trip bath uk

A weekend in Bath: 2-day Bath itinerary

Posted on Last updated: October 19, 2023

How to spend a weekend in Bath: Discover the best things to see, do, eat and drink in Bath in a two-day itinerary featuring this historic city’s Georgian architecture, thermal spas and literary links.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

With its famous golden-stone Georgian terraces, steaming spa waters, afternoon teas and Jane Austen links, you can’t say Bath isn’t on the UK tourist trail. Its quintessentially English charms pull in visitors from around the world and it has so many historic buildings that the entire city centre has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But although you might have to dodge a few tour groups, it’s more than worth it to explore one of England’s most beautiful historic cities. So here’s my two-day Bath itinerary to help you plan the perfect weekend in Bath, with what to see, where to eat, drink and stay.

How to spend a weekend in Bath

Friday evening

Check into your accommodation then start your weekend in Bath with a pre-dinner drink at the Canary Gin Bar on Queen Street. The bar is run by the Bath Distillery, who brought distilling back to the city after a 250-year absence. They’ve created a menu of ‘Gin’ Austen cocktails using their small-batch gins, as well as serving 230 other gins.

Then head to Green Park Brasserie & Bar on Green Park Road for dinner – a steakhouse and jazz bar located inside a former 1870s railway station booking hall. It’s a relaxed place, serving produce sourced from the adjacent Bath Farmers’ Market in dishes like steak, cider-glazed ribs and wood-fired pizza. There’s also live music on Saturday nights.

Saturday morning

For an insight into Bath’s history, start the day with a walking tour with the Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides . These two-hour tours are led by knowledgeable local guides who share their love of the city on a relaxed stroll through some of its highlights. Tours are free (with no need to tip) and leave from the courtyard by the Roman Baths at 10.30am.

Or you can take your own tour of Bath’s honey-stone highlights. Start at the Royal Crescent, one of Bath’s most famous landmarks. This curved terrace of Georgian townhouses arcs around a perfectly manicured lawn. The Royal Crescent was built in the 1770s and its buildings haven’t changed much since then, at least on the outside.

Most are private residences – when they’re not being used by film crews for period dramas like Bridgerton . But Number 1 Royal Crescent has been converted into a museum. Inside you can go back to the 18th century and see how wealthy Georgians lived, complete with authentic furniture, décor and fascinating details of their everyday lives.

The Royal Crescent is one of many buildings made from the distinctive golden Bath Stone. Quarried out from the hills around the city, it’s a type of limestone that was first used by the Romans and later for churches, bridges and houses around Bath.

Another impressive Bath address is The Circus, with three sections of curved buildings forming a circle. And it’s just a few minutes walk from there to the Bath Assembly Rooms . These were the hub of the 18th-century social scene, with elegant rooms for tea drinking, cards and dancing. Today they’re open to the public when not in use for events.

Follow in the footsteps of Jane Austen, who attended balls at the Assembly Rooms when she lived in Bath in the early 1800s and featured them in her novels Northanger Abbey and Persuasion . You’ll also find the Jane Austen Centre on Gay Street a few minutes’ walk away, which tells the story of her life in Bath (and has lots of dressing up opportunities).

Then stop for lunch at Sally Lunns , the oldest house in Bath. It’s home to a Bath classic – the ‘Sally Lunn bun’. This kind of brioche is spread with butter or cream, made to a recipe allegedly brought to the country by a 17th-century French emigrant.

Saturday afternoon

After lunch, cross the Abbey Church Yard to Bath Abbey. The current abbey was built in 1499 but there’s been a church on the same site since the 8th century. Admire the west front, with carved stone angels climbing Jacob’s Ladder to heaven, then head inside to see the cathedral’s impressive fan-vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows.

Or take a guided tower tour and climb 212 spiral steps to the abbey roof for panoramic views over Bath and down to the Roman Baths below you. Tours take 45–60 minutes and also give you a behind-the-scenes view of the ceilings and bell tower.

Then head to Pulteney Bridge, passing the Parade Gardens, which was a popular spot for a promenade in Jane Austen’s day. The bridge was built in the 18th century for William Pulteney to connect Bath to the other side of the River Avon to help drive up land prices. He wanted his bridge to be eye-catching and elegant and certainly managed it.

Pulteney Bridge is one of only four bridges in the world with shops built into both sides, like Florence’s Ponte Vecchio – Les Misérables fans might also recognise it as the spot Javert jumped from in the 2012 film. Today it’s home to independent shops and cafés.

For a good view of Pulteney Bridge, take an open-top boat trip along the River Avon. The tour starts at Pulteney Weir below the bridge and takes around an hour (though trips don’t run if the river level is too high). You travel under Pulteney Bridge and out into the countryside as far as the pretty little village of Bathampton before returning to Bath.

Before dinner, call into Le Vignoble , an independent wine merchant and bar on Milson Street. Their wine selection changes every month, with 64 different wines to taste including small producers and unusual varieties, so it’s a good place to try something new.

Then head back towards the Royal Crescent for dinner at The Circus , an award-winning family-run restaurant in a Georgian building which serves modern European food using local and seasonal ingredients, like Wiltshire lamb, Devon scallops and Cornish fish.

Sunday morning

Start your Sunday with a late breakfast at the Green Bird Café near the Royal Crescent. It has won awards for Bath’s best breakfast, with tasty French toast with maple syrup and bacon, scrambled egg and chorizo hash or you can ‘build your own breakfast’.

Then go back in time at the Roman Baths , built on the site of Britain’s only natural hot springs which gave Bath its name. In 70 BC, the Romans built a bathing complex around the steaming waters, with hot and cold pools, steam rooms and an elaborate temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva – giving the town its Roman name Aquae Sulis.

Over a million litres of water heated to 46°C still flows into the baths every day, but don’t be tempted to take a dip. If the bright green colour doesn’t put you off, tales of bacteria and radioactive lead pipes might. Instead take a tour of the baths which includes the Sacred Spring of Sulis Minerva, the original foundations and open-air Great Bath.

There’s also a museum of Roman artefacts like statues and carvings, as well as some of the 17,000 Roman coins which were thrown into the spring, and prayers or curses written on lead tablets which visitors threw in to ask for the goddess’ help.

Sunday afternoon

Then compare the Roman spa experience with the modern version at the Thermae Bath Spa . This huge spa building has taken historic buildings and transformed them with a modern glass and steel extension. There are two separate spa areas – the main New Royal Bath and the smaller circular Cross Bath, which you can hire for small groups.

The New Royal Bath is spread over three floors, with spring waters flowing into the ground floor Minerva thermal baths. There are circular glass steam rooms, a sauna and spa treatment rooms above, where you can book a relaxing massage, facial or body wrap.

But the Thermae Spa’s star attraction is the rooftop pool, where you can soak in mineral-rich steaming water with spectacular views across Bath’s skyline. Entry to the spa costs £43 for a two-hour session at weekends, and includes towel, robe and flip flop hire.

Then finish your weekend in Bath with afternoon tea at a city institution – the Pump Room . Located next to the Roman Baths, the Pump Room was built in 1776 for visitors coming to take the waters and, like the Assembly Rooms, it was at the heart of the city’s social scene for the fashionable 18th-century set, including Jane Austen and Charles Dickens.

Indulge in a traditional Champagne afternoon tea (with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options available) with sandwiches, scones and cakes served in opulent splendour under the chandeliers and accompanied by music from the Pump Room Trio.

And while you’re there, don’t forget to taste the spa waters from the King’s Fountain (free to Pump Room customers). With 43 different minerals it is reputed to be the cure for all sorts of ills, though lukewarm water with a metallic tang is definitely an acquired taste.

Map of things to do in Bath

The details

How to get to bath.

Bath Spa train station is around 1 hour 20 minutes by direct train * from London, and there are frequent rail services from around the UK to nearby Bristol Temple Meads station, where you can catch the train on to Bath, which only takes 12 minutes.

If you’re driving, Bath is 13 miles from Bristol or 115 miles (around 2.5 hours’ drive) from London. Overnight parking is available in the city centre at Charlotte Street (BA1 2NE), Avon Street (BA1 1UF) and Manvers Street (BA1 1JQ) car parks.

Bath’s roads are narrow and can get very busy, so if you want to avoid driving in the city you can use the Park and Rides on the edge of the city at Lansdown, Newbridge and Odd Down. Parking is free, you just pay for the bus in and out of the city.

The nearest airport is in Bristol, which is around 45 minutes’ drive from Bath. You can also catch the Bristol Airport Flyer bus from the airport to Bristol Temple Meads train station (25 minutes) and then catch the train from there on to Bath (12 minutes).

Getting around Bath

The centre of Bath is fairly compact with the main attractions all within walking distance – though beware that it’s pretty hilly so you will get a bit of a workout.

Where to stay in Bath

At the Royal Crescent Hotel *, two 18th-century Georgian townhouses have been merged together to create a five-star hotel and spa. It’s full of original features with period artworks, classical statues and chandeliers. There’s a luxurious spa with indoor pool, a restaurant, bar and an acre of landscaped gardens tucked away behind the hotel.

The Hotel Indigo * is another Georgian property, which stretches along the length of South Parade. Inside it mixes historic features with lots of quirky, colourful prints, fabrics and curios. The 166 rooms are more restfully designed, and range from stylish standard rooms to big two-room suites, and there’s also a restaurant and terrace bar.

Or if you’re on the budget, one of the city’s best deals is Bath University’s student residences . There’s a mix of double, twin and single rooms with en-suites in buildings ranging from Georgian terraces to modern residences. Availability is mainly in the Easter and summer holidays, with rooms available to book two–three months in advance.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Bath?*

Save for later

You might also like

10 great UK weekend break ideas

What to do in Wells, Somerset: England’s smallest city

A weekend in The Cotswolds: 2-day Cotswold itinerary

Deborah Kukal

Sunday 4th of February 2024

This has been the most helpful article I've read in preperation for our time in Bath - and I've read a lot! :) Thank you for the excellent ideas for both activities and resturants.

Lucy Dodsworth

Wednesday 14th of February 2024

Thanks so much, hope you enjyo Bath!

Lynn Oliver

Monday 7th of September 2020

Thank you for this reminder of my wife and my weekend in Bath. We stayed at a lovely B&B a few hundred feet from the Abbey, Baths and shoppes... Three Abbey Green. Bath has a plethora of lovely B&Bs that are decidedly not 5-Star, but great. Also, the free guided walks are wonderful and the buskers in the plaza in front of the Baths and Abbey were a hoot. I pull out the photos of the unicyclist for a smile. Thanks for the reminder. I'd love to go back someday... another world from Florida where we live.

Monday 28th of September 2020

Bath is such a lovely place – so much history! Glad to bring back some good memories.

©Amra Pasic/Shutterstock

Bath is one of Britain's most appealing cities. Exquisite Roman and Georgian architecture, hipster hang-outs and swish spas make it hard to resist.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Roman Baths

Welcome to one of Northern Europe's most significant Roman sites. Today more than a million visitors a year come to see its historic finds, atmospheric…

No 1 Royal Crescent

For a glimpse into the splendour and razzle-dazzle of Georgian life, head for the beautifully restored house at No 1 Royal Crescent, given to the city by…

Royal Crescent

Bath is famous for its glorious Georgian architecture, and it doesn't get any grander than this semicircular terrace of majestic town houses overlooking…

Looming above the city centre, Bath's huge abbey church was built between 1499 and 1616, making it the last great medieval church raised in England. Its…

Partly designed by the landscape architect Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, the grounds of this 18th-century estate on Bath's southern fringe feature…

Jane Austen Centre

Bath is known to many as a location in Jane Austen's novels, including Persuasion and Northanger Abbey. Although Austen lived in Bath for only five years,…

The centre of this grand 19th-century room is filled with tables from the Pump Room Restaurant, but there's also an ornate spa fountain from which Bath's…

The Circus is a Georgian masterpiece. Built to John Wood the Elder's design and completed in 1768, it's said to have been inspired by the Colosseum in…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Free Things to Do

Our guide to the best free things to do in Bath sees you wild swimming, loving live music and discovering the real city behind all those Bridgerton facades

Plan with a local

Experience the real England

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Bath

Art and Culture

Jul 11, 2022 • 6 min read

From a Roman spa town to a fashionable Georgian metropolis, discover the story of Bath through its amazing architecture and historic buildings.

Nov 20, 2021 • 6 min read

Nov 19, 2021 • 4 min read

Sep 24, 2021 • 7 min read

Jan 21, 2018 • 3 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Bath

How to Spend One Day in Bath: Itinerary with the Best Things to Do and See

Thanks to its compact city centre, one day in Bath is enough to see the top attractions in this gorgeous World Heritage city. Use this handy 1-day Bath itinerary to find the best things to do and see in Bath, England. From the 2,000-year-old Roman Baths to grand architecture and charming cobbled lanes, here are 12 reasons for visiting Bath, one of the prettiest cities in England.

This article contains affiliate links. Please refer to my  Disclaimer  page to learn more about this.

Go straight to: 1. Bath itinerary: the 12 best things to do and see in Bath 2. Know before you go: travel essentials for your day trip to Bath

Oh! Who can be ever tired of Bath?” Jane Austen,  Northanger Abbey

Memoirs of one day in Bath, England

The lovely city of Bath is famous for its elegant tearooms and cosy cafés. Indulging in delightful treats, their ravenous guests come here to relive the city’s Golden Age. The era when, after centuries of decay, Bath had flourished into a fashionable city break destination.

Becoming a popular spa resort amongst socialites in the 18th century, the fabulous Georgian architecture of the time remains one of the main draws of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yet, here I am.

Sat on a bench in the city’s most touristy street, devouring a cheap baguette and getting most of its contents on my face.

I spent the morning sightseeing in Bath and was too famished to venture to a sophisticated café for a graceful lunch like a proper grown-up.

Instead, I grabbed a convenient takeaway lunch from the bakery just outside the Roman Baths. Suspicious of it being an evident tourist trap, I’m pleasantly surprised by the quality of my freshly grilled Mediterranean vegetable roll.

While I wipe the hummus off my chin, a wildly overdressed man across the street catches my eye. Distracted by his top hat and 19th-century black tailcoat with its gold-coloured buttons shimmering in the sunlight, it takes me a moment to notice the sign he’s holding in his hand. ‘Free Jane Austen walking tours’ it says.

Ah, yes, of course.

Jane Austen, one of the most famous British novelists of all time, lived in Bath for a few years during its heyday. Soaking up the atmosphere of the vibrant early 19th-century Bath, the city would inspire her to write her two novels Persuasion and Northanger Abbey .

Curious to learn what made this city so special to her and her contemporaries?

Then use the tips in this itinerary for your perfect day in Bath, one of the most beautiful places in England.

How to spend one day in Bath: the 12 best things to do and see in Bath

1. Your Bath itinerary starts at the Roman Baths

Ever wondered about the origins of certain curious place names?

Beer. Ham. Sandwich.

Not quoting some local caf’s lunch menu here. (Sorry if it made you hungry). But did you know that these are all actual places in England?

Bath fits perfectly in this list. That’s not me suggesting that you should have your beer and ham sandwich in bath. (Not stopping you if you want though.)

It’s just my convoluted way to point out that Bath is a rather strange name for a city. Or is it? Because, you see, long before it was the gorgeous city it is today, the Romans actually founded Bath as a bath and spa complex.

They built the expansive baths and sauna rooms right on top of the bubbling hot springs. But to them, the thermal pools were more than a sanatorium. It was actually a sacred place. That’s why the Romans also built a temple next to the baths which they dedicated to the Celtic-Roman goddess Minerva Sulis whom they believed to be the mystical source of the hot springs.

For the next centuries, Bath remained a popular spa retreat, ever attracting visitors to its healing mineral springs. Yet, the original Roman Baths had to give way for more modern buildings.

Buried underground for years, the baths were eventually excavated and restored in the 1970s and are now open to the public. You can explore the baths either on a guided tour or self-guided audio tour.

For me, the Roman Baths were the main reason for visiting Bath. As a lover of ancient cultures, I’ve wanted to see the baths so badly after first hearing about them over twenty years ago.

Yet, despite ending up living in England, for some reason I just never made the effort. I guess I expected the entire city to be packed with tourists which would obviously make my long-anticipated trip to Bath far from enjoyable. But I was dead wrong about this as it wasn’t nearly as busy as I expected. And that was in August, peak season. So, don’t be a Miss Travel Clogs and do make a day trip to Bath.

You won’t be disappointed. Pinky promise.

Want to learn more about the Roman Baths and what to expect from your visit? Then head over to my full article about the Roman Baths .

2. Must-do in Bath: climb the Bath Abbey Tower

The second must-visit tourist attraction in Bath is the beautiful Bath Abbey . It is conveniently located next to the Roman Baths so you won’t have to walk too far after you’ve ticked off the first item of your Bath itinerary.

You can enter the abbey for free and admire the gorgeous interior at a casual pace. Or if you’re like me and enjoy wearing yourself out (only slightly!), opt for the guided tour instead. When we visited, it only cost £8 per person. It gives you exclusive access to the abbey tower. And it also includes a strenuous climb up 212 steps through a narrow staircase. (She added quietly.)

Hubby was initially less excited about that prospect. But having grown used to what my idea of ‘having a good time whilst travelling’ is by now, he agreed to my suggestion.

A choice he didn’t regret I might add.

The 40-minute long Tower Tour includes several interesting stops on the way to the top. Not only giving you a chance to catch your breath again, these stops also allow entrance to areas that are otherwise off-limits for visitors.

One of the stops I enjoyed most was the hidden room behind the abbey clock. I imagined people in the street looking up at the clock to see the time without realising a small group were sitting right behind the clock face.

Now how often have you sat in a clock tower?

Yeah, that’s what I thought!

But the main reward for your mildly strenuous activity awaits at the very top of the tower. From here you’ll get to enjoy spectacular views of the myriad of ancient lanes laid out beautifully beneath you and the neighbouring Roman Baths.

3. Have lunch in one of the many pretty tea rooms and cafés in Bath

After having visited the top two tourist attractions in Bath, I suspect you’ll be craving lunch. I know I was.

There are dozens of lovely places to eat in Bath with plenty of options within walking distance from the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey.

Within a 2-minute walk you’ll find Sally Lunn’s , the most famous tea house in Bath. Your wobbly legs will thank you for this short walk after the climb to the abbey top.

Established around 1482, this is the oldest remaining house in Bath. Namesake of the historic tea house and museum is Sally Lunn, a Huguenot refugee who worked in the former bakery on these premises. She’s forever immortalised by her invention of the world-famous Sally Lunn Bun. (Try saying that out loud ten times in a row.)

Despite the name, this special treat is more like a light French brioche than a bun. The original recipe was passed onto the owners with the deeds for the property. Although there have been attempts all over the world to copy the bun, you’ll only get the real deal here.

And if you don’t have the energy to walk for 2 minutes, I can assure you that the sandwich shop La Baguette just outside of the Roman Baths (located on 3 Stall Street) does some mean baguettes. You’re welcome.

4. Discover Jane Austen’s Bath at the Jane Austen Heritage Centre

Feeling energised again, the first stop for the afternoon is the Jane Austen Heritage Centre . Housed in a 270-year-old Georgian townhouse, this museum is yet again one of the top tourist attractions in Bath.

The permanent exhibition gives great insight in the life and work of Jane Austen. Providing the context of Jane Austen’s Bath during the Regency era, the guides are actors dressed in dapper costumes whilst they enthusiastically share their extensive knowledge with their visitors. Now, I can guess your burning question. Are any of these actors Mr Darcy lookalikes? Well, you will have to visit to see for yourself!

And while you’re at it, I recommend you visit the gift shop too. I managed to contain myself and left with only a few memorabilia and promised myself to re-read the complete Jane Austen box set when I got back home again.

This may or may not have happened by now. (Hey, I did a special course on just Jane Austen at Uni so I think I deserve some kudoz here.)

Save yourself time and buy your ticket for the Jane Austen Heritage Centre online !

5. Explore the museums in Bath

Jane Austen wasn’t the only famous female British novelist to live in Bath. Whilst living in a boarding house around 1820, teenager Mary Shelley penned down her Gothic novel Frankenstein in Bath. Perhaps not as charming as Mr Darcy, but the iconic monster she created would equally enthral millions of people all over the world for centuries.

Two hundred years after the publication, this seminal book would even lead to the opening of the Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein in Bath. Spread over four floors, the house offers an immersive experience leading visitors through ominous rooms filled with curious artefacts.

Other, more traditional, museums and galleries in Bath include the Bath Postal Museum , Fashion Museum and Victoria Art Gallery .

If you’re planning on visiting any of the two latter museums, you may want to take advantage of the special Museums Saver ticket. This ticket allows you entrance to the Roman Baths, Fashion Museum and Victoria Art Gallery for a greatly reduced price. You can purchase it directly at any of these three venues.

6. Wander through the historical lanes

Determined to seek out the mesh of historical lanes I spotted from atop the abbey tower in the morning, Hubby and I left the tourist attractions in Bath behind us for a moment.

The great thing is that you don’t have to ramble far from the main sights in Bath to discover the most alluring hidden corners. Just turn off into some side streets and allow yourself at least an hour to wander through the historical lanes and ancient passageways of Bath.

It’s not hard to imagine how around a hundred years ago these picturesque streets were filled with handsomely dressed people in their beautifully cut gowns and high collared waistcoats.

Barely seeing any tourists around, I was again surprised at how quiet it really was in Bath. Perhaps I’m more accustomed to the throngs of tourists venturing through the West End of London during holiday season. The relative quietness of Bath did make it a joy to stroll around, whilst soaking up the atmosphere and taking in all the beautiful architecture.

7. Seek out quaint shops

The historical centre of Bath is home to numerous fabulous shops. Just window shopping alone is a real delight in this pretty British city. As a lover of vintage maps , I was especially attracted by The Antique Map Shop which you’ll find on Pulteney Bridge.

As you’d expect from a city that oozes sheer elegance and sophistication, there are various marvellous book shops in Bath that will keep any booklover entertained for hours at end. My absolute favourite was Topping & Company Booksellers.

With its inviting atmosphere, cosy reading nooks and genuinely helpful staff, I found myself in literary bliss. Struggling to say goodbye to the beautiful books I’ll never get to read, we eventually continued our explorations of Bath.

8. Visit The Circus

Not as exciting as acrobats flying across the air, but The Circus in Bath is still a sight not to be missed. Derived from the Latin word circus meaning ‘circle’ in English, The Circus refers to a ring of grand historic townhouses in Bath.

Built in the mid-18th century, these curiously curved large Georgian houses make for a perfect romantic backdrop. It’s no surprise that The Circus is one of the top Instagram spots in Bath today.

9. Marvel at the Royal Crescent

I don’t know where this particular fascination with curved streets in Bath comes from, but at less than five minutes from The Circus, you’ll find another striking row of houses. This time they’re laid out in a semicircular shape rather than a near perfect circle.

The 152m-long Royal Crescent is a row of 30 terraced Georgian houses and Grade I listed buildings. Looking out onto a large park, the Royal Crescent is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bath. You might even recognise it from the many films and period dramas it has featured in, including Jane Austen’s Persuasion .

I do like the sight of such arched streets, also called ‘crescents’ (meaning sickle-shaped, like a moon). I’ve seen many of them whilst wandering through London’s posh areas. They’re typically affluent residential streets lined with imposing homes ordinary people like you and I could only dream of living in.

Curious to see what these stunning houses look like from the inside? Then take the opportunity to visit No. 1 Royal Crescent . This former private residence now functions as a museum about Georgian Bath. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about this prosperous period and get a taste of what it must have been like to be a socialite during the Regency era.

For the most of us, this will be a more affordable option than the luxury 5-star Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa just a few metres away.

10. Admire Pulteney Bridge

Nearing the end of our one day in Bath, we’re slowly weaving back towards the train station. Taking a slightly different route, passing the Fashion Museum, make your way to the river Avon. There’s just one more must-see landmark to tick off your Bath itinerary: Pulteney Bridge.

This striking stone bridge was built around the 1760s. It is only one of the four remaining bridges in the world to have shops on them. The aforementioned antique map shop being one of them.

However, the most eye-catching feature isn’t physically part of the bridge but is actually in the water. It’s the horse-shaped weir (a low dam) near the bridge that makes this popular attraction in Bath such a picture-perfect sight.

Hop on this short cruise on the river Avon and see the picturesque Pulteney Bridge from a unique vantage point!

11. Parks and recreation

Having crossed Pulteney Bridge, follow the river southwards and enjoy the glorious city views from across the water.

There’s always something special about cities that have a river flowing through its centre. Forming the life and heart of a place, walks along the riverbank are often so soothing. It’s like life moves slightly slower here.

From across the river Hubby and I caught amazing views of the lovely Parade Gardens. Eager to visit this beautiful looking park, we crossed the river again at the bridge on North Parade.

Outraged about the fact that we needed to pay entrance to visit the park, we decided it wasn’t as pretty was we imagined after all (it still was though), clicked our heels and turned around.

Fortunately, Bath is home to plenty of free parks and gardens. The Royal Victoria Park being a good example.

Opened in 1830 by Queen Victoria herself, this gorgeous 57-acre park offers plenty of activities for children. It’s therefore a perfect destination in Bath for families.

One of the best spots in the park are the enchanting Botanical Gardens. Here you’ll enjoy some of the most idyllic sights in Bath.

12. Traverse the Bath Skyline Walk

Depending on how much time you have left, you may want to grab some dinner in Bath now. Or you may even make your way back home.

But if you have some time left you could end your one day in Bath itinerary with (part of) the Bath Skyline Walk . This 3-mile circular walk from Bath centre leads you to the most breath-taking views such as Sham Castle, pristine woodlands and picturesque vales.

Take the opportunity to catch exceptional city views of Bath, whilst being surrounded by romantic landscapes and beautiful wildlife.

Could there be a possibly better way than to end your day trip to Bath? No, I wouldn’t think so either.

