The Roman baths shop
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Discover unique Roman-inspired gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Bath’s historic city center.
Hauslife
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Discover unique artisan homewares and gifts in a warm, inviting boutique nestled in Bath’s historic Abbeygate Street.
Jacks of Bath
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Discover authentic Bath souvenirs in a charming boutique nestled in the historic Abbey Churchyard, perfect for unique gifts and keepsakes.
Bath Retro Store
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Discover quirky gifts and nostalgic treasures in Bath Retro Store, a charming independent shop nestled in historic Abbey Green.
Fancy That of London
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Charming Bath gift shop in historic Abbey Chambers offering Bath-themed treasures and warm, personal service near Bath Abbey.
Bluebells of Bath
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Discover unique gifts and stylish home decor at Bluebells of Bath, a charming independent shop in the heart of historic Bath.
Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath
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A beloved independent bookshop in Bath offering rich literary selections, live author events, and a welcoming atmosphere daily until late evening.
Beats Of Bath
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Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Bath’s historic Cheap Street at Beats Of Bath.
Nām
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Discover unique art and scents in a cozy Bath boutique offering distinctive homewares to inspire your living space.
The Silver Shop Of Bath
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Discover Bath’s longest-established silver jewellery shop, offering unique gifts and expert craftsmanship in a charming historic setting.
Orange Grove Gifts and Souvenirs
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Discover unique treasures and local crafts at Orange Grove Gifts and Souvenirs in the heart of Bath, a must-visit for every traveler.
Wood & Burr
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Discover unique handcrafted gifts and wooden puzzles at Wood & Burr, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of historic Bath.
Hidden Store Bath
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Discover ethically made artisan gifts and homewares that celebrate Bath’s rich heritage and creativity in a warm, curated boutique setting.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Discover playful Scandinavian design and affordable creative gifts at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Bath’s vibrant Union Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hideout
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Discover Bath’s hip-hop inspired whisky bar nestled in a historic cellar, blending quirky charm with expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming vibe.
All Bar One Bath
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A stylish and spacious wine bar on Bath’s historic High Street, blending modern comfort with vibrant city energy.
Sleight Magic Bar
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Discover Bath’s only magic bar, where captivating close-up illusions meet expertly crafted cocktails in a vaulted cellar setting.
ArtBar
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A stylish cocktail bar and art gallery in Bath’s historic Abbey Hotel, blending creative ambiance with refined drinks and local charm.
The Grapes
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A historic Bath pub blending traditional charm with lively music, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city’s heart.
Coeur De Lion
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Discover Bath’s smallest pub, Coeur De Lion, where cozy charm meets local ales and simple, tasty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Juno Bar and Kitchen
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Lively central Bath bar serving craft beers, bold burgers, inventive cocktails, and a buzzing social scene with pool and music.
Fidel Rum Bar
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Discover Bath’s cozy rum sanctuary with expert cocktails, a global rum collection, and a warm, inviting atmosphere at Fidel Rum Bar.
Vino Vino
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Sophisticated yet relaxed wine and cocktail bar in Bath with artisan sharing plates and a vibrant al fresco terrace.
The Dark Horse
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Discover Bath’s moody, intimate cocktail bar with inventive drinks, warm service, and a hidden underground charm.
The Bath Distillery Gin Bar
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Discover Bath’s historic gin revival in a vibrant Georgian bar with exclusive small-batch gins and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Old Green Tree
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A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
Belushi's Bath
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A lively sports bar and live music venue in Bath offering great food, cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere near the city’s historic heart.
The Botanist Bath
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A botanical haven in Bath blending historic charm, seasonal menus, award-winning cocktails, and live music across three vibrant floors.
Opium Bar
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Discover vintage charm and expertly crafted cocktails in Bath’s secretive vaults beneath Grove Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Komedia
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Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
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Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
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A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
Zero / Zero
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Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Sub 13
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Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Lomah
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Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
The Tub
2.3 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Motion
16.8 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Dare to Club
16.9 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Loco Klub
17.3 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Thekla
17.9 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Popworld - Bristol
18.3 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
18.3 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
PRYZM
18.3 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Lakota
18.3 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
