bath tourist information map

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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

To help you plan a safe and enjoyable trip to Bath, we have put together a guide to all the things you need to know before your visit.

The guide has the answers to all your questions, from what’s open and the safety precautions in place, to where to park and which public toilets are open.

WELCOME AMBASSADORS

The Bath BID Welcome Ambassadors are the friendly faces of Bath, offering everybody a warm and informed welcome to the city centre. Look out for them as you wander around the city; they will be dressed in bright blue Welcome to Bath jackets.

If you have a question or are looking for advice or recommendations, the team will be happy to help.

PUBLIC TOILETS

There is nothing worse than needing the toilet but not knowing where to go. You can browse public toilets that are currently open in Bath on our handy interactive map.

MAP OF BATH

Planning your next trip to Bath? To help you get around the city and pinpoint the places you’d like to discover, you can download our  Map of Bath .

Alternatively, you can pick up a map from our  Welcome Ambassadors  while you’re in the city; look out for their bright blue Welcome to Bath jackets as you stroll around the city centre.

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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.

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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.

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bath

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Widely considered one of England's most attractive cities , Bath is famous for the archeological attraction from which it takes its name: its 2,000-year-old Roman baths.

Nestled in the Avon Valley between the Cotswolds and the Mendip Hills in the beautiful county of Somerset , Bath is also well known for its perfectly preserved honey-colored Georgian houses .

Today, some 500 of the city's buildings are considered of historical or architectural importance. Bath was granted World Heritage Site status in 1987, one of only a handful of such locations in the UK.

In addition to enjoying the city's spectacular architecture, parks, and gardens, popular things to do include exploring Bath's many museums, entertainment venues, and tourist attractions. And don't worry about getting lost. Handy maps and signage are located in most public areas and major intersections, making the job of finding your favorite points of interest that much easier.

Bath is well known for its many festivals and events, including the Bath Christmas Market , held mid-November to mid-December. Also noteworthy is the Bath International Music Festival , held over two weeks each May.

Learn more about what to see, as well as popular sightseeing opportunities and tours, with our list of the top things to do in Bath, England.

1. Visit the Historic Roman Baths

2. explore bath's georgian roots in royal crescent, 3. take a tour of bath abbey, 4. pulteney bridge, 5. get pampered at thermae bath spa, 6. take a peek inside the cross bath, 7. get your art fix (and more) at the holburne museum, 8. get dressed up at the fashion museum bath, 9. sally lunn's historic eating house, 10. herschel museum of astronomy, 11. the jane austen centre, 12. mary shelley's house of frankenstein, 13. see a show at theatre royal, 14. the museum of east asian art, 15. take a trip to the american museum and gardens, 16. explore the victoria art gallery, 17. the bath festival, 18. prior park landscape garden, where to stay in bath for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in bath, bath - climate chart.

While the ancient Romans are credited for having established Bath's ancient hot springs as a place of relaxation and rejuvenation, legend has it their healing powers were discovered some 500 years earlier by a British king.

But it was the Romans who left their mark, building the city's famous Roman Baths and Temple of Sulis Minerva in 75 BCE around the largest of the city's three hot springs. It's not difficult to see the attraction: the water contains 43 different minerals, gushes from a depth of nearly 10,000 feet at a rate of 275,000 gallons a day, and is a constant 46.5 degrees Celsius.

Voted Britain's most romantic buildings, the award-winning Roman Baths and Temple are among the finest examples of Roman architecture remaining in England and attract more than 1.3 million visitors each year. Many of the artifacts found during various archeological digs, including altar stones and exquisite mosaics, are on display in the museum or around the Great Bath itself.

While regular free guided tours are available, those wanting to go at their own pace can pick up an excellent audioguide with their tickets. A version of this handy guide is also available for children, who are encouraged to engage with staff dressed in authentic period costumes. Tickets for the Roman Baths are timed and need to be booked in advance.

Feeling peckish after all that sightseeing? Book a table at the elegant Pump Room Restaurant in a setting that has been serving great meals and afternoon teas for over 200 years. Past guests have included no less than Charles Dickens and Jane Austen. Live music and samples of fresh spring water are included.

If you're looking to combine the Roman Baths with a tour of other city attractions, consider joining a fun two-hour Bath city walking tour . Highlights of these morning or afternoon tours include the best parts of the baths, including the hot springs, the Great Bath, the pump rooms, and the changing rooms, plus a walk to Royal Crescent and Bath Abbey.