I really believe I shall always be talking of Bath, when I am at home again – I do like it so very much….” Jane Austen

Know before you go: how to prepare your day trip to Bath, England

Where is Bath? | Bath is located in South West England. It lies perched on the river Avon in the county of Somerset. The city lies at the edge of the Cotswolds. This area is famous for its idyllic towns and rolling green hills, making it a popular UK road trip destination. Travel | It’s very easy to reach Bath by train. From London Paddington it takes 1.5 hours to Bath. From the bustling city of Bristol (also a must-visit!) it’s only a 15- minute train ride to Bath. Find the exact train schedules and tickets on Trainline , the most popular train website in the UK. Alternatively, drive to Bath with your comfortable hire car from Rentalcars.com . Accommodation | Want to spend the night in romantic Bath? Check availability and the best prices here . Tours | Being a London city guide myself, I often join guided tours when visiting a new city. I believe this is the best way to see the top attractions while learning more insider tips and stories about the place as well. You can choose from various guided city tours in Bath to choose from, including a special Bridgerton film location walk . But there are also bus tours that combine a visit to Bath with Stonehenge and even Windsor Castle so you can see various impressive World Heritage Sites in one day. Click here to find the best Bath guided tours that match your personal interests and budget. Books | Bath’s most famous resident, author Jane Austen, wrote two of her novels in Bath: Northanger Abbey and Persuasion . Find inspiration for your day trip to Bath with the fantastic travel guides about Bath: Rough Guide and Lonely Planet Pocket .

Like this 1 day Bath itinerary? Pin it for later!

The Roman Baths in Bath: a Must-visit in Somerset, England

Cornwall Road Trip Itinerary: 7 Days | Top 10 Must-Visit Places

Related posts, get a taste of the ‘crazy days’ of cologne carnival.

Wow, such a useful writeup! Thanks for this!

Bit late reply but I’m very happy it was of use to you! 🙂

Makes me want to visit Bath! Such a lovely city.

Thank you for your lovely comment! Happy it made you want to visit Bath, I hope you’ll get the chance!

A beautiful city that absolutely needs to be visited! Your guide is essential for anyone making this trip. Well done!

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed this guide to things to do in Bath 🙂

Write A Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

24 Hours In Bath, England: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Planning to spend one day in Bath, England? Find out the top things to do, best restaurants, hotels and info in this Bath travel blog.

And they were right. The ‘ they ’ in question were the lovely people at Visit Bath who spotted I was a lover of UK travel (Hello Hastings , Amersham , Oxford , London to name but a few recent stops!) and wanted to see how their beloved Bath shaped up.

Bath isn’t a hard sell. With bundles of history (including the Roman Baths, amazing architecture and Jane Austen connections) the city’s famous Bath stone, and a trendy forward-thinking city taking pride in producing great food, entertainment and more, it’s one of the most popular day trips from London for tourists visiting the UK. I know this, because I saw a lot of them! Big tours, families, and couples from all over the world hopped on the same train as me from Paddington!

One hour and 38 minutes later we emerged in beautiful Bath, and dispersed through the city’s streets. I was ready to enjoy one day in Bath!

This year is a particularly big one for the city. The Royal Crescent is 250 years old, and it’s the 200 th anniversary of Jane Austen’s death . She set some of Northanger Abbey and Persuasion in the city, and lived there from 1801 to 1806. In Northanger Abbey, Catherine says…

“I really believe I shall always be talking of Bath – I do like it so very much… Oh, who can ever be tired of Bath!”

I agree! Who can ever be tired of a city this pretty? So with all of this in mind, let me kit you out with all you need to know for your trip to Bath, including what to do, how to get there and a few of my top foodie picks!

Best Time To Visit Bath, England

Bath is a city that’s got plenty to do all year round, but as I visited on a particularly hot, sunny week in July I would definitely recommend a summer trip. It’s a very walkable city, and along with all the pretty streets, there are also lovely parks and the River Avon to enjoy.

The long days lend themselves to outdoor eating and drinking too, of which there are plenty of great options. Plus, for any camera addicts, it’s hard to beat the views of the green water of the Roman Baths against a bright blue sunshiny sky!

Meanwhile, in winter time you can expect Christmas markets, ice rinks and some great stores to pick up your Christmas gifts!

Top Things To Do In Bath

While I’d say Bath has a big reputation for history, architecture and literature – there’s more to it than that. There are gorgeous views, plenty of great foodie spots, cool boutiques and plenty more. Plus, to be honest, it’s a great city just to wander around! With 24 hours in Bath here are a few of the top things to do.

Book your trip to Bath from London

Free Walking Tours Of Bath

A really great (AND FREE!) way to familiarise yourself with a city and find out the best places to visit in Bath! The free walking tours of Bath are informative and show all the key sights. They run twice a day and even more in peak summer.  

Comedy Walking Tour Of Bath

Bizarre Bath’s comedy walks in the city are legendary! Several people tweeted me about this tour and while sadly I didn’t get the chance to squeeze it into my trip this time, it’s top of my list for when I return.  

Jane Austen Centre, Bath

As mentioned, it’s a particularly big year for Jane Austen fans, and Bath played a huge part in Jane’s life and the storylines of several of her most popular books. At this interactive museum I enjoyed a talk by one of the Georgian ladies, which gave a great overview to Jane’s time in Bath, before engrossing myself in interesting pictures, excerpts from her novels and facts. A highlight was the opportunity to dress up in character and proposition Mr Darcy! He said he’s thinking about my offer, but wasn’t convinced by my footwear.

Explore Walcot Street, Bath

This is the cooler, less commercial area, with tonnes of independent stores, restaurants and galleries. From the vintage clothes in Yellow Shop to beautiful stationary in Meticulous Ink and popular eatery Sam’s Kitchen , it’s a nice contrast to the big name stores in the city. I even spotted this great photo op just along there!

No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath

There’s a real wow moment when you stand in front of the Royal Crescent and take in the unique arched shape of the buildings. While most are private residences, No.1 is open to the public, and dressed as it would have been in the late 1700s. In the rooms are guides in traditional attire who really bring the history to life!

Roman Baths

 The reason Bath is called Bath? Hmm I think you get it! The roman baths are one of the top things to see in Bath. If you only pay for one attraction in the city, let it be this! The waters were known for their healing properties, but over the years became a real focal point for the city’s development. There’s more than the large Roman bath, there are fascinating ruins hidden underground, ancient artefacts and a great modern retelling of Bath’s ancient story. There’s even a chance to try the pump water for yourself.  

Thermae Bath Spa

After exhausting yourself exploring the city on foot, book in for a soak in the natural thermal springs in Bath. The water contains over 42 different minerals, and while the temperature is naturally over 40 degrees, the water is cooled to the optimum bathing temperature of 33.5°C. There are two huge bath areas (big swimming pools) – one indoors with a lazy river and jacuzzi section and a truly spectacular rooftop bath with views over the city. There’s also a great new wellness area with different showers, saunas, steam rooms and a bizarre intergalactic room which was strangely relaxing! I felt like I floated out of the spa and felt so refreshed by the ancient healing waters!

Shop ‘Til You Drop In Bath

While I know you probably wouldn’t go on a big day trip to shop at stores you can find anywhere in the UK, there are some unique boutiques mixed in with the likes of Debenhams, Topshop and Primark! A few of my favourites included Vinegar Hill (a gift/homeware store), Spotty Herbert’s (a kids shop), Instant Vintage and Flock Bath (both vintage stores). There’s also Bath Guildhall Market – a collection of 20 small stores selling everything from wool to handbags and sweets!  

Climb the tower at Bath Abbey

Ok this is where you pray your visit falls during a time of good weather. For £6 you can climb the tower on a special ‘tower tour’. Trained guides give you all the info you could need, while you do the hard bit climbing 212 steps to the top. After reaching the bell ringing area, it’s along the roof of the cathedral to start the second climb. The views from the top really were magnificent. I was so happy to see Bath from a different angle!

Hop On A Boat In Bath

Catch the city from yet another angle on board a board with Bath City Boat Trips or Pulteney Cruisers . You’ll be treated to a thorough history of the city, while taking in great views of Pulteney Bridge and the Weir.

Where To Eat And Drink In Bath

Along with every chain you’re used to seeing, Bath has a thriving foodie scene. Some of the top picks in the city include Acorn Vegetarian kitchen (where I’ve heard the vege food is SO good you won’t miss meat!), Sam’s Kitchen Deli (popular for its menu of small plates), Clayton’s Kitchen (run by twice Michelin-starred chef Rob Clayton) and Sotto Sotto (a top Italian option). With just a few days there, I only had time to sample a few places…  

Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House

Bath’s oldest house! Yes this place dates back to 1482, and is the place to try Bath’s famous buns. The name? Legend has it a girl called Solange Luyo fled France in the 1600s and as her name was difficult to say, became known as Sally Lunn. Her brioche style buns were popular, and these days you can have them sweet (with cinnamon butter, lemon curd or chocolate) or savoury (with toppings such as bacon, salmon, cheese, mushrooms and more!) If it’s around lunchtime, be prepared to wait – this place is on everybody’s hit lists!

I loved this relaxed café, which shares its space with The Loft (homeware store and boutique). I stopped for lunch and enjoyed homemade quiche with two inventive and delicious salads – one with butternut squash and goats cheese, the other with courgette, pomegranate and feta.  

Society Café

A cute hipster-esque café, complete with a bike on the wall, excellent coffee, and a queue of regulars! There are two branches in the city.

King William Pub

If you’re a total foodie, I’d recommend this pub. Far more gourmet than your average gastropub, the cuisine is a huge draw with a creative menu incorporating plenty of local produce. I started with balsamic watermelon, goats cheese mousse and pine nuts, which was intriguing to the eye and deliciously summery.

The roast rump of lamb with warm potato salad was succulent and I just loved the crunch from the shallots on top. Although feeling full, I decided I had to squeeze in dessert, and the chocolate and raspberry mousse definitely rounded off the meal in style! It was so rich and indulgent. Staff were really attentive and friendly, offering up recommendations and chatting with regulars.

How To Get To Bath  

Don’t have a car? The easiest way to get to Bath is by catching a train from London Paddington to Bath Spa with GWR Trains . If you book in advance you can sometimes find tickets as cheap as £10 each way.

Or if you want to take the stress out of organising a visit, check out these  day tours to Bath.

Where To Stay In Bath    

There are plenty of accommodation options in Bath, depending on your budget.

For those wanting space to spread out, I can’t recommend Mr Darcy’s Abode enough! The stunning townhouse has super-cool décor including lots of fun Mr Darcy references (I loved the lights!) The huge kitchen area would be amazing for a group party or hen do, as would the lounge area downstairs. I stayed there during my visit and absolutely fell in love with the place!

Booking.com has plenty of great places to stay in Bath . If you’re looking for a special Bath hotel, I’d recommend the Gainsborough Bath Spa or the Abbey Hotel . They’re both very central too.

On a budget? There are lots of hostels in Bath City Centre including Bath Backpackers Hostel , St Christopher’s Inn Bath , YHA Bath and even some cheap rooms at certain times of year at Bath University .

Thanks to Visit Bath for inviting me to write this Bath travel blog and explore this beautiful part of England. As always, opinions are my own! I hope you enjoy your 24 hours in Bath as much as I did! 

Enjoyed this post about spending one day in Bath? Pin it for later…

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

12 thoughts on “24 Hours In Bath, England: The Ultimate Travel Guide”

Ah, it looks like you had such an amazing time in Bath! Really makes me want to go back and visit myself, and it looks like you uncovered some fantastic restaurants too!

It was a lovely trip. You can see and do so much in 36 hours. Definitely one for you to return to at some point!

Amazing post Chloe! Bath is one of my favourite cities in the UK and you’ve captured it really well. Love that spa. I went in winter and it’s amazing to sit in the rooftop pool while it’s freezing cold outside. Love the Jane Austen centre too. Oh my god I want to go back to Bath right now haha

Thanks Emily! I hadn’t been since I was about 15! Still as pretty as I remembered it being. I’d love to go in winter too. I heard they have Christmas markets and ice rinks!

Really enjoyed your informative post Chloe, it’s years since I have visited Bath and I’m very tempted to go back again. I’ll make sure to take a wander along Walcot Street, sounds intriguing.

Thank you so much for reading! Walcot is a must visit – so different from the rest of the city!

It’s gorgeous Angie! And yes so many great reasons to visit this year in particular!

I just love Bath so, so much!

Me too! It’s such a gorgeous spot.

I adore Bath, I’d love to live there – well, if I’d live anywhere, anyway. And though I’ve been more than once, I cannot believe that I’ve yet to make it into #1 Royal Crescent. Well, hoping to get there again this fall, and will definitely see it then. I stay at the YMCA hostel in Bath, and like it a lot.

My favorite attraction in Bath is the Assembly Rooms, with the Fashion Museum in the basement. You can dress up there, as well, and there is a great backdrop for a photo op. The kids in our group loved it.

You know what else is so cool about Bath, that a lot of people don’t realize? In less time than it takes to get back to London, you can take a train to Cardiff and see the Dr. Who Experience. The YHA hostel there is fabulous, particularly the inexpensive food available on the ground floor. I don’t know about the dorm rooms, but I’d bet they are just fine. The private room we got because of the kids was as good as any mid-class hotels I’ve been in – generously sized, with a great private bath.

Definitely looking forward to another visit. And, as usual, you’ve listed some more great places to try. Thanks so much!

Wow I didn’t know it was that quick to Cardiff too. I’ll have to combine the two next time! Thank you 🙂

Bath is just super cute right?! I love all your literary references, I’m a big Jane Austen Fan!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• Visit 100 Countries
• Visit 500 UNESCO Sites
• Landmarks of the World

Are you looking for a weekend away in a quintessentially English city with small streets to explore, beautiful architecture everywhere you look, relaxing hot springs, and plenty of great dining options to mix with many interesting attractions? If so, look no further than Bath, England!

Only 90 minutes from the hustle and bustle of London, Bath is a popular day trip option but to slow down and really savour the city we recommend you give the city at least 48 hours and stay the weekend.

Named for the Roman Baths that stand at the heart of the old city next to its splendid medieval abbey, Bath is full of elegant honey-coloured Georgian terraces in which you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a whole other world. In fact, there are so many historic buildings the whole city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site ! Added to this you’ll be immersed in culture, history, and many modern amenities; you’ll find Bath definitely has a little something for everyone.

Want to save this for later? Click the Pinterest button on the left for a pinnable image!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our full disclosure policy here .

Visitors, especially Jane Austen fans, come from all over the world to visit Bath and it is very popular with tour groups and day-trippers from London , especially during the summer. If you’d like a little quieter visit, we recommend visiting off-season instead – even February can be nice to visit. Just pack some warmer clothes and you’ll be all set!

If you are looking for ideas of how to spend your weekend in Bath, this weekend guide is filled with tips on what to see and do and suggestions for places to stay and dine – all organised into a 48-hour itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Bath.

To learn a little more about Bath pre-trip we recommend Rick Steves’  TV episode on Bath which gives you an introduction to a few of the sites mentioned in this guide and can be watched for free on his  website   or on  YouTube . If you’d prefer a book you can take a long on your trip, check out his  travel g uide  instead. We hope you enjoy your weekend in Bath!

WHERE TO STAY IN BATH

For this itinerary three options are:

CRESCENT GUEST HOUSE $ – Ideally located about a 10-minute walk from the centre of Bath on a quiet street, the Crescent Guest House offers guests a warm and cosy stay. The rooms are simply decorated with antique furniture, comfortable beds, and pretty linens. To get you ready for your day they have a delicious breakfast with many choices such as cereal, fruit, and granola, or you can opt for a hearty (and scrumptious!) full English breakfast. We enjoyed our stay at this lovely B&B.

BOOK YOUR STAY :    Direct with Hotel   |  Hotels.com  |  Booking.com   |  TripAdvisor

HIDING SPACE WESTGATE APARTMENTS $$ – Stay in the heart of Bath, near the Roman Baths, at these fresh and modern studio apartments that get excellent guest reviews. These would allow you a little more space to stretch out and give you the option of cooking a light meal or two as each apartment has a fully equipped kitchenette with a stove/oven, coffee maker, fridge, dishwasher, and a microwave. Some apartments also have double sofa beds to accommodate up to four people.

BOOK YOUR STAY :    Hotels.com   |  Booking.com   |  TripAdvisor

MACDONALD BATH SPA $$$ – Set in beautiful gardens that feature fountains, ponds, and a terrace, the Macdonald Bath Spa hotel will provide a memorable stay in the picturesque Somerset countryside. Luxurious rooms are decorated with marble and mahogany and some have views of the scenic gardens. You can relax in the spa with a swimming pool, outdoor hot tub, candlelit treatment rooms, or dine in the award-winning restaurant set in the former ballroom of this country mansion.

BOOK YOUR STAY :  Direct with Hotel   |  Hotels.com   |  Booking.com   |  TripAdvisor

NEW TO AIRBNB?  Click for a discount on your first booking when you sign up for a new account.

HOW TO GET AROUND BATH

The best way to get around Bath is on foot. The city centre, Upper Town, and Pulteney Quarter (where the sights in this weekend guide are located) are easy to navigate, but be sure to have a map or navigation app.

Alternatively, you could book the Hop-on/Hop-Off bus that will save you some walking while providing audio commentary on board to learn all about Bath.

If you arrive by car, please note that parking is extremely limited within the city and you need to ensure you aren’t parked illegally or you will be ticketed. We parked at the   Charlotte Street Car Park   which was within easy walking distance of our B&B, offers long stay and multi-day parking, and has over 1,000 spaces.

To help you navigate to the attractions in this weekend guide the directions between sights will be in  italics .

HELPFUL LINK:

• If you need an app that will navigate you around whether walking, driving or using public transport and even works offline then click for a guide about   how to use Here WeGo .

FRIDAY EVENING

After checking in to your hotel or Airbnb , you may be ready for some serious relaxing after a long week at work. This weekend itinerary has you covered with your first stop being the Thermae Bath Spa for a few hours to just unwind in the thermal baths the city is so well-known for.

Photo by  profernity  /  CC BY 2.0

THERMAE BATH SPA

While this can be a bit pricey, the   Thermae Bath Spa   is the only natural spa in the UK and your one chance to bathe in Bath. But what a treat it would be!

After being unused for 25 years, Bath’s thermal springs were once again made available for enjoyment. A state-of-the-art spa is housed in a three-building complex that mixes modern glass and steel design with historic buildings.

The city’s contemporary spa offers the chance to relax in pools fed by the warm mineral-rich spring waters, enjoy some time in the steam room, and get pampered with body wraps, a massage, or a facial. The highlight for many visitors is spending time in the open-air rooftop pool, especially at twilight to watch the twinkling lights of Bath as night falls.

For a simpler, less-expensive bathing experience you many also consider the Cross Bath , also operated by Thermae Bath Spa, which is located across the street from the main spa in a circular Georgian structure.

Thermae Bath Spa also has an on-site restaurant where you could have your dinner if you didn’t want to leave the relaxing, pampering spa. Some of their spa packages , including the Twilight Package, also combine the use of the spa facilities with a meal in their restaurant.

TIP : To ensure you will be able to enjoy your pampering spa treatments, do book them in advance.

WEBSITE : Thermae Bath Spa   | ADDRESS : The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath Street, Bath BA1 1SJ

HOURS OF OPERATION : Different areas of the spa have varying opening times so it is best to check here for the latest opening hours .

COST : Varies depending on spa treatments/packages booked

• If you arrive in Bath by train, your used rail ticket will get you four hours for the price of two hours at the spa (Monday – Friday) so if you’d like to take advantage of this deal on your weekend in Bath, be sure to make your reservations on Friday evening after you’ve arrived to kick the weekend off with a refreshing start. Click  here  to learn more.

SATURDAY MORNING

In the morning you’ll want to be up early to be out the door by about 9:00 am to allow enough time for the several planned stops and also to allow some time to just be in Bath, relax over lunch or a café for an English afternoon tea.

Start at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House for a delicious breakfast to start your day off right.

SALLY LUNN’S

Housed in the oldest building in Bath dating from 1483, is the delightful little historic eating house called   Sally Lunn’s   which is famous for the Sally Lunn Buns.

The restaurant is also a three-storey living museum that celebrates the life of baker Solange Luyon, known as Sally Lunn. Here she invented her delicious brioche-style bun which she sold to the people of Bath back in the 1700s. As part of the museum, you can see the original kitchen and an exhibition that tells Sally’s story.

In the restaurant, which is open from breakfast, through lunch and afternoon tea, and into dinner, you can try one of the authentic English historic dishes, or just pop in for a bun and a cup of tea to refuel while exploring Bath on your weekend getaway.

WEBSITE :  Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House | ADDRESS : 4 North Parade Passage, Bath BA1 1NX

HOURS OF OPERATION : Click for complete opening hours of their Kitchen Museum, daytime refreshment or dining by candlelight.

COST : Click to view their menu .

To make your way to the next stop, turn right out the door of Sally Lunn’s and walk through the little alleyway until you reach Abbey Street. Walk along Abbey Street until you reach the front of Bath Abbey. This will put you in the Abbey Churchyard (Courtyard) and the Historic Walking Tours will meet in front of the Roman Baths.

There will be signs for the walking tours so you’ll know exactly where to meet your guide. It is about a 5-minute walk from Sally Lunn’s to the walking tour meeting point.

HISTORIC WALKING TOUR

If, like us, you love a good walking tour to get acquainted with a new city, you are in for a treat in Bath! Established over 80 years ago when the mayor of Bath took a group on a guided tour, the   Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides   continue to lead free guided tours by volunteers who just want to share their love of Bath with guests to their city.

These dedicated guides turn up every day, sometimes twice a day, to lead a group around the city pouring out all their entertaining stories about the city’s Georgian social scene. The groups meet in the courtyard of the in front of the Roman Baths and for two hours are recounted the history of Bath from way, way back in Roman times all the way up to present day. You’ll see all the top sites of the city, along with some lesser-known and tucked away places.

Because the tours are such a great way to get your bearings for your further strolls through the city, we’d recommend taking the 1030 tour on Saturday morning (as we have it in this itinerary).

WEBSITE:  Bath Guides   |  ADDRESS : Tours meet outside the Roman Baths in the Abbey Churchyard

TOUR TIMES : Sunday to Friday at 1030 and 1400 and Saturday at 1030 only

COST : Free (guides also do not accept tips)

There are different stopping points for each tour, depending on the last sight you visit on your tour. Generally, you will be brought back to be in very close vicinity to the starting point near Bath Abbey (which is very easy to see from different places around the city). From your ending point, make your way back to the Abbey Churchyard in front of Bath Abbey. 

READ MORE:  Looking for more great things to add to your Bath itinerary? Check out these 21 things to do in Bath, England !

SATURDAY AFTERNOON

All around Bath Abbey you’ll find little cafés and restaurants where you can stop and have a little lunch before continuing with your afternoon in Bath.

Dominating the town centre,   Bath Abbey   is considered by many to be the last great medieval church built in England. Construction began in 1499 on the current abbey, but a church has been on this site since the 8th century.

According to legend, God described the design of the church to Bishop Oliver King in a dream. Outside in the Abbey Church Yard, which is alive with the sounds of buskers, you can look up to the unique façade that features stone angels climbing Jacob’s Ladder to heaven. Inside the Gothic architecture has spectacular fan vaulted ceilings and so much stained glass it earned itself the nickname “Lantern of the West”.

On your visit, you can imagine what life was like when the first king of England was crowned here in 973 and then climb the 212 steps to the tower for a panoramic view of the city. Climbing the tower is only able to be done on the   guided tour   but it offers great views down into the Roman Baths if you have the time to make the climb.

TIP : The guided tours aren’t available on Sundays as they still have services in this abbey so if you make this attraction part of your weekend in Bath, you’ll want to keep the abbey scheduled for Saturday if you wish to see the interior.

WEBSITE : Bath Abbey | ADDRESS : Abbey Courtyard, Bath, BA1 1LT

HOURS OF OPERATION : Tours are offered Monday to Friday 1000 to 1600 on the hour and Saturdays 1000 to 1600 every half hour. There are no tours on Sunday or during special events or adverse weather conditions.

COST : Adults £8 and children (5-15 years) £4

SATURDAY EVENING

Evenings seem made for quiet strolls around Bath and there is no better place for that stroll than along the Grand Parade and Great Pulteney Street, especially to admire   Pulteney Bridge   from all angles and see Bath Abbey lit up.

STRONG ALONG THE RIVER TO SEE THE PULTENEY BRIDGE

The Pulteney Bridge spans the River Avon and has the distinction of being one of only four bridges in the world to have shops built into the original 18th-century design which echoes the design of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy. This charming bridge, built in 1769-74, is certainly one of the more recognizable landmarks of Bath.

A nice route to take for a stroll starts in the Abbey courtyard, wander through some of the narrow cobblestone streets, perhaps popping into a bookshop or two, the along the opposite side of the river from the Abbey to look back at the pretty views of the city. Then pop back up to the street level for a little walk along Great Pulteney Street. This is considered one of Bath’s finest streets and is lined with properties dating back to the 18th century.

After walking around and over the Pulteney Bridge, you can also admire its beauty from the vantage point of a   riverboat for a peaceful cruise   along the river if you have time in the evening.

If you are looking for a place for dinner, we’d recommend Brown’s Brasserie & Bar that is near the river on Orange Grove (almost directly behind Bath Abbey). We’ve dined at Brown’s in London , Bristol, and Bath and we are never disappointed.

SUNDAY MORNING

Sunday morning will find you back in the Abbey Courtyard to begin your day with the Roman Baths that have made Bath so famous.

ROMAN BATHS

In the first century, the Romans built baths and a temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva around the spring in Bath. Medieval monks of Bath Abbey also exploited the spring’s properties, however, it wasn’t until Queen Anne visited in 1702 that Bath became THE place to go for the hot spring waters of the   Roman Baths .

Today you aren’t able to get in the mineral-rich waters of the baths, but you can explore the Roman spa complex which is really interesting. With the help of a great multi-language audio guide (included in the admission price), you can learn all about the open-air Great Bath that stands at the heart of the spa, the Sacred Spring where Sulis Minerva was worshipped, the excavated ancient foundations, Roman artefacts, and the actual mouth of the hot spring.

