Despite salacious rumours to the contrary, Bath’s cultural scene is not all lace bonnets and horse drawn carriages (though, of course, if that’s your scene you might be interested in the Jane Austen Festival held every September). It is, in fact, remarkably vibrant, as the following list illustrates. For even more information go to www.bathfestivals.org.uk

MARCH

Bath Literature Festival

Rub shoulders with famous authors, as the city welcomes the cream of the literary crop for a series of readings, Q&As and workshops. A bibliophile’s delight.

Bath Festival of Children’s Literature

Budding bibliophiles are also catered for with a literary festival of their own. Previous speakers have included Bath’s very own Dame Jacqueline Wilson.

APRIL

Bath in Fashion

Bath transforms itself into a vast catwalk as a week long catalogue of events celebrates the city’s enduring status as a centre for style. Bath resident Manolo Blahnik is a former guest speaker.

MAY

Bath International Music Festival

An eclectic selection of live performances that encompasses classical, jazz, world, roots and folk music, held over seven melodious days.

JULY

Bath Guitar Festival

Not only a series of performances from some of the world’s best guitarists, but, don’t fret as there’s also a selection of master classes and workshops with top tutors. It’s finger-picking good.

NOVEMBER

Bath Film Festival

Preview screenings of new films combined with Q&A sessions from leading filmmakers and actors ensure this is the hottest ticket in town. Many are held at the wonderful Little Cinema, one of Bath’s hidden gems.