Address: Abbey Churchyard, Bath, England

Official site: www.romanbaths.co.uk

Exploring Bath's perfectly preserved Georgian architecture is probably the second best excuse to visit this beautiful city. A great place to start your adventure is the Museum of Bath Architecture . This unique facility located in a former private chapel perfectly demonstrates how classical design influenced the city's buildings. It's also home to the incredibly detailed Bath Model , a magnificent 1:500 scale architectural model of the historic city center.

Next, walk to the northwest section of the city, where most of the best architectural examples are found. Check out Queen Square and Gay Street, with their beautifully symmetrical façades dating from the early 18th century. Next, head to the Royal Circus , a perfect circle of three-story homes with different classical orders (column types) on each level.

Finally, there's Royal Crescent . This monumental semicircular sweep of residential townhouses is famous for its breathtakingly uniform, palace-like façade. While most homes on the crescent remain privately owned, No.1 Royal Crescent is open to the public and provides a rare glimpse into what life was like for the wealthy, along with their not-so-wealthy servants, in the 1770s.

A variety of guided tours, educational events, and themed itineraries are available.

Address: 1 Royal Crescent, Bath, England

Official site: http://no1royalcrescent.org.uk/

The Gothic cathedral of the Bishop of Bath and Wells, traditionally referred to as the Bath Abbey, was founded in 1499. According to legend, it was built after Bishop Oliver King experienced a vivid dream of angels climbing up and down ladders to and from heaven. He also heard a voice declaring: "The crown should plant an olive tree and the king restore the church."

Interpreted as a sign to rebuild the church, the site of which had been used by Christians as a place of worship since 757 CE, the dream was intricately immortalized in stone on the building's west side. A good time to visit for those with flexible itineraries is during one of the frequent music concerts or public lectures (check the abbey's website for dates and details).

There's also a guided tower tour program, which takes in the bell chamber, clock face, and roof. From here, you'll get a superb view over the city and the neighboring Roman Baths. However, it's a 212-step climb, but a rest area is available halfway up. For a truly memorable experience, an after-dark private tower visit is also available for couples.

While admission to the abbey itself is free, there is a charge to climb the tower. For those wanting a keepsake from their visit, be sure to check out the on-site gift shop.

Address: 11a York Street, Bath, England

Official site: www.bathabbey.org

One of the most recognizable pieces of architecture in Bath, Pulteney Bridge is one of only a handful of bridges with buildings atop them that still exists. Completed in 1774 to connect central Bath to undeveloped land on the opposite side of the River Avon, it's considered one of the most iconic such bridges in the world, and even played a starring role in the film version of Les Misérables ).

Three arches support a variety of quaint little shops and restaurants, and the bridge opens onto Great Pulteney Street with its beautiful Georgian-era homes . The bridge also acts as the departure point for a variety of fun river excursions.

Address: Bridge Street, Bath, England

If you'd like to enjoy the same bathing experience as the ancient Romans who built the original baths here, you're in luck. A dip in the waters of Thermae Bath Spa, located across the street from the Roman Baths, is a unique opportunity to experience the same thermal waters that have drawn people as far back as the Celts to the area for thousands of years.

The facility itself is a pleasing architectural blend of a new modern glass-faced structure built in 2006 and original Georgian-era buildings. The main bathing area, the New Royal Bath , consists of a stunning open-air rooftop swimming pool plus an indoor pool, two thermal baths, two steam rooms, as well as an ice chamber. Also worth checking out are the original 18th-century "hot bath" and the delightful garden-side wellness suite.

A number of spa treatments are available, including water massages and hot stone therapies. A fun thing for couples to do is to book one of the romantic twilight packages, including dinner (there's an on-site restaurant), a spa treatment, and a rooftop pool session at sunset.

Address: The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath Street, Bath, England

Official site: www.thermaebathspa.com

Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Thermae Bath Spa, and operated by the same company, is the Cross Bath . This historic spa facility provides a unique opportunity to take a dip in the city's ancient waters.

A highlight of a visit to this fully-renovated 18th-century building includes having access to the original open-air thermal bath. Adding to the fun is the fact that only 10 guests are permitted at a time.

For a truly memorable experience, your 1.5-hour experience can be booked for private sessions, too – a great option for couples and small groups of friends. As with the Thermae Bath Spa, robes and towels are included with your visit. When not in use, a new glass door allows curious passersby to take a peek into the facility.

Address: 9, 10 Hot Bath Street, Bath, England

Official site: www.thermaebathspa.com/spa-sessions-cross-bath/

The mainstay of the Holburne Museum's excellent collection of art includes paintings by Gainsborough, Reynolds, and Stubbs. There's also a large collection of 18th-century silver, Wedgwood porcelain, Renaissance bronzes, and early period furniture.