In addition to the informative audio guide, the displays are well-documented so you could easily spend a couple of hours exploring the Roman Baths. If you have less time, we did our own “highlights” tour in about an hour and still felt like we had a great visit. At the end of your tour, be sure to try a cup of the   famous spa water   which contains 43 minerals and has been attracting visitors to Bath for centuries.

TIP : The Roman Baths are a very popular attraction in Bath so there are usually long lines on weekends and every day in the summer. To avoid these lines, you can purchase your ticket in advance online to skip the ticket line. The peak times are usually between 13:00-15:00 during the week and all day on the weekend. During July and August, it is nice to visit after 19:00 when the baths are romantic and gas-lit, and not quite as crowded so your visit could be switched with strolling along the river and Pulteney Bridge if you’d like to see the Roman Baths like this instead.

WEBSITE :  Roman Baths | ADDRESS : Abbey Church Yard, Bath BA1 1LZ

HOURS OF OPERATION : Click for opening hours  which vary throughout the year.

COST : Ticket prices vary throughout the year from £16.00 – £23.00 for adults based on the season (i.e. off-peak/standard/peak season)

After touring the Roman Baths, make your way to the Pump Room for lunch which is next door in the Abbey Courtyard.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Photo by  Matthew Hartley  /  CC BY-SA 2.0

LUNCH AT THE PUMP ROOM

For more than 200 years, the   Pump Room   in the elegant Georgian Hall just about the Roman Baths has been at the heart of Bath’s social scene.

In the 18th century, the wealthy residents of the city would come here to dance, listen to classical music, and engage in conversation. Today this stylish dining venue welcomes everyone to come in and dine and listen to the soft music provided by the famous ‘Pump Room Trio’.

During your weekend in Bath, perhaps after your visit to the Roman Baths, why not stop for an   English afternoon tea , or enjoy a ‘Bath Bun’? There is also a beautiful fountain where you can get a drink of the famous natural spring water if you’d like to have a sample.

WEBSITE :  Pump Room Restaurant   | ADDRESS : 13 Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1LZ

HOURS OF OPERATION : Open 1000 through dinner

COST : Click to view their menus .

After lunch, make your way to Royal Crescent to explore some more of Bath’s Georgian architecture to finish off your weekend in Bath.

From the Pump Room entrance, walk away from the front of Bath Abbey to Stall Street. Turn right on Stall Street and then quite quickly turn left onto Westgate Street. Westgate Street will turn to the right naturally and then will change names to Saw Close. Right before Saw Close changes names again (to Upper Borough Walls) turn left onto Barton Steet. 

From here keep an eye out on the left for the tiny cut through which will take you over to Queen Square. This will be right at the corner where Barton Street turns the corner and becomes Wood Street.

Once through the tiny cut through turn right onto Queen Square and continue until the street changes name to Gay Street. At the roundabout at The Circus, take the first exit onto Brock Street which continues until the street changes name to Royal Crescent. No. 1 Royal Crescent will be right at the beginning of this street. 

It is about a 15-minute walk from the Pump Room to No. 1 Royal Crescent.

ROYAL CRESCENT

Hailed as the most majestic street in Britain,   Royal Crescent   is a graceful arc of 30 houses and is considered an outstanding example of the architecture of the period. It is Grade 1 listed and has remained unchanged since it was designed and built by John Wood the Younger between 1767 and 1774.

Most of the Georgian houses that make up the Royal Crescent are still private homes, but one has been converted to a hotel and another, at No 1, is now a museum. Along with touring the museum, we recommend spending a little time just strolling around the expansive lawn and some of the little paths along the grounds.

The ‘ No.1 Royal Crescent ’ museum gives a glimpse of what life was like for the wealthy 18th-century aristocrats through the furnishings, décor, artefacts, and examples of food and clothing. It’s designed right down to such details as the dog-powered spit used to roast meat in front of the fire in the kitchen!

Even if you aren’t an architectural buff, you’ve almost certainly seen Royal Crescent as it has provided the backdrop for countless films and television programs set in Georgian times and is an iconic image of Bath.

WEBSITE :  No. 1 Royal Crescent  | ADDRESS : No. 1 Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LR

HOURS OF OPERATION : Open daily from 1000 to 1700 with the last admission at 1600 (except November 23-27, December 25-26, and January 1)

COST : £10.90 for Adults and £5.40 for children (age 6-16)

READ MORE:  Complete Guide to Visiting No.1 Royal Crescent

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR WEEKEND IN BATH

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

RELATED POSTS

A historical walking tour of bath, england, guide to visiting bath’s roman baths, things to do in bath, england, guide to visiting bath’s no 1 royal crescent.

Bath Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

Thanks to the area’s hot springs, Bath has been attracting visitors for thousands of years. The Romans started visiting around 70 CE, laying the groundwork for the baths that they continually used and expanded upon until the 5th century.

The city became popular as a spa town during the Georgian era (1714-1830), leading to a proliferation of beautiful Georgian architecture that characterizes the city today.

Though it’s known as a luxury vacation spot, there are many free things to do in Bath that make it worth spending a day or two visiting if you’re on a budget. With stunning architecture, a beautiful cathedral, historic baths, and the home of famous 18th- and 19th-century writer Jane Austen, Bath has plenty to keep you entertained during your visit.

This travel guide to Bath can help you have fun, save money, and make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Bath

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Bath

1. Learn about the Roman Baths

The Baths were one of the great religious spas of the ancient world. The Romans used the area as a retreat and worshiped the goddess Sulis Minerva here, as she was seen as a life-giving and nourishing deity. The natural thermal springs that supplied the baths actually still flow with hot water today. You can visit the ruins of the old bathhouses, walk on original Roman pavements (sidewalks), see thousands of archaeological finds from pre-Roman and Roman Britain, marvel at Roman construction and engineering, and listen to a great audio tour by author Bill Bryson. Admission is 17.50-28 GBP depending on the season and day of the week.

2. Stroll around Royal Victoria Park

Bath’s largest park dates to 1830. Spanning almost 60 acres, it was opened by Queen Victoria (then just an 11-year-old princess). Originally an arboretum, it is designed like traditional English gardens (e.g. lots of roses and lavender), making it a very scenic spot to wander. Bath’s iconic Royal Crescent of terraced homes overlooks the park, so it’s the perfect spot for a picnic with a view. You can also play tennis here and there’s an 18-hole mini golf course. For the horticulturalists among you, you can also visit the Botanical Gardens. From November to January, there’s also an ice rink set up here.

3. Explore Bath Abbey

Built in 1499, this medieval church is famous for its unique Gothic architecture (it’s shaped as a cruciform and its ceiling uses fan vaulting). The church is well-preserved and you can tour the tower to learn more about its history, which stretches back over 1,300 years and includes three different churches and the coronation of King Edgar in 973 CE. Admission is by donation and tours cost 8-10 GBP.

4. Experience history at No. 1 Royal Crescent

This collection of homes was completed in 1774 and is an excellent example of Georgian architecture. While the exteriors of the homes are admirable, you can also tour the interior of a townhouse museum to see what domestic life was like in the 18th century (it has been decorated and furnished as it might have been during the period 1776-1796). Admission is 11 GBP in off-peak season and 13 GBP in peak season. Pre-booking your tickets is recommended.

5. Admire Pulteney Bridge

Designed in 1769 by Robert Adam, Pulteney Bridge is one of the most beautiful and romantic bridges in England. It’s a postcard-perfect spot for views of the town and the Avon River. Designed in a Palladian style with pediments, pilasters, and tiny leaded domes at either end, there are shops and restaurants that line both sides of the bridge. Pulteney Cruises runs boat trips from here. There’s no need to book and tickets cost 11 GBP.

Other Things to See and Do in Bath

1. take a free walking tour.

One of the first things I do in a new destination is to take a free walking tour. It’s the best budget-friendly way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Footprints Tours hosts two-hour tours that can show you all the highlights. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

Additionally, you can go with the Mayor of Bath Honorary Guides . Their free tours are a complimentary service offered by the city led by knowledgeable locals. Tours are hosted twice daily (once on Saturdays) and last two hours. There’s no need to book in advance, just show up at the Roman Baths meeting point (look for the Free Walking Tours sign).

2. Visit the Victoria Art Gallery

This public museum boasts a collection of over 15,000 British paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts dating back over 600 years. Highlights include landscape and portrait oil paintings by Thomas Gainsborough, an 18th-century English Romantic artist who lived in Bath. The upper gallery has quirky decorative art, including over 400 delicate Georgian drinking glasses and a huge collection of pottery dogs. Admission is 7 GBP.

3. Enjoy the Jane Austen Centre

Bath has a permanent collection of Jane Austen memorabilia as Austen lived in Bath for most of her life and used the city as a setting in many of her novels. Visit the Centre to join talks, activities, and see contemporary exhibits on her life and works. Guides in period dress wandering the center complete the atmosphere and you can extend your visit by enjoying an afternoon tea at the center’s Regency Tea Room. Die-hard Jane Austen fans may want to attend the annual Jane Austen Festival, which takes place in September of each year. Admission costs 13.25 GBP.

4. Shop on Walcot Street

Known as the “Artisan Quarter,” Walcot Street is Bath’s hipster district, the equivalent to London’s Camden Town. Bath’s oldest commercial street, today Walcot is lined with unique shops, including artisanal cheese shops, independent cafes, and vintage antique stores. On the weekends, there’s an open-air market where you can browse funky and bohemian souvenirs.

5. Study astronomy at Herschel Museum of Astronomy

If you’re interested in the history and science of astronomy, this is an awesome museum. William Herschel discovered the planet Uranus in 1781 in the garden of the preserved townhouse in which the museum is housed. Exhibitions include what was once the world’s most powerful telescope, Herschel’s travel diary, pocket globes, and other astronomical instruments. You can also wander the Georgian garden in which Herschel made his discovery. Admission is 9.50-11.50 GBP depending on the season.

6. Experience the world of fashion

Founded in the 1960s, the Fashion Museum contains over 30,000 pieces of clothing items and accessories that date back to the 18th century. The collection was started by Doris Langley Moore, a designer, collector, writer, and scholar who lived in England and was an early female fashion historian. The main collection, A History of Fashion in 100 Objects , includes many costume pieces throughout history (such as a pair of decorated gloves from the time of Shakespeare). The Dress of The Year is an annual exhibition that changes each year to showcase contemporary fashion highlights from the previous year. Note: the museum is temporarily closed while it moves locations.

7. Learn about Bath’s working history

The Museum of Bath at Work takes a unique look at the working history of the city to the present day. The museum recreates the workshops of several types of local businesses throughout history, all on display in a former eighteenth-century indoor tennis court. Opened in 1978, the original collection at the museum started with the remnants from a mineral water bottle business based in Bath. If you’re interested in social history or the rise of industrialization, this place is worth a visit. Admission is 10 GBP. The museum is closed in December and January.

8. Enjoy Bath’s iconic Georgian architecture

Bath is generally regarded as one of the prettiest English towns, thanks to its 18th-century Georgian-era architecture. In fact, the entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the only such city in the UK. Be sure to walk down Great Pulteney Street, a long thoroughfare with expansive Georgian buildings on either side. Another spot to take in the Georgian architecture is at the Royal Crescent, a sweeping arc of Georgian townhouses.

9. Shop in a bustling open-air market

Green Park Station was a former railway station that has found new life as one of Bath’s most unique shopping attractions. The open-air market has numerous independent shops, restaurants, and cafés. Visit on specific days of the week for special markets: a farmer’s market on Saturday mornings (9am-1:30pm), a general market on Saturdays (10am-4pm), and an antique market on the last Sunday of every month.

10.Walk the Bath Skyline

For panoramic views of the city, stroll the Bath Skyline path, a tranquil and mostly flat path that leaves straight from the city center. There are 6-mile (10-kilometer) and 3-mile (5-kilometer) loops, with a breakdown of each route on the National Trust website. Plenty of benches dot the path should you need to take a break.

11. Relax at Thermae Bath Spa

This is the only city in the UK where you can bathe in natural thermal waters. This award-winning spa is a four-story day spa with various thermal baths, as well as a rooftop pool offering incredible views over the city. A two-hour spa session costs 40-45 GBP. This is a very popular thing to do in Bath, so if you’d like to partake, book in advance.

12. Visit Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein

In 1816, Mary Shelley wrote the world’s first sci-fi novel: Frankenstein. This interactive museum takes you into her dark world through four rooms housed in a Grade 2 building (a building of such special interest that is protected and preserved). There’s information about her life, an 8-foot recreation of Frankenstein, and a bunch of unusual artifacts and vintage memorabilia. Tickets cost 15.50 GBP. They also have an escape room which costs 64 GBP for two people (price includes house entry).

For more information on other cities in England, check out these guides:

• Brighton Travel Guide
• Bristol Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• London Travel Guide
• Manchester Travel Guide
• Oxford Travel Guide

Bath Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-8 beds costs 20-25 GBP per night, while a 10-12-bed dorm costs 15-20 GBP. A private double room with a shared bathroom costs 55-75 GBP. Free Wi-Fi is standard though most hostels do not have self-catering facilities. Prices are only a little higher in peak season.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city center in nearby Somerset. A basic plot for a small tent costs from 10 GBP per night.

Budget hotel prices – A budget hotel room starts at 80 GBP per night in the low season but in peak season it’s more like 120 GBP per night. Bath isn’t exactly a budget destination, so don’t expect a lot of great deals. On the plus side, many budget hotels include free breakfast.

There are lots of Airbnb options in Bath. A private room costs 60-75 GBP per night while an entire home/apartment averages 100-120 GBP per night. Expect to pay considerably more in summer and if you don’t book early.

Food – While British cuisine has evolved in leaps and bounds due to immigration (and colonialism), it’s still very much a meat and potatoes country. Fish and chips remain a popular staple for both lunch and dinner while roasted and stewed meats, sausages, meat pies, and the quintessential Yorkshire pudding are all common options as well. Curry (and other Indian dishes, such as tikka masala), are super popular too. A local specialty to try are Bath buns, a sweet roll topped with crushed sugar and raisins.

You can eat cheap in Bath if you stick to basic pub meals and cheap take-out like falafel, sandwiches, and fish and chips, as they cost as little as 6-10 GBP. There are also many Indian and Thai restaurants offering mains from 8 GBP.

For a meal at an inexpensive restaurant, expect to pay 14-20 GBP. A pint of beer costs 5 GBP while a glass of wine costs around 7 GBP. Restaurants here are very expensive, so expect to spend about 35 GBP or more for a nice sit-down meal with appetizers and a drink.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 6.50 GBP for a combo meal while pizza costs 8-12 GBP. A latte or cappuccino is around 3 GBP while bottled water costs about 1.20 GBP.

If you plan to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 40-60 GBP. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, veggies, and some meat.

Backpacking Bath Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Bath, expect to spend about 60 GBP per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, taking public transit and walking everywhere, cooking your own meals, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free activities like enjoying the parks and taking a free walking tour. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 GBP to your daily budget.

A mid-range budget of about 160 GBP covers staying in a private Airbnb room or private hostel room, eating out for most of your meals, taking the occasional taxi, having a couple of drinks, and doing more paid activities such as visiting the baths and touring the abbey.

On a “luxury” budget of 285 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a car or take more taxis, and do as many tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

Bath Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Bath isn’t a budget-friendly destination, which is why many travelers choose to visit on a day trip. However, there are quite a few ways to enjoy the city without spending too much. Here are some tips to help you save money during your visit:

• Visit the parks and gardens – There are a handful of large parks and gardens throughout Bath. Pack a picnic, bring a book, and spend an afternoon relaxing.
• Eat at the pubs – Bath has some delicious but expensive restaurants, so eat cheaper meals at the pubs and taverns where you can experience the local flavor. If you’re on a tight budget, skip the pubs and cook for yourself. It saves you a ton!
• Walk everywhere – Bath isn’t a big city, so you can save yourself a few pounds by walking everywhere.
• Take a free walking tour – If you want to get a better feel for the city, be sure to take a free walking tour. They last a couple of hours and are a great way to learn about the city’s history on a budget. Footprints Tours and Mayor of Bath Honorary Guides both run daily tours. Just make sure to tip at the end!
• Check out Visit Bath – There’s no official tourist pass for Bath like many other cities have but Visit Bath has a selection of discounts available on its website including for selected tours and restaurants.
• Stay with a local – If you’re on a budget, use Couchsurfing to stay with a local. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to cut costs while connecting to the local scene and getting insider tips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Bath

Bath has several hostels that are fun, affordable, and social. Here are my suggested places to stay in Bath:

• Bath Backpackers
• St Christopher’s Inn

How to Get Around Bath

Public transportation – If you’re staying within the city limits, it’s best to walk or take the bus to get around. A single ticket is 2.20 GBP on the bus (2 GBP if bought using the First Pass mticket app) and a day pass costs 5.60 GBP (on the bus or in the app).

The bus covers all the main sights, however, since the city is so small, you can easily walk everywhere to save money.

Bicycle – A single-day rental costs 20-30 GBP for a regular bike and 45 GBP for an e-bike. You can rent bikes from Green Park Bike Station, Bath Narrowboats, or Julian House Bike Workshop (Bath Narrowboats is by far the cheapest at 20 GBP for the day).

Taxi – Taxis are readily available, with prices starting at 2.80 GBP and going up around 2.25 GBP per mile. Given how expensive they are, I wouldn’t take one unless absolutely necessary.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Bath and is a little cheaper than taking a taxi. However, walking and cycling are the easiest (and cheapest) ways to get around this compact city.

Car rental – You don’t need a car to explore Bath, however, it might be helpful if you want to explore the region at large. Car rentals can be found for as little as 25 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. Keep in mind driving is on the left and that most cars have a manual transmission. Drivers need to be at least 21 to rent a car as well.

When to Go to Bath

Spring (late March to June) is the peak tourism season as that’s when the flowers are in bloom, though it can get pretty wet and rainy during this time. In May, during the annual Bath Festival, the city really comes to life. It’s an open-air celebration of music and literature which takes over the city for nearly two weeks. The weather is warm enough and the city is lively. It’s the best time to visit.

Summer is the warmest season but temperatures are rarely ever above 22°C (72°F). Expect many street festivals and public events in the late spring and early summer.

For fans of the city’s most famous writer and resident, the annual Jane Austen Festival takes place every September. Expect street theater, literary walking tours, and even a costumed ball. Book your accommodation early as the city fills up.

During autumn, temperatures are mild and, outside the festivals, the city is a bit quieter.

Winter lasts from December to February and tourism crowds thin out dramatically during this time. Temperatures dip below freezing and prices are slightly lower. The Bath Christmas Market starts at the end of November and sees the streets of Bath’s city center filled with seasonal decorations, Christmas lights, and many local makers and designers selling artisan gifts and typical Christmas market foods.

How to Stay Safe in Bath

Bath is a safe destination and the risk of violent crime here is low. That said, petty crime such as pickpocketing or theft can occur so keep your valuables out of sight just to be safe. Pickpockets tend to work in teams, so stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight when at the bar or in crowded areas and you should be fine.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Scams here are rare, however, you can read about common travel scams to avoid if you want to learn more.

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Bath Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Bath Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling England and continue planning your trip:

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

I Loved Visiting This England City So Much I Moved There — Here's How to Plan the Perfect Trip

Bath is one of the most picturesque cities in southwest England.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Best restaurants, best shopping, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

nigel battrick/Getty Images

If you’re one of the millions of people who couldn’t get enough of Netflix’s hit Bridgerton , you’ve already had a glimpse of the Georgian architecture and glamour of Bath. Located in Somerset, a region directly west of London, Bath is recognizable for a variety of features, including its buildings made of the golden-hued Bath stone (or oolitic limestone), cobblestone streets, and natural hot springs that inspired the city’s name. 

Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site — the only city in the United Kingdom with that distinction — Bath was founded by the Romans in the first century A.D. and developed into one of the most fashionable places to live in the 18th century. The famed author Jane Austen even called it home for a few years. Given its uniquely preserved history and structural significance, Bath is a popular filming location; besides its role in Bridgerton , it also makes appearances in the 2022 version of "Persuasion" starring Dakota Johnson, "Les Misérables" (2012), and "Vanity Fair" (2004), among other productions. As Gerry Paddock, concierge at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa notes, the city’s “fabulous architecture, river and canals, and an abundance of tranquil parkland” create a completely original — and photogenic — place to visit. 

Even with the fanfare surrounding Bath and its reputation as a cultural hub, there are still aspects of the destination that feel inherently magical and undiscovered. “Bath is a treasure and wears its Georgian and early Victorian history well,” says Andrew Lowkes, founder and owner of Landrace . “But don’t forget it’s a living, modern metropolis. It’s home to a progressive community of real people trying to do real things and effect real, meaningful change. Have a pint with the locals at The Bell on Walcot Street. Drop into Atelier Ellis and talk color, art, [and] beauty.” He encourages travelers to “seek the road less traveled and make up your own history” while exploring what the city has to offer.

Fair warning, though, this is the type of place that sticks in your mind, gently urging you to experience (or return to) its landscape and infrastructure. Its pull is so strong, in fact, that I decided to call Bath my home for a few months in 2021 — nearly a decade after my first visit. If you’re prepared to fall in love with one of the most exquisite cities in England, read on to discover our guide to Bath. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Book one of the beautifully designed rooms at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, a five-star property located in Bath’s most iconic example of Georgian architecture. 
• Start your morning with a sausage roll and one of the famous cardamom buns from Landrace bakery. 
• Complete the Bath Skyline walk, a six-mile circular path that provides an elevated perspective of the city. 
• Pop in and out of Bath’s many independent bookstores, making sure to visit Mr B's Emporium, Topping & Company Booksellers, Persephone Books, and Bath Old Books. 
• Plan your visit in the spring or fall to experience the best weather and a less congested city.

Courtesy of The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

Best Hotels & Resorts

The royal crescent hotel & spa.

If you’re hoping for an only-in-Bath experience, there’s one hotel to book: The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa . Housed inside the visually impressive landmark, notable for its Georgian stone facade and crescent shape, the hotel overlooks a sweeping green lawn — and it feels right out of Bridgerton , albeit with all modern amenities. The 45-key property manages to achieve the near-impossible hospitality feat: Its five-star features — including a spa, indoor swimming pool, steam room, and on-site restaurant, Montagu's Mews — coexist alongside a decidedly boutique, home-like atmosphere. With complimentary tea delivered to your room — or enjoyed in front of the fireplace or outside in the garden — you’ll want to leave time in your travel schedule to simply sit and savor the allure of the property’s enviable location and elegant decor. 

The Yard in Bath

“I always recommend The Yard in Bath ,” says Lowkes. “It’s over the road from The Scallop Shell… The best chippy tea in town followed by an early night? What’s not to love?” The 14 guest rooms surround a quiet courtyard, but the breakfast might be the star of the show. Each morning, guests receive a basket filled with croissants, granola, yogurt, fruit, and juice; alternatively, there’s a daily continental breakfast for an additional fee. 

The Bath Priory

The Bath Priory is the epitome of a countryside escape, even though it’s just a short walk down Weston Road from the city center. Once a private residence, the stately building has since expanded to welcome guests to its 33 guest rooms, spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pool, gardens, and restaurant. Even if you’re not staying on property, you can still book the quintessential afternoon tea ; the tower of finger sandwiches, scones topped with jam and clotted cream, and bite-size cakes is even more enjoyable when sitting outside on the terrace. 

Meet the Expert

• Gerry Paddock is the concierge at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, a 45-room property in Bath.
• Andrew Lowkes is founder and owner of Landrace, an artisanal bakery in the city known for its freshly baked goods.

Take a self-guided walking tour of the main tourist attractions.

Unlike London, Bath is a city where you can manage to see most of the main highlights in just one day. While several of the following attractions may be crowded — particularly if you’re visiting over a weekend — they’re still worth checking off your list. I’d recommend starting by Pulteney Bridge, a Palladian-style masterpiece and classic Bath photo op, and popping into Pulteney Bridge Coffee for tea and a sweet treat. Then, make your way to the magnificent Bath Abbey before heading to the Bath Assembly Rooms , where you can get a taste of what societal events were like during the Georgian era. Architecture will be top of mind as you walk to the Circus — three curved segments of townhouses designed by architect John Wood, the Elder — and the Royal Crescent , a row of 30 Georgian terraced houses designed by John Wood, the Younger. Complete the loop by visiting the Roman Baths ; just make sure to book a timed ticket beforehand. Paddock describes the historic attraction as “an immersive experience” and a “marvelous walk through Roman history.”

Discover the city from a different viewpoint via the Bath Skyline walk. 

On day two of your trip, you’ll want to get outside of the city center. The Bath Skyline walk is the perfect way to do so, as the circular route loops through the countryside and provides panoramic views of the city's limestone buildings in the distance. If you don’t want to walk the full six miles, Lowkes recommends at least walking up Bathwick Hill and into Bathwick Meadows — especially right before golden hour. “Find a picnic spot. Open a bottle of something expensive for absolutely no reason, and take in the city’s panorama as the evening draws in,” he says. “The smell of the meadow in summer, the feel of the soft grasses, the taste of the wine, and the sounds of the city below will make you fall in love with Bath.”

Spend a day exploring Bath’s museums.

Given Bath’s dedication to preserving history, it should come as no surprise the city is filled with top-rated museums. Bridgerton fans will recognize The Holburne Museum as Lady Danbury’s house, but the real building houses a variety of permanent and rotating art exhibitions and programming. Paddock calls it “one of Bath’s best hidden gems.” No. 1 Royal Crescent is an immersive museum experience, with visitors getting the opportunity to walk through a restored townhouse, decorated as it would have been in the late 18th century. The American Museum & Gardens , located just outside the center of Bath, might be an unexpected addition to the itinerary, but its collection of American folk art, quilts, textiles, and furniture is extensive — and fascinating to view from a different geographical perspective. Finally, bibliophiles will want to leave some time to stop by the Jane Austen Centre to learn about the writer’s life, family, and legacy. 

Hop on a boat tour down the River Avon.

When you’re tired of walking, a boat tour along the River Avon awaits. Pulteney Cruisers offers a quick out-and-back ride — just one hour in total — that goes under the Pulteney Bridge and into the Avon Valley. Look out for wildlife as your captain details various points of interest and historical facts. No need to book tickets in advance; you’ll pay the £12 fee when you board the boat at Pulteney Weir.

