The hype
Travelers adore the location and the 'Old meets New' design, but consistently warn about the size variance between room categories.
Indigo Bath, An Ihg Hotel
$150-280/ night
Book this if You want a stylish, literary-themed boutique base that's dead central but tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable location: 3 minutes from the train station, 5 minutes from the Roman Baths
- The Elder restaurant is a destination in itself, serving wild game hunted by the owner
- Quirky, character-rich design that feels like a wealthy eccentric's townhouse, not a chain hotel
Quick Take: A visually stunning labyrinth of 12 merged Georgian houses where the 'Standard' rooms are basically attic cupboards, but the 'Premium' rooms are pure Bridgerton fantasy.
Reviewed by @theboutiqueadventurer: I was blown away by how intimate this place feels—it’s actually 12 Georgian houses stitched together! I stayed in the suite converted from old stables, and the stone arches were just gorgeous. It’s the perfect spot if you want history without sacrificing modern luxury.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Standard' rooms are frequently described as dark, cramped, and disappointing compared to the marketing photos of the suites.
- You're a couple looking for a romantic, moody city break
- You appreciate serious farm-to-table dining (The Elder is legit)
- You want to be within stumbling distance of the train station
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Daily and thorough. Guests consistently praise the 'sparkling' condition of rooms.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. Grout is clean, no signs of mold even in the older vault areas.
- Maintenance: Excellent restoration. Everything feels new despite the 18th-century shell.
- Linens & towels: Crisp Egyptian cotton sheets and fluffy, high-quality towels.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of their signature scent (fresh/woody); no mustiness even in the basement.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Creaky floorboards in corridors (it's an old building)
- Occasional AC hum in top-floor rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is actually 12 interconnected Georgian townhouses, so the layout is a maze.
- The gym is small and located in a vaulted cellar—atmospheric but basic.
- Room service has a tray charge and limited hours compared to big chains.
What to pack
- Walking shoes (Bath is hilly and cobblestoned)
- A rain jacket (it's England, and you'll be walking everywhere)
- Smart-casual dinner outfits for The Elder
Room Genie
Best picks
- Architectural Beauty rooms (high ceilings, huge sash windows, street views)
- Premium rooms (worth the upgrade for the space and standalone bathtubs)
Rooms to avoid
- Standard rooms (often attic/eaves with low head clearance)
- Vault rooms (underground, windowless, dark)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a room in the 'Architectural Beauty' theme with high ceilings and natural light. Please avoid the Vault rooms and the top-floor eaves rooms as we are tall and value a view.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there parking?
Yes, valet is £40/night. Pro tip: Park at Manvers Street car park directly opposite for ~£17.50/24h.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome for a £50 per night fee, which includes a bed and bowl.
Does it have a pool?
No, but the famous Thermae Bath Spa is a 5-minute walk away.
What is the breakfast like?
High quality but expensive (£24). Served in Brasserie Beau. Includes buffet + hot à la carte options.
How far is the train station?
Extremely close—about a 3-minute flat walk. Perfect if you're arriving by rail.
Are the Vault rooms really underground?
Yes, they are converted cellars. They are cozy and quiet but have zero natural light.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Skip the hotel breakfast at least once and go to 'Rosario’s' or 'The Colombian Company' nearby for a better value start.
- ✨
There is a hidden speakeasy bar called 'The Jib' inside the hotel—ask the concierge if it's open.
- ✨
If you drive, download the 'MiPermit' app to pay for the Manvers Street parking across the road without needing coins.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'servant bells' behind the reception desk are original fixtures from when the buildings were private homes.
💡The hotel has its own butchery room downstairs for The Elder restaurant's game meat.
💡Corridors are a literal maze—you might have to go up a floor to go down a floor to reach your room.
💡The 'Romance & Mischief' themed rooms feature risqué artwork and gambling motifs.
💡You can hear the church bells from St John’s next door (charming by day, noticeable if you're a light sleeper).
Local Playbook
Map
See where Indigo Bath, An Ihg Hotel is located and what's nearby.