Best things to do in Bath
As you might expect from a place called Bath, this city is famous for its water. Its naturally hot spring water made it a favourite with the Romans, who built, of course, some baths. It's also the backdrop to some of Jane Austen's famous novels. Put all that together, and you've got a UNESCO World Heritage Site straight out of a BBC period drama. Ready to explore? Here's what to do if you're heading to Bath for a day or weekend trip.
1. See the beautifully preserved Great Bath
These Roman Baths have been one of the most visited places in Britain for more than 2,000 years. Go to see the Great Bath, the Roman Temple, and to taste the mineral-packed spa water which comes out of a special water fountain. The Beau Street Hoard is also worth seeing. That's the 17, 577 Roman coins that were found under the new Gainsborough Hotel in 2007.
2. Have a soak in a rooftop spa pool
Bad news: you can't take a dip in the Great Bath. Good news: you can visit the atmospheric Thermae Bath Spa rooftop pool for a dip. Alternatively, book into a hotel for a spa experience of your own.
3. Visit Pulteney Bridge
The Grade I listed Pulteney Bridge is a real rarity. You'll find shops, cafes and restaurants inside, and there are only four others in the world like it.
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4. Walk all the way around the Royal Crescent
Bath is probably most famous for its Georgian crescents. You might recognise the Royal Crescent from period dramas, but even if you're not a fan of those, you'll probably like the views of Royal Victoria Park. Known as the best address in Bath, No.1 Royal Crescent was opened as a museum in 2013.
5. Learn about Bath's history in a museum
Bath is home to several fascinating museums that delve into its rich history. The Roman Baths are perhaps the most famous, offering an immersive journey into the ancient Roman thermal spa complex that gave the city its name. The **Bath Abbey Heritage Vaults** explore the religious history of the city, while the **Fashion Museum** showcases Georgian and Victorian attire, reflecting Bath’s role as a fashionable hub during those eras. For a more comprehensive look at the city's development, the Museum of Bath Architecture and the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution offer detailed insights into Bath's architectural and cultural evolution.
6. Head to an art gallery
First, there's the Victoria Art Gallery, which houses portraits by Thomas Gainsborough. Or try the Museum of East Asian Art, home to a large jade collection among its east and south east Asian artefacts. The Holburne Museum is in Sydney Gardens, looking up Great Pulteney Street. It's free to visit, and home to a collection of fine and decorative art, including paintings by Gainsborough and Stubbs.
7. Book tickets to a play or show
If you're going for the weekend, you might want to look at what's on in the theatre. Bath's got a few, here are some to try:
Bath is a vibrant city for theatre and live performances, offering a range of venues for shows. Theatre Royal Bath, one of the oldest and most prestigious theatres in the UK, hosts an array of productions from West End shows to ballet and opera. For those seeking something more contemporary, The Ustinov Studio within the Theatre Royal complex provides an intimate space for innovative and avant-garde performances. The Egg, also part of the Theatre Royal, focuses on family-friendly and children’s shows. For live music and comedy, Komedia Bath is a lively venue offering a mix of performances throughout the year. These venues make Bath a cultural hub for diverse entertainment.
8. Eat and drink your way around the city
Tea houses, local beer, or a posh meal? Cocktails? Here are some options.
Bath boasts a variety of excellent spots for dining and drinking, making it a foodie’s haven. Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House, one of the oldest in Bath, is famous for its iconic buns and traditional British fare. For a fine dining experience, The Olive Tree, Bath’s Michelin-starred restaurant, offers modern British cuisine in an elegant setting. The Pump Room Restaurant, set in the historic Roman Baths complex, provides a sophisticated afternoon tea experience with live classical music. If you’re after a more relaxed vibe, The Raven pub serves up classic pies and local ales, while Colonna & Small's is perfect for coffee aficionados. From high-end restaurants to cosy cafés, Bath’s culinary scene is diverse and vibrant.
9. Have a nice walk around Bath's parks and gardens
Prior Park has lovely landscaped gardens along with some of the best views of Bath. The Palladian bridge is one of only four of this design in the world. And if you're feeling fit, take the Bath Skyline stroll - it's a six mile route. The Royal Victoria Park has beautiful botanical gardens for the grownups...and a massive, modern children's play area, skate park, crazy golf and model boating pond for the kids. Or head to Alexandra Park on Beechen Cliff. It's got wooded views across the city, boule, Petanque, playgrounds and picnic areas.
10. Get up close to some animals at Bath City Farm
Bath City Farm is free to visit, but donations are very welcome. As well as sheep, goats, chickens, ducks and pigs, they also have a pony you can groom. Visit the website to find out about special events and family activities. Or if you've ever fancied falconry, visit the West of England Falconry centre in the Midford Valley and have a go yourself.