Lydia Mansel/Travel + Leisure

Landrace and Upstairs at Landrace 

No trip to Bath is complete without grabbing a freshly baked cardamom bun (or cinnamon, if you prefer), sausage roll, and loaf of sourdough bread from Landrace . The artisanal bakery on Walcot Street is small in size but impressive in nature; while you wait for your warm drink, peruse the expertly curated shelves of dry goods, olive oils, cheeses, and more. If you go up the bakery’s spiral staircase, you’ll enter Upstairs at Landrace , a cozy space to enjoy your bun and coffee or have lunch and dinner. The seasonal British dishes are posted on the restaurant’s chalkboard, and reservations are recommended. 

The Beckford Bottle Shop & Bistro

When the weather cooperates, The Beckford Bottle Shop & Bistro 's outdoor tables are full of patrons trying a bottle of something new — or a wine they return to again and again. The inside, with its Chesterfield sofas and window seats, is just as appealing when it’s a bit gloomier outside. The bottle and bistro adjoin, so you can either take a bottle to go or stay for small plates, snacks, a charcuterie board, and dessert. The entire operation is a perfect example of what makes Bath so special; it’s charming without being cloying, and stylish while still feeling welcoming. 

Clayton’s Kitchen

“I’m a huge supporter of family-owned restaurants, as they have so much passion for what they do and always use fresh, local produce,” says Paddock. Clayton’s Kitchen falls into that category, with chef and owner Robert Clayton helming the menu, which the restaurant describes as “British and Mediterranean with a twist.” Paddock adds, “When you dine there, the whole experience feels like you're being treated as one of the family.” 

The Scallop Shell

When dining at The Scallop Shell , Lowkes says you can expect “a diverse crowd, a nice mix of locals and tourists… and so much soul.” Fish and chips is the restaurant’s specialty, and there’s a clear focus on both nostalgia and sustainability; the fish comes from small artisan day boats, and the potatoes are grown on family farms. 

Hare & Hounds

The walk to Hare & Hounds isn’t easy; you’ll head straight uphill for about a mile from the city center. The view and food at the final destination, though, are worth the effort. Opt to dine on the outdoor patio overlooking the countryside, or fill up with traditional pub food inside, where the fireplace will keep you warm. If you’re looking for a Sunday roast and a pint to wash it all down, this is the place to go. 

Geography Photos/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Topping & Company Booksellers

Bath locals and visitors have their pick of bookstores in the city, but both Paddock and Lowkes recommend Topping & Company . “It’s a one-off quirky experience, a must for passionate book lovers,” says Paddock, who notes its new location is inside a “stunning old Quaker meeting house.” Lowkes also shares that travelers should “try and attend a cookbook launch ” when in town: “Rakesh will be pouring wine. There’ll be food. It’s a whole vibe.”

As you stroll between the Circus and the Royal Crescent, there’s a good chance Beau Nash antique store will catch your eye. “They have some fabulous pieces in store,” says Paddock. The collection includes everything from antique silver drinkware to 19th-century mirrors, lamps, and tea kettles. 

Newton Farm Shop

You’ll need to venture out of the main part of Bath if you want to discover one of Lowkes’ top choices. “It’s outside of the city, but the Newton Farm Shop ([in] Newton St Loe) is one of my favorite places to buy ingredients for a Sunday roast,” says Lowkes. “Their little cafe menu is full of heart, and their well-stocked butcher’s counter is always staffed by helpful folk and stacked with quality farm-reared meats.”

Bartlett Street Antiques Centre

If you’re searching for an interesting, unexpected souvenir, check out Bartlett Street Antiques Centre . Various dealers have their selections of antique jewelry, homeware, art, and decorative items on display throughout the building, and finding a piece that speaks to you is akin to a treasure hunt. 

serts/Getty Images

Paddock recommends visiting Bath in the spring or fall, “purely because there are [fewer] tourists milling about, and most children are at school.” Plus, he says, the weather will be “pleasant for wandering around and sightseeing.” Summertime is Bath’s peak season, so try to avoid July, August, and early September if you want to see the city without as many crowds. Winter is technically off-season, so it’s a good time to take advantage of lower hotel rates — although some of the shops and museums may be closed for a few weeks. 

Getting from London to Bath is quick and easy. Download the Trainline app and book a ticket from London Paddington to Bath Spa. Depending on the stops along the route, the journey will take anywhere from 1.5 to two hours. Try to grab a window seat, as you’ll be able to glimpse various pastoral scenes — cows, cottages, and green pastures — along the way. Once you arrive in Bath, you can either walk to your destination or call an Uber; taxis are also readily available at the train station. 

Bath is best explored by foot, although its hills and cobblestones aren’t for the faint of heart. Be sure to bring your best walking shoes and familiarize yourself with the city’s layout and points of interest prior to arrival. If you plan on venturing out of the city center and into the smaller towns and villages surrounding Bath, you’ll want to rent a car; you can either pick up a rental in Bath or take an Uber to nearby Bristol. In my experience, the latter option can be more cost-effective, depending on the length of your trip.

Related Articles

The Perfect Day Trip to Bath, England

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Are you planning a day trip to Bath? From visiting Bath Spa to seeing the Royal Crescent, start planning your trip with my 1 day Bath itinerary!

Bath is without a doubt one of the most popular places to visit in the England. Once you’ve spent some time here it’s very easy to see why!

This quaint city feels a world away from the sprawling urban metropolis that is London , delivering a drastic change of scenery and character. For me. it’s the stuff of Jane Austen novels. That means if you’re looking for a stereotypical English town, you’ll find it here.

I’ve been on a day trip to Bath a couple of times now and I just love wandering around the city. It feels a million miles away from London and there is so much to do here. From delicious Michelin-starred restaurants to gorgeous Georgian architecture, it’s got something for everyone too.

There are heaps of other things to in Bath – Bath Spa, Pulteney Bridge, the Sally Lunn museum – I could go on here. And I can assure you the Roman Baths aren’t the only thing to see in the city.

Don’t worry if you only have one day in Bath though. You can still squeeze in plenty of must-see sights and activities in this time, thanks to its easily walkable size.

So, if you’re wondering what to do in Bath for a day, I’ve narrowed down my top suggestions to help you get the most out of your time in the city. Enjoy!

Looking for another weekend break in the UK? Then check out my guides to Bristol , Cambridge , Norwich , Windsor and York .

Getting from London to Bath

Arranging a day trip to Bath from London is super simple.

Direct trains from Paddington Station run regularly and only take around 1 hour 30 mins. Tickets can cost as little as £12.60 when you buy in advance. This is why I always recommend buying in advanced if you can.

Even kinder on your wallet is catching one of the National Express coaches. Incredibly, you can hop on one of their services from Victoria Coach Station for just £5. This is a great money saving tip for travelling.

There is always the option of driving too. It’s only a 2.5-hour journey, depending on where in London you set off from and traffic. Once you get out of London it’s a really beautiful drive too.

However, Bath is definitely not the most car-friendly city. So unless you want the freedom to stop off at a few sights like Stonehenge on the way, I’d stick to the train or bus.

Things to do in Bath, England

Visit the ancient roman baths.

Even if ancient history isn’t usually your thing, I really wouldn’t leave without visiting the Roman Baths . It’s the reason Bath is what it is today, after all.  

Dating back to 70AD, the baths are amazingly well-preserved and it feels like you’re stepping right back into Roman Britain. I was surprised by how entertaining the audio guide that’s included in the ticket is. It’s a real treasure trove of fascinating history, and the interactive museum is worth checking out too.

As you’d expect, the original baths aren’t open, so you can’t wash in the mineral-rich water. However, you can actually get a taste of it in the Pump Room.

The only downside is that the Roman Baths are on everyone’s itinerary for a day trip to Bath, so it’s always busy. Head there as early in the day as you can to beat the crowds.

A great way of seeing the baths is on a Roman Baths and City Walking tour where you get to visit some of the best sites in the city with a local guide.

Take a stroll along Royal Crescent

This is another classic Bath landmark, made up of a glorious curved terrace of Grade I listed houses.

Aside from being lovely to look at from the outside, there’s another chance to dig deeper into Bath’s history inside No. 1 Royal Crescent . It’s a museum, furnished and decorated just as it would have been back in the 18th century. This is like stepping into a time machine and going back a couple of hundred years.

If you’re lucky the sun will be out and you can relax on the inviting stretch of lawn just in front of the crescent. This is a great picnic spot in the city.

Marvel at Bath Abbey

It’s not all Georgian architecture in Bath – the abbey is Victorian Gothic in style and seriously impressive. A place of worship has been stood here for over 1,200 years, so as you can imagine the atmosphere is something special.

Admiring the Bath Abbey from ground level was awe-inspiring enough, but I do wish I’d done the tower tour. These only take 45-50 minutes and you get to see the ringing room, sit behind the clock face and much more. The views from the top are said to be the best in Bath.

Wander around Pulteney Bridge

Only four bridges in the world are completely lined with shops on either side and this is one of them. Fellow architecture geeks like me will love it.

It was built at the request of an ambitious and important man in Georgian Bath, William Johnstone Pulteney. He wanted this bridge to be a major talking point. Today, it’s a symbol of the city and photographed constantly, so I guess you could say he succeeded.

As well as marvelling at the bridge, I followed the lead of locals and popped in for a coffee at The Bridge Coffee Shop . A perfect pick-me-up while sightseeing!

Take in stunning art at the Victoria Art Gallery

Just a stone’s throw from Pulteney Bridge, the Victoria Art Gallery is definitely one for any art lovers wondering what to do in Bath. Ever since its opening in 1900 entry has been completely free, which is always a bonus if you’re on a budget.

Even the dome-topped Grade II listed building that houses the gallery is a sight to behold. Inside, I could have easily spent hours taking in the paintings and sculptures. But with just a day in Bath, I pulled myself away after checking out the permanent collection, to fit in the rest of my schedule.

Go on a boat tour along the river

The River Avon snakes through Bath, making a boat tour a fun way to see the city. You pass plenty of the most notable points of interest as you cruise down the river.

Depending on which tour you choose, you can also get a good glimpse of the scenic countryside just beyond Bath and lots of wildlife too. It’s a relaxing ride and a good excuse to rest your feet for a while.

For something a bit more unique, I recommend hiring a narrowboat and steering yourself along the Kennet and Avon Canal. The hire company will give you the lowdown on what to do beforehand and set you on your way. This is definitely a must on any Bath itinerary.

Wander around Prior Park Landscape Garden

Another place to enjoy the great outdoors and do some wildlife spotting during your Bath day trip is the Prior Park Landscape Garden. Trust me when I say this place is beautiful! A lush green valley, pretty woodlands and sweeping city views. What more could you want from a city garden?

Oh, and there’s yet another unique bridge here too. Like the Pulteney Bridge, the Palladian Bridge is one of just four of its kind in the world. And people think neighbouring Bristol is where all the cool bridges are at – I’m starting to think Bath deserves the reputation!

If you get a ticket for the Bath hop-on, hop-off bus then you’ll be able to hit up a fair few of these spots. Very easy if you’ve only got one day in Bath!

Eat at Chez Dominique

I have a long old list of restaurants I love eating at in Bath, but that’s a whole other blog post. For now, I’m just going to tell you about one of my favourites – Chez Dominique .

This family-run, French-inspired bistro has scooped up a handful of impressive awards. Their menu is full of interesting European dishes, all perfectly cooked, and the desserts are especially dreamy.

But even better than the food is the views from the private dining room. Looking out over the Pulteney Weir while you indulge in some of the city’s best food is a real treat. It would be the ultimate place for a date night dinner.

Pop into Sally Lunn’s House

A world-famous sweet treat originated in Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House – the Bath Bun. They have a similar taste to brioche, which makes sense when you find out Sally Lunn was a French Huguenot. She brought her baking skills to Bath as a refugee, way back in 1680.

What makes tucking into one of these even more special is knowing the tea room is inside one of the city’s oldest houses. Take a look around the micro-museum down in the cellars too. You get to see the original kitchen, bakery and oven, which dates back nearly 1,000 years.

There’s also the option to grab a bun or two to take away. Perfect if you’ve already filled up on food from Chez Dominique.

Hit the pubs

Where better to round off my Bath 1 day itinerary than at a traditional British pub?

There are plenty to choose from and as with practically everything in the city, many of them have an interesting history. If the weather’s wintry and you want to cosy up by an open fire, I would head to The Star Inn . It’s on the Paragon and a pub has stood in its place since the 16th century.

On sunny days, you can’t beat the beer gardens at the Marlborough Tavern and The Bath Brewhouse . The brewery tour at the latter is great too.

Which of my suggested activities will you be doing on your day trip to Bath? Share your thoughts or let me know if I’ve missed your favourite spots in the comments!

Like this blog post? Then make sure you Pin it!

About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

2 thoughts on “The Perfect Day Trip to Bath, England”

Yes exactly! This is the perfect trip to from London in my opinion. I loved the Marlborough Tavern and The Bath Brewhouse… some great beers there!

Yay! I’m so glad you agree with me Joe! There are some cracking pubs in Bath – sounds like you found a couple of these yourself!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

One Day in a City

24 Hour Travel Itineraries to Make the Most of a Day in a Destination

One Day in Bath, England Itinerary

June 3, 2021 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in Bath in 24 Hours

Bath, England is one of the best cities to visit in the whole of the United Kingdom and is a great day trip from London, or as its own overnight 24-hour getaway.

With Bath’s majestic buildings harking back from the Georgian era, a 16th century Abbey, and ancient Roman bathhouses, it’s hard to imagine a place more historic, making Bath a wonderful place to spend a day.

History is everywhere in Bath, but the city offers a lot of modern leisure activities as well, which you can easily do even if you have just one day in Bath to spend. These modern activities range from Bath’s restaurants and bars to the relaxing Thermae Bath Spa, which is Britain’s only natural thermal spa.

Although I would highly recommend spending a weekend in Bath so you can see all of the sights without feeling rushed, you can still easily see Bath’s main attractions in just one day. To assist you in doing just that, read on for a detailed 24-hour Bath itinerary to help you pack in as much as possible into your day trip to Bath (plus some hotel options if you decide to spend the night in Bath, too).

How to Get to Bath

First off, where exactly is Bath, England?

Bath is easy to reach from a few cities in England and Wales, helping to make it an ideal day trip. Bath is less than two and a half hours’ drive from London, two hours from Birmingham, two hours from Exeter, one hour 15 minutes from Cardiff, and only 40 minutes from Bristol. If you are visiting from any cities that are a bit further away, it’s worth spending the night in Bath. 

Parking is expensive if you are driving into Bath, although there are lots of options. Bath also has a clean air zone, so you need to pay to drive through the city center in some cars. To avoid this and for cheaper parking, I’d recommend using the Park and Ride service.

Bath is connected to Bristol and London by direct rail, and if you are doing a day trip from other cities, you can change in Bristol or other nearby towns. You can also take a National Express bus from London. 

One Day in Bath Itinerary

Now for the 24-hour Bath itinerary you’ve been waiting for! Here are all the top things to do in Bath if short on time, plus tips on where to eat and where to sleep if staying overnight in Bath.

Breakfast at Boston Tea Party

Once you’ve arrived in Bath, we bet that you’ll be hungry! Boston Tea Party is a popular cafe in the West Country. Founded in Bristol, it provides delicious breakfasts and lunches as well as flavorful coffee. 

There are plenty of veggie, vegan, and gluten-free options – so whatever your tastes and requirements, Boston Tea Party is an excellent place to fuel up. And you’ll need a lot of energy – this Bath day trip itinerary is action-packed! 

Roman Baths

Start your day off by visiting the Roman Baths. This is the most famous attraction in Bath, and you can’t miss it!

The Roman Baths date back nearly 2,000 years; they were built around 70 AD, around 30 years after the Romans first came to England. The Romans discovered Bath’s natural hot springs and decided to make the most of them by building a vast spa town. 

Some of the baths are still intact today, and you can see these and other Roman relics at the museum. I’d definitely recommend following the audio guide, as it will tell you all sorts of interesting Roman anecdotes.

The Roman Baths are right by Bath Abbey, and it’s well worth visiting after you leave the Roman Baths — even if you aren’t religious.

The Abbey has a fascinating history: there used to be a Saxon Abbey on its site, then a Norman Monastery, but it fell into disrepair in Medieval times. In 1499, a bishop called Oliver King had a dream about angels descending an olive tree to reach earth. He interpreted this dream to mean that he should rebuild the Abbey.

He started doing so but had to stop when King Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries and changed the country’s religion from Catholic to Protestant. This was so that Henry could divorce his first wife, Katherine of Aragon, and marry his second, Anne Boleyn — who he later beheaded!

It was eventually rebuilt during the time of Queen Elizabeth I (1558-1603). As a memento to Bishop Oliver king, there are engravings of olive trees, angels, and ladders outside. 

Inside, there are beautiful stained glass windows and lots of interesting statues. If you are there at the right time, you could do a Tower Tour, which will take you to the top of the Abbey’s main tower. From here you can enjoy a beautiful view over Bath. 

Pulteney Bridge and the Weir

Pulteney Bridge is just behind Bath Abbey and is worth checking out while you’re here. This is one of the only bridges in the world that is completely covered with shops.

It was built in the Palladian style by William Johnstone Pulteney in 1769. He wanted to make a new town on the other side of the river to rival Bath — this grand plan didn’t end up coming to anything, but he did at least build the bridge!

Pulteney Bridge is also located just upriver from the Pulteney Weir, a uniquely v-shaped barrier built in the river in the 1970s to help prevent flooding.

Bath Coffee Break at Colonna & Small’s

If you want to have a coffee break now, I highly recommend Colonna & Small’s, which is less than a 10-minute walk west of Pulteney Bridge. This coffee shop serves delicious brews made from high-quality beans in a contemporary setting.

Walk Around Bath’s City Center

One of the best things to do in Bath is to just walk around and admire the architecture, and I recommend doing this even if you’re short on time. You can see the best of the historic and beautiful buildings of Bath simply by walking around the city.

Colonna & Smalls is right by Queen Square, so head to Queen Square first if coming from the coffee shop. The square is framed by Georgian buildings and was built in the early 18th century. 

From Queen Square, walk up Gay Street, and you’ll eventually end up in a circle of terraced houses. This road is called The Circus, and it is a perfect circle. These townhouses were designed by local architect John Wood the Elder in Palladian style in 1754. 

John Wood the Elder was very interested in Druidic history around Bath and designed the Circus to reflect their ancient stone circles, particularly Stonehenge in Wiltshire.

The architect sadly died three months after construction started, but his son oversaw the Circus and also designed the Crescent — which is next on the itinerary!

The Crescent is an iconic Bath scene. Located in the historic Victoria Park (named after Queen Victoria), this unspoiled crescent of houses has been featured in many period dramas and films; most recently, it was a filming spot for the popular Netflix show Bridgerton . 

Tour Another Bath Museum

There are a few other Bath museums that you can see while visiting here – you’ve probably only got time to see one properly if you’re just in Bath for 24 hours or less, but here are a few recommendations. 

No 1 Royal Crescent

If you are a Bridgerton fan, this is a must-see – it was the home of the Featherington family. It’s been a museum for years, though — long before Bridgerton was released — so it is also well worth visiting even if you haven’t seen the show. 

No 1 Royal Crescent is a house that has been remodeled to resemble what it would have been like in the 1800s. It’s a great place to learn about this period of history and is fascinating for adults and children alike. 

Jane Austen Museum

The Jane Austen Museum is an excellent place for book fans to visit. Jane Austen lived in Bath for a time, and some of her books were set here. In the museum, you’ll be able to learn all about Austen’s life and how she became such a popular novelist. 

Fashion Museum of Bath

Bath’s Fashion Museum is a must-visit for anyone who’s interested in clothes and the history of fashion trends. It has several exhibitions that explore the relationship between popular culture and fashion and how clothing trends have changed throughout the centuries. 

Afternoon Tea at the Pump Room 

I bet you’re hungry after so much sightseeing! Bath’s pump house is the ideal place to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. The Pump House is connected to the Roman Baths and is a historic restaurant, dating back to the 18th century.

You can enjoy delicious sandwiches, traditional cakes and, of course, plenty of cups of tea! There are options for vegetarians, although nothing vegan. There is usually classical piano music playing – pair that with the majestic architecture, and you’ll feel like you’re in another century! 

While you’re at the Pump Room, ask to try a glass of hot spa water, which contains 43 minerals and is rumored to have healed many ailments over the years. 

Bath Thermae Spa

The only way to properly end a day in Bath is with a soak in the Bath Thermae Spa. Although this is the modern answer to the Roman Baths, it uses the same natural thermal spring that the ancient society discovered 2,000 years ago. 

Bath Thermae Spa is huge. The best parts are the Minerva Pool downstairs, the four steam rooms all with their own scent, and the heated rooftop pool. Make sure that you leave enough time to enjoy the rooftop pool; you’ll have an epic view of the city and be gloriously toasty and relaxed in the hot waters. 

In addition to soaking in the waters, you can book massage and other spa treatment appointments, too. Be sure to make reservations in advance for treatments and for using the pools since this is a popular place.

Eating and Drinking in Bath

If you’re not too full from your afternoon tea, there are some great restaurants in Bath. If you fancy Italian food, head to Sotto Sotto, an independently owned place serving amazing pizzas. Or visit Oak Restaurant for delicious vegetarian fare; try their five-course taster menu! Alternatively, Yak Yeti Yak is a popular Nepalese restaurant that has a delicious menu.

If you aren’t driving home and want a few drinks, the Canary Gin Bar is the place to go for all things gin. Or, visit the Bath Brew House, which has an on-site microbrewery and serves up delicious local ales. 

Leaving Bath After a Day Trip

The last train from Bath to London leaves at around 10pm, and it’s around 11pm for the last train to Bristol, although these times are subject to change so check on National Rail to find out exact times and confirm that there are no delays or cancellations. 

Coach times vary depending on your provider.

If you are driving, I would recommend waiting until after 7 p.m. to leave to avoid rush hour. 

Staying Overnight in Bath

Planning to spend the night in Bath? Here are some top-rated hotels to stay at for a variety of budgets:

Gainsborough Bath Spa: A Luxury Hotel That Embraces Bath’s Spa Culture

If you want to splurge and really embrace the spa atmosphere of Bath, then a stay at the swanky Gainsborough Bath Spa is a must. It’s a 5-star hotel that has an onsite spa and mineral pool. The pool is definitely what helps to make this place special since it is the only hotel in the United Kingdom that has a naturally thermal heated pool on its premises. It’s also located just 350 feet from the Roman Baths, making this a convenient place to stay for sightseeing in Bath, too. And, as you might expect from a 5-star hotel, the rooms are also gorgeously appointed.

—> Click here for pictures and prices for Gainsborough Bath Spa – YTL Classic Hotel

The Bird, Bath: a Boutique Hotel with Colorful Touches

The Bird, Bath has decor as fun as its name. This is more of a mid-range boutique hotel, with glam, eccentric decor that makes your stay feel unique and like its a destination unto itself. But the city of Bath is of course still a big focus and this hotel is just a few minutes walk from the city center. There is also a parking area, a lovely terrace, a gourmet restaurant, and even cool “Dining Domes” you can reserve for an unforgettable eating experience.

—> Click here for pictures and prices for the Bird, Bath boutique hotel.

Z Hotel Bath: A Budget-Friendly Hotel Right in the City Center

Z Hotel is located right in the city center. It has clean, simple rooms with contemporary decor at a great price. From the hotel, it’s roughly a five minute walk to Pulteney Bridge, Jane Austen Centre, and Queen Square. Plus, you’re right by many bars and restaurants for some evening entertainment and nightlife. There is no parking onsite at this hotel so those driving to Bath will need to find a nearby parking lot.

—> Click here for prices and photos of Z Hotel Bath.

Bath is a must-visit city in the UK, and the good news is that you can see most of it in just 24 hours! Hopefully this article has shown you how to explore Bath if you only have a day, but also enticed you to visit and see some more of it another time!

About the Author: Claire is a South West England travel expert. She currently lives in Devon, but has spent time living in Bristol and Bath. She blogs about the region on her blog Go South West England , where she aims to help both international travelers and locals wanting to explore their own backyard. You can follow her on Facebook or Instagram .

Found this article helpful? Pin to read again later!

I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

Search for a Destination…

Places to visit in Bath (+ things to do, map & travel tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: April 19, 2024

Are you going on a trip to the beautiful English city of Bath? With so many things to see in Bath it is easy to get overwhelmed by the possibilities. If you want to know the best places to visit in Bath we have you covered! Below you will find our guide to help plan your ultimate trip.

Bath, one of Britain’s oldest cities, has been a center for wellness and pleasure since the days of the Roman Empire. Its naturally warm and mineral-rich waters attracted those who sought its curative powers and potential for rejuvenation.

Consequently, Bath became a destination for the wealthy elite who could afford such indulgences. The architecture and culture reflect this prosperous past and today visitors to the UK would be amiss to leave Bath off of their travel itinerary.

Fans of Georgian architecture will be in awe. The town’s honey-coloured townhouses and buildings are next to none. You’ll feel as if you’ve slipped into a Jane Austen novel as you stroll throughout Bath, admiring upwards of 5,000 historic buildings.

Many, like the Royal Crescent and the Circus , were considered revolutionary architectural achievements of their time. For those who enjoy a little shopping, Bath’s charming streets are lined with delightful boutiques and independently owned shops.

Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion or for souvenirs, you’ll be able to find just the thing in Bath. You’ll also be able to choose from a wide variety of restaurants and cafés, many of which feature locally grown produce and artisan ingredients. If you have any time left, there are many noteworthy museums and galleries to explore as well.

There are so many things to see in Bath, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the possibilities. To help you plan your trip, here is a list of the best things to do in Bath , along with a few honourable mentions and hidden gems.

We recommend taking the hop-on hop-off bus in Bath to see all the sights or taking a walking tour with a guide who can tell you all about the history of this beautiful city.

Roman Baths

Royal crescent (and no.1 royal crescent), assembly rooms and fashion museum.

