Bath Travel Guide – 18 Things to See and Do in Bath

Bath, England, is a city that effortlessly combines history, culture, and natural beauty. The beautiful Georgian architecture made from Bath’s distinctive, golden-colored stone dominate the city’s aesthetics. From its ancient Roman heritage to its modern-day additions, Bath is home to a variety of experiences to suit every kind of traveler. In this Bath travel guide we’ll cover the best things to see and do in Bath, along with practical tips on where to stay, how to get there, and what to expect.

Bath, England

Located in the southwest of England, Bath is a city celebrated for its Roman-built baths and Georgian elegance. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with striking examples of 18th-century architecture.

The city is known for its hot spring waters—the only ones in the UK—which have attracted visitors for over 2,000 years. Today, Bath is a lively destination that offers a mix of historical exploration, nature, and modern relaxation, making it a perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

Things to See and Do in Bath

1. Pulteney Bridge

One of Bath’s most iconic landmarks, Pulteney Bridge spans the River Avon near the city centre. Built in the 18th-century, it is one of only a few bridges in the world with shops lining both sides.

As you walk across the bridge, you can admire the unique architecture and enjoy window-shopping or browsing in the small boutique shops.

The best views are from just south of the bridge with the horse-shoe shaped Pulteney Weir in view too.

2. Roman Baths

The Roman Baths are a must-visit for anyone coming to Bath. This ancient site is the reason behind the city’s name and offers a glimpse into its Roman past.

The baths are incredibly well preserved and remain one of the most significant religious spas of the ancient world. As you explore, you’ll walk through the sacred spring, the Roman temple, and the bathhouse itself.

The museum section offers fascinating insights into Roman life, with artifacts and interactive displays that bring the history of the baths to life.

It’s better to book tickets to the Roman Baths in advance as they regularly sell out.

3. Bath Abbey

Standing tall in the heart of the city, Bath Abbey is one of the best things to see in Bath.

The church, founded in the 7th-century and rebuilt in the 12th and 16th-centuries, is a Gothic architectural masterpiece, both inside and out. There are fan vaulted ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and a 212-step tower with panoramic views of Bath.

The Abbey also occasionally hosts special displays and exhibitions like Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon and Gaia, or the upcoming light show Shine On.

You can book tickets to Bath Abbey in advance to save queueing when you get there.

4. Thermae Bath Spa

For a modern take on Bath’s spa heritage, a visit to Thermae Bath Spa is a must. The modern spa offers a chance to bathe in the geothermally heated mineral waters, just as the ancient Romans did.

The highlight is the rooftop pool with its stunning views over the city. There’s also the indoor Minerva Bath, which is the main pool, and a range of spa treatments.

5. Royal Crescent

The Royal Crescent is one of the best examples of Georgian architecture in the UK and the beautifully manicured lawn adds even more elegance.

The sweeping crescent of 30 terraced houses was built in the 18th-century, an important time in Bath’s history.

You can take a leisurely walk along the crescent to admire the grand facades, or visit No. 1 Royal Crescent, a museum that recreates the life of a wealthy Georgian family.

6. The Circus

Admittedly, The Circus is very similar to the Royal Crescent, but another architectural gem in Bath, nonetheless.

Designed by John Wood the Elder in the mid-18th-century, this circular arrangement of Georgian townhouses is both elegant and imposing. The design of The Circus is said to have been inspired by the Colosseum in Rome, with three segments of townhouses forming a perfect circle around a central green space.

7. Bath Skyline

For those who enjoy walking and nature, the Bath Skyline offers some of the best views of the city and its surroundings.

This six-mile circular walk takes you through meadows, ancient woodlands, and valleys, offering stunning views of Bath along the way. The route is well-marked and takes about two to three hours for the full loop.

If you just want to see the incredible skyline view or prefer a shorter walk, then the Bathwick Fields section is ideal.

8. River Avon Boat Trip

A boat trip along the River Avon is a relaxing way to take in the sights, from Pulteney Bridge to the stunning countryside beyond the city limits.

You can choose from a range of boat tours, some of which include commentary on the history and landmarks you’ll pass like the Pulteney Cruisers. Unfortunately, they can’t be booked in advance so it’s on a first come first served basis. They depart every 40 minutes from Pulteney Weir and head north towards Bathampton.