Housed in the former Sydney Hotel, the museum now includes a garden café overlooking lovely Sydney Gardens , famous as Britain's only surviving 18th-century pleasure gardens.

A variety of events and educational programs are held frequently, including classical music performances and lectures. If you time it right, a fun thing to do is participate in the museum's "late night" programs, which allows you to explore its many exhibits after hours. A café and shop are located on the premises.

Address: Great Pulteney Street, Bathwick, Bath, England

Official site: www.holburne.org

After taking in Bath's splendid architecture, you'll no doubt want to learn a little more about the styles and fashions that would have adorned the residents of the city's many exquisite homes. Housed in the architecturally stunning Assembly Rooms , the Fashion Museum contains a world-class collection of contemporary and historical clothing, including 150 dressed figures and more than 30,000 original items dating from the late 16th century to the present day.

Established in 1963, the museum's displays cover a variety of themes such as men's and women's wear, day and evening dress, as well as modern alternative fashion.

Highlights include a unique "dress of the year" wardrobe of dresses from the best-known dressmakers and designers, which have been collected since the museum's opening, with one new example being added each year. Examples can be seen from such leading brands as Mary Quant, Giorgio Armani, and Ralph Lauren.

For kids who enjoy dressing up, a fun thing to do is to try on some of the reproduction garments made available for visitors. The museum also has a good café, as well as a gift shop. Informative audioguides are included with the price of admission.

Address: Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath, England

Official site: www.fashionmuseum.co.uk/

Dating from 1482 and rebuilt in 1622, this living museum and historic eating house is famous for its delicious Sally Lunn's Buns, made from secret traditional recipes. Actor Nicolas Cage is reportedly a fan of their cinnamon butter topping. And he's right: they're delicious.

Also try the homemade lemon curd with clotted cream bun. So popular are they, you'll more than likely find yourself lining up with people from across the globe, and versions of the bun are popular in places like Williamsburg, Virginia, and New Zealand.

Just steps from Bath Abbey, the cellar museum demonstrates how the site has been used to refresh weary travelers since Roman times. Highlights include the original kitchen, an old oven dating from 1140, along with the only visible remains of medieval Bath.

The museum also features a fascinating display portraying how parts of the old city were raised an entire story to save it from flooding, and, of course, to allow posh Georgians a better place to promenade.

The best times to visit and avoid the crowds are around 10am or late afternoon near dinnertime; tables can be reserved for the latter. Alternatively, grab a bun or two as a takeaway.

Address: 4 North Parade Passage, Bath, England

Official site: www.sallylunns.co.uk

Housed in a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse, the Herschel Museum of Astronomy contains numerous artifacts related to the acclaimed musician and astronomer, William Herschel.

Notable things to do at the museum include viewing original pieces of music and numerous instruments, as well as many references to his greatest achievement, the discovery of the planet Uranus in 1781. This groundbreaking feat was made using a telescope Herschel designed and constructed himself in this very building.

Self-guided audio tours are available, with many replicas of Herschel's equipment being available for visitors to handle and experience. A variety of fun educational programs are also available in the museum and its workshop. An authentic Georgian-era garden is also available to explore.

Another itinerary-worthy attraction is the Museum of Bath at Work . Showcasing 2,000 years of Bath's commercial development, the museum's highlights include a reconstruction of a Victorian engineering and mineral water business that ran unchanged through to the 1960s, a stone quarry and crane, as well as a fully functioning cabinet maker's workshop.

Of interest to philatelists is the Bath Postal Museum , a fun diversion with displays of related materials and numerous antique postboxes.

Address: 19 New King Street, Bath, England

Official site: https://herschelmuseum.org.uk

Fans of English literature, and Georgian-era literature in particular, will want to make sure a visit to the Jane Austen Centre on historic Gay Street is included in their Bath travel itinerary. Austen famously vacationed in Bath before living here full-time from 1801 to 1806, a city that, at the time, was a gathering place for the country's upper classes, drawn by its famous baths, rural setting, and vibrant social scene.

Highlights of a visit include touring the well-preserved former townhome with a period-costumed guide (guided tours of other city landmarks are also available), and enjoying a wide variety of displays and materials relating to the author's time in Bath. There's even a waxwork of the author, constructed over a two-year period with guidance from forensic scientists to ensure it resembles Austen (of whom no realistic images exist) as closely as possible.

Another worthwhile place to visit is the center's tearoom, where you can enjoy an authentic high tea experience. There and there's also a well-stocked shop carrying the author's works and other souvenirs.

