As an individual that spends my life heading all around the country and Europe visiting different rugby grounds some may consider me to be a well travelled individual. However, more often than not I make fleeting visits to cities and see the train station, the ground, the press facilities and then head back to the station without actually exploring the surrounding area.
This weekend I had the opportunity to change that thanks to a European Champions Cup trip with a difference. Bath Boutique Stays highlighted to me a tremendous new way to experience rugby that involves combining top flight European action with the delights of staying in and enjoying a picturesque and historic city.
From the moment that I set foot at Bath Spa station to the moment that the return train departed for London the experience was exceptional. As mentioned Bath is a city blessed with history and stories and Bath Boutique Stays showcase that tremendously. The Jane Austin Apartments are situated less than five minutes walk from The Recreation Ground and are idyllically put together.
The attention to detail is divine, from the collection of Jane Austen books and Pride and Prejudice quote on arrival, the one that makes every lady's heart melt 'You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you' to the delightful and charming interiors. The apartments on Sydney Street are split into Lizzie Bennet's Penthouse, my abode for weekend, Cassandra's 1st Floor Apartment, Mr Darcy's 2nd Floor Apartment and the Bijou Bedroom.
For the rugby fan the hassle of the match is taken away as your tickets are available at your abode on arrival and are combined with a thermal spa experience, something that you certainly don't get with a normal match day away trip?!! Hen parties and spa breaks are all also impeccably delivered and with the luxury of having an entire property to yourself it is a sensational way to enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.
'You're welcome' is Bath Boutique Stays' philosophy and it is a phrase fit them perfectly for nothing is too much trouble to ensure that your experience in Bath is as delightful and premium as possible without breaking your bank.
As a rugby writer and someone that has visited ground after ground, city after city, I can honestly say that it was the most pleasurable way to spend a European weekend that I have experienced. Personally I have already booked to come back for another work weekend covering Bath Rugby's huge Christmas clash with Wasps in the Champions Cup and have friends that are popping down as a group together after a Sunday morning FaceTime conversation and them seeing the apartment.
A huge recommendation to check out Bath Boutique Stays' website and offerings; http://www.bathboutiquestays.co.uk