Discover Bath | A Visitor's Introduction to The City of Bath

Why is Bath Worth a Visit?

Bath is worth visiting for its fascinating history, stunning Georgian architecture, and the unique experience of its natural hot springs. The city is home to one of the best-preserved Roman bathhouses in the world and is known for its elegant 18th-century buildings. Beyond its architectural wonders, Bath has a thriving arts scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and theatres. The city also offers excellent dining, shopping, and cultural festivals.

Bath Highlights: Things to See and Do in Bath

1. The Roman Baths

The Roman Baths are Bath’s most famous attraction, offering a fascinating look into the city’s ancient past. Built around 70 AD, the bathhouse complex allows visitors to explore the well-preserved Great Bath, the ancient temple, and the original Roman pavements. The site’s interactive exhibits and museum displays bring Roman life to life, explaining how the thermal springs made Bath an important spa destination in Roman Britain. Although you can’t bathe in the Roman Baths themselves, the experience of walking among ancient ruins is unforgettable.

2. Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey, also known as the Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, is a magnificent Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the city. Originally founded in the 7th century, Bath Abbey boasts stunning stained-glass windows, intricate stonework, and a spectacular fan-vaulted ceiling. Visitors can explore the abbey’s beautiful interior, climb the tower for panoramic views of Bath, or simply relax in the peaceful abbey courtyard. Bath Abbey also hosts regular concerts and services, making it a centre for cultural and spiritual life in the city.

3. Royal Crescent

The Royal Crescent is one of Bath’s most iconic landmarks, a sweeping row of 30 grand Georgian townhouses that overlook Royal Victoria Park. Designed by John Wood the Younger in the 18th century, this elegant crescent is a masterpiece of Georgian architecture and is considered one of the finest examples of its kind in England. No. 1 Royal Crescent, a museum showcasing life in Georgian Bath, offers visitors the chance to step back in time and experience the opulence of 18th-century living. The museum’s period rooms are filled with fine art, furniture, and artefacts that evoke the lifestyle of Bath’s elite during its golden age.

4. Thermae Bath Spa

Experience Bath’s famous hot springs at the modern Thermae Bath Spa, where you can bathe in mineral-rich thermal waters just as the Romans once did. This luxurious spa offers indoor and outdoor thermal pools, steam rooms, and a range of treatments. The highlight is the rooftop pool, which offers stunning views over Bath’s skyline, especially at sunset. A visit to Thermae Bath Spa is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the city’s ancient tradition of relaxation and wellness.

5. Pulteney Bridge

Pulteney Bridge, built in 1774, is one of the most beautiful and unique bridges in the world, with shops built along both sides. The bridge crosses the River Avon and offers stunning views of the river and the cascading Pulteney Weir below. Its neoclassical design and elegant arches make it a favourite spot for photography. You can explore the shops along the bridge or enjoy a walk along the riverside, where there are plenty of cafés and restaurants to relax and take in the views.

6. The Circus

Close to the Royal Crescent, The Circus is another of Bath’s architectural gems. This circular set of Georgian townhouses was designed by John Wood the Elder and is known for its classical Roman-inspired design. The Circus is divided into three segments of equal length, forming a perfect circle, and is adorned with Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian columns. A stroll through The Circus offers a great perspective on Bath’s architectural heritage and the city’s Georgian elegance.

7. The Jane Austen Centre

Jane Austen fans will love visiting the Jane Austen Centre, which celebrates the author’s time in Bath and her literary works. Austen lived in Bath for several years, and two of her novels, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion, are set in the city. The centre offers insights into Austen’s life, her writing, and the Regency period. Visitors can enjoy exhibits, period costumes, and a traditional afternoon tea in the Regency Tea Room. The annual Jane Austen Festival, held in September, draws fans from all over the world who dress in Regency attire and take part in literary events and celebrations.

8. Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House

Sally Lunn’s is one of Bath’s oldest houses, dating back to the 15th century, and is famous for its Sally Lunn bun, a sweet, light bread that has been a local favourite for centuries. This historic eating house serves the famous buns with a variety of toppings, both sweet and savoury, and is a great place to experience a traditional Bath delicacy. The downstairs kitchen museum provides a fascinating look into the history of the building and the original bakery.

