The Michelin Guide is a world-renowned authority on food. So much so, that everyone always forgets it is in fact a tyre manufacturer. Still, a commendation from Michelin really means something in the hospitality world. Now it’s branched beyond restaurant stars and hotel keys and has recommended whole cities in its list of the 10 most exciting ‘foodie destinations’ to explore in 2025.
In the company of places like Mexico City, Vienna, Bangkok and Amsterdam, one UK spa town made the cut. As the city gears up to celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday with a series of glamorous balls, Michelin says Bath is one of the top places in the world to visit this year.
The city is home to 13 Michelin Guide restaurants. Some of the best places to eat in the city include the Olive Tree, Time Out’s number one Bath pick and the only one in the city with a Michelin star and Beckford Bottle Shop and Chequers, which have both been awarded Michelin Bib Gourmand for offering amazing food at great value.
Michelin also recommends Oak, a veggie dining spot ‘where the chefs plate up plant-led food prepared with ingredients plucked right from the owners’ garden’.
If you fancy a foodie excursion to the city, Michelin puts forward Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa as a beautiful fail-safe place to stay. And we approve. Time Out’s expert writer and Bath local Rosemary Waugh gave Royal Crescent a perfect five stars and describes it as ‘utter tranquility’.
For even more options, take a look through the rest of our carefully curated lists of Bath’s best hotels and best Airbnbs. And after you’ve got that booked, plan what you’ll do beyond eating with our roundup of the city’s most exciting things to do.
ICYMI: This UK city has just been declared home to an official new Paddington Statue.
Plus: Folkestone is the UK’s best place to visit in 2025, according to Time Out.
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