The most photographed building in Bath, and arguably the finest crescent in Britain. Thirty terraced houses form a sweeping arc of 114 Ionic columns, looking out over a grand lawn that slopes down to Royal Victoria Park. The effect is theatrical and deliberate — John Wood the Younger designed it to be seen from below, the golden limestone glowing in afternoon light.
No. 1 Royal Crescent is open to the public as a museum, faithfully restored to show how a wealthy Georgian family would have lived. The lawn in front is one of the best spots in the city for a picnic when the weather is kind. Walk here from the Circus via Brock Street for the full architectural experience.