9. The American Museum & Gardens

A hidden gem just outside Bath’s city centre, the American Museum & Gardens is the only museum of American decorative arts outside the United States. Located in the beautiful Claverton Manor, the museum offers a fascinating collection of furniture, textiles, and folk art, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of America from the colonial period to the 19th century. The museum’s exhibits provide insights into American history, culture, and decorative arts, while the surrounding gardens offer stunning views of the Avon Valley and are perfect for a peaceful walk. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and seasonal events, making it a must-visit for history and art lovers.

10. Holburne Museum

The Holburne Museum, located at the end of Great Pulteney Street, houses a collection of fine and decorative arts, including paintings by artists such as Gainsborough and Stubbs. The museum is set in a grand Georgian building and also features beautiful gardens where visitors can relax. With a variety of temporary exhibitions and events, the Holburne Museum is a cultural hub in Bath that’s perfect for art lovers.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:

Bath is well-connected by train, road, and air. Trains from London Paddington to Bath Spa Station take about 1.5 hours, with regular services throughout the day. Bath is also accessible by train from Bristol, which is just 15 minutes away. If you're driving, Bath is located about 2 hours from London via the M4 motorway, and there are regular coach services to and from major UK cities. The nearest airport is Bristol Airport, which is about a 45-minute drive from Bath, with direct buses running to the city centre.

Getting Around:

Bath’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of each other. The city’s historic centre is pedestrian-friendly, and walking is the best way to take in the beautiful architecture. Bath also has a reliable bus service, including a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus that stops at key sites around the city. Taxis and bike rentals are also available for those who prefer not to walk.

Parking:

Parking in Bath can be limited, especially in the city centre, so it’s best to use one of the park-and-ride services at Lansdown, Odd Down, or Newbridge, which offer regular buses into the city. If you prefer to park in the city, there are several car parks, including Charlotte Street Car Park and SouthGate Car Park, which are centrally located but can get busy during peak times.

Dining:

Bath’s dining scene is diverse, offering everything from traditional British fare to modern international cuisine. Sotto Sotto is one of the city’s most popular Italian restaurants, located in a cosy basement setting, while The Circus Restaurant offers contemporary European dishes using local ingredients. For a classic afternoon tea, visit The Pump Room, where you can enjoy tea in a historic setting overlooking the Roman Baths. Don’t forget to try the famous Sally Lunn bun at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House, a Bath institution.

Shopping:

Bath is a great destination for shopping, with a mix of independent boutiques, high-street brands, and artisan markets. Milsom Street and the surrounding streets are home to a variety of shops, including designer stores, jewellery shops, and local crafts. For something unique, head to the Bath Guildhall Market, the city’s oldest shopping venue, where you can find everything from antiques to local produce. Bath’s Christmas Market, held in November and December, is also a must-visit, offering festive gifts, food, and drinks in a magical setting.

When to Visit:

The best time to visit Bath is between April and October, when the weather is mild, and the city’s gardens and parks are in full bloom. Summer (June to August) is the busiest time, with long days perfect for sightseeing and outdoor events. However, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Winter in Bath can be chilly, but the Bath Christmas Market and cosy cafés make it a lovely time to visit for a festive break.

Local Events:

Bath hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Bath Festival, held in May, celebrates music and literature with a programme of live performances, talks, and events. The Jane Austen Festival in September attracts fans of the author for a week of Regency-themed events, including a grand parade. The Bath Christmas Market transforms the city into a winter wonderland in late November and December, with over 150 stalls selling gifts, food, and drinks. Bath also hosts regular concerts and performances at venues like The Theatre Royal and Komedia.

Exploring Beyond Bath:

Bath is a great base for exploring the wider region. The Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty known for its charming villages and rolling hills, is just a short drive away. Stonehenge, one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments, is about an hour’s drive from Bath and makes for a fascinating day trip. Bristol, a vibrant city with a rich maritime history and cultural scene, is only 15 minutes away by train.