If traveling to Bath in the autumn, try to time your visit to coincide with the annual Jane Austen Festival . Held each September, this 10-day celebration culminates in a parade, which draws thousands of visitors and fans, most dressed in authentic period costumes. There's also a much-anticipated Masked Ball, something Austen herself would no doubt have enjoyed.

Address: 40 Gay Street, Bath, England

Official site: www.janeausten.co.uk

Located just a few steps up from The Jane Austen Centre is one of Bath's newest places to visit: Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein. Opened in 2021, this one-of-a-kind attraction is an interesting mix of museum and immersive fun.

In addition to the informative displays outlining Shelley's sometimes tumultuous relationships and at times tragic life, it also offers a fascinating look at how her famous story sparked a virtual industry of monster-related literature and, ultimately, cinema.

As you make your way, you'll see, and in some cases have a chance to play with, a variety of interactive devices that help drive the story along until, eventually, you find yourself face-to-face with the monster Frankenstein just as Shelley wrote him.

You'll then have a chance to sit in an authentic silent-era movie house to watch cinematic incarnations of the famous monster. Afterwards, try your hand at the monster-themed escape room and, if you dare, enter the building's basement for a spooky walk-through experience. A gift shop selling related souvenirs is also on-site.

Address: 37 Gay Street, Bath

Official site: www.houseoffrankenstein.com

Opened in 1805 and host to some of the biggest stars of live theater ever since, the spectacular Theatre Royal was completely renovated in 2010. Today, it's considered one of the finest examples of surviving Georgian-era architecture in England.

In addition to the opportunity to enjoy first-rate theatrical and musical performances, a visit will expose you to the building's stunningly decorated interior. Highlights include the ornate plasterwork, plush seating, and large chandelier in the 900-seat auditorium, notable for its three separate galleries. It's also rumored to be haunted, its most famous ghost being the perfumed Grey Lady.

In addition to its ever-changing roster of visiting and locally produced performances, a number of annual events are also held here, including the popular Shakespeare Unplugged Festival. Theatre Royal also houses a second stage, the Ustinov Studio . This studio theater opened in 1997 and offers an eclectic mix of theater, dance, music, and comedy.

Theatre Royal is also home to a dedicated children's theater. The Egg opened in 2005 and hosts numerous kid-focused productions, educational programs and workshops, as well as the fun Family Theatre Festival. In addition to The Egg's café, two restaurants serve both lunch and dinner.

Address: Saw Close, Bath, England

Official site: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Be sure to add the Museum of East Asian Art (MEAA) to your list of Bath attractions to explore. Housed in another of the city's gorgeous old Georgian townhomes, this fascinating museum opened in 1993 and contains many fine collections of carvings made from jade and bamboo.

There are also many bronze sculptures and ceramics from across East and Southeast Asia, including Korea, Japan, and China, in the collection. Some of the 2,000-plus items you'll enjoy seeing in this one-of-a-kind museum date back more than 7,000 years.

In addition to its permanent displays, the museum hosts a variety of interesting visiting exhibits throughout the year, as well as educational programs and events, ensuring a return visit is worthwhile. The museum shop is well worth visiting, too, and stocks a sizable range of Asian-inspired products.

Address: 12 Bennett Street, Bath, England

Official site: https://meaa.org.uk

Set amid 120 acres of stunning Somerset countryside just three miles outside of Bath, the American Museum and Gardens is home to a superb collection of antiquities from colonial times right up to the Civil War years. Set in a majestic 19th-century manor house, this fascinating museum was founded by a couple of antique collectors to house their vast collection of American decorative arts, and is the only museum of its kind to be located outside the US.

Highlights include authentic American-styled rooms and furnishings representing various regions and periods from the country's history, along with original quilts, maps, textiles, and folk art. Exhibits dealing with contemporary events are also held and are rotated annually.

Be sure to also allow time to explore the museum's magnificent gardens and grounds. A particularly fun thing to do is to wander the replica of George Washington's Mount Vernon garden. There is also an arboretum to explore, as well as a pleasant trail that takes you past a wide variety of trees native to the US.

The museum's recent addition is the New American Garden, which includes an impressive rose collection along with shrubs and perennials. Time your visit right, and you can participate in a variety of living history programs, including reenactments of battles and events from America's rich history. There's also an on-site gift shop selling a range of related souvenirs.

Location: Claverton Manor, Claverton Down, Claverton, Bath, England

Official site: http://americanmuseum.org/

Since throwing open its doors to the public for the first time in 1900, the world-class Victoria Art Gallery has remained one of Bath's most-visited museums. Named after Queen Victoria, who that same year celebrated her diamond jubilee, the museum contains superb collections of works by the likes of such well-respected artists as Gainsborough, Turner, and Sickert.

