Things to do in Bath for free

The grandioseBath Abbey is a Gothic masterpiece, but built from Bath stone which gives its exterior a lighter hue to other Gothic buildings, which usually use a darker brick. Believed to date back to 675AD, it was restored in the 19th and 20th centuries which is the design you see today, with ornately decorated high ceilings, stained-glass windows and light, airy feel to the place.

Built between 1767 and 1775, Bath’s Royal Crescent rose to prominence during this Georgian era as a place where notable and high-class residents and visitors stayed. The 30 tall townhouses span 500 foot and are all Grade I listed. They curve around the well-clipped lawn, hence its ‘crescent’ name, which leads onto Royal Victoria Park. This was also a setting in Jane Austen’s Persuasion, where a few scenes were also filmed for film adaptations.

The Bath Guildhall Market dates back 800 years, making it the oldest shopping venue in Bath today. Over 20 stalls, mostly local and family run, offer a range of items, from sweets and tea specialists to exotic textiles and a smattering of traditional cafes. This indoor market is zigzagged with bunting and colourful decor, making for a fun stroll through, come rain or shine. Visiting in November or December? Their Christmas Market is one you won’t want to miss.

Not far from the Royal Crescent lies Royal Victoria Park. Named after Queen Victoria who opened the park in 1830, this green expanse of 57 acres is a great place for a stroll and a picnic. There are botanical gardens, mini-golf and a skateboard area; plenty of things to choose from, whatever your budget! Plus, it’s perfect year-round, from picnicking in the summer to crunching the leaves beneath your feet in the autumn and taking to the ice rink in the winter. Browsing cheap holidays to Bath? With plenty of free things to do, there’s no rush to tick them off in one go; embrace a few key activities and attractions, like Royal Victoria Park.

Another iconic attraction is also another free thing to do in Bath. Pulteney Bridge, named after a prominent Georgian-era couple, is easily one of the most photographed spots in Bath. The three-arched bridge (where boats pass through) is rare in that it has shops on both sides, and overlooks the flowing river beneath. The bridge is designed in a classical style, with pediments and pilasters, making it a rather romantic stop-off point. Away from Pulteney Bridge, simply walking along the canalside in the quieter parts of the city makes for a peaceful experience in Bath; wave hello to those passing by on a barge and take in the genteel scenes.

The fascinating Holburne Museum is named after Sir William Holburne, an 18th century baronet who was an avid adventurer and collector of items from across the world. His collection spans thousands of artefacts – bronze, sculptures, Dutch landscapes – all of which make for a fascinating visit. Some of the highlights include a 19th century Italian gemstone ring, an elegant harp and various framed oil paintings. The museum also puts on a range of differing temporary exhibitions, including more contemporary artists such as Grayson Perry. The building itself is another delight, a Palladian-style, honey-coloured building with a well-clipped lawn and long path leading up to the entrance.