exploring bath & bath houses

And ah, wifi! How delicious you are. Thank you, Jesus, for cafes with internet even if that means tipsy British men who try bad Chicago accents when you tell them where you’re from.

Wednesday afternoon, a group of us hiked the coastal path, meandering through cow fields and grassy pastures dangerously close to dropping off into the sea. We came across some structural remains of old stone cottages as well as giant cow pies. The view of the sea was incredible—vast and a deep navy gray, stretching out into the hazy horizon. It broke sternly onto the white cliffs of Dover as sea-gulls squawked above us, diving into the ocean in search of fish. 

the sleepy fishing village of beer

hiking hikers hike

Thursday, the entire troop went to Bath. We bundled into the bus around 9 am, unprepared for what lie in store. It was one of the bumpiest, most harrowing bus rides I’ve ever been on. Several threw up, most were sick, and it took us almost three hours to reach our destination.

When we were finally on sturdy ground, our group headed towards Bath’s fashion museum or the Victorian art museum. In desperate need of coffee, I headed with Jeff and Namatha towards Colonna & Small’s, apparently the best coffee house in Bath. We were served by the UK Barista champion who whipped me up a delicious Flat White. 

coffee magicians at work

We then meandered about, popping into a cheese shop and observing some of Bob Dylan’s art. Nam also was fortunate to meet a pigeon man named Paul who set about placing pigeons on her arms and head. 

paul & nam share a moment (and a pigeon)

so much happy

 Bath is a bit like a quieter, smaller London, I think. I enjoyed it.

Afterwards, we headed towards the ancient Roman baths, where we were free to wonder, guided by our audio tour. The place is bathed (excuse my pun) in history. The only natural hot water spring in Britain, the Celts took advantage of the healing properties of the water long before the Romans. Conquering Roman soldiers turned the place into a temple and bath house around 76 A.D. The Victorians discovered the ruins of the ancient Roman bath house in the late 19^th century, rebuilding some of it and uncovering ancient artifacts.

entry way to Baths

bath cathedral and bath house (on right)

the king's spa

the main bath was being cleaned

 The place today is incredible. You can wonder ancient Roman ruins, observe temple statues, see coins tossed into the fountain, and read about the people who frequented the baths almost a thousand years ago. We even tasted the natural hot spring water which was disgustingly mineral.

yum, mineral water

rushing underground springs

Afterwards, we walked around Bath a bit more, ducking down side alleys and purchasing salads (fresh greens!) and ice cream. I bought a cone of “Cream Tea” which had clotted cream flavored ice cream with scones and jam mixed in. Only in England, folks!

to ice-cream and england!

Our daring bus driver attempted a new, “less-bumpy” (debatable…) route home, which involved squeezing the enormous bus through a wooded path--Dr. G was gracious enough to hop out and hold back a few tree limbs for us. We almost hit a car, swerved to miss a wall, and made it home safely around 6:30 p.m.

Today it’s sunny and our regular class schedule resumes. Will probably hike a bit, purchase some groceries, and head to town for Indian food later on.

I think our group is starting to feel the traveling tolls, so prayers would be appreciated.

We’re here in Beer for another week, so don’t expect a whole lot of exciting updates. It’ll be mostly school and hiking. Next stop is Cambridge, I do believe. I’ll keep you posted.

Cheers, friends!