Or, for a touch of class, there’s a sightseeing cruise with prosecco which travels south along the river bend surrounding Bath.

9. Prior Park Landscape Garden – National Trust

Just a short distance from the city centre, Prior Park Landscape Garden is a peaceful escape into nature. This 18th-century garden was created by Ralph Allen, who was instrumental in the widespread use of Bath’s iconic golden-coloured stone.

The garden features huge lawns, incredible views over Bath, serene lakes, and the famous Palladian bridge. As you wander through the garden, you’ll find plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The property is managed by the National Trust, so if you’re a member, entry is completely free. If you enjoy these kinds of attractions, it may be worth getting a National Trust membership. For anyone travelling to the UK, or on a short trip, they also offer 4-day, 8-day, and 14-day Explorer Passes, which might save you money if you plan on visiting a few places.

Bridgerton fans will be excited to learn that many scenes were filmed here, which has led to a recent boost in tourism.

10. The Holburne Museum

The Holburne Museum houses a diverse collection of art, from Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary works.

Located in a grand Georgian building at the end of Great Pulteney Street, the museum showcases the collection of Sir William Holburne, along with temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

The museum’s garden cafe is a lovely spot to relax after exploring the galleries, and the surrounding Sydney Gardens are nice to walk around.

11. The Bath Lookout – Alexandra Park

For one of the best panoramic views of Bath, head to Alexandra Park. Located on a hill to the south of the city, this park is the perfect place to see the mass of honey-coloured buildings, the city’s rooftops, spires, and surrounding hills.

You can reach the park from the city centre by a short but very steep walk—don’t say we didn’t warn you!

12. Botanical Gardens – Royal Victoria Park

Royal Victoria Park is one of Bath’s many green treasures, and its Botanical Gardens are a highlight. Established in 1887, these gardens are home to a wonderful collection of plants, trees, and flowers, arranged in themed sections.

You can wander through the rock garden, explore the scented walks, and discover exotic species in the tropical glasshouse. The Botanical Gardens are a peaceful retreat from the busier parts of the city, and best of all, it’s completely free.

13. Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein

Often referred to as “the first sci-fi novel”, Mary Shelley wrote parts of her masterpiece Frankenstein while living in Bath.

For fans of the book, Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein is a must-visit museum. There are a mix of exhibits, from Shelley’s personal life to the spooky basement and laboratory which has a full-size model of the monster!

There’s also an escape room which isn’t included in a standard ticket and it’s best to book in advance.

14. Jane Austen Centre

English literature lovers will also want to visit the Jane Austen Centre, which celebrates the life and work of one of England’s most celebrated authors.

Jane Austen lived in Bath for several years, and the city had a significant influence on her writing. The Jane Austen Centre offers insights into her time in Bath, her works, and her enduring legacy.

You can explore exhibits, try on Regency-era costumes, and even enjoy afternoon tea in the Regency Tea Room.

15. Bath Ghost Tour

For something a little different, consider joining a Bath Ghost Tour. These guided walks take you through the darker side of Bath’s history, with tales of hauntings, mysterious events, and eerie locations.

The tours are both entertaining and interesting, offering a spooky twist on the traditional city tour.

16. Thirsty Meeples

If you’re looking for a different way to end the night then head to Thirsty Meeples, Bath’s best board game cafe. With over a thousand games to choose from, you can spend hours playing everything from classic favourites to new releases.

The helpful staff can help you pick a game to suit your level and style from hardcore strategy to light-hearted party games. They’ll also help you set the game up and give you a quick run down of the rules so you can get straight into the game.

They serve a selection of drinks and snacks, so you can still enjoy an evening drink while you play.

17. Bath’s Unique and Quirky Shops

Bath is home to many unique and quirky independent shops. Here are four of our favourites:

On Pulteney Bridge, you’ll find The Antique Map Shop, which specializes in rare and historical maps. As self-confessed nerds we find it hard to drag ourselves away from this shop. There are a huge number of maps from all over the UK as well as the rest of the world. It’s fun to find the places you’ve lived, visited, or know a lot about, and how they changed through the ages.