Additional exhibitions may feature items from the gallery's impressive collections of pottery, porcelain, glass, and watches, and are rotated frequently. As well as being of interest to adult visitors, there are also plenty of fun things for kids to do here, including popular activities such as crafts and drawing.

Of special interest for art fans are the Art Store Tours. These fun behind-the-scenes tours offer a look at areas and artworks not normally available to the public. Be sure to also pick up your handy guide (a charge applies) from the museum shop.

Official site: www.victoriagal.org.uk

Picking up where the old Bath International Music Festival, established in 1948, left off, the 17-day-long Bath Festival is an exciting multi-arts event that continues to draw huge crowds of festival-goers to the city each May. Music, of course, continues to play a large role in the festival, with everything from jazz to classical to folk and international music being included.

A must-attend highlight is the Party in the City event. This exciting evening of music is free to enjoy, with upwards of 2,000 performers in attendance from various music genres playing at multiple venues across Bath. There's also a strong literary component, which includes everything from poetry to contemporary fiction.

For those traveling with kids, consider a visit in the autumn for the Bath Children's Literature Festival , billed as the largest such festival in Europe. Highlights include author readings; illustration workshops; and plenty of family-friendly fun activities, including arts, crafts, and games.

Address: 9-10 Bath Street, Bath, England

Official site: https://bathfestivals.org.uk

Just two miles southeast of Bath is one of the most picturesque rural settings to be found anywhere in England: Prior Park Landscape Garden. Built between 1735 and 1750, Prior Park itself was the creation of renowned architect John Wood, whose design is considered to be one of the best examples of the Palladian-style mansions so popular during the period.

But it's the beautiful gardens, designed by poet Alexander Pope and famed garden architect Capability Brown, that so define this National Trust property, and which make it a must for any Somerset itinerary.

A focus of any visit should be exploring the magnificent and extremely photogenic Palladian bridge, one of only four such bridges still standing worldwide. Other features of note include a picturesque Gothic temple, a grotto, and a good-sized serpentine lake.

In fact, so pleasing an experience is wandering this property that you'll certainly want to take your time. This is especially true if you combine it with a walk along the Bath Skyline pathway , which can be joined close by.

Also worth doing is taking one of the park's first-rate free guided tours. These 90-minute walking tours include wildlife and fungi excursions, a head gardener option, as well as seasonal explorations. Autumn is a good time to visit for the colors and the smaller crowds.

And if all that walking makes you thirsty, pay a visit to the fun "tea shed" for a hot beverage.

Address: Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, England

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/prior-park-landscape-garden

Thanks to its status as one of the most visited small cities in England, Bath offers no end of choices when it comes to finding top-rated accommodations close to the city's attractions, most of which are located in the heart of this ancient city. Here are some highly rated and conveniently located hotels we recommend that are close to the Roman Baths and the city's other top cultural attractions.

Luxury Hotels :

• A favorite for those seeking a high-end experience is The Gainsborough Bath Spa , a sumptuously decorated heritage hotel that offers thermal pools, turndown service, and a delightful afternoon tea – all just steps away from the Roman Baths.
• Situated on Bath's most famous street, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa offers guests a truly luxury experience in an authentic Georgian-era building, all just a few minutes' walk away from top attractions such as Bath Abbey. A full English breakfast is provided.
• A luxurious stay can also be enjoyed at the intimate boutique-style hotel No.15 Great Pulteney , located a short stroll from historic Pulteney Bridge.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A comfortable stay can be had at The Roseate Villa , a charming, mid-range boutique hotel boasting welcoming staff and an amazing English breakfast, and which is located on a quiet road close to the city's top points of interest.
• Also worth considering are Pulteney House , a delightful bed-and-breakfast close to Bath Abbey, which offers a free breakfast and parking (a real plus), and SACO Bath , a great choice for those traveling with kids, as it offers larger one- and two-bedroom suites, and is located on St. James Parade just a short walk away from the top things to see and do in Bath.

Budget Hotels :

• For those seeking a centrally located place to stay, the Dukes Bath , a boutique guesthouse located in a beautiful old Georgian townhome, is an elegant yet affordable option worth considering. Breakfast is included.
• Also worthy of a look is Premier Inn Bath City Centre Hotel , a pleasant budget hotel that's conveniently located and offers modern décor and comfortable beds.
• Finally, be sure to check out Harington's Hotel , a charming 300-year-old property situated on a quiet, old cobbled street, which provides easy access to the city's top attractions.

