Bath Travel Guide (Somerset/West Country/England/United Kingdom/Britain and Ireland/Europe)

Introduction to Bath

Bath, located in Somerset in West Country, England, is a picturesque city famous for its natural hot springs, Neoclassical architecture, and rich history. The city was established by the Romans in AD 60 and served as a spa town for centuries. With its stunning architecture, lush countryside, and vibrant cultural scene, it’s easy to see why Bath is one of the UK’s top holiday destinations.

List of Places to Visit in Bath

Bath offers an incredible range of cultural, natural, and historical attractions. Below are some top places to visit in Bath.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bath boasts an impressive number of museums and historical places that offer insights into the city’s rich past.

The Roman Baths: The Roman Baths are one of the city’s top attractions, showcasing the city’s Roman roots. Visitors can wander around the original Roman Baths, view the steaming waters, and learn about the history of the site in the museum.
The Jane Austen Centre: The Jane Austen Centre is dedicated to one of Bath’s most famous residents, offering an insight into her life and works, as well as the Regency era she lived in.
Bath Abbey: Bath Abbey is a majestic building full of intricate architecture and stained glass windows. This stunning 16th-century gothic abbey is the perfect place to experience the spiritual side of the city.
The Royal Crescent: The Royal Crescent is a row of terraced houses that are regarded as one of the UK’s finest examples of Georgian architecture. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Natural Attractions of Bath: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bath is known for its breathtaking countryside and natural attractions. Here are some of the best outdoor experiences to enjoy in Bath.

The Cotswold Way: The Cotswold Way is a 100-mile trail that takes you through the beautiful countryside of Bath and beyond, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
Prior Park Landscape Garden: Prior Park Landscape Garden is a beautiful and tranquil place to explore. This 18th century garden has a stunning Palladian bridge, tranquil lakes, and a stunning vista of Bath’s verdant hills.
Bath Skyline Walk: Bath Skyline Walk is a six-mile trail that takes you through the city’s most beautiful surroundings, including fields, woodland, and valleys, offering breathtaking views of Bath’s skyline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bath

Bath has numerous hiking and biking routes that will show off the city’s stunning scenery. Here are some of the best ones to try.

The Two Tunnels Greenway: This 13.1-mile biking trail takes you through Bath’s countryside and back to the city. It follows the popular Sustrans Route 24, offering a unique and memorable biking experience.
Bath to Bradford-on-Avon Canal Path: This gentle 12.5-mile route is perfect for walkers and bikers alike. This flat trail offers beautiful canal views, picturesque countryside vistas, and ends in the lovely town of Bradford-on-Avon.

Best Things to Do in Bath: Activities and Tours

Bath offers a plethora of fun activities and tours for visitors. Here are some top things to do in Bath.

The Bath Aqua Glass Factory: Witness the art of glassblowing at the Bath Aqua Glass Factory, a family-owned business that creates hand-blown glass art that is renowned worldwide.
Bath Boat Tours: Take a river tour of the city via boat and discover expertly guided views of Bath’s canal, wildlife and charming rural environment.
The Theatre Royal: Bath’s Theatre Royal offers some of the UK’s finest live theatre shows, musicals & comedy shows, one of the oldest theatre halls in Europe and a must-visit attraction.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bath

If you have a week to spend in Bath, here’s a great itinerary to help make the most of your trip.

Day 1: Visit the Roman Baths, the Bath Abbey and the Sally Lunn’s Eating House for a local culinary experience. This itinerary will ensure you get to know Bath’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

Day 2: Explore the city’s famous Royal Crescent with its Georgian architecture, then take a scenic walk on the Bath Skyline and explore Bath’s surrounding countryside.

Day 3: Visit the Museum of Bath Architecture to learn about the city’s varied architecture; be sure to walk around the Pulteney Bridge and the Victoria Art Gallery.

Day 4: Explore the Jane Austen Centre, then indulge yourself with a local favorite, the mouthwatering pasty encased with savory (pictured below) from one of Bath’s award-winning bakeries Syd’s Pies.

Day 5: Take an exciting bathe at the Thermae Bath Spa with its relaxing warm waters, steam rooms and spa experience

Day 6: Enjoy a boat ride along the Kennet and Avon Canal as it winds through the city’s countryside.

Day 7: Take a day trip to nearby excursion destinations in the Cotswold or Bristol - two of the UK’s most popular destinations.

