Identical towns with identical high streets dominated by chain shops are draining the character from British town centres, according to a survey by the New Economics Foundation, an independent think-tank.

So where can the weary shopper go for some inspiration and a distinctively different retail therapy break? Bath boasts more independently owned shops per head of population than most other cities in the UK. Five out of ten shops are unique to Bath chains and it is the sheer variety and quality of shopping on offer that acts as a magnet to this historic town.

"A large number of visitors are attracted to Bath because of the diversity of the shops," says Lucy Weaver, PR and communications executive for Bath Tourism Plus. "The Bath retail scene has its own distinctive character, created by the specialist independent retailers which are such an asset to the city," she adds.

The independent shopkeepers established the "Bath campaign for real shops" to draw attention to the concentration of unique and specialist shops within the city. Annette Martin, MD of Bath Aqua Glass, the driving force behind this initiative says "so many customers love Bath because the shops are so different here. Through the 'Campaign for Real Shops' we can highlight the range of independent shops, many of which sell locally made goods."

The retail world of Bath is vibrant and constantly evolving to keep pace with the latest trends and fashions. High fashion is only part of the story with every imaginable kind of specialist shop to tantalise the visitor. Bath is a very walkable city which is part of its appeal and many of its most interesting shops are hidden away in side streets and alleyways. In Margaret's Buildings, tucked away between the Royal Crescent and the Circus, Liz Cox showcases her fabulous handmade handbags. In Walcot Street, the artisans' centre of Bath since Roman days, glass is hand blown at the Bath Aqua Theatre of Glass, Kent & Carey sells classic children's clothes and the Fine Cheese Company is a foodie's paradise with 150 cheeses on offer.

If Patsy or Edina should find themselves in Bath, they would undoubtedly head straight for Shire's Yard off Milsom Street with its sophisticated shops selling gorgeous accessories, designer shoes and fashions. They might also be tempted by the Molton Brown shop, which opened earlier this year or, naughty but nice, handmade Minerva chocolates.

According to Bill Cotton, head of economic development for Bath and North East Somerset Council: "The British like nothing more than shopping! The high proportion of independent shops is a key factor in the appeal of Bath as a major retail centre". The council, which owns much of the retail space in Bath, is in the fortunate position of having a waiting list of retailers keen to get into the market enabling them to maintain a balance in the high street. Mr Cotton applauds the many small businesses that make up the retail sector. "We are very proud of the entrepreneurial spirit in Bath and the range of skills and experience in this sector. Our strategy is to keep improving the value and quality of the retail offering here," he says.

With such a wealth of retail opportunities on offer, careful planning is a must. The little black book "Best - Bath's Exclusive Shopping Tour" lists many of Bath's most exclusive shops and can be obtained through their website www.bathshopping.com

Fine galleries and antique shops attract collectors from around the world. Museum shops are recommended for interesting souvenirs such as the shop in the basement of Number One Royal Crescent, a beautifully presented complete Georgian townhouse, or the Jane Austen Centre where "Mr Darcy's crunch" is now available in the brand new tea room for thirsty shoppers needing a break. Unusual gifts are available at delightful stores like Bloomsbury and Rossiters, also great for interiors and often referred to as "The Liberty's of the West!".

Retail therapy is not exclusively a female pastime and there is plenty in Bath for the male shopaholic. Great Western Wines ships wines directly from niche wineries around the world and stocks many unusual and rare wines. Music and hi-fi buffs are well catered for with Bang and Olufsen on Argyle Street whilst Duck Son and Pinker which has been making pianos since 1848 has an extraordinary range of musical instruments on offer including some 200 guitars. Nearby the Bath Rugby Shop has a good range of the official club merchandise which is essential kit for anyone wanting to look the part at Bath Rugby at their base, the "Rec", the internationally renowned rugby ground right in the heart of the city. Bath also has great outdoor shops such as Itchy Feet for the intrepid adventurer and Running Bath for the latest in trainer technology.