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Easy Day Trips : A great excursion from Bath is to make the 40-minute drive northwest to the larger and equally interesting city of Bristol . The country's oldest harbor is found here and is the place from which John Cabot began his epic voyage to the New World in the late 15th century. A visit should also include Bristol Cathedral, SS Great Britain, the world's first-ever iron-hulled passenger ship, and the historic city center.

Another port city to visit is Southampton, located a 90-minute drive southeast of Bath. Here, you'll want to explore the still intact medieval walls and historic homes, as well as the city's maritime connections along the Titanic Trail.

The tourist attractions of Salisbury are an hour's drive in the same direction. This historic city is famous for its magnificent cathedral and its many well-preserved historic buildings.

Easy Day Trips (Part Two) : The lovely city of Winchester is a popular spot to visit from Bath, just 90 minutes east by car. You'll of course want to visit Winchester Cathedral, as well as nearby Highclere Castle, forever immortalized as the ancestral home of the fictional Crawley family of Downton Abbey fame.

Just a little farther beyond Winchester is Portsmouth , home port of the Royal Naval Museum and HMS Victory , perhaps the country's most famous warship.

Another important naval town is Plymouth , a two-hour drive southwest and worth a visit for its fortifications and the Mayflower Museum, which commemorates the journey of the Pilgrims to North America.

Wales Watching : Thanks to its location, it's easy to cross the Bristol Channel and explore all the highlights of Wales from Bath (it's just over 30 minutes' drive away). Make your first stop Cardiff , a popular destination for the majestic Cardiff Castle and the reconstructed Cardiff Bay area. From here, you're only a few miles from one of the most beautiful parts of South Wales : Brecon Beacons National Park.

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12 Best Things to do in Bath, UK

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

One of the prettiest and most pleasant cities to visit in the UK, Bath has impressively been attracting visitors for millennia thanks to the breath-taking, Roman-built baths after which it is named. While many people still come for its soothing spas and springs, the city is now also noted for its gorgeous Georgian architecture and wealth of picturesque parks.

Set in the southwest of the country, Bath lies in the vast valley of the River Avon amidst the rolling countryside of Somerset. As well as beautiful buildings and lovely green spaces, other things to do in Bath include visiting some of its great museums and galleries which mainly focus on the Georgian period. With an exciting and diverse dining scene to check out alongside a packed schedule of concerts, cultural events and other tourist attractions, Bath certainly has something for everyone to enjoy.

12. Herschel Museum of Astronomy

Once the home of William and Caroline Herschel, this fantastic museum now protects their historic house and highlights their significant astronomical achievements. As well as having rooms full of their original possessions and period pieces to explore, the well-restored Georgian townhouse also contains terrific old telescopes and equipment they used for experiments.

Opened in 1981, the Herschel Museum of Astronomy has lots of interesting artifacts and exhibits to check out on the brother and sister British astronomers. While they both studied the starry night’s sky, it is William who is famed for having discovered Uranus through his home-made telescope in 1781. Besides perusing their musical instruments, you can also watch a short film on the Herschels and wander around their charming garden.

11. Jane Austen Centre

A short stroll from the museum is the lovely Jane Austen Centre which is located just to the north of the city center. The permanent exhibition offers up a fascinating look into the life and legacy of the renowned author as well as her connection to the city and the impact it had on her writing.

Although she only lived in Bath from 1801 to 1806, its vibrant social scene and rural setting had a profound impact on her later novels such as Persuasion and Northanger Abbey being based in the city. Housed within the grand Georgian townhouse you can now find displays and memorabilia that relate to her time in town as well as costumed guides and a waxwork of Jane Austen herself.

10. Prior Park

A very popular and picturesque place, Prior Park is set in a small steep valley overlooking Bath, just five minutes’ drive from the center of town. Built between 1735 and 1750, the lovingly landscaped gardens, their pockets of woods and phenomenal Palladian bridge are a treat to wander around with stupendous scenery and nature wherever you look.

Once part of a deer park, the expansive estate was later turned into a gorgeous garden by the poet Alexander Pope and the landscape gardener Capability Brown. It was these two men who designed its cascading lakes and lush green spaces with grottos, a Gothic temple and ornamental vases also dotted about. The undoubted highlight, however, is its graceful Palladian bridge – just one of four of its kind in the world.

9. Holburne Museum

Home to a huge collection of fine and decorative arts is the excellent Holburne Museum which lies just a short walk from the city center. Surrounded by the pretty Sydney Pleasure Gardens, it boasts an astounding array of artworks with everything from bronzes and ceramics to paintings, portraits and Roman glassworks on display.

