Surroundings, Bath

One of two fine 18th century residential streets found on the outskirts of Bath, Camden Crescent was built by John Eveleigh between 1786 and 1792, remaining uncompleted because of structural problems.

One of two fine 18th century residential streets found on the outskirts of Bath, the Baroque sweep of John Palmer's Landsdown Crescent (1794), several hundred meters long, represented quite an innovation in urban architecture, twisting in serpentine conformity to the contours of the site.

Claverton Manor (2.5mi/4km southeast of Bath), built by Sir Jeffry Wyatville in 1820, now houses an American Museum with evocative period reconstructions of interiors from American homes (17th-19th century). There are special sections on the American West and the American Indians.Galleries also include pewter, glass, textiles (over 50 quilts), maps and folk art.

Prior Park (2mi/3km southeast of Bath) was built between 1735 and 1750 for Ralph Allen, to plans by John Wood. It is a fine example of a Palladian mansion, with a magnificent colonnaded portico. There is also a lovely Palladian bridge in the landscaped grounds.

Dyrham Park (8mi/13km north of Bath) is a 17th C mansion set in more than 100ha/250ac of parkland and gardens, with delightful views. The interior contains fine furniture, paintings etc.The mansion is located within an ancient deer park with formal gardens, woodland, and lakes to explore.