Food and Drink Scene of Bath

Bath offers a diverse and delicious range of local food and drink choices.

Must-Try Dishes

Sally Lunn Bun: This sweet and soft bun was first made by Sally Lunn in the 1700s and is now a local favourite.
Bath Soft Cheese: This award-winning, rich and buttery cheese is made locally in Lamyatt, Somerset, and worth tasting.
Bath Chaps: A gourmet dish made from the cheek of the pig; Bath Chaps is considered a decadent, meaty local dish.

Local Beverages

Bath Ales: This independent brewery is also popular for offering fresh English ale and can be found at locations throughout Bath, with cask ales a specialty they pride themselves on.
Somerset Cider Brandy: Bath’s local cider is made from the finest apples and offers a delicious and unique tasting experience.
Afternoon Tea: Enjoy a piping hot cup of English tea with an array of sweet and savory snacks and bites at some of Bath’s top tearooms, including the Pump Room or the Royal Crescent Hotel.

Where to Stay in Bath: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From affordable hostels to luxury hotels, Bath offers a diverse range of accomodations.

Z Hotel Bath: This budget-friendly boutique hotel is situated in the heart of Bath, making it a great choice for those looking for both convenience and affordability.
Abbey Hotel: With its central location, luxurious rooms and top-class amenities, the Abbey Hotel is one of the top choices in Bath for those wanting to indulge in their visit.
The Bath Backpackers Hostel: This hostel is ideal for travelers on a tight budget. It offers clean rooms, helpful staff, and an ideal location that’s perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

What to Buy in Bath: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bath offers a range of local goods, including antiques, handmade artisanal products, and Bath’s famous buns.

Bath Bun: A trip to Bath is incomplete without taking back home the famous Bath buns from the little-known tea shops.
Bath’s Artisanal Products: Bath produces handmade, locally crafted artisanal products ranging from coats, bags, pottery, and handcrafted jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Bath

Bath has a rich and diverse cultural heritage. English is the official language, and the currency used in the city is pounds sterling. Bath is renowned for its love of classical music and opera, and the city boasts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Bath International Music Festival and the Bath Fringe Festival.

Best Time to Visit Bath

The ideal time to visit Bath is between May and September when the weather is mild and sunny. However, the city is beautiful year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bath

Do:

Do enjoy a relaxing spa day at Thermae Bath Spa
Do explore the city’s countryside on foot or with a bicycle
Do visit the Roman Baths as a visit to Bath is incomplete without having visited its number one attraction.

Don’t:

Don’t miss the sunset at the Claverton Pumping Station
Don’t miss the local Bath cuisine, including Bath buns and Cider Brandy.

Safety and Health

Bath is generally a safe and healthy city for visitors. Below are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your visit.

Safety in Bath

Stay with larger group of travelers when going around the city at night, especiallly in lesser-known or secluded areas.
Keep your valuables safe, especially when visiting crowded spots.

Health in Bath

Bath’s public hospitals have a great reputation. Bath Royal United Hospital is the biggest hospital in Bath.

Getting to Bath: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bath is easily accessible by plane, train, and bus.

Airports Near Bath

Bristol Airport: Bristol Airport offers daily flights to and from major airports around the world. It is the closest airport to Bath and connects via regular airport shuttle buses.

Bus Stations Near Bath

Bath Bus Station: The city has excellent transport links and the Bath Bus Station is the major hub for local and national destinations.

Other Options

Train: Bath has good rail connections with London Paddington taking less than 90 minutes; it also connects to South Wales and other English cities.
Private Car: Many taxi services and private tours are available for hire in Bath and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Bath

Bath is a compact city that is easily navigable on foot or with the city’s efficient public transport system. Other popular ways to get around the city include biking and rental cars.

Where to Go Next from Bath: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bath is an ideal base to start your journey into other regions in the UK. The city also offers easy access to major cities such as Bristol and London, with plenty of attractions.

Bristol: This vibrant city is just a short train ride from Bath and a must-visit for anyone interested in history, arts and culture, and enjoying great food, drink and sights that it has to offer.
Stonehenge: An iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, located 30 miles from Bath and accessible with guided tours & bus services.

Conclusion

Bath is a stunning and unique destination that has something for everyone. The city’s attractions, architecture, natural environment, local food and specialty products, and cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination in the UK. Plan your trip well, and you’ll have a memorable time exploring everything that this amazing city has to offer.