• Sally Lunn's

Thermae Bath Spa

Pulteney bridge, parade gardens, jane austen centre, milsom street, american museum, victoria art gallery, bath tourist attractions map, when is the best time of year to visit bath, how can i travel to bath from london, where are the best places to stay in bath, what tours can i take in bath to discover the city, how can i get around bath.

• BATH TRAVEL RESOURCES

Top places to visit in Bath

If you’re making a list of the top Bath tourist attractions, the Roman Baths would unquestionably be number one. Startlingly well preserved, they were constructed in 70 A.D. as a bathing and socializing complex that utilized the area’s natural thermal springs.

Amongst the ruins, you can see the heated changing rooms, plunge pools and the complicated system of pipes that brought the hot mineral-rich waters up through the ground.

There is also an interactive museum with many exhibits that bring the history around you to life. You can even sample the mineral water while you are there, just like the Romans and Celts did so long ago.

Also, be sure to take a moment and admire the lovely view of the Abbey which is just across the way.

If you’re looking for things to do in Bath at night, check to see if they are offering their tours by torchlight. Creep around the 2000-year-old pavements after dark using only the light of torches as your guide. It’s a way to experience the Roman Baths unlike any other.

For a daytime visit, however, check online for opening times and prices. A word of advice — try to go early in order to avoid the crowds.

Right across from the Roman Baths is the Bath Abbey. One of the top Bath attractions, it is the parish church of the Church of England and stands proudly on the town’s highest hill.

It was founded in the 7th century and has a long and colourful history, having been built and rebuilt several times and finally restored in 1860. Its gorgeous multi-story stained glass windows and high ceilings are truly breathtaking.

To best understand the history of the church, take a guided tour — preferably one that includes a trip up to the tower. It’s only 212 steps to the top and on the way, you’ll pass the bell ringing chamber and be behind the clock face.

When you arrive at the top, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the town and the Somerset countryside beyond.

Tours usually take less than an hour. Entrance to the Bath Abbey is free but a donation of £5 per person is highly encouraged.

Ever wanted to see how the other half lived in 18th century Britain? Then the Royal Crescent should absolutely occupy the number one spot on your “Bath places to visit” list.

The Royal Crescent is made up of 30 identical Georgian townhouses designed specifically for the aristocracy. It is one of the most impressive achievements in 18th-century architecture.

Their fronts are amazingly symmetrical as they gently curve around a vast and neatly manicured lawn. The backs of the structures are more varied, with differing details and roof heights.

Venture into No.1 Royal Crescent, the first townhouse built that today serves as a museum. It has been authentically decorated top to bottom just as it would have been back in the 1700s.

In addition to the luxury accommodations of the residents, visitors will have a chance to see the scullery and servants’ quarters that are below the stairs. The juxtaposition of both the upstairs and downstairs lives is something to behold and provides for a better understanding of what life was truly like for the people that called these places home.

For the fashion-minded looking for activities to do in Bath, a visit to the Assembly Rooms and the Fashion Museum is a must.

First, explore the Assembly Rooms with their lovely chandeliers, stone carving and mirrors.

Then, enter the museum and you’ll find an extensive collection of mostly British-oriented historic and contemporary clothing, from the pastel, flowing gowns of the Georgian era to radical new works from today’s most sought after designers. See 160 examples of period fashion from the last 400 years, including gloves, shoes, scarves, jewellery and all of the fashionable accoutrements.

Feel like dressing up yourself? Kids and adults will enjoy trying on a variety of corsets, dresses, hats and bonnets. Once thoroughly outfitted, you can even have your picture taken in front of a backdrop of the Royal Crescent.

Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the museum.

Sally Lunn’s

A visit to the world-famous Sally Lunn’s Eating House is one of the mandatory things to do in Bath. It’s located in the town’s centre in one of Bath’s oldest homes, built in 1482. Sally Lunn, a Huguenot refugee, lived there in 1680.

The one skill she brought with her from France was the gift of bread baking. It wasn’t long before her bread caused a sensation and became what is known today as the Bath bun, a lighter-than-air brioche-style bread.

It is a large, sharable loaf that is ideal for either savoury or sweet accompaniments. The menu at Sally Lunn’s centres around the Bath bun but they also have a variety of historical and contemporary offerings.

Sally Lunn’s original kitchen dates back to 1622, and visitors should make time to visit the tiny kitchen museum on the premises to learn about the restaurant’s fascinating history.

Sally Lunn’s is open for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. If you dine there, admission to the museum is free.

Right next to the Roman Baths, you’ll find the Pump Rooms , one of the most opulent establishments in Bath. Since the 17th century, drinking the waters directly from the spring has been considered medically advantageous.

An elaborate building was erected on the spot so that the Georgian elite could partake in comfort. Over the years, other buildings were added to accommodate the ever-increasing popularity.

Today, visitors to the complex will walk under glittering chandeliers to sample elegantly presented daytime refreshments.

The Pump Room Restaurant is renowned for its sumptuous afternoon tea, which will tempt guests with teas, coffee or even champagne and a spread of delicate finger sandwiches, little cakes and dainty pastry like none other.

Don’t forget to sample the locally famous Bath bun! It’s all presented by Searcy’s, renowned British caterers.

How about taking a dip into history? As Britain’s only natural thermal spa, the Thermae Bath Spa combines five historic buildings with the contemporary New Royal Bath. Get ready for luxury. Slip into a robe and slippers and choose from a variety of spa treatments.

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Bath, why not schedule a couple’s spa session? It doesn’t get much more relaxing and intimate than that. If you’d rather, you can just bask by their rooftop pool and soak in the amazing 360-degree views of the city.

If you get a little peckish after all of that indulgence, stop in at the Springs Café Restaurant which serves light snacks and a variety of cold and hot drinks.

The Thermae Bath Spa is open throughout the week. It is best to pre-book any spa treatments, so go online and secure any reservations before your arrival.

If you’re looking to do a little Bath sightseeing, be sure not to miss the Pulteney Bridge, one of the most famous landmarks in Bath. It was designed in 1769 by Robert Adam as a way to span the River Avon and give the residents of Bath a connection to the other side.

Pulteney Bridge was named after Frances Pulteney, the wife of a prominent citizen and landowner William Johnstone Pulteney. The amazing thing about this bridge is that it is one of the few in the world that has built-in shops lining both sides.

Because of the bridge’s unique attributes as well as its pediments, pilasters and domes, it is one of the most photographed spots in Bath. To get the best photo of the bridge, make sure to visit the Parade Gardens, which has the best view.

If you’re ready for some nature time in the midst of your Bath vacation, visit the Parade Gardens, a pleasant two-and-a-half-acre park right in the heart of Bath. It was created in 1933 on the site of the 18th-century pleasure gardens.

The Parade Gardens overlook the River Avon and also offer lovely views of the Pulteney Bridge. The location is so picturesque, it’s no wonder that many local couples have chosen its grounds to be the setting for their wedding.

For those gardeners or garden appreciators, make sure to see the bedding displays that include both traditional and sculptural bedding. Take a walk along the river and then stop at the charming café for a well-deserved treat.

The Parade Gardens are open from the week before Easter until the end of September. Before you go, it is best to check online as the hours may change depending on the weather.

Keep in mind, there is a small fee to enter the Parade Gardens.

Attention architecture fans! A short walk from Bath’s city centre, next to the Royal Crescent, is the Circus — a perfectly arranged ring of historic Georgian townhouses.

In 1754, these Palladian-style houses were designed by John Wood the Elder as part of his grand plan to make Bath a centre of classical architecture. Sadly, because of his untimely death, the Circus had to be finished by his son, John Wood the Younger.

One famous former resident of the Circus was portrait and landscape painter, Thomas Gainsborough, who lived there for 16 years as a tenant in 1759.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Bath, visiting the Circus should be very high on your list.

For the best view, take a walk to the small park in its centre and take it all in. There will be towering, leafy trees overhead while you contemplate the marvellous historic past of Bath.

No trip to Bath would be complete without paying homage to one of the city’s most famous former residents, Jane Austen. The Jane Austen Centre is a museum set in a Georgian townhouse that celebrates her time living in Bath as well as the influence the city had upon her works.

This family-friendly museum seeks to create an immersive and interactive experience for visitors to really experience what Jane Austen’s world must have been like.

You can dress up like a Regency lady or gentleman with top hats and bonnets.

Visitors will learn about the complicated rules of polite society while getting a better understanding of the culture.

After you’ve had your fill exploring the museum, stop in at the Regency Tea Rooms upstairs for a delightful spot of tea.

Click here to buy tickets for the Jane Austen Centre

If shopping is on your agenda, one of the best places to visit in Bath is historic Milsom Street. Built in 1762 by Thomas Lightholder, the buildings were originally three-level townhouses, most of which have mansard roofs and Corinthian columns.

Today, they are occupied by an assortment of eclectic shops, on-trend restaurants, offices and banks.

If you’re looking for the latest fashion or just something unusual to take home as a souvenir, Milsom Street is a great place to start.

What is an American Museum doing in Bath? In the late 1950s, the founders, Dr Dallas Pratt and John Judkyn wanted to promote Anglo-American understanding and celebrate American decorative arts.

In 1961, the only American museum outside of the United States was opened. Their collection of paintings, furniture, textiles and household luxuries is well worth visiting.

In 1900 the Victoria Art Gallery was opened in Bath in honour of Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee.

Though the ground floor was originally used as a public library, today the entire facility is dedicated to its role as a public art museum. It boasts a collection of over 1,500 artistic treasures, including sculpture, paintings and decorative arts.

Of particular interest is an exhibition that features British oil paintings from the 17th century to the modern-day.

Do you want a ready-made itinerary for your visit to Bath? Click here for the perfect one day Bath itinerary.

Travel tips and your questions answered about visiting Bath

You can find more travel tips and common questions asked by visitors to Bath in my Bath Travel Guide.

Of course, you can visit Bath any time of year and have a delightful stay but if you travel at the beginning of May, you’ll be treated to bright green lawns, blooming fruit trees and hedgerows just beginning to blossom.

There will also be longer daylight hours, which makes it possible to pack in even more activities. Schools in the UK let out in late July so travelling before that may help to avoid the crowds. In order to fully appreciate Bath, plan to stay at least two nights or even for a long weekend.

Read more about in my guide to visiting the UK across the seasons.

There are numerous possibilities if you wish to travel from the capital to Bath on public transport including by train or coach.

There are also numerous tours available from London to Bath which usually incorporate other areas of interest in the region such as the Cotswolds, Stonehenge or Oxford.

Read more in my complete guide to travelling to Bath from London

There are numerous accommodation options in Bath to suit all travel tastes, styles and budgets including:

• Best – The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa
• Mid-range – Dukes
• Budget – Brooks Guesthouse

Find more options in my guide to the best places to stay in Bath

If you prefer a walking tour with a guide (I always find I learn so much more) rather than explore the city independently there are a number of recommended walking tours you could join.

• Private Walking Tour with a Blue Badge Tourist Guide – 1.5-hour private tour for your group (up to 6 people)
• Unconventional History of Bath Walking Tour – A fun, interactive, and unconventional 2-hour walking tour through the city’s storied history.
• Ghost Walking Tour – Explore the dark side of Bath on this private walking tour. Hear the ghost stories that haunt this unique city.

> Click here for more private and group tours available in Bath

Bath is a hilly city so I recommend comfortable walking shoes. Take an umbrella – rain showers are common at any time of year in the UK.

Bath is a walkable city but there is a hop-on and hop-off bus available if you prefer.

Click here for more information about the hop-on-hop-off bus service in Bath.

Final thoughts

Read more about visiting Bath in my Bath Travel Guide which contains links to all my articles about the city plus more tips and tricks to make the most of your visit.

If you are looking for other places to explore in this region of England my guide to visiting the South West is a great place to start. You can also find information about exploring the nearby Cotswolds in my Cotswold Travel Guide !

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

B ATH TRAVEL RESOURCES

Book your accommodation - Booking.com or VRBO

Book tours & tickets in Bath - Get Your Guide or Viator

Car Hire - Discover Car Hire

Hi, I'm Candace

Candace Abroad

A London & Travel Blog

London Day Itineraries , Travel , UK Travel · June 10, 2024

2 Days in Bath: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary (2024)

Looking to spend 2 days in Bath? Here’s the perfect 2 day itinerary for your trip — from someone who’s done it!

This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my  Disclosure & Privacy Policy  for more information.

There are some places in the world that simply don’t look like they could exist anywhere else but a fairytale — unless you’re visiting Bath of course.

Nestled amid picturesque valleys and gently rolling hills, Bath England is a UNESCO World Heritage city and jewel of history and culture, just a short train ride from London.

From the the honey-gold hues of Cotswold limestone to noble Georgian architecture, old-meets-new city streets, and an aura of timelessness, there’s very little reason not to visit Bath — and 2 days to see the sights will give you the perfect taste of the city.

With that said here’s absolutely everything you need to spend a marvelous 2 days in Bath — from someone who’s done it!

48 Hours in Bath Itinerary

🏛️ Bath, England Quick Tips

🚉 How to Get to Bath, England:

The best way to get to Bath, England is by train .

If you’re coming from London, you can take the train from Paddington Station which will drop you off at Bath Spa station in the city centre in just 1 ½ hours. Otherwise, you can find the best connection from your destination via Trainline .

If you’re driving here, Bath is only a 20-minute drive from junction 18 of the M4 motorway.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Bath:

The best time to visit Bath in my opinion is early autumn or spring.

Not only are the crowds lessened but the weather will be lovely and the streets lined with picturesque views of autumn leaves or spring flowers.

⏳ How Long to Spend in Bath, England? (is 2 days in Bath enough?):

Yes! 2 days is enough time to see Bath.

The majority of Bath’s attractions are within walking distance which makes 2-3 days days enough time to see all the main sights and a hidden gem or two along the way.

If you have more time you can also combine your trip to Bath with places like Bristol, Castle Combe , or Lacock nearby.

🧖🏽‍♀️ Top Attractions in Bath:

The Roman Baths and the Thermae Spa are the top attractions in Bath — dating back over 2,000 years!

🏨 Where to Stay in Bath:

I highly recommend staying in the Hotel Indigo Bath during your trip.

A beautiful hotel housed in an 18th-century Georgian building that’ll make you feel like you’re in your own Jane Austen novel.

Plus it’s incredibly Central (a 5-min walk to the Roman Baths), with amazing breakfast and an onsite restaurant.

2 Days in Bath Itinerary

Today is all about seeing the tourist sites in Bath and ending with an evening of relaxation. Shall we?

Visit Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey , or The Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city of Bath, England. It’s known for its awe-inspiring Gothic architecture, rich history, and stunning views from the tower.

The inside of the Abbey is just as impressive as the exterior with its stunning fan vaulting, stained glass windows, temporary exhibitions, and an incredible number of wall monuments.

If you want to see more you can also take the 45-minute Tower Tour .

This guided tour takes you up 212 steps to the top of the tower, offering panoramic views over Bath. You will also get a chance to see the church bells and clock face up close.

Once you’re done, pay a quick visit to The Abbey Churchyard on the outside, filled with benches, cafes, and lively street performers.

Practical Tips for Your Visit to Bath Abbey:

• Plan Your Visit: Bath Abbey is usually open to visitors from Monday to Saturday 10am – 5pm and at different times throughout Sunday. Exact timings can change, so it’s best to check their official website before your visit.
• Tickets to Bath Abbey: Entrance to the Abbey is £6.50 for adults and £3.50 for children. Tickets can be purchased directly at the Welcome desk. The Tower Tour costs £15 for adults and £7.60 for children (tickets can also be purchased directly at the Welcome desk), and it’s well worth it for the views and history.
• Dress Appropriately: Since Bath Abbey is a place of worship, it’s advisable to dress respectfully. Keep in mind that tours of the tower involve climbing steep and narrow steps, so wear comfortable footwear.
• Accessibility: The main floor of the Abbey is wheelchair accessible, but the tower tour is not due to the nature of the medieval tower.

Roman Baths

The city of Bath in England is a UNESCO World Heritage Site mainly in part for its ancient Roman Baths. The Roman Baths are one of the most well-preserved Roman remains in the world and a key highlight of the cultural and historical experience Bath has to offer.

What to See at The Roman Baths :

• The Great Bath: The centerpiece of this attraction is the Great Bath, filled with steaming, mineral-rich water from Bath’s hot springs (you’ll also get a chance at the end to taste it for yourself!).
• The Roman Temple: Near the Great Bath is the Roman Temple, dedicated to the Roman goddess Sulis Minerva. Here, you’ll also see altars, stone carvings, and sculptures.
• The Sacred Spring: This is where the thermal water rises, and it was considered a sacred place by the Romans.
• The Museum: A fascinating collection of artifacts found at the site is housed in the museum. These include the Beau Street Hoard, a series of Roman coins discovered nearby, and the gilt bronze head of the goddess Sulis Minerva.
• The Terrace: Overlooking the Great Bath, the Terrace offers stunning views and is lined with statues of Roman Emperors and governors of Britain.

Practical Tips for Your Visit to The Roman Baths:

• Tickets to The Roman Baths: Tickets to The Roman Baths include an audio guide and public guided tours. Prices vary depending on the season, but you can book in advance to guarantee entry.
• Accessibility: The majority of The Roman Baths are accessible for wheelchair users, with lifts providing access to different levels.
• Audio Guide: The site provides an extensive and informative audio guide in multiple languages, which is included with admission. There’s also a special audio guide for children.

The Circus & The Royal Crescent

Spending two days in Bath means you’ll be privy to seeing two of Bath’s finest architectural masterpieces from the Georgian period — the Royal Crescent and The Circus (followed by a leisurely walk in Royal Victoria Park).

Just a stone’s throw from Bath’s city centre you’ll find this spectacular piece of Georgian architecture born from the vision of John Wood the Elder, the father of the Royal Crescent’s architect.

Wood the Elder was inspired by the Roman Colosseum, but instead of a theatre for games and gladiator battles, he built a residential ‘ring’.

The result is a perfect circle divided into three magnificent curving segments, creating an unforgettable perspective (and picture for the Gram of course).

The Royal Crescent

After The Circus, a short walk west brings you to your next destination, the Royal Crescent.

This extraordinary architectural achievement, designed by John Wood the Younger, is a sweeping semicircle of 30 luxurious townhouses, set against a beautiful green field.

As you walk towards the Royal Crescent, its impressive façade of honey-coloured Bath stone will leave you swooned, with the Ionic columns and intricate stonework, giving you a peek into the grandeur of the 18th century.

Royal Victoria Park

Finally, after satisfying your interest in Bath’s Georgian architecture, it’s time to head towards the serene expanse of Royal Victoria Park. The park, named in honour of Queen Victoria, who officially opened it as an 11-year old princess in 1830, is a 57-acre haven of tranquillity.

Of course, for just 48 hours in Bath, you won’t have time to explore it all, but given its close location to the Royal Crescent and The Circus it’s worth the quick wander.

Afternoon Tea at The Pump Room

Once you’ve done a bit of exploring it’s time to indulge in a unique and luxurious afternoon tea The Pump Room .

The restaurant itself is housed in a neoclassical salon, providing an authentic and quintessentially English high tea experience featuring glamourous interiors of high ceilings, grand columns, and magnificent crystal chandeliers.

Here’s you’ll find a range of afternoon tea options, including Classic Afternoon Tea, Champagne Afternoon Tea, and Celebration Champagne Tea. For all, you can expect tiers of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of pastries.

And my favourite part? The live daily music from the Pump Room Trio or Pianist, providing an elegant, soothing background to your Bath Afternoon Tea.

Practical Tips for Your Visit to The Pump Room:

• Reservations: The Pump Room gets super busy so definitely book your tickets in advance .
• Dietary Restrictions: Make sure to notify the restaurant beforehand if you or anyone in your party has dietary restrictions. The Pump Room can cater to gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and vegan diets with prior notice.
• Dress Code: While The Pump Room doesn’t have a strict dress code, most visitors tend to dress smart casual.

Thermae Spa

Visiting the Thermae Bath Spa is also a must-do when in Bath, England.

Not only is it the perfect place to unwind after your day 1 in Bath, but it’s a great way to experience the thermal water of Bath up-close (unlike simply visiting the Roman Baths).

Read More : Thermae Bath Spa Review: Everything You Need to Know to Visit

The Thermae Spa welcomes visitors until 9pm, but as one of the most popular attractions in the city, it’s advisable to book ahead , especially for treatments or packages.

While here make sure you visit the Wellness Suite and The Rooftop Pool.

P.S. – Children under 16 aren’t allowed in the spa, and all visitors should bring swimwear.

Today is about discovering more of the quirky sides of Bath and a hidden gem or two!

Jane Austen Centre

The Jane Austen Centre is a small museum in Bath, England, dedicated to the life and works of the famous author, who lived in the city from 1801 to 1806.

Providing insight into Jane Austen’s time in Bath, the centre is a must-visit for literature enthusiasts and fans of Austen’s novels (Pride & Prejudice anyone?).

My favourite part of the Jane Austen Centre was just how interactive it was, with a daily live presentation with an actor from one of her novels, an exhibition that delves into Jane Austen’s life in Bath, her family, her writing, and the influence the city had on her work; and Regency-era customs, fashion, traditions and more to take part of.

Practical Tips for Your Visit to The Jane Austen Centre:

• Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the Centre’s entrance for an added fee, so book in advance !
• Accessibility: Due to the building type a lift is not available in the centre, you can read more about accessibility at the centre here .
• Duration: To fully enjoy the Centre, plan for 1-1.5 hours.
• Gift Shop: Visit the gift shop after your tour to find a variety of Jane Austen memorabilia, special edition books, and souvenirs.
• Regency Tea Room: If you have extra time you can complete your visit with a stop at the Regency Tea Room inside the centre, where you can enjoy a light meal or a traditional Afternoon Tea amidst the Regency-inspired décor (must be booked separately).

Guildhall Market & Parade Gardens

All your Jane Austen explorations are bound to leave you hungry, time to go to Guildhall Market !

The historic market located in the city centre of Bath was established in 1778 and is a perfect pit stop for your 2-day itinerary in Bath.

Have a walk around the over 20 stalls for a unique Bath souvenir and diverse range of quick English bites (just make sure to bring cash, trust me they’ll appreciate it!).

After exploring Guildhall Market, make your way to the nearby Parade Gardens , where for just £2 you can enjoy the tranquil riverside retreat, perfect for relaxing and taking in beautiful views of the River Avon and the historic Georgian architecture.

Toppings Booksellers

Not only is Bath a city of magnificent architecture and Roman history, but a haven for bibliophiles too.

A stone’s throw away from the iconic Bath Abbey, Toppings & Company Booksellers is housed in a beautifully restored Georgian building and offers an immersive literary experience.

With more than 50,000 titles gracing its shelves, you can find everything from fantasy novels to cookery books, not to mention cosy reading spaces, and tea & coffee.

If you have time for a second stop I suggest going to Mr B’s Emporium , an award-winning independent bookstore with a diverse book selection, Reading Spa and Bibliotherapy Room, and great gifts.

Lunch at Sally Lunn’s

All this exploring is bound to leave you hungry, so it may be time for Sally Lunn’s Buns .

Attracting both locals and visitors with its rich history and famous buns, Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum is a charming old-school restaurant, housed in the oldest house in Bath.

Their famous Sally Lunn buns are a delicious cross between a roll and cake — which you can have savoury or sweet (or like me — try both!).

After your meal, visit the museum located in the cellar of the house as part of your visit, or take home some for the road.

Stroll on Pulteney Bridge and Have a Photo Op on North Parade Bridge

To end the day I suggest a stroll along the picturesque riverbanks, historical architecture, and enchanting gardens, of Pulteney Bridge and the River Avon.

Pulteney Bridge, one of the most photographed examples of Georgian architecture in Bath, is a wonderful place to start your walk — where you can emulate the Romans!

It also houses several small shops making it one of the few bridges in the world to do so.

Once you’ve embraced the views it’s time to have one more look and photo op across the stunning North Parade Bridge to end your wonderful two days in Bath.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Bath, England

Where to Stay in Bath, England for a 2 Day Trip:

One of the highlights of my two days in Bath was my stay at the Hotel Indigo – Bath .

Part of the IHG Hotel group, the cosy stay perfectly exemplifies the essence of Bath, balancing both historic charm and modern luxury.

Not to mention its city centre location, making it a great base for a two-day itinerary in Bath.

Each of the hotel’s rooms tells a story of famous Bath residents from bygone eras, gaining inspiration from notable figures such as Jane Austen and Sir Walter Scott.

Amenity-wise, you’ll find a fitness centre and onsite restaurant The Elder with breakfast to die for (which can be included in your stay).

Where to Eat in Bath:

🍴 The Olive Tree : Located in the basement of The Queensberry Hotel, The Olive Tree is Bath’s only Michelin-star restaurant; an accolade that speaks for itself.

🍴 The Scallop Shell : This award-winning fish and chips venue serves up locally sourced seafood in a relaxed and friendly environment. From classic cod and haddock to succulent scallops and monkfish.

🍴 Same Same But Different : A quirky and cosy café, Same Same But Different excels at breakfast and brunch, with a hearty full English breakfast to vibrant vegetarian dishes.

🍴 The Dower House at the Royal Crescent : Located within one of Bath’s most iconic landmarks, The Dower House offers fine dining within a historic setting. The menu embodies British contemporary cuisine and is complemented by a superb wine list.

🍴 The Circus Restaurant : In a Georgian townhouse near the world-famous Circus, this restaurant serves a plethora of delicious British dishes. The menu changes daily, reflecting seasonality and local produce.

🍴 Sotto Sotto : For Italian cuisine lovers, Sotto Sotto provides a wide range of chic and fragrant dishes. Housed in a rustic, stone-walled underground dining room, it offers an atmosphere as delicious as the food.

🍴 OAK Restaurant : This place offers an exceptional, innovative, and entirely vegetarian menu in Bath.

🍫 The Fudge Kitchen : Located in the heart of Bath, England, and renowned for their handcrafted, delicious fudge in a wide variety of flavours. Watching the fudge being expertly made on-site is a real treat — but don’t forget to indulge in the free samples too!

