Bath City Guide: things to do in Bath
Welcome to Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage city nestled in the picturesque Somerset countryside. Renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture, rich history, and natural hot springs, Bath offers a unique blend of cultural splendor and relaxation. With its Roman origins, elegant streets, and world-class attractions, Bath invites you to immerse yourself in its timeless beauty and explore a city that has captivated visitors for centuries.
Food and Drink in Bath
Food and drink within 10 miles of Bath.
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Coffee #1 | Bath - City Centre
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Latest news about things to do in Bath
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Thermae Bath Spa: a review in 2024
1st Aug 2024
Bath is unique for being the only place in the UK where hot water springs from the earth. It leaves the ground at 45 degrees Celsius, and they cool it slightly at the spa so it’s not too hot for bathers.Read article
The Arts in Bath
The arts within 10 miles of Bath.
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Bath World Heritage Centre
Herschel Museum of Astronomy
No.1 Royal Crescent Museum
Bath Royal Literary & Scientific Institution
Museum of East Asian Art
The only UK museum solely dedicated to the arts and cultures of East and South East Asia, with collections spanning over 7,000 years.
Jane Austen Centre
The Jane Austen Centre celebrates Bath's most famous resident. A must-see for all Jane Austen fans. Set in a Georgian Town House you'll find a permanent exhibition with interactive exhibits, Regency dressed actors, a lovely tea room and a quality gift shop.
Assembly Rooms and Fashion Museum
Scribble and Sketch
All the family are welcome at Scribble and Sketch in communities across the city! Join us for free creative activities with an artist, try something new and have fun together.
Black Swan Arts
Find our more about our Studio Shops
Visit River House café's website
Find out more on The Write Place's website
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Special offers and deals to enjoy in Bath
From reduced entry prices to free pizza, we'll keep you posted of the best promotions you can use in Bath.
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21 Birthday freebies to make your special day even more special
5th Mar 2025
It’s always great when it’s your birthday - but I’ve been compiling a list of treats to make birthdays even better! There are lots of places who will give you a freebie when it’s your special day so bookmark this post and be sure to refer back to it ahead of your next Birthday.Read article -
Last minute Valentine's presents for quality time
13th Feb 2025
BuyAGift and Red Letter Days currently promotions on their "Activities for Two" and "Afternoon Tea for 2" box sets, along with lots of other options, for a great Valentine's Gift idea.Read article -
Free main course from Bella Italia - for a limited time only
7th Feb 2025
Another day, another Italian restaurant chain offering discounts! And we're here for it!Read article
Music in Bath
Music within 10 miles of Bath.
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The Vintage Explosion
Get ready to be transported back in time for a night of authentic Rock n Roll, Swing and Rhythm and Blues at Komedia, Bath on 22nd August 2025.
Quadrant Park 35 Year Anniversary Party
Original DJ legends Andy Carroll and John Kelly, together with Live DJ and PA from KKlass bring you a original 1990s house music night
Subhumans + Gimic + Kill Mirror Image
Anarcho-punk legends Subhumans play their grandest home-city show to date with support from Gimic and Kill Mirror Image
Dubtendo Day Festival - Bristol
All levels have lead up to this final boss event. The Dubtendo Day Festival. The ultimate raving & gaming experience is coming to Bristol this Summer
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Roman Baths
Immerse yourself in history at the Roman Baths, ancient bathing and socializing complex built around natural hot springs. Explore the ruins and the interactive museum to learn about the city's Roman origins.
Bath Abbey
Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of Bath Abbey. Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
The Royal Crescent
Marvel at the iconic Royal Crescent, a sweeping terrace of Georgian townhouses that epitomizes Bath's architectural elegance.
Pulteney Bridge
Visit Pulteney Bridge, a picturesque bridge spanning the River Avon and lined with shops, reminiscent of Florence's Ponte Vecchio.
The Jane Austen Centre
Delve into the world of beloved author Jane Austen, who had strong ties to Bath. The center offers insight into her life, novels, and the Regency era.
Thermae Bath Spa
Indulge in relaxation at the Thermae Bath Spa, where you can enjoy the natural thermal waters while taking in breathtaking views of the city.
Holburne Museum
Explore the Holburne Museum, home to a diverse collection of art and artifacts spanning centuries, from Renaissance treasures to contemporary works.
Bath Skyline Walk
Embark on the Bath Skyline Walk, a circular trail offering panoramic views of the city, meadows, and woodlands.
Sally Lunn's Historic Eating House
Taste the famous Sally Lunn Bun, a culinary delight that dates back to the 18th century, at Sally Lunn's Historic Eating House.
Sport in Bath
Sport within 10 miles of Bath.
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Dorothy Coleburn Dance School
Quality dance classes taught in purpose built studios, Dorothy Coleborn School of Dance, Bath welcomes children and adults of all dancing abilities.
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History
Bath, a picturesque city in Somerset, England, boasts a history that spans millennia and a reputation as a hub of cultural significance. Its story is one of Roman engineering, Georgian elegance, and a legacy of healing waters.
The city's history reaches back to Roman times when it was known as "Aquae Sulis," a spa town centered around natural thermal springs. The Romans constructed the iconic Baths, a complex of baths, temples, and a sacred spring, which stands as a testament to their architectural prowess and belief in the therapeutic powers of the waters. This Roman heritage is still palpable in the city's architecture and layout.