Opened in 1882, the city’s first public art gallery is named after Sir William Holburne, an aristocrat and art fanatic whose extensive collection now makes up the core of the museum’s holdings. While ambling about the superb Neoclassical building, you’ll come across masterpieces by famous British artists such as Turner, Stubbs and Gainsborough among others. In addition to exploring its attractive gardens, you can also attend concerts, lectures and cultural events at the museum.

8. The Circus

Curving their way around the tree-studded lawn at their center is the Circus – a ring of handsome historic townhouses that all exhibit the same exquisite Georgian architecture. Built between 1754 and 1768, the striking circle was designed by the architect John Wood, the Elder with its oval layout being based on that of Stonehenge.

Divided into three equal segments, the beautiful three-storey buildings all sport a fabulous facade with each layer representing a different Classical order. Its friezes, for instance, are decorated with triglyphs, serpents and masonic symbols among others while detailed stone acorn finials adorn its parapets. Located just ten minutes’ walk to the north of the center, the Circus is certainly well worth checking out as it represents one of the best examples of Georgian architecture.

7. Fashion Museum Bath

Just a stone’s throw away from the Circus you can find the Fashion Museum Bath which has a huge collection of clothes and costumes to peruse. These date from the end of the sixteenth century to the present day with elegant dresses and gowns on display alongside embroidered shirts and tail-coats from the Georgian times.

Founded in 1963, the museum’s extensive collection of contemporary and historical clothing is now housed in the city’s arresting Assembly Rooms. In their grand galleries you can find fashionable wear for men, women and children with over 30,000 items on show. Besides wandering around its rooms full of impeccably dressed mannequins, you can also dress up in Georgian attire yourself and have your photo taken in front of a backdrop of the Royal Crescent.

6. No. 1 Royal Crescent

Not far from both the Circus and the museum is the Royal Crescent – one of the most popular and photographed places in Bath. At the eastern end of the beautiful row of buildings, you’ll find No. 1 – an historic house museum that illustrates what domestic life and living quarters were like back in Georgian times.

Built between 1767 and 1774, it exhibits some of the finest Palladian architecture in the UK with ionic columns on show alongside a central Doric doorcase. Inside is just as alluring as its restored rooms replete with fine furnishings and period pieces highlight how the wealthy and their servants lived in the eighteenth century. A truly immersive experience, visiting No. 1 Royal Crescent is a must for anyone interested in learning about the city’s history and heritage.

5. Royal Victoria Park

Located right next to the Royal Crescent is one of the prettiest places in the city – the Royal Victoria Park. Opened in 1830 by a then eleven-year-old Princess Victoria, it sprawls over a huge area with paths, flowerbeds and playgrounds to be found alongside lush green spaces and magnificent old monuments.

Popular with both locals and tourists alike, the park offers up all kinds of recreational opportunities with everything from tennis and golf to running, jogging and cycling for you to enjoy. Besides the splendid scenery and nature, there is also a lovely botanical garden to wander around and a replica of a Roman Temple to check out. In addition, it also hosts several cultural events and festivals over the course of the year.

4. Royal Crescent

As aforementioned, the Royal Crescent is one of the city’s standout sights with the sweeping semi-circular terrace of townhouses now almost being synonymous with Bath. One of the best examples of Georgian architecture in the UK, the thirty historic houses make for some great photos thanks to their uniform facades, ionic columns and Palladian style entablature.

Built between 1767 and 1774, the charming crescent was designed by John Wood, the Younger and has a large lawn before it. While many remain full-size townhouses, others have been converted into flats with a hotel and spa also to be found among them. To gain an insight into the history of the area, its architecture and residents, it is well worth heading to No.1 which now acts as an historic house museum.

3. Pulteney Bridge

One of only four such bridges in the world to have shops spanning both sides of it, the phenomenal Pulteney Bridge can be found right in the historic heart of town. Stretching 45 meters in length, the sturdy stone structure crosses the River Avon and exhibits some striking Palladian style architecture.

Named after the wealthy family who commissioned it, the beautiful bridge was completed in 1774 with the architect Robert Adam having been inspired by both the Ponte Vecchio and Ponte di Rialto in Italy. Besides taking in its fine features and snapping photos of the bridge with the weir below it, visitors can also stop by the shops and cafes that line its route. In addition, boat trips along the river depart from the bridge during the sunny summer months.