🍰 Sweet Little Things : A charming tea room and bakery offering an extensive selection of scrumptious cakes, brownies, and afternoon tea experiences in beautiful pastel-coloured interiors.

Places to Visit Near Bath

Another amazing thing about Bath is how stunningly close it is to other beautiful destinations both in the countryside and beyond, here’s a few options to pair with your 2-day trip to Bath:

A vibrant city known for its rich maritime history, Bristol offers a mix of history, culture, and chill time. Highlights include riverside walks, Brunel’s iconic SS Great Britain, Bristol Cathedral, and Clifton Suspension Bridge.

As one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, Stonehenge is certainly worth the trip. This prehistoric monument dates back to around 2500 BC and its purpose still remains a mystery, adding to its allure.

Cheddar Gorge

For nature enthusiasts, the Cheddar Gorge is a must-see. As Britain’s largest gorge, it offers breathtaking cliff-top walks and unique stalactite caverns. Also, don’t miss out on trying the world-famous Cheddar cheese, which originated in the town!

Read More : The BEST Things to do in Cheddar Gorge (Walks, Attractions, Tickets, & More!)

The Cotswolds

This quintessentially English region, with its beautiful villages of honey-coloured stone, captivating museums, and quaint tea shops, offers idyllic countryside charm. Towns to visit include Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, and Stow-on-the-Wold.

Castle Combe

Although it’s also a part of the Cotswolds, Castle Combe deserves its own mention. Frequently dubbed as the ‘prettiest village in England’, Castle Combe is frozen in time, offering the perfect blend of history and charm. The village also served as a location for several notable films, including Steven Spielberg’s “War Horse” and Dr. Doolittle.

Read More : 10 Best Things to Do in Castle Combe, Cotswolds

Known for its magnificent cathedral, the city of Wells – the smallest city in England – offers a picturesque medieval charm. Check out Wells Cathedral, Vicars’ Close, and the gorgeous Bishop’s Palace and Gardens.

Home to the first safari park outside of Africa, Longleat offers a unique experience with exotic animals, Elizabethan architecture, and vast gardens. Don’t miss the chance to explore Longleat House, one of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture in Britain.

Bath, England FAQ

💭 What is so special about Bath, England?

Bath is special mainly due to its breathtaking scenery, Georgian architecture and Roman history earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.

💭 Is Bath, England worth visiting?

Absolutely! Not only is it a jewel of South West, but an excellent pairing with other UK countryside destinations like The Cotswolds .

💭 Is Bath the prettiest city in the UK?

Whether Bath is the ‘prettiest’ city in the UK is subjective. But undoubtedly, with its stunning Georgian architecture and picturesque landscapes, it is one of the most attractive cities in England for sure.

💭 Why was Bath, England so popular?

Bath grew in popularity due to its status as a significant society and spa destination during the 18th century.

💭 Does Bath, England have an airport?

Bath does not have its own airport. The nearest is Bristol Airport.

💭 What does Bath, England look like?

Bath has recognizable Georgian architecture and is known for its breathtaking scenery and cityscapes.

💭 Things to do in Bath, England?

You can visit the Roman Baths, explore the architectural gem that is the Royal Crescent, experience the Thermae Bath Spa, and immerse yourself in the buzzing food scene.

💭 Does it snow in Bath, England?

Snowfall in Bath varies. While it does experience cold winters, snowfall isn’t guaranteed each year.

💭 What is Bath in England?

Bath is a city in the county of Somerset in South West England, known for and named after its Roman-built baths.

💭 What part of England is Bath? – Bath is situated in the South West region of England in the county of Somerset.

💭 Is Bath in London?

No, Bath is a separate city approximately 100 miles west of London.

💭 What to do in Bath, England for a day?

A day trip could include a visit to the Roman Baths, a walk on the Royal Crescent, a visit to Bath Abbey, and finishing off by unwinding at the Thermae Bath Spa.

💭 What river is in Bath, England? – The River Avon flows through Bath, England.

💭 Can you swim in Bath, England? – While you can soak in the thermal waters at the Thermae Spa, swimming in the river or the historic Roman Baths is not allowed.

💭 How did Bath, England get its name? – Bath got its name from the Roman Baths, which were built around Britain’s only hot springs.

💭 Is Bath, England safe? – Bath is generally considered a safe city for residents and tourists alike.

💭 Is Bath, England expensive? – As a tourist location, Bath can be relatively expensive, depending on your activities and preferences.

💭 Is Bath, England in the Cotswolds? – Yes, Bath is considered to be in the ‘Southern tip’ of the Cotswolds Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

💭 Is Bath, England walkable? – Yes, Bath is a walkable city and most of the key attractions are located close to each other.

💭 Where can I learn more about Bath? – To learn more about Bath and things to do in the I suggest visiting their official tourism website at Visit Bath .

Thanks for reading my Bath Travel Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on  Instagram !

Check out more bath & uk guides:.

• Thermae Bath Spa Review: Everything You Need to Know to Visit
• The BEST Bath Day Tours from London in (Handpicked w/prices)
• How to Spend a Day in Lacock, England (the Harry Potter Village!)
• 10 Best Things to do in Castle Combe, Cotswolds
• How to Do the Perfect London Day Trip to Oxford
• How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Cambridge from London

Happy travels,

Get on the List

You’ll also love.

Latest from Instagram

Follow @candaceabroad

Moving to London? Check out my Digital Moving Guide!

join the monthly newsletter

Subscribe for itinerary inspiration, travel inspo & exclusive content straight to your lovely inbox.

Affiliate disclosure

Theme by 17th Avenue Designs

Disclosure & Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 Candace Abroad Theme by 17th Avenue

We Are Travel Girls

A Community Created To Inspire, Connect, Educate & Empower Female Travelers

ENGLAND , EUROPE , UNITED KINGDOM · May 19, 2020 Last Updated on July 27, 2024

ULTIMATE CITY GUIDE TO BATH, ENGLAND

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

Bath has been firmly stamped in the minds of the British public, and nowadays across the globe, as being one of the most important cities marking Britain’s cultural identity. Visitors to Bath can experience quintessential British culture, face Britain’s history head-on, and delight in a wonderful culinary scene, in addition to relaxing in the famous thermal baths that give the city its name.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about visiting the magical town of Bath, England!

History Of Bath

“I really believe I shall always be talking of Bath” – Jane Austen in her novel Northanger Abbey.

Austen couldn’t have been more accurate! Indeed, ever since Bladud, legendary king of the Britons supposedly cured his pigs of leprosy in a hot spring and subsequently founded this city in 863BCE, people have travelled from all over to relax and recuperate in the waters.

From the Romans to the Georgian elite, Bath became the place to see and be seen. Elite society, of whom Austen mingled, waltzed nights away at The Assembly Rooms, paraded The Pump Room in search of eligible husbands while strolling in pleasure gardens like The Sydney Gardens.

Bath is rich in historical facts like these, and they seem more like wild fantasies than attainable reality. However, to this day millions of travellers desire such wild pleasures.

The timeless beauty of the honey-hued Georgian architecture, romantic cobblestone streets to the survival of the Roman Baths, the Assembly Rooms, and much more means that these images of the past are accessible. 

Best Time Of Year To Visit Bath  

From a local’s perspective, the best time to visit Bath is  between September and October .

The summer months are often inundated with thousands of tourists and a plethora of large tourist busses. The streets are full, there are queues into top sites running for miles and it is almost impossible to relax.

If you head over in September, the weather is still mild, streets are deserted (better chance of capturing that Instagram photo), it is easier to gain quick access into all the best places, and eating out is a breeze.

How To Get Around Bath

The most convenient way to reach Bath is by train , especially if you’re coming from down south from places like Cornwall or London . This way you’ll get a direct train journey for affordable prices or catch a National Express coach that travels into Bath every day.

If, however, you’re driving to Bath there are several car parks around the city, all of which are affordable and easy to get to.

When in the city, walking is the most convenient form of transport, as busses and cars cannot drive up the highstreets and everything is within walking distance. However, if you’re coming into town from one of the many hills in Bath, there are local busses that run every 20-minutes into the city centre.

Subscribe to get our FREE eBook with tips on saving money when you travel!

Top Things To Do In Bath

1) bath abbey.

Proudly located in the centre of Bath city is Bath Abbey .

Steeped in history with staggering architecture, the church imposingly dominates the scene and hypnotises thousands of people to visit daily. To enter is free, although they do welcome donations (usually £2) and the Tower Tours cost a small fee and only run between 10 am-4 pm.

Climbing the 212 steps up to the top of the tower is a must as it offers a visit to the bell chamber, the chance to sit behind the clock face and to witness unrivalled rooftop views of the city.

Inside the Abbey, one can see extraordinary examples of Norman Perpendicular Gothic architecture and architectural evidence dating back to the Anglo-Saxon.

The Abbey is still a place of worship and therefore might be closed for service. If this is the case, check the door times or Abbey’s website for when it will reopen.

2) The Roman Baths 

Quite possibly the ‘it’ attraction in Bath, the Roman Baths shouldn’t be missed.

As one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world, you’ll find an interactive museum filled with artifacts and videos of Romans as well as archaeological excavations of the original baths. With a pinch of imagination, you’ll be transported back in time and will experience Roman life for yourself.

Tickets start from £14 but with them, you get an audio guide, an optional guided tour and the opportunity to try the natural spa water.

3) The Pump Room

To enjoy Bath like an 18 th century English Lady, you’ll need to head to the Pump Room to try their wonderfully delicious afternoon tea. Its opulent interior design speaks volumes of the aristocracy who once socialised here.

If you’re a fan of Jane Austen, then you’ll be delighted to know this was the building she, and other elite members of society, met, enjoyed lavish entertainments and gathered to drink the therapeutic waters.

4) The Assembly Room & The Fashion Museum

The Assembly Rooms was another centre of Georgian social life. The two-tiered chandeliers and stunning pillared balconies provide a glimpse into the place where many attended grand balls and sought eligible husbands.

On the lower ground of the Assembly Room is the Fashion Museum and it holds a display of contemporary and historic dress, tracing Bath’s history through objects and clothing.

Open every day of the week, tickets start at £8.55 for adults and £6.53 for children.

5) The Crescent & The Circus

If you’re looking for a little bit of celebrity head to the Crescent and the Circus .

These are probably the most iconic landmarks in Bath and are a row of terraced houses laid out in a crescent shape. Its exterior has remained unchanged since it was built in the 1700s and has been home to many celebrities, including Nicolas Cage and Johnny Depp!

If you’re looking for a little history, you can visit No1 Royal Crescent . Now a museum, it has been remodelled to resemble a Georgian Town House and the interior gives a sense of how the wealthy lived.

6) Milsom Street & Pulteney Bridge

Bath city has some of the quaintest and quirkiest independent shops in the United Kingdom. Head to Milsom Street for some of the more expensive shops while Pulteney Bridge has more unique shops lined on both sides.

This is significant because it is one of only four bridges in the world to have shops on it, with one of the others being in Florence. Bath has everything from designer outlets, craft shops to unique bookshops. A perfect location for a little retail therapy.

7) The Holburne Museum Sydney Gardens  

While in Bath it is imperative you visit The Holburne Museum . It was originally a Georgian villa-style hotel, but now houses a collection of 17 th -18 th century paintings.

From Thomas Hoare to Sir William Holburne, The Holburne Museum is your gateway into British art. It’s free to enter but they again welcome donations.

Right behind the museum is Sydney Gardens . Here you can walk around a garden paradise, take in the lovely river and see where the elite once went for entertainment, public breakfasts, orchestras and fireworks.

8) Prior Park

Prior Park is one of Bath’s best-kept secrets. Hidden among many houses, this 18 th -century landscape garden is bewitching.

Situated slightly on a hill, Prior Park Garden offers exceptional views of rolling hills, winding woodlands and Bath’s Georgian rooftops.

Here, you’ll see an exquisite Palladian Bridge and a grand mansion that is set against an idyllic pastoral landscape. It was originally designed by Ralph Allen in 1734 to show off his wealth and the famous Bath Stone; the golden-hued stone that now builds every house in Bath.

9) Thermae Bath Spa

The healing waters in Bath have been famous for centuries. While it is no longer possible to bathe in the Roman Bath’s healing waters, the Thermae Bath Spa offers similar relaxing ways to improve your health.

For a reasonable price, you can enjoy the rooftop thermal pool, panoramic city views or unwind in their wellness suite, featuring steam rooms, a relaxation room and an ice chamber. You can also enjoy dinner in your robe in the Spa’s on site restaurant for a unique experience.

Day Trips From Bath

While there is so much to see and experience in Bath city centre, it is really worthwhile heading out to the surrounding areas and explore the true English countryside.  

Under 40 miles away from Bath, Stonehenge is one of, if not the most famous prehistoric monument in the world. It should not be missed during your visit to Bath.

The stone circle at Stonehenge has a history reaching back 4,500 years and is a spellbinding piece of architecture. Here, you’ll also see Neolithic Houses and discover the tools and objects of everyday Neolithic life.

To get to Stonehenge, you can take the train or bus from Bath Spa train station to Salisbury, but you will need to take a bus from Salisbury to Stonehenge. You can also buy admission tickets in advance.

The easiest way to get to Stonehenge is to drive from Bath directly to Stonehenge or hop on a bus tour guide .

Stratford Upon Avon

Just a few hours by train or car is the birthplace of the legend William Shakespeare. No mention of England, or the United Kingdom, would be complete without some reference to Shakespeare.

He is considered the best British writer of all time and has given us sonnets, plays to read, performances to watch and films to devour. Without him, Britain wouldn’t be in Britain. That being said, a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon will be time well spent.

Start your day at Shakespeare’s Birthplace , a beautifully restored 16 th -century half-timbered house. Continuing on the journey of Shakespeare’s life, head to Shakespeare’s New Place ; his home in retirement.

Here, you’ll find statues from his well-known plays, such as Hamlet pondering life with his skull. Then head to the Church of Holy Trinity where you can visit Shakespeare’s grave.

While at Stratford make sure to check out Anne Hathaway’s Cottage (this is the former home of Shakespeare’s wife), Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall, and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

If you’re lucky enough you might get to see one of the best productions of Shakespeare’s plays at the Royal Shakespeare Company and if not, check out their exquisite shop and café.

Getting to Bristol is the easiest day trip from Bath. Head over to Bath Spa Train Station, get on a train to Bristol Temple Meads and you’ll be in the city centre in under 20 minutes.

Being a university city, Bristol is a vibrant and electrifying place to visit. For things of historical importance head to Bristol Museum and Art Gallery (entry is free), and here you’ll find geology, Eastern art, Bristol’s history, natural history and famous, as well as modern, paintings.

For more art, you can go on a Banksy street art walking tour with a guide around the city. 

Bristol Cathedral should definitely be on your list. Founded in 1140 and consecrated in 1148, it was originally St. Augustine’s Abbey but later became the seat of The Bishop of Bristol.

For more historical sites head to Brunel’s SS Great Britain Ship, Cabot Tower, Tyntesfield (a serious must) or for something more modern, Bristol Zoo or one of the many quirky book shops.

For other day trips, be sure to read our full article on 10 Places To Not Miss In Southwest England !

Salisbury & Salisbury Cathedral

Much like Bristol, Salisbury is really easy to get to by car, bus and train. Besides shopping and eating in one of the many renowned restaurants there is so much to see and do in Salisbury.

The obvious choice would be to visit Salisbury Cathedral . Considered to be one of the leading examples of Early English architecture, the cathedral is exquisite and awe-inspiring in itself, but it is also home to the four original copies of the Magna Carta and the oldest working clock in the world.

Right next to Salisbury Cathedral is Mompesson House; an 18 th -century house which was originally home to Sir Thomas Mompesson, MP for Salisbury. The Salisbury Museum and Arundells (former home to Prime Minister, Edward Heath from 1985 to 2005) are also great to visit.

Where To Stay In Bath

Bath’s city centre is littered with quaint B&B’s, quirky hostels and elegantly preserved manor hotels.

Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel

Set in sweeping and beautiful gardens of which include fountains, ponds and a terrace, the Macdonald Hotel offers guests celebrity treatment with world-class service and an award-winning restaurant. The spa features a swimming pool, outdoor hot tub, and a fitness centre.

It is a 10-minute walk from Bath Abbey (city centre) which means the hotel makes for the perfect city-country experience. Spending your day surrounded by nature and tranquillity, then spending your night under the neon lights of Bath’s energetic nightlife.

BOOK YOUR STAY

Lansdown Park Hotel

The hotel itself is a magnificently preserved Georgian mansion and was designed in collaboration with the Country Living Magazine.

With the country lifestyle in play, everything was designed with comfort in mind and all the 55 rooms have comfy sofas and cosy beds. The restaurant overlooks the garden and serves fresh local produce in the à la carte breakfast menu and the classic dinner dishes while the bar is open all day and has an extensive drinks menu.

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

If the Bath hotel scene had to be known for anything, it would be its Royal Crescent .

While slightly more expensive, guests can stay in one of the Crescent’s elegant houses.A 5-star hotel, with a history that spans more than 250 years, staying here is certainly a luxurious experience.

With a fully equipped gym, a truly relaxing spa and a secluded landscaped garden, the hotel offers guests the closest thing to time travel. The bedrooms are decorated in an 18 th -century style while modern comforts, such as WIFI and TV, make you feel even more pampered.

Anabelle’s Guest House

For the best B&B in the city, head Anabelle’s Guest House .

Located near the Roman Baths, the B&B is a quick walk to the Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge and The Circus. The rooms are clean and kitted out with a wardrobe, TV and free toiletries. If you’d like a continental breakfast it is an additional £4 per person.

YHA Bath Hostel

For those backpackers or travellers on a budget, YHA Hostel is perfect for you.

The building itself is a visually striking Italian-style mansion with private gardens, laundry facilities and a restaurant. Each morning there is an option for a hearty breakfast and in the evenings a home-cooked meal.

Guests also have the option of using the large shared kitchen facilities. There is a TV lounge overlooking the garden with comfortable sofas while the bar serves a variety of drinks and the WIFI is available in public areas.

Where To Eat In Bath

Bath’s fame and close association with the British elite has given rise to an exquisite array of cuisine. From local delicacies to exotic Asian dishes, visitors experience not only a taste of history but are transported around the globe, with a promise of returning home.

Some local dishes to look out for are Bath Buns (sweet dough covered in sugar and currants), Bath Oliver Biscuits (which compliment cheese perfectly), Bath Chaps (pork tongue wrapped in pork cheek, marinated in brine and herbs, then rolled in breadcrumbs), and the Bath Soft Cheese.

Sally Lunn’s Eating House

This eating house has its roots deep in history. According to legend, Sally Lynn, a Huguenot refugee arrived in Bath in 1680. Here she worked in a bakery and produced the now-famous Sally Lunn Bun; a light, brioche-style bun.

Not only does this restaurant serve this local favourite but the building itself is one of the oldest houses in Bath, featuring a kitchen museum in the basement that shows the original kitchen used by Sally Lunn.

Open for Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner, the menus serve local and authentic dishes. Perfect for a quintessentially English experience.

For an exotic flavour head to Koh Thai restaurant. Not known to many tourists, but a popular choice among locals, Koh’s is a place where the irresistibly rich flavours of Thailand are brought to the tiny streets of Bath.

Located on Broad Street and open Monday-Sunday, the menu includes mouth-watering curries, seafood platters, well-known delicacies such as Chicken Satays and Spring Rolls to unique desserts and fiery cocktails.

Regency Tea Room

For those of you searching for a little history or a quintessentially British afternoon tea experience, the Regency Team Rooms is perfect.

Located on the top floor of The Jane Austen Centre, the tea rooms have a lovely period atmosphere where the staff are decked out in regency fashion while the menu serves cakes, sandwiches, scones and toasties named after Austen’s characters.

Especially popular are the ‘Tea with Mr Darcy’, ‘Lady’s Afternoon Tea’ and ‘Crawford’s crumpets’.

Hall and Woodhouse

If you’re looking for a restaurant that allows four-legged furry friends, then Hall and Woodhouse is your place.

Built-in the 1960s and originally designed as an auction house, this restaurant has a stunning bar with alcohol bottles vibrantly on display. The rustic, brown décor and open space make for a charming and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a quick lunch, celebratory dinner, or just a few drinks.

The normal, vegetarian and vegan menus also make this the ideal inclusive dining experience.

Evening Hangouts and Bars

There are a number of places to explore during the evening if you’re looking for somewhere to hang out or a bar to enjoy the night away.

Among the best places to go to is The Hideout , with its wood interior and walls decked out with whiskey, cocktails, draught beers and a range of spirits.

Speaking of cocktails, Sub 13 is Bath’s premier cocktail bar with leather booths – perfect for a girls night out – while the Opium Bar has a vintage feel and speakeasy décor.

Bath Wrap Up

With so much history, culture and culinary delights, Bath is an intoxicating, exciting and unique city to visit. There is an abundance of quintessential English experiences to be had, a plethora of hangouts to enjoy a drink and several day trips to the most famous landmarks in the United Kingdom.

We hope that this article has helped inspire you to visit Bath, England. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

Subscribe to get access to our FREE eBook with tips for saving money when you travel!

Read More About England

• A Guide To Adventurous Activities In Cornwall
• A Complete Guide To Hiking Mount Snowdon
• Hiking The Pap Of Glencoe In The Scottish Highlands
• The Seven Sisters Day Trip From London
• 72 Hours In Ireland

We Are Travel Girls Contributor Jade Braham JadeBrahamsOdyssey.com Connect with Jade  Instagram  | Facebook  | Pinterest  | Twitter

Pin For Later

This article may contain affiliate links, if you purchase something using one of our links we may receive a commission. Please see our Disclosures for more information.   

You’ll Also Love

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Travel Girls Getaways
• DESTINATIONS
• TYPE OF TRAVEL
• TRAVEL RESOURCES
• AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
• TRAVEL GIRLS GIVING

Get Access To The Travel Resources Library

Subscribe to receive free access!

• Work With Us
• TESTIMONIALS
• DISCLOSURES
• TERMS OF SERVICE
• PRIVACY POLICY
• ACCESSIBILITY

COPYRIGHT © 2023 WE ARE TRAVEL GIRLS

Exclusive Member of Mediavine Travel

• Work With Me

• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Falkland Islands
• Netherlands
• Accommodation
• Electrical Gear
• Essential Gear
• Working Abroad
• Blogging Resources

Europe , UK , Western Europe

Perfect day trip itinerary for bath, uk.

The beautiful World Heritage city of Bath is one of England’s top highlights.

Even if only you’re travelling in this country for a week or so, then you really can’t miss this stunning town situated in the country’s southwest corner.

Unbelievably, I hadn’t visited this gem in my home country, until this summer – 32 years in!

With a trip to Bristol to see friends booked (read more about the best free things to do in Bristol here), Bath seemed like the perfect accessory, only 15 minutes away by train.

But Bath certainly isn’t just a Bristol accessory, it’s very much a jewel in its own crown – in fact it’s amazing just how close and how different the 2 cities are.

Bath is all glamour, while Bristol is all grit. Both are magnificent, it just depends what you’re into.

And FYI: I’m into both!

Related Posts

• 48hrs in Bristol : The Best Itinerary
• How to Enjoy the Best Oxford Day Trip
• How to Travel from London to Margate

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

How to Travel from London to Bath?

The other thing that differentiates the 2 cities is size.

Bath is much smaller, and the centre more easily explored on foot in a shorter amount of time than Bristol.

This makes a quick excursion to Bath really manageable. In fact, Bath is one of the best day trips from London.

If you’re looking to see more of England outside of the capital, then I can highly recommend Bath which combines all the necessary factors of history, heritage, finesse and countryside charm.

Visiting Bath on a day trip from London (or Bristol for that matter – you can actually cycle between the 2!) is also one of the most cost-effective ways to see the city.

It’s only a 90 minute train ride from Paddington station and, as always, I use Trainline to find the best prices – with a handy journey planning feature and live departure updates, this is my one-stop shop when it comes to organising all my UK train adventures.

Alternatively, if you’re really on a budget, you can hop on the Megabus from London Victoria Coach Station to Bath for as little as £5 one way!

You can also, of course, drive to Bath. The journey takes just 2.5 hours from London. If you want to hire a car in the UK, check out Discover Cars .

Bath have recently brought in a clean air initiative and, as such, strongly encourage all visitors to use the Park & Ride services when travelling from further afield – this helps reduce congestion and air pollution in the busy city centre.

The city has 3 Park & Ride services , which are open 7 days a week and located just 10 minutes from the city centre.

Buses run into the city from all three Park and Ride sites at least every 15 minutes.

Finally, you can also take a day trip tour to Bath from London. Check out this great option , which actually covers Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath and the Roman Baths all in a day trip from London.

Top Bath Day Trip Attractions

Originally a Roman settlement and later a popular Georgian town, Bath is famous for its history and no few than 13 museums can be found in the compact city centre.

Most entrance tickets can either be bought online in advance, or on the door on the day.

From the Jane Austen Centre to the Fashion Museum, the Holburne Museum to the Museum of Bath Architecture, there’s plenty to choose from.

Add into this mix the Bath art scene with its Victoria Art Gallery and Theatre Royal, as well as its burgeoning restaurant scene, and there’s more than enough to fit into a Bath day trip!

If you’re still looking for more, then check out this great guided Bath trip with a blue badge holder to get all the historic lowdown on this amazing city and many of its top attractions.

Or, something lighter, this sightseeing boat cruise with prosecco is a winner!

Of course the main attraction in the city is the Roman Baths, sadly you can no longer dive in here, but it is a fascinating historic site to wander around.

And don’t forget the 7th century Bath Abbey, which is Grade I listed.

Well-worth a visit, head here to explore the magnificent stained-glass windows, the impressive stone columns and the incredible fan vaulted ceiling. There’s also a heritage museum in the cellars and an impressive view of the city from the roof.

Buy your tickets ahead of time here .

How to Get Around Bath?

Bath’s city centre is pretty compact and getting around on foot is both easy and enjoyable.

Thankfully the bus and train station are also central, which means if you’re arriving into the city this way, it’s usually easy to get to your accommodation and all the city’s main attractions.