The Mosaic Shop, also on Pulteney Bridge, where you can browse or buy beautiful mosaics, or better yet, kits of the various designs to make yourself at home.

Fat Giraffe is a boutique shop offering an eclectic mix of wooden gifts and sculptures handmade in Bali.

And finally, My Small World Toy Store has the cutest selection of kids toys and games, as well as the best window displays.

18. Christmas Markets

Bath Christmas markets are known to be one of the best in the UK. They’re only on for a short time around the end of November and first two weeks of December.

Set against the backdrop of Bath Abbey, and the charming city centre the markets are bound to get you in a festive mood. There are over 150 chalets selling unique gifts, crafts, and delicious food. You can wander through the stalls, soak up the holiday spirit, and most importantly warm yourself with a cup of mulled wine.

Where to Stay in Bath

Bath offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From lavish hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, you’ll find plenty of choices.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and events. Here’s some suggestions in each price range:

Luxury: The 5-star Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is an iconic part of Bath’s heritage, located in the famous Royal Crescent. It offers luxury rooms with period features, a beautiful spa and peaceful garden.

Mid-Range: Apex City of Bath Hotel is a modern 4-star hotel in the heart of Bath, close to many top attractions, including the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. They have spacious rooms, a stylish restaurant, and a pool.

Budget: The Z Hotel Bath offers compact, modern rooms at an affordable price. It’s also centrally located, near Bath’s main attractions.

How to Get to Bath

Bath is easily accessible by train or car from other parts of the UK. If you’re traveling from London, the train is the fastest option, with regular services from London Paddington to Bath Spa station. The journey takes around 1.5 hours.

By car, Bath is well-connected by the M4 motorway, but be aware of the city’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) restrictions if you plan to drive into the city centre.

Avoiding Bath Clean Air Zone

Bath’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) is designed to reduce air pollution in the city centre. It applies to certain vehicles, including older diesel and petrol models. If your vehicle doesn’t meet the emission standards, you will need to pay a charge to enter the zone.

To avoid this, you can park outside the CAZ and use public transport or walk into the city centre. There’s no easy way to avoid it using Google Maps currently, so the best option is to use the navigation app Waze. After setting your destination, there should be a warning underneath if the route travels through the CAZ. If so, simply select an alternative route which avoids it.

Free Parking in Bath

Finding free parking in Bath can be challenging, but there are some options if you’re willing to walk a little.

The higher end of Bathwick Hill to the east and Upper Oldfield Park to the southwest both offer free parking, with a 20-minute walk into the city centre. Parts of Bathwick Hill have no restrictions, so you can park all day, while some spaces at Upper Oldfield are only available up to four hours. These locations are ideal if you prefer to avoid parking charges in the city centre.

Bath FAQs

What is Bath Famous for?

Bath is famous for its Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, and as one of the UK’s main spa towns. The city’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for landmarks such as Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, and the Royal Crescent. Bath is also associated with famous figures like Jane Austen and Mary Shelley.

Is Bath, UK Worth Visiting?

Yes, Bath is definitely worth visiting. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and range of attractions make it a top UK destination. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, architecture, or just enjoy beautiful cities, Bath has something to offer. Its compact size and walkability make it easy to explore, even on a short trip.

Is it Expensive in Bath?

Bath can be pretty expensive, especially in terms of accommodation and dining. However, there are options to suit different budgets, and you can find affordable places to eat and stay if you plan ahead. Many of Bath’s attractions, such as its parks, the Bath Skyline walk, and exploring the city’s architecture, are low-cost or free.

How Many Days is Enough for Bath, UK?

Two to three days is enough time to see the main attractions in Bath. You can explore the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and the Royal Crescent, and still have time for a boat trip on the River Avon or a visit to the Thermae Bath Spa. If you want to see and do most things on the list or take in more of the surrounding countryside, you may want to stay longer.

Is Bath a Walkable City?

Yes, Bath is a very walkable city. The city centre is compact, with most attractions within easy walking distance of each other. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, and walking is often the best way to explore Bath’s historic sites and charming neighbourhoods. If you enjoy walking, you can also explore the Bath Skyline or take a stroll along the River Avon.

Bath Travel Guide – 18 Things to See and Do in Bath

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