And yet through it all – the 'improvement' of the Victorians, the Bath Blitz, the refusal of the 1960s councillors to rehabilitate instead of demolish – much of Bath remains stunningly beautiful. Why the Royal Crescent is unique in the world is something of a mystery, for it is after all just a row of houses - curved rather than straight – but unique it is. The setting – the grass and the park beyond - makes a big difference. Yet overall the Royal Crescent is simply a glorioust set piece which we must cherish and preserve.