If you’d rather hop on a bus however, then First Bus run a service around the city centre, as well as to neighbour towns and villages. Check out their journey planner here .

You can pay for bus journeys on the bus using the contactless card terminal by the driver, which cost £2 each.

Alternatively, you buy a FirstDay ticket giving you 1 day of unlimited travel across the Bath Zone for £6. But form the driver or the First Bus app .

Otherwise, if you want to combine transport with sightseeing, this Tootbus Discovery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in Bath is a winner!

Best Itinerary for Your Bath Day Trip

Of course , the key to getting the best out of any day trip is to plan your itinerary in advance, so you can jam pack your day and get the most of it!

So here, to help you out, is my ideal Bath Day trip itinerary, which is easy to copy for a fab quick visit to this city.

No day trip to Bath is complete without breakfast at the historic Sally Lunn’s cafe.

One of the oldest houses in Bath – dating back to 1483 – this place oozes tradition and has been serving up the same iconic (and delicious) Bath Buns for over 300 hundred years!

Legend has it the recipe for these rich round buns was brought to Bath in 1680 by a Huguenot refugee from France.

The buns are still made by hand, using the same original recipe, today – a recipe closely guarded and only passed on with the deeds of the house!

Choosing from a sweet or savoury Sally Lunn bun is the perfect way to start your day in Bath.

Not only that, but by dining here will also grant you free access to the museum room below.

Perfect for those wishing to see Bath on a budget, this small exhibition brilliantly displays the real age of this house from this Tudor fireplaces to its 11 th century baker’s oven to the Roman and Saxon pottery remains found on site.

After Sally Lunn’s, head to the Bath Weir for some iconic photos of the Pulteney Bridge, before cutting across town to The Circus for some equally attractive photograph opps.

No Bath day trip is complete without a wander up to the Royal Crescent – a fabulous stretch of Georgian houses, set up on a hill and clustered around an attractive green – that exemplifies the high society Bath lifestyle fashionable at the time.

Head back into town, admiring the boutique shop windows and the traditional Bath Stone buildings on the way, before stopping to check out the UNESCO World Heritage Bath Abbey .

A place of worship for more than 1200 years, the stunning stained-glass windows of the church shed light on some of the world’s most impressive vaulted ceilings.

A climb to the top of the Abbey’s 212 steps for incredible views across the city is well worth the £6.50, although I suggest buying your tickets in advance to avoid the queue!

Otherwise, why not enjoy some fabulous free street entertainment in the square outside with one of the most quintessential English backdrops imaginable.

When it comes to lunch in Bath, I recommend heading to the Bath Guildhall Markets, which are just around the corner from the Abbey.

Stock up here on picnic goods and then head to one of the city’s many green spaces to enjoy a delicious picnic lunch.

No perfect Bath day trip itinerary would be complete with a visit to the Roman Baths , which really are the foundations of the city.

You can’t bathe in them sadly, so leave your swimsuits at home, but visiting them is a must do during your bath day trip.

Entrance fees for adults are £20.50 on a weekday or £23.50 at the weekend.

This seems quite expensive, but is well worth it given the wealth of information imparted via the included audio tour.

You really can spend a good few hours here, imaging what life would have been like thousands of years ago, as the same natural spring continues to pump its healing waters for all to marvel at.

If you want a Bath walking tour that includes entry to the Roman Baths, check out this option .

Finish up your afternoon with a classic English ale.

The Huntsman on Bath’s North Parade is a wonderful pub for this, featuring local beers on tap amidst a great atmosphere.

Finally, why not finish your budget day trip to Bath with a stroll along this city’s lovely canals?

The walk to nearby Bathampton is very manageable and will also give you a delightful glimpse into the rolling hill countryside that surrounds the city.

If the stroll has made you a bit peckish, then why not stop at one of Bathampton’s waterside pubs.

The George is particularly popular and we enjoyed a very well-priced meal here, that would be perfect for those also seeking to explore Bath on a budget.

Where to Stay in Bath?

Budget: Top budget accommodation spots include Bath YMCA and St Christopher’s Inn Bath , which are both well-located in the city centre. Otherwise, the YHA Bath is a little further out of town, but set within a listed Italianate mansion!

Mid-range: The Z Bath Hotel is a fab, modern hotel in the heart of the city or this beautiful, modern 1 bedroom apartment in city centre is also great.

Luxury: My pick has to be the The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel by YTL is a 5* property with guest access to massage, hot tub and fitness centre on-site.

When to Visit Bath?

The best time to visit Bath is definitely during the summer months in my opinion.

The better weather from June to August will definitely allow you to get out and explore the glorious parts and historic sights of this iconic city.

Christmas is also a lovely time to visit Bath when the markets and festive atmosphere are in full flow.

Just enter your details below and I'll email it to you - simple!

Information will be sent to the email provided above

Travel Insurance for the UK

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Travel Money in the UK

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card here… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Grab yours here .

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So that’s my perfect Bath day trip itinerary – ideal for those on a budget!

Have you visited this fantastic English city?

What did you enjoy doing there and what are your top Bath budget tips?

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

6 thoughts on “ Perfect Day Trip Itinerary for Bath, UK ”

Bath seems like a great budget destination! How do you suggest exploring the city?

Definitely on foot is the best (and cheapest way) to get around Bath Agness. Getting there from Bristol or London – the 2 closest major cities – is very easy via train or bus 🙂

I really want to go to Bath as it looks so pretty and I’m always on the look out for affordable travel destinations! Great post and I love your photos!

Thanks so much Chloe – I can highly recommend bath, it’s a great UK spot and definitely VERY pretty!

I want to do Bath and Bristol in one day from London. I would only like to visit the Bath Cathedral and Roman Baths and in Bristol only the Arnos Vale Cemetery before heading back to London. How could I do it?

Hi Mithu, thanks for your questions. You can easily drive from London to all the destinations you mention in a day – this is very do-able. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to Bath, visit the Abbey and Roman Baths, and then take a train or bus to Bristol to visit Arnos Vale Cemetery. From Bristol, you can then easily take a train or bus back to London. Hope this helps and happy travels. Best wishes, Steph 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Map shows were riots have broken out across UK

Share this with

A six-day wave of violent unrest fuelled by anti-immigrant fury and misinformation peaked over the weekend and threatens to continue.

More than twenty towns, mostly in northern England, saw rallies descend into riots with dozens of police officers injured and more than 100 people arrested.

Scenes included ‘race checkpoints’ set up by mobs in Middlesborough, and the setting of fires in hotels in Rotherham and Tamworth believed to be housing asylum seekers.

The disorder began when a mob of agitators hijacked a vigil for the three girls stabbed to death at a dance class in Southport on Tuesday.

Similar scenes of violent disorder were then seen in London, Manchester, Hartlepool, and Liverpool over the following three days before rioters descended on Sunderland. Plymouth saw violent scenes last night as three police officers were injured.

Follow Metro.co.uk’s live blog for updates from the UK riots

Greater Manchester Police said a dispersal notice had been authorised for the city centre to deal with planned demonstrations on Saturday.

Officers also mounted a significant security operation in Belfast city centre, after a small group of anti-Islamic protesters gathered at the front of City Hall, chanting ‘Islam Out’.

Chaos across the UK

The unrest poses the biggest challenge yet of Sir Keir Starmer ‘s premiership, evoking the scale of public disorder last seen during the 2011 riots.

There were a series of riots in August 2011 in cities and towns across England, which started in Tottenham Hale, north east London, after the killing of Mark Duggan, who was shot dead by police on August 4.

On Thursday, Sir Keir announced a new ‘national’ response to the disorder linking police forces across the country through shared intelligence and the expanded use of facial recognition.

Latest London news

• UK braced for 'hottest day of the year'
• Rents are still skyrocketing in London — would a cap make a difference?
• Firefighters save ducklings who got stuck down a manhole

To get the latest news from the capital visit Metro.co.uk's London news hub .

Southport, Liverpool, Sunderland,  Hartlepool , London, Manchester, Plymouth and more have all seen outbreaks of violence.

Plymouth became the latest city to be rampaged by far-right rioters on August 5, police have arrested six people.

The anti-immigration demonstrators gathered in Guildhall at around 3.30pm and tired to confront a Stand Up To Racism counter-rally.

Police said in a 11.25pm update that six people have been arrested. Police and people were injured, with two taken to hospital.

‘Violence will not be tolerated, hate will not be tolerated, and we will continue to work with our partners to keep the people of Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly safe and reduce anti-social behaviour,’ the police said in a news release.

Much of the attention on Sunday was focused on Rotherham, South Yorkshire.

In the early afternoon, a large group of around 700 people descended on a Holiday Inn, which was being used to temporarily house asylum seekers.

The mob threw bricks, chairs and planks of wood at police officers dressed in riot gear, while windows were smashed.

A flaming bin was pushed against a broken window in an apparent attempt to set the building alight with staff and residents trapped inside.

The fire was quickly put out and police soon regained control, but people trapped inside said they were ‘scared’ for their live.

Among those who condemned the actions of the crowd in Rotherham were Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, and South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard.

Brendan Cox, the widower of murdered MP Jo Cox, described the incident as an ‘attempt to murder the men, women & children inside by burning them alive’.

A large mob gathered outside the Hilton Holiday Inn hotel in Tamworth, Staffordshire, on Sunday evening following social media posts claiming it’s being used to house asylum seekers.

Police were unable to contain the crowd for some time and yobs managed to smash windows and start a fire on the ground floor.

The fire continued to blaze late into Sunday night, with footage showing rioters running loose in between the building and a police cordon.

Police said staff were still inside the building when the fire was set, though it’s not clear whether asylum seekers or other guests were present.

Petrol bombs, bricks and other projectiles were lobbed at officers as they tried to bring the situation under control and one officer was severely injured.

Middlesbrough

Sorry, this video isn't available any more.

A hundreds-strong protest outside a mosque in Middlesbrough on Sunday afternoon quickly turned to chaos, with cars set on fire and burning wheelie bins shoved towards police officers.

The mob was  filmed attacking homes at random, smashing windows with bricks and stones.

At one point, thugs occupied a nearby junction and tried to set up a checkpoint where they stopped cars to check whether drivers were ‘white and English’ before letting them through.

More than 43 people have been arrested and detectives believe more will be rounded up.

A confrontation between anti-immigration and anti-racism protesters in Belfast city centre required a significant police response.

The two groups were exchanging insults and a small number of fireworks and other missiles have been thrown amid tense exchanges in front of the City Hall.

Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Land Rovers and officers in riot gear were separating the two groups.

Hundreds of people turned up for an anti-racist counter-protest in the heart of the city centre after social media calls for an anti-immigration demonstration in the city in the wake of the murders of three young children in Southport.

There were speeches and anti-Nazi chanting at the rally, which featured trade union banners and Palestinian flags.

On August 5, petrol bombs, heavy masonry and bricks were hurled by rioters and one police vehicle was engulfed by flames as the 100-strong people took to the streets of the Sandy Row and Donegall Road areas.

Around 300 people gathered in Manchester on Saturday and clashed with police, throwing bottles, bricks and other missiles.

A dispersal notice was authorised in the centre in order to assist police in dealing with protests.

The section 34 notice gave officers powers to seize any item used in the commission of anti-social behaviour until 7pm on Saturday.

Chief Inspector Natasha Evans said: ‘People have a legal right to participate in peaceful protest, however where people are intent on breaking the law, we will take action.’

Eight people have been arrested and three police officers taken to hospital following rioting in Sunderland city centre.

It comes after rioters battled police following a planned protest linked to the Southport knife attack.

A police station was looted and a Citizens Advice Bureau office was set alight by rioters.

A priest at Sunderland Minster said yobs tried to smash a gravestone to use as missiles during widespread violence in the city, adding that they were guilty of ‘an act of sacrilege’.

Sunderland Central Labour MP Lewis Atkinson said a link could be drawn between the disorder in his constituency on Friday and the ashes of the English Defence League (EDL), which was founded by Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley Lennon.

The EDL has disbanded but its supporters remain active, and Mr Atkinson said evidence suggested a Nazi offshoot of the group was involved in the violence in his constituency on Friday, in which a police station was torched and a mosque attacked.

Police had to keep crowds of opposing protesters apart outside a mosque in Liverpool.

A barrier was set up between them near the Abdullah Quilliam Mosque on the city’s Brougham Terrace on Friday evening.

Merseyside Police said extra officers were being deployed over the weekend, with extra stop-and-search powers in place in both Southport and Liverpool ahead of possible demos.

An 11-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of arson after a police car was torched during disorder in Hartlepool on Wednesday.

Another boy, aged 13, was among the 16 people held on suspicion of various offences linked to violent scenes there.

Footage circulated on social media showed a young person being punched in the face in what appeared to be an unprovoked attack by so-called protesters.

Officers are urging the man and the victim, or anyone who may know them, to contact the force.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

MORE : Banksy caught on CCTV just hours before new artwork appears in London

MORE : Man in his 20s stabbed to death on housing estate in east London

MORE : Drivers face long rush hour delays after motorway closed near London airport

Sign Up for News Updates

Get your need-to-know latest news, feel-good stories, analysis and more.

Privacy Policy

Get us in your feed

One Day in Bath Itinerary: Epic Day Trip to Bath

Love it? Share it!

Bath is a historic city in England that is known for its Roman baths and 18th-century Georgian architecture. The city is located in the Avon Valley, about 156 kilometers (97 miles) west of London , making it a perfect day trip to Bath possible! So here is an epic one day in Bath itinerary for you! 

One Day in Bath Itinerary: Plan a Day Trip to Bath

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

It is not difficult to understand why Bath ranks high on the list of one the most loved cities of England, right up there alongside Oxford.

Apart from being a popular spa retreat for the socialites since the 18th century, the stunning Georgian architecture of that time is another mega draw that attracts visitors in hordes to this UNESCO World Heritage site.

If you are curious to know why this city was considered so special by such contemporaries as Jane Austen – the famous British novelist, who choose to live here during its heyday, then dive down straight into this perfect Bath one-day itinerary which will unveil one of the most beautiful places in England.

One day in Bath England: Bath in a day (Snapshot)

Breakfast at society cafe .

• See the Roman Baths

Visit the Bath Abbey

• Lunch at Sally Lunn Teahouse or the Abbey Deli
• Visit Jane Austen Centre

Photograph The Royal Crescent

Hang out at the prior park landscape garden.

• See the Pulteney Bridge and Parade Gardens

Relax at the Thermal Spa

Planning a day trip to bath from london united kingdom.

Bath lies just 156 kilometers (97 miles) west of London and is best accessible by train from Paddington Station which takes just an hour and thirty-five minutes. It costs about £12.60.

Driving by car , via Windsor, takes about two and a half hours but offers more flexibility. 

The most economical way is by the National Express bus (which costs about £5) from Victoria Coach Station which usually takes three hours to arrive at the Bath Spa bus station.

For a more structured approach to your one day in Bath, you can book a tour from London which will cover Stonehenge and Bath without you having to stand in long lines for admission to the popular attractions. Here is a day tour we recommend

Recommended tours and excursions in Bath England 

• Walking tour + Roman Baths Ticket: Book it here
• Bridgerton Filming Locations Walking Tour: Here is the 2-hour tour
• Sightseeing Boat Cruise: Book it here
• Bath Ghosts Tour: Click to book here

Pro tip : Late March to June is the peak tourism season. During the month of May, the city comes to life because of the Bath Festival. Expect many public events and street festivals at this time of the year. Winter starts from December to February, when crowds thin out and prices dip a bit.

Read : 4 day London itinerary

Bath one day itinerary: Arriving in the city

For over two centuries, the natural mineral springs, which incidentally gave the city its name, have drawn visitors looking to take advantage of the water’s medicinal properties. 

Fortunately, all the hotspots in Bath are close to each other and can be easily explored on foot. This quintessential Bath day trip itinerary will help you to make most of your limited time in this remarkable city.

This itinerary is crafted assuming you have arrived in Bath a day earlier, as the first train arrives at Bath station only by 10:30 am which can significantly rob you of valuable time. Alternatively, you can drive down to Bath to reach there early on the morning of your trip.

When you arrive, head straight down the Terrace Walks to the Bath Information Center. You will find excellent sources of information here from tickets, and timings to maps of the area (we have also included a handy Google Maps in this article for you). The staff will go out of their way to ensure your time spent in Bath is memorable.

More of a lifestyle concept than a coffee shop, the Society Cafe in Bath is one of the most loved and widely appreciated spots to enjoy some delicious coffee. Owners Jane and Adrian have created a perfect space where people could do their own thing or socialize.

As coffee is their signature beverage, especially because it is sourced from the best coffee farms worldwide, the house coffee changes four times a year.

• Address : Kingsmead Square
• Hours: Monday to Saturday: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm | Sunday: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

See Roman Baths

Dating back to 70 AD, the Roman Baths are perhaps the most famous attractions in the town. Some sections are amazingly well-preserved and provide wonderful insight into how people socialized and lived 2000 years ago. 

Once you have explored the changing rooms and plunge pools you can visit the interactive museum which showcases every detail of Bath’s fascinating history and even get to taste the mineral-rich water.

The tearooms in the Pump Rooms were the centre stage of all social events in Bath for two centuries. You must spend time here to enjoy a snack or afternoon tea in this neo-classical salon.

For the Baths alone, set aside 2 hours – ideally, 10:00 am to noon. 

• Address: Abbey Church Yard, Bath
• Hours: Weekdays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. And weekends from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The last entry is at 5:00 pm
• Admission fee: £27.50 for adults (weekends), and £25.50 for adults (weekdays). Students and Senior (65+) are £26.50 for weekends and £24.50 for the weekday
• You can also get a family voucher for £55.00 for an adult and 2-4 children (the same is £50.00 for weekdays). For 2 adults + 1 child, it is £63.00 to 69.  And 2 adults + 2-4 children it is .£70 – £77.00

Tickets must be booked online in advance. Visitors with additional access needs can book dedicated 15 minute slots booked through the Group Bookings team at least 48 hours in advance. 

It is crucial to arrive here as soon as the complex opens as it tends to get very crowded as the day goes on. After dark, the Baths are lit up and the place looks very atmospheric.

Spend an hour strolling around the abbey which lies right next door to the Roman Baths. We recommend pausing and taking a look at the window that depicts the crowning of the first king of England, King Edgar.

Then enter the Abbey to soak in the beautiful ambiance. Reflect for some moments inside the Border Chapel and pray at one of the chaplains. 

Marvel at the 4000 pipes that make up the Klais organ which is absolutely stunning and explore the newly opened North transept and admire the stained glass windows. Don’t miss the vaulted fan ceiling.

If you wish to understand Abbey’s past, then chat with a volunteer there. Before exiting, you can visit the Abbey shop and browse through the wide selection of Christian books, souvenirs, and music albums.

• Address : In between Pulteney Bridge and Thermae Bath Spa
• Hours: 10:00 am to 5: 30 pm (As a working church, the times may change. Check before you go)
• Admission Free: A donation of £5 expected 

Lunch break at Sally Lunn Teahouse & Museum or The Abbey Deli

After visiting the top two attractions in Bath, we suspect you will be craving a bite to eat. There are dozens of options within walking distance of the baths and the abbey. 

In fact, just a two minute walk will bring you to Sally Lunn , the most famous and oldest remaining teahouse in Bath established in 1482. Their special offering here is the Sally Lunn Bun, which is more like a French brioche than a bun.

Another option is to head to The Abbey Deli , famed as the Modiste, as featured on the NetFlix series Bridgerton. When you are here, you have to opt for their afternoon tea and cake, and see Madame Delacroix’s dress shop in person!

The Abbey Deli is located only a minute away from the Bath Abbey. 

Visit Jane Austen Heritage Centre

The Jane Austen centre focuses on the life and works of the famous novelist through an interactive experience wherein guides dressed in regency attire and exhibits bring visitors closer to Jane Austen.

This is a family friendly attraction and can be completed in an hour’s time, thereby making it a perfect stop for your one day in Bath.

The Regency Tea room on the second floor offers 17 types of leaf teas along with a selection of locally baked cakes and pastries. We found the seating a bit tight, so the late afternoon is the right time. Avoid lunchtime unless you have booked a table.  

• Address : 49, Gay St, Bath
• Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Admission: Adults’ entry fee is £12.50. Senior and students are £11.50. Family Pass (of 2 adults and kids) starts at £35. Get your tickets here

An arduous climb from the city center will bring you to a sweep of houses lined in a rhythmic curve. This is The Royal Crescent, one of the most photographed spots in England and the best example of Georgian architecture. 

The museum here shows how the rich and famous lived in Bath in the 18th century.

You can enjoy quality time in a spectacular setting with afternoon tea for two at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa , which is a tourist attraction in its own right. As you dine on tasty baked scones and traditional Bath buns, you can order your choice of piping hot tea.

Pro Tip: On the right side is an old-fashioned signpost in black and gold. Perfect for a photo shoot. 

Address: The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. 16 Royal Cres, Bath BA1 2LS, United Kingdom

Currently, the Prior Park Landscape Garden is undergoing an exciting restoration project but a little exploration will uncover hidden architectural surprises.

Plan to spend about thirty minutes here to relax and explore the park’s best known feature, the Palladian Bridge of 1775 – the last of three of its kind in existence in England.

• Address: Ralph Allen Dr
• Hours : Every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Prior Park Landscape Garden is about 25 minute walk from the Abbey. When traveling from the Royal Cresent it will take 45 minutes on foot. 

Pro Tip: When pressed for time, you can skip the Prior Park Landscape Garden for the gardens near the iconic Pulteney Bridge. 

See the Pulteney Bridge and Parade Gardens 

There is another famous landmark that has to be ticked off on your one day Bath itinerary. 

For that, you have to make your way to the River Avon to see the graceful arches of the Pulteney Bridge spanning the river. Built by William Johnstone Pulteney in 1771, the Pulteney is the second oldest bridge lined with shops after Ponte Vecchio in Italy.

There is a beautiful riverfront walkway at the back of the bridge which is perfect for a stroll. And adjacent to it are the Parade Gardens. These gardens have an entry fee of 1.50 pounds.

The best way to end your day and care for the aching legs is by visiting any one of the local spas and immersing yourself in the thermal baths. 

There are many in the area, but we strongly recommend Thermae Bath Spa as it has two natural baths, an open air pool on the roof, steam rooms, an ice chamber, and a relaxation room with a choice of over 50 spa treatments and packages.

• Address: The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath St, Bath BA1 1SJ, United Kingdom
• Hours: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Admission costs: £37-£42 for two hours depending on the day of the week

Pro Tip: This is the last stop on the one day Bath itinerary. Plan to get to the Spa by 6:30 pm, so that you have at least 1.50 to 2 hours there. The complex closes at 08:00 pm. 

When you are on a day trip to Bath, you might have to skip this depending on the train schedule. Or you can visit during the day when you are at the Roman Baths. 

If you are driving or can manage an overnight stay then it is soooo worth heading to the Spa in the evening. 

Dinner time in Bath

There are some good outlets for dining in the city center. If you are a wine lover try the impressive wine list at Corkage or if you prefer traditional English fare head to The Elder .

There is also an excellent Italian restaurant, Sotto Sotto near the Roman Baths.

Where to stay in Bath UK?

If you do decide to spend a night in Bath there are plenty of options. If you are looking for budget accommodation then some other centrally placed hotels include Bath YMCA and St Christopher’s Inn Bath.

The Gainsborough Bath Spa is a luxury five-star hotel and the only one in the UK having access to a natural thermal spa within its property. Check availability here

Grays Boutique is another B&B option located in an imposing Victorian villa hardly 15 minutes from the city center.

One Day in Bath England Itinerary: Sightseeing Map

More Things to Do In Bath in one day

Every traveler has different choices when visiting a new place. The top places of interest have been outlined above but there are plenty of other things to do in Bath.

Hire a Bath Narrowboat –  Sydney Wharf, Bathwick Hill

Spend time experiencing the magic of the Avon canal cruising in a Bath Narrowboat. Each boat holds six to ten people and is perfect for getting close to wildlife, historic towns, and country pubs on either side of the canal system.

Or book a boat cruise here

2-hr Bridgerton walking tour – From £15 per person

This two-hour walking tour will take you past locations of the Netflix adaptation of Bridgerton with a certified guide. 

Starting from the Abbey Churchyard, hear behind-the-scenes snippets of this well-known TV show shot in Bath. After walking, relax with a tea at the Holbourne Museum cafe or head to Sydney Gardens. Book the tour here

Sydney Gardens –  Sydney Pl, Bathwick

Sydney Gardens date back to 1795 and is the only remaining Georgian garden in the UK. The garden features waterside walks, woodland, tennis courts, and the Temple of Minerva.

The place is just a short walk from the city center and can be approached via Great Pulteney Street. These gardens are open throughout the year and have no admission fee. 

The Assembly Rooms – Bennett St, Bath

For the fashion-minded individuals, the Fashion Museum and the Assembly Rooms are a must-visit spot. Step inside them and let your imagination run riot as you drift back in time when these rooms were full of fashionable and eminent people dancing and playing cards.

The Assembly Rooms are known all over England as a place to be seen as well as entertained. They are open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. 

Day trips from Bath United Kingdom

Time permitting, here are some day trips from Bath which you can consider:

Stonehenge: 

Stonehenge remains a mystery even today as archaeologists still wonder how these stones were lifted up without the use of technology. 

In fact, some of them were transported from Wales, 200 miles away. This mind-boggling structure is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts millions of visitors each year. 

• Distance/ time taken: 55 minutes. 34 miles via A-36
• Hours : 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
• Admission fee : Varies by off-season/Standard/Peak months. For an adult, it is                   £19.50/£21.50/£22.80
• Day tour option from London to Bath and Stonehenge

In addition, special access tickets can be booked for entry outside the regular hours at 5:30 am, 8:00 am, or after 6.30 pm when visitors can actually walk among the stones. However, these tickets need to be booked months in advance as they are grabbed up instantly. 

Cheddar Gorge:

Enjoy a day trip from Bath walking through the largest gorge in England, less than an hour by car from the city center. 

Located on Mendips Hill, an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a walk on the rim of the 400 feet deep and 3-mile long Cheddar Gorge ensures breathtaking views of the hills and the village of Cheddar.

