Swellegant Stays: The Bird – Bath, England

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Ornithophobic? If you are afraid of birds you had probably better stay away from this brilliantly bonkers bird-themed hotel in the popular British tourism destination of Bath. Though the city typically sells itself on its Roman baths, Regency architecture, and connections with Jane Austen, The Bird shows off Bath’s more youthful, creative side. It’s the ideal spot to stay for those who want to be within easy walking distance of the tourist sites but enjoy a more contemporary style.

The Bird is a large stone property looking out across Bath Rugby ground and to Bath Abbey beyond. The lobby and living room feel like part of someone’s home, with plenty of comfortable armchairs and couches scattered with bright cushions, eclectic artwork on the walls, and a pantry where you can help yourself to soft drinks and snacks. The staff may be at the desk (which is decorated with a collage of porcelain plates painted with birds), or in the bar downstairs: the atmosphere is wonderfully casual, though there’s always someone nearby to help.

Rooms and suites are divided between the main house and the garden; they’re all spacious and brilliantly designed. Whichever room you choose, there will be intriguing art to admire, lush fabrics, and theatrical touches such as free-standing copper baths, gilded mirrors, and even chandeliers.

Meals are served at Plate, The Bird’s restaurant, which has indoor space but also a terrace for al fresco dining and transparent domes for those days when you’d love to be outside but the English weather is being, well, English. Whatever you plan to eat, start with a cocktail: the cocktail menu is bird-themed, too, with fabulous illustrations of our feathered friends. Start with a Kingfisher (sake, ginger, and vermouth, topped with prosecco) or Robin (vodka, cointreau, and lemon marmalade), and segue via dinner to the Bald Eagle (bourbon, armagnac, and banana) for the ultimate night cap.

www.thebirdbath.co.uk