Bath experienced a resurgence during the Georgian era when it became a fashionable destination for the British aristocracy. Architect John Wood the Elder designed the city's signature feature, the Georgian Crescents, characterized by graceful terraced houses and stunning vistas. The Royal Crescent and the Circus are prominent examples of Georgian architectural splendor.
An Enduring Cultural Icon
Bath's fame as a spa town continued to flourish through the centuries, leading to the development of luxury hotels and elegant public spaces. In the 19th century, Jane Austen found inspiration in Bath, setting two of her novels in the city. This literary connection contributes to Bath's enduring charm and cultural allure.
In modern times, Bath's history and architectural heritage have earned it the honor of being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city's commitment to preservation and restoration ensures that its Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, and cultural landmarks remain captivating to visitors from around the world.
The Great Outdoors in Bath
The great outdoors within 10 miles of Bath.
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Bathampton Meadow | Avon Wildlife Trust
Wet meadows and an ox-bow lake, abundant in migrant and water birds, butterflies and dragonflies.
Browne's Folly | Avon Wildlife Trust
Commanding views towards Bath with ancient woodland and flower-rich grasslands where rare orchids grow.
Pumpkin Patch - Avon Valley
Grab a wheelbarrow and roam through the massive pumpkin patch to pick your perfect pumpkin near Bristol and Bath with parking. Open on selected dates from 28th Sept - 31st October.
Willsbridge Valley | Avon Wildlife Trust
Former mill, quarry and coal dramway, now an oasis of wildlife, with woodlands, ponds and a wildlife garden.
Stephen's Vale | Avon Wildlife Trust
Wooded valley with a beautiful waterfall. Perfect spot for bluebells in Spring, diverse plant species, birds and butterflies.
Folly Farm | Avon Wildlife Trust
A peaceful unspoilt landscape, with rare wildflower meadows and clear views across the Mendip Hills.
Hollow Marsh Meadow | Somerset Wildlife Trust
This hay meadow nature reserve offers glorious displays of wild flowers including orchids from spring to mid summer and is a great reminder of how wildlife rich our countryside can be if given a chance. On a warm day it really does throng with life and can be actually quite noisy with the sound of buzzing insects.
Burledge Hill | Avon Wildlife Trust
A flower-rich grassland on the north-eastern fringes of the Mendip Hills, overlooking Chew Valley Lake.
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Things to do for sports fans in Bath
Bath offers a diverse range of sports and outdoor activities against the backdrop of its historic and scenic setting. Whether you're a spectator or an active participant, there's something for everyone to enjoy:
- Rugby: Bath is renowned for its rugby culture, with Bath Rugby Club being a prominent fixture. You can catch thrilling matches at the Recreation Ground, where the team competes in national and international tournaments.
- Golf: Enjoy a round of golf at one of Bath's beautiful golf courses, such as the Bath Golf Club. These courses offer picturesque landscapes and challenging play for golf enthusiasts.
- Cycling: Explore the scenic countryside around Bath on two wheels. The city offers cycling routes catering to various skill levels, from leisurely rides along the canal to more challenging hill routes.
- Rowing and Boating: Experience the River Avon by participating in rowing or boating activities. The Bath Boating Station offers opportunities to rent rowboats, punts, and canoes for a leisurely journey along the river.
Whether you're interested in traditional sports, outdoor activities, or spectating, Bath's blend of historical charm and natural beauty creates an inviting backdrop for sports enthusiasts to enjoy a variety of active pursuits.
History and Heritage in Bath
History and heritage within 10 miles of Bath.
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Stoney Littleton Long Barrow | English Heritage
One of the finest accessible examples of a Neolithic chambered tomb, with its multiple burial chambers open to view. Bring a torch and experience the burial chambers at first hand.
Sir Bevil Grenville's Monument | English Heritage
Erected to commemorate the heroism of a Royalist commander and his Cornish pikemen at the Battle of Lansdown, 1643, this monument marks the spot where he fell.
Farleigh Hungerford Castle | English Heritage
Impressive 14th century castle with hidden treasures and sinister past. Chapel with rare medieval wall paintings and in the crypt, the best collection of human-shaped lead coffins in Britain.
Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn | English Heritage
A spectacular 14th century monastic stone barn, 51 metres (168 feet) long, with an amazing timber cruck roof. Originally a part of the medieval farmstead belonging to Shaftesbury Abbey
Stanton Drew Circles and Cove | English Heritage
Though the 3rd largest collection of prehistoric standing stones in England, the three circles and three-stone cove are surprisingly little-known. Originally part of a much more elaborate ritual site.
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Travelling to Bath
By Car
Bath is easily accessible by car via the M4 motorway, which connects London and South Wales. The city is well signposted from the motorway. There are several parking options available, including city center car parks and park-and-ride facilities.
By Train
Bath is well-connected by train, with direct services from London Paddington and other major cities. The Bath Spa railway station is conveniently located near the city center, allowing easy access to the main attractions.
Getting Around
Bath's compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot. The city center's historic streets, architectural marvels, and cultural sites are within walking distance of each other. Public buses and taxis are available for traveling to areas farther from the city center.
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Exploring further afield?
Take a look at a few other places in the surrounding area.
Explore more things to do in Somerset