• Distance/time taken : 50 minutes. 30 miles

To experience quintessential British charm, Bristol is an incredibly fun place to visit from Bath. Discover the Stoke Croft neighborhood and its intriguing cafes, street art, vintage stores as well as the most iconic British landmark – The Suspension Bridge.

• Distance/time taken : 12 minutes by train

Cardiff: 

A day trip to the Welsh capital is a perfect excuse to get out of Bath and learn a bit about the city’s history. Visit the imposing Cardiff Castle, the National Museum of Cardiff, or if you are there on a Sunday, head to the Farmer’s Market to sample the best local produce.

Hire a bike to ride the Taff Trail or zoom to Cardiff Bay for some heart-stopping white water rafting.

• Distance/time taken : 1 hour and 15 minutes. 54 miles via M4

Castle Combe:

Castle Combe is a village in the Cotswolds region of England. It is known for its picturesque setting and has been used as a filming location for several movies and television shows. 

The village has a population of approximately 1,000 people. Castle Combe is a popular tourist destination, and there are several historic buildings and sites to see in the village.

• Distance/time taken : 25 minutes from Bath
• Day tour : Here is a private tour to Castle Combe and nearby areas

Was one day in Bath enough?

To be honest, one day gives ample time to visit all the attractions of Bath and soak up in the Georgian architecture, providing you arrive the night before or very early on the morning of your day trip.

That said, if you could squeeze in another day, you can do a short trip to some neighboring places or take your time and relax in the thermal baths.

Additional travel tips for one day Bath England itinerary 

Here are some more travel tips for Bath England. 

Sightseeing tips

When you are wandering through the lanes of Bath, keep an eye for the famous blue plaques on the homes which tell that famous people lived here once.

Also, remember that Bath is a hilly city, so make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes!

Safety tips

Bath is a safe destination and the risk of any violent crime is extremely low. Pickpockets here are known to work in teams so stay alert and keep all valuables out of sight. Keep an eye on your drink when in the bar and if there is an emergency call 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice is to get good travel insurance for protection against theft, illness, injury, and cancellation.

Budget tips

Most of the sightseeing in Bath on a day trip can be done for free if you are not entering the complex premises like the Pulteney Bridge. When visiting the Roman Baths, Abbey, museums, and Spa do set aside £100 per person. It will be about £35+ for the Baths and the Abbey. 

In terms of accommodation, with rooms starting at £80, Bath is not exactly a budget destination. Thankfully many budget hotels provide free breakfast.

You can eat for cheap if you stick to fish and chips (£6) or eat at the many Indian or Thai outlets for £8. On an average, you should keep aside £115 per day for your trip to Bath if you are traveling double.

So that’s a wrap! Bath is a beautiful city with a rich history. There are plenty of things to see and do, making it the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. 

Whether you’re interested in exploring the Roman Baths or just want to relax in a rooftop pool, there’s something for everyone in Bath. So, what are you waiting for?

Pin: One day in Bath: Visit Bath in a day

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

Similar Posts

2 days in Venice itinerary: Explore Venice in a weekend

Do you want to explore Venice in a weekend? We know it can be hard to decide what to do in such a beautiful city in Italy. From exploring San Marco Piazza and St Mark’s Basilica to taking a gondola ride, our 2 days in Venice itinerary will help you see all the best parts…

Barcelona to Montserrat Day Trip Itinerary

Located in the Catalonian region of Spain just outside of Barcelona, Montserrat is a stunning mountain range that offers breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. In this guide, we will share a detailed Barcelona to Montserrat day itinerary with all the possible transportation options to help plan your journey. Montserrat…

20 Epic Balkan Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

The Balkans are an amazing region in the European continent. It is one of those destinations where scenic drives, varied landscapes, and cultural gems are found aplenty. We have a lot of our readers request an epic Balkan Road trip itinerary, so we got together with other travelers and compiled these 20 sample trips for…

One Week in Europe Trip Itinerary (30 epic samples)

Europe has been our favorite continent of travel. The cobblestone lanes and the unparalleled history just pull us to visit this continent time and again. In this post – One week in Europe Trip Itinerary – we have curated 30 itineraries that you can explore in a week. We understand vacation days are limited, so…

Ultimate 3 days in Lisbon Itinerary and travel guide

If I were to write a love letter to a city – it has to be this. Lisbon Portugal was unbelievably awesome. We enjoyed amazing weather, food plus tons of history and sightseeing. Our 3 days in Lisbon itinerary had the perfect ingredients for a great vacation. We have also incorporated a day trip to…

One Day in Lisbon Itinerary: Explore Lisbon in a day

Want to see Lisbon in a day? Let us help you! Lisbon is Portugal‘s hilly, coastal capital city. From commanding views of the city to exploring charming neighborhoods and indulging in delicious pastries, here is the perfect one day in Lisbon itinerary and guide!   Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to enjoy…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

UK riots latest: Thousands take part in anti-racism protests; petrol bomb thrown at mosque in 'racially motivated' incident

Police are on high alert this weekend amid concerns over more disorder breaking out as protests take place across the country. In Northern Ireland, police are investigating a "racially motivated" attack on a mosque.

Saturday 10 August 2024 23:00, UK

• Protesters gather outside Reform UK's London office
• Liverpool court hears how teenager stole £19,000 of vapes during riots
• Petrol bomb thrown at mosque in 'racially motivated' incident
• Impact of riots could be felt for years to come, warns justice secretary
• Tory councillor's wife remanded in custody over stirring up racial hatred online
• Listen: 'Unease and fear' - How Muslim communities feel about the riots
• Watch : Bodycam footage of Southport riot
• Watch : Pubgoers embrace Muslims 'defending their community'
• Analysis: The many reasons the far right stayed off streets
• Further reading : The men who've been jailed so far

That's all our coverage on this story for now. 

Thousands of anti-racism protesters have descended on cities across the country - outnumbering anti-immigration demonstrators for the fourth day in a row. 

Before we go, here's a recap of the main updates from the last 24 hours: 

• A court in Liverpool has heard how a 16-year-old stole £19,000 worth of vapes during riots in the city centre last week;
• A petrol bomb was thrown at a mosque in Northern Ireland in an incident described by police as racially motivated. The mosque in Newtownards, County Down, was attacked at around 1am, with graffiti sprayed on its front door;
• Lucy Connolly, the wife of a Tory councillor, has been remanded in custody ahead of a crown court appearance over publishing written material intended to stir up racial hatred;
• Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has warned the impact of the riots on the judicial system will be felt for years to come;
• The parents of six-year-old Bebe King, who was killed in the Southport stabbings, have paid tribute to their "precious daughter" and revealed her older sister saw the attack and escaped. 

Police have been granted enhanced stop and search powers in part of Yeovil tonight.

Avon and Somerset Police said the powers allow officers to search people who they consider "at risk of violence", without reasonable suspicion. 

The force said the technique has already resulted in arrests being made this evening. 

It comes after it reported a small number of people had gathered in the grounds of a church for a peaceful demonstration. 

Four men have been charged following the riots in Hartlepool and Middlesbrough last week. 

Cleveland Police said a 24-year-old man had been charged with burglary over the unrest in Middlesbrough last Sunday. 

Another 24 year-old was charged with violent disorder and a 27-year-old was charged with assault by beating of an emergency worker. 

A 19-year-old was charged with violent disorder in relation to the riots in Hartlepool on 31 July. 

All four men have been remanded in custody and are due to appear in court on Monday. 

The impact of the riots could be felt for months or years to come, the justice secretary has warned. 

Writing a piece for The Observer, Shabana Mahmood said the justice system has shown it can act swiftly, but its work has been made more difficult due to the state it was left in by the Conservatives. 

Courts have been working extended hours to deal with rioters who were charged by police during the week-long disorder. 

"The justice system has shown it can rise to this challenge. Should further criminality and disorder ensue, we will continue to deliver justice, until the last offender languishes in one of our jails," Ms Mahmood said. 

"But we must make no mistake. Rising to this challenge has been made harder by doing so within the justice system we inherited from the Conservatives." 

She pointed out that there are "record crown court backlogs" and prisons "close to overflowing". 

"The impact of these days of disorder will be felt for months and years to come. They make the job of rebuilding the justice system harder," she added. 

The parents of a six-year-old girl who was killed in the Southport stabbings have paid tribute to their "precious daughter" and revealed her older sister saw the attack and escaped.

Bebe King died along with nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar and Elsie Dot Stancombe, aged seven, after the stabbings at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop in the Merseyside town on 29 July.

The deaths of the three girls sparked anti-immigration protests and riots across UK towns and cities after false information circulated on social media that the attacker was an illegal migrant.

In a statement issued by Merseyside Police, Bebe's parents Lauren and Ben said their daughter "was full of joy, light, and love, and she will always remain in our hearts as the sweet, kind, and spirited girl we adore".

They revealed their nine-year-old older Genie witnessed the attack and managed to escape, saying: "She has shown such incredible strength and courage, and we are so proud of her.

You can read more about this story here ...

Photos of three men have been released by police as they continue to investigate the disorder that broke out in Whitehall last week. 

Metropolitan Police said more than 100 arrests were made at the protest on Wednesday 31 July. 

However, in the days that followed, a huge amount of footage and other evidence has been reviewed to try to identify outstanding suspects, it added. 

It urged people who recognise any of the three men to get in touch or contact Crimestoppers. 

Sky News understands Sir Keir Starmer has cancelled his holiday as protests continue to take place across the country. 

Thousands of police officers have remained on duty today in case violence flared again. 

But, for a fourth day in a row, anti-racism protesters far outnumbered far-right demonstrators in several areas. 

A dispersal order has been enforced in Liverpool city centre today and will remain in place for 48 hours. 

It also covers parts of Everton, Kensington, Vauxhall and Kirkdale. 

Merseyside Police said it had been introduced "following incidents of disorder". 

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Chris Taylor said: "This order will give officers on the ground the ability to direct people suspected of being involved in or planning criminality to leave the designated area for a period of 48 hours, and to arrest them if they return." 

A Section 60 order, which gives officers enhanced stop and search powers, is already in place in the area. 

"Both orders are extra tools at our disposal to help keep the public safe, and highly visible police patrols will enforce them in the next 48 hours," Mr Taylor said. 

A total of 779 people have been arrested over rioting, the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) has said. 

Of those, 349 have been charged, it added. 

Suspected rioters have continued to appear in court today, including the wife of a Tory councillor who has been accused of publishing written material intended to stir up racial hatred.

Lucy Connolly, 41, appeared at Nottingham Magistrates' Court on Saturday morning and did not enter a plea.

The NPCC said specialist officers have been tasked with pursuing suspected online offenders and so-called influencers, who they say are responsible for "spreading hate and inciting violence on a large scale".

Across the country, teams have been investigating "hundreds of leads".

"This abhorrent activity didn't happen by itself. Large crowds and gatherings didn't mobilise spontaneously," said Chief Constable Chris Haward, the NPCC lead for serious and organised crime. 

"It was the result of dozens of so-called influencers, exploiting the outpouring of grief from the tragic loss of three young girls in Southport.

"They knowingly spread misinformation, stoked the flames of hatred and division and incited violence from the comfort of their own homes, causing chaos on other people's doorsteps."

The leader of Newcastle City Council has said he is "angry" that some residents were made to "feel unsafe" by "right wing agitators". 

In a post on Facebook, Councillor Nick Kemp praised police for their work in the city, and urged people to stay "united". 

Protests organised by Enough Is Enough have been taking place today, but passed without any violence or disorder breaking out.

"Northumbria Police have done a phenomenal job in preparing for today and their swift actions throughout the entire week have acted as a deterrent," Cllr Kemp said. 

"Across the country, we have seen right wing agitators looking to divide our city and sow seeds of hatred. Today, Newcastle showed them what we are about.

"However, I am angry that they have made some of our residents feel unsafe. That their actions have caused doubt among those who call our city home."

You can read his full statement below... 

We are here, we are listening, and we are ready to act 🤝 That is the message from our Leader, Cllr Nick Kemp, who says... Posted by Newcastle City Council on  Saturday, August 10, 2024

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Where Was A Good Girl's Guide To Murder Filmed? Book Adaptation's Filming Locations Explained

Warning: This article contains spoilers for Netflix's A Good Girl's Guide to Murder.

• The Netflix series uses Little Kilton as a setting, which was invented for the UK version of the book, rather than Fairview, Connecticut, which is featured in the US version of the book.
• Various English cities were combined to film A Good Girl's Guide to Murder, ensuring the town size matched the story's needs.
• The TV show used locations like Axbridge, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and Bath to bring Little Kilton to life visually.

The production team for A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder blended multiple filming locations in order to create the quintessential, sleepy English town of Little Kilton, shaping the plot and setting the tone for the Netflix show. Based on the book by Holly Jackson, the murder mystery follows Emma Myers’ Pip Fitz-Amobi as she reinvestigates the 5-year-old murder of Andie Bell. Because the US and UK versions of the book include different settings, some fans of the book might be surprised to learn that the story takes place in the town of Little Kilton, England, instead of Fairview, Connecticut.

Additionally, the town of Little Kilton was invented for the UK version of the book , so questions naturally come up about where the series was filmed. It was crucial that the Netflix series use the perfect filming locations because the mystery itself relies on the town being the right size. If the town is too small or big, it throws off the number of reasonable suspects. Rather than using a single filming location, Little Kilton is an amalgamation of three English cities in Netflix’s A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder.

Information on which locations the production used for filming comes from IMDb , Atlas of Wonders , and The Bottle Yard .

Axbridge, Somerset, England

The exteriors in little kilton.

Most of the general scenes of Little Kilton, including the establishing shots and exterior scenes, were filmed in the town of Axbridge in the county of Somerset, England. Located about 20 miles southwest of Bristol, Axbridge was the perfect location to double for Little Kilton. The beautiful town includes streets with traditional English architecture that fit the descriptions in the UK version of Holly Jackson’s book. The town square of Axbridge is where most of the exterior shots take place.

A Good Girl's Guide To Murder's 8 Biggest Unanswered Questions & Mysteries

Netflix's A Good Girl's Guide to Murder wraps up the big mysteries while leaving some questions unanswered, providing directions for Season 2.

Another important location in Axbridge that appears in the series is the Church of St. John the Baptist. This church, made of limestone and Doulting stone, was built in the 13th century in the Gothic architecture style. In the series, Andie’s memorial is located outside this church. The scene between Pip and Max at the end of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder occurs on the steps outside of the Church of St. John the Baptist.

The surrounding landscape of Axbridge includes woods, countryside, and the River Axe, which create an idyllic and dreamy mood. This mood contrasts with the murder, drugs, and sexual crimes occurring in the town of Little Kilton. The dichotomy allows A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder to lean into the paranoia and social fear that there’s a seedy underbelly in every small town. It also helps set the show in the “small-town crime” mystery genre.

Bristol, England

The school, caves, and shops in little kilton.

While Axbridge, Somerset, doubled for general shots of Little Kilton, locations in Bristol, England, are used for specific locations within the fictional town. The production team used Redmaids’ High School in Westbury-on-Trym as the Fairview High School in the Netflix series . This location is important within the story because the murder occurred while Andie and Sal were in high school, and Pip is doing the murder investigation as her EPQ.

In A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder season 1, episode 3, Pip and her friends attend a Calamity Party, which was also filmed in Bristol at the Redcliffe Caves . The location also appears in flashbacks of Andie and her friends attending the same parties. The caves add an extra air of mystery and darkness to the parties because it seems such a strange place for high schoolers to party and do drugs. Additionally, the man-made underground tunnels’ history as World War II air raid shelters adds a layer of unease to the scenes in the caves.

Other locations within Bristol seen in A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder include the Costcutter Convenience Store, which doubles for the Little Kilton Corner Store; Hillgrove Porter Stores, which doubles for Ravi’s workplace; Wilson’s Bread Shop, which doubles for Wilson’s Café; and the Berwick Lodge, which doubles for the Ivy House Hotel.

15 Biggest Changes A Good Girl's Guide To Murder Makes To The Book

The show adaptation for A Good Girl's Guide To Murder makes very significant changes from its book counterpart. Some of them are good, but not all.

Most of these locations only appear in a scene or two, but they help shape the culture of Little Kilton. It also provides a variety of backdrops for Pip and Ravi to investigate the murder of Andie Bell, keeping the scenes interesting instead of one-note. If all the scenes occurred in Pip’s house and the school, the setting would quickly become boring.

Avon Valley Railway, South Gloucestershire, England

Unknown scenes in a good girl's guide to murder.

Of all the towns producers used for A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder , South Gloucestershire appears the least in the series. The primary filming location in Gloucestershire was the Avon Valley Railway, which opened in 1869 and connects Birmingham and the South Coast. The railway has since been preserved and restored. Its picturesque railways, stations, and greenery make it a perfect addition to Little Kilton.

Bath, England

The ward and bell houses.

Only two locations within Little Kilton were filmed in Bath, England, but they are significant enough places that they deserve recognition. Three central characters in A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder – the Wards – live in a terraced house. Because Pip is best friends with Cara Ward, she spends a good amount of time over there. The house that the production used to film these scenes is on Daisy Bank in Bath, England.

Additionally, the Bell home, which Andie breaks into, is located at 1 Trossachs Drive in Bath, England. The yellow and white paint and the brick on the Bell House in A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder have a simplicity that once again contrasts the murder that happened inside. At first glance, it seems like a charming and peaceful place to live.

A Good Girl's Guide To Murder Soundtrack Guide: Every Song (& When They Play)

Netflix's murder mystery A Good Girl's Guide to Murder includes an eclectic soundtrack that shapes the plot and mood and enhances the show.

The Bottle Yard Studios, Bristol, England

Interiors of a good girl's guide to murder.

The last location used in A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is The Bottle Yard Studios, the largest British TV and film production studio in the Western part of England. The production was based out of this location, traveling to other locations to film onsite. However, some of the interiors in A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder were filmed at the studio, though it’s unclear which specific scenes. This choice was likely made so that they weren’t confined to the layout of the homes and buildings that make up the fictional town of Little Kilton.

Sources: IMDb , Atlas of Wonders , and The Bottle Yard

A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (2024)

Cast Carla Woodcock, Yasmin Al-Khudhairi, Yali Topol Margalith, Jude Morgan-Collie, Zain Iqbal, Raiko Gohara, Asha Banks, Emma Myers

Character(s) Becca Bell, Naomi Ward, Lauren Gibson, Connor Reynolds, Ravi Singh, Zach Chen, Cara Ward, Pippa Fitz-Amobi

Release Date August 1, 2024

Genres Mystery, Thriller

Main Genre Mystery

Creator(s) Poppy Cogan

Advertisement

Supported by

Britain’s Violent Riots: What We Know

Officials had braced for more unrest on Wednesday, but the night’s anti-immigration protests were smaller, with counterprotesters dominating the streets instead.

• Share full article

By Lynsey Chutel

After days of violent rioting set off by disinformation around a deadly stabbing rampage, the authorities in Britain had been bracing for more unrest on Wednesday. But by nightfall, large-scale anti-immigration demonstrations had not materialized, and only a few arrests had been made nationwide.

Instead, streets in cities across the country were filled with thousands of antiracism protesters, including in Liverpool, where by late evening, the counterdemonstration had taken on an almost celebratory tone.

Over the weekend, the anti-immigration protests, organized by far-right groups, had devolved into violence in more than a dozen towns and cities. And with messages on social media calling for wider protests and counterprotests on Wednesday, the British authorities were on high alert.

With tensions running high, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s cabinet held emergency meetings to discuss what has become the first crisis of his recently elected government. Some 6,000 specialist public-order police officers were mobilized nationwide to respond to any disorder, and the authorities in several cities and towns stepped up patrols.

Wednesday was not trouble-free, however.

In Bristol, the police said there was one arrest after a brick was thrown at a police vehicle and a bottle was thrown. In the southern city of Portsmouth, police officers dispersed a small group of anti-immigration protesters who had blocked a roadway. And in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where there have been at least four nights of unrest, disorder continued, and the police service said it would bring in additional officers.

But overall, many expressed relief that the fears of wide-scale violence had not been realized.

Here’s what we know about the turmoil in Britain.

Where has the unrest taken place?

Protesters over the weekend took to the streets of a dozen cities across Britain, most of them in England. Trouble broke out from Aldershot in the south to Sunderland in the north and Liverpool in the west. Belfast, in Northern Ireland, was also drawn into the fray.

In some cases, the protesters were merely unruly, but in others the violence was more pronounced.

Where arrests have been reported

On Sunday, rioters set upon a hotel that was housing asylum seekers in the town of Rotherham, in northern England, breaking windows before surging inside as the police struggled to control them. No guests were injured in the melee, the police said.

In Middlesbrough, a group of rioters, some masked, hurled bottles and rocks at officers. Cars were set on fire, and at least nine people were arrested. On Saturday, a library and a food bank were set ablaze in Liverpool as groups damaged and looted businesses, and in Hull, fires were set and storefronts smashed in the city center.

Dozens of police officers were injured, including some who required trips to the hospital.

What set off the protests?

The unrest began after a teenager wielding a knife attacked a children’s dance class early last week in the seaside town of Southport, which is near Liverpool. Three children were killed, and eight were wounded.

The suspect was born and raised in Britain, but online rumors soon circulated that he was an undocumented immigrant. To counter those false claims, the authorities took the unusual step of publicly identifying him. The BBC has reported that the suspect’s parents are from Rwanda. The police have not disclosed a motive for the stabbing attack.

But with migration a flashpoint issue in Britain, especially on the far right, the rumors were all it took to set off violence.

Extremist groups urged their followers to take to the streets, and on the day after the stabbings, they began to do so, starting in Southport.

How have the authorities responded?

The weekend riots prompted a heavy police response. Nearly 4,000 additional officers were deployed, a law enforcement association said. And a government order gave officers in some places special powers to disperse any gatherings or “antisocial behavior,” the police said in a statement .

More than 400 people have been arrested, and about 100 have been charged, Mr. Starmer said after an emergency cabinet meeting on Tuesday — the second in two days.

The prime minister, who has characterized the riots as “far-right thuggery,” encouraged prosecutors to name and shame those convicted to dissuade others from joining the violent rampages.

“I’m now expecting substantive sentencing before the end of the week,” Mr. Starmer said. “That should send a very powerful message to anybody involved, either directly or online, that you are likely to be dealt with within a week and that nobody, but nobody, should involve themselves in this disorder.”

BJ Harrington, the head of public order for Britain’s National Police Chiefs’ Council, said that online disinformation had been “a huge driver of this appalling violence.”

Intelligence teams, detectives and neighborhood officers, Mr. Harrington said, were working to identify the people fomenting the violence.

“They won’t win,” he said.

How are the authorities handling online incitement?

Social media has acted as an accelerant throughout the protests, with disinformation fueling far-right and anti-immigrant groups . Britain and other democracies have found that policing the internet is legally murky terrain, with individual rights and free speech protections balanced against a desire to block harmful material .

In his remarks on Tuesday, Mr. Starmer said that some arrests involved people accused of inciting violence online.

The first person to be convicted over online posts since the riots, according to the Crown Prosecution Service , was a 28-year-old man from Leeds who posted messages on Facebook about attacking a hotel that housed asylum seekers. It said that the man, Jordan Parlour, had pleaded guilty and been convicted of using threatening words or behavior to stir up racial hatred.

Mr. Starmer has called out social media companies over misinformation on their platforms, but holding them accountable could be tricky. Britain adopted a law last year that requires social media companies to introduce protections for child safety and to prevent and quickly remove illegal content like terrorism propaganda and revenge pornography. The law is less clear about how companies must treat misinformation and incendiary language.

What are the political implications?

The riots are the first political crisis for Mr. Starmer, who took office a month ago after his Labour Party defeated the Conservatives, who had been in government for 14 years.

While in power, the Conservatives tried to capitalize on public unhappiness over immigration, vowing to reduce it (though failing to do so). But in recent days they joined Labour in condemning the violent protests.

Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, now the opposition leader, said the unrest had “nothing to do with the tragedy in Southport.” The police, he said, have “our full support to deal with these criminals swiftly.”

Megan Specia contributed reporting.

Lynsey Chutel covers South Africa and the countries that make up southern Africa from Johannesburg. More about Lynsey Chutel

Anti-racism protests sweep Britain after far-right riots

• Medium Text
• Far right and counter protests planned for Wednesday
• Immigration centres, law firms close
• First rioters sentenced to up to 3 years

'STOP THE BOATS'

Sign up here.

Additional reporting by Sam Tobin, Kylie MacLellan and Michael Holden in London, Alexandra Hudson in Hastings; Writing by Kate Holton and Alistair Smout; Editing by Alex Richardson and Philippa Fletcher and Marguerita Choy

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

Thomson Reuters

Catarina is a UK-based breaking news correspondent. She previously worked as a multimedia journalist in Portugal and Spain, where she covered everything from elections to natural disasters. Catarina has previous experience in TV and local journalism, co-founded a project telling the stories of Portuguese-speakers living in London, edited a youth-led news site and worked for several NGOs. She recently produced a documentary about transatlantic slavery and its legacies in today's society.

Gaza ceasefire: Hamas says again it wants implementation, not more talks

Hamas is sticking to its demand that Gaza truce talks focus on a deal already discussed with Israel and mediators rather than starting anew, an official said on Tuesday, after Israeli airstrikes killed at least 19 Palestinians in the enclave.

• Cast & crew

A high-powered CEO puts her career and family on the line when she begins a torrid affair with her much younger intern. A high-powered CEO puts her career and family on the line when she begins a torrid affair with her much younger intern. A high-powered CEO puts her career and family on the line when she begins a torrid affair with her much younger intern.

• Halina Reijn
• Nicole Kidman
• Antonio Banderas
• Harris Dickinson
• 1 nomination

Top cast 35

• Intern Rose

• Giggling Girl

• Nude cult member
• Uber Driver
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

More like this

The 2024 Festival Films You Need to Know

• December 20, 2024 (United States)
• United States
• Netherlands
• New York City, New York, USA (street scenes)
• Man Up Film
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 1 hour 54 minutes

Related news

Contribute to this page.

• See more gaps
• Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Recently viewed.