11. Go on a walking tour of the city
The Mayor of Bath's Corps of Honorary Guides offer free daily walking tours. They have 65 volunteer guides (with distinctive badges) who'll take you around, whatever the weather. They were granted The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in June 2014, and don't accept tips - they just do it for the city.
12. Take a boat tour along the rivers and canals
Bath City Boat Trips have 55 minute tours, including full commentary, along the River Avon. There's also the historic Kennet and Avon Canal - you can hire boats by the day or for longer periods. Or if you fancy letting someone else do the hard work, try the Lady Lena. They do champagne and afternoon tea cruises along the canal.
13. Get a birds eye view in a balloon
You can fly over the city and as far as the Mendips or Cotswolds, by taking a balloon flight. Obviously this is weather dependent, so check out Bath Balloons for booking details.
14. Spend a couple of hours looking around the shops
We recommend a visit to Milsom Street. It's scenic independent shopping at its best. Milsom Place also has more stores and restaurants under cover. Another historic shopping option is Bartlett Street. This is where you'll find the Bartlett Street Antiques Centre, full of collectables and specialist dealers. Bath Street is also a good place to admire the architecture while you shop. The Fine Cheese Shop in Walcot Street has an extensive array of cheeses behind the counter, as well as a serving street food from the shop. Look up at the stone faces in the street while you're passing, there are more than 30 handcarved in a Great Wall of faces. Mr B's Emporium of Reading Delights is also worth a look - it's an award winning independent bookshop.
15. Browse the markets
The Bath Street Food market, based at SouthGate, happens twice monthly (except in peak summer season and Christmas). On Sundays at Green Park Station covered market, you'll either find the retro stalls of BathVA Markets or the Bath Artisan Market. There's a Farmer's Market every Saturday. And as for Christmas markets, Bath Abbey has 150 chalets in place throughout December.
16. Time your visit with a festival
The charity Bath Festivals organises two of the city's major events: Bath International Music Festival and the Independent Bath Literature Festival (and the children's literature festival). The music festival usually takes place in May and June. It focuses on classical music, as well as jazz, world and folk. There is also a separate Bath Fringe Festival which runs at the same time. September sees the whole city travel back to the Georgian period for the Jane Austen Festival. Expect bonnets, fans and breeches around the city centre. For food, The Great Bath Feast is the city's culinary celebration, and takes place in October. There's also the Bath Beer Festival.
Book experiences in Bath
Staying there
If you're feeling inspired, we have plenty of hotels in Bath and the surrounding area.
Don't forget, you're also within an hours drive to one of the country's most popular heritage sights - Stonehenge.
There's also other weekend break destinations and ideas for day trips from London nearby if you want to visit more of the Great British outdoors.
Getting there
It takes just under an hour and a half to get to Bath from London on a fast train via Great Western Railway.
If you're driving, it's around two and a half hours from London (depending on traffic). There's plenty of parking in Bath, and as the city centre isn't too big, you should be close to the major attractions.
Visit Bath Car Parks website to see live updates on the parking so you don't have to drive round aimlessly.
FAQs: Things to do in Bath
Bath is famous for its Roman baths and as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is renowned for its natural hot springs, which have attracted visitors for centuries. Additionally, Bath is known for its Georgian architecture and beautiful streets, such as the Royal Crescent and The Circus, as well as its cultural offerings, including museums and festivals. The city is also known for its connection to author Jane Austen.
While it is possible to see some of Bath's highlights in one day, a longer visit is recommended to fully appreciate the city's rich history and attractions. You can enjoy a walk around the city’s picturesque streets but key sites, such as the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and the Jane Austen Centre, deserve ample time for exploration. A day may suffice for a quick overview, but staying longer allows for a more intimate experience.
Staying overnight in Bath is highly recommended, as it allows visitors to experience the city's attractions at a more leisurely pace and enjoy its vibrant nightlife. A longer stay also gives you time to explore nearby sites like the scenic Avon Valley or the picturesque villages in the surrounding countryside.
Yes, Bath is a very walkable city. The main attractions are all within a relatively compact area, and the city’s charming streets are best explored on foot. The hills in some parts of the city might be a bit steep, but generally, it’s easy to navigate without needing a car or public transport.
Bath is not considered a particularly cheap city. As a popular tourist destination with historic attractions and a high standard of living that often leads to higher prices. It is only about 8% less expensive than London, making it somewhat costly for budget travellers. However, there are ways to enjoy Bath on a budget by seeking out free activities and affordable dining options. Cheaper accommodation like guesthouses and hostels are also available, especially if booked in advance.
Bath offers a diverse shopping experience, featuring a mix of high-street brands, independent boutiques, and artisan shops. The city has a variety of shopping areas, including SouthGate, Milsom Street, and Walcot Street, where you can find everything from fashion to antiques and unique local crafts. Additionally, the presence of regular markets adds to the charm, making it a pleasant destination for retail therapy.
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