2. Bath Abbey

Another of Bath’s top attractions is the breath-taking Bath Abbey which lies in the center of the city, right next to the Roman Baths. The last major medieval church to be constructed in the country, it showcases some stunning Gothic architecture with towers and turrets looming above its sculpture-studded western facade.

Although a church has occupied the same site since the seventh century, the current cathedral was only built between 1499 and 1616. While its buttresses and battlements, pinnacles and parapets all look very impressive, it is its elegant interior that is the real showstopper. This is because sparkling stained-glass windows and touching wall memorials line its nave with the abbey being particularly known for its fabulous fan vaulting.

1. Roman Baths

Lying in the heart of town are the remarkably well-preserved Roman Baths after which the city is named. Now one of its main tourist attractions, the baths were first built by the Romans around two thousand years ago with the current buildings surrounding the hot springs dating to the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

While exploring the incredible complex, visitors will come across pretty pools and amazing old mosaics with sacred springs, statues and an exposed caldarium also on show. Besides enjoying the astounding architecture and taking photos of the majestic baths, you can also learn about its history at its excellent on-site museum. This has lots of ancient artifacts for you to check out with engaging exhibits explaining the significance of the archaeological findings and that of the bathhouses too.

Best Time to Visit Bath

As the sun is shining, the weather is warmest and people are on holiday, summer is the most popular time to visit Bath. In July and August, temperatures average 20 to 21°C (68 to 70°F); perfect for seeing its Roman-built baths or relaxing in its pretty parks and soothing spas.

This though is the busiest and most expensive period of the year with all its hotels, bars and restaurants packed with people. There is a lovely lively atmosphere in the city thanks to colourful events like Bath Carnival. You can also hike about the scenic Somerset countryside surrounding Bath.

Spring and autumn are arguably even better times to visit with April to June and September and October averaging temperatures of 12 to 19°C (53 to 66°F). With fewer crowds around, you can make the most of your time in town and enjoy exciting events like the Bath Festival and Jane Austen Festival. Prices rise again around this time as well as at Easter, other public holidays and weekends.

Outside of these months, the city is relatively quiet as the dark, rainy days of winter set in. There is a spike in visitors in December as its gorgeous Georgian architecture and twinkling Christmas lights create a magical ambience.

Map of Things to do in Bath, UK

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16 Top Places To Visit in Bath – Charming English Town Guide

Set amongst the hilly English countryside, Bath, the only place in the UK with natural hot springs and honey-colored architecture is packed with historic sites, museums, cute cafes, and rewarding walks. Explore the best places to visit in Bath on a day trip or a weekend. 

Bath has always been on my UK travel list. When I was still living in Scotland , I frequently traveled to London and wanted to discover more of what England has to offer , not only focusing on its capital. I managed to visit more English cities, including Brighton , Winchester, Portsmouth , and Oxford. 

I’ve heard stories about Bath’s remarkable Georgian architecture and, of course, the Roman Baths with the only natural hot spring in the UK. When I finally managed to spend part of my weekend in Bath in October this year, I was very happy to be able to explore this charming English town.

Bath is located in South West England, in the country of Somerset. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only place in the UK where you can bathe in the natural hot spa water.

Top Bath places to visit

There are a lot of interesting places to visit in Bath. You can go deep into the history of the town and country by visiting the Roman Baths and various museums, admire the architectural masterpieces, take a stroll along the Avon River, or have afternoon tea in several great restaurants.

You can even go on a walk onto the skyline hills above Bath. Even though for its fame, Bath still managed to keep the feel of a peaceful town, where people are not in a rush and most of the sights can be visited on foot.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. More details here .

Bath day trip or weekend in Bath?

Bath is a short train ride from Oxford or London with frequent train and bus services. You can take a day trip to  Bath  or spend the whole weekend in Bath and you won’t be bored. I only managed to go for a Bath day trip and I wished I could stay longer. The weekend in Bath would be the optimal time for visiting most of the city’s attractions.

Looking for a day trip to Bath from London? Visit Stonehenge and Bath on a day trip from London. Check the prices and book here .

Here is the list of places to visit in Bath with suggestions on where to eat and where to stay in Bath. I’m sure you will like it as much as I did!

The best places to visit in Bath

# the roman baths – is the most famous place to visit in bath.

Any trip to Bath wouldn’t be complete without stepping back into the history of the Roman Baths . The Roman-built magnificent temple and bathing complex created around the UK’s only hot spring still flows with over a million liters of 46°C water every day. 

In the original place of the Baths coming from the Roman area, now there is an extensive museum with the Great Bath, smaller baths and springs, temples, including the Sulis Minerva temple, statues, and exhibitions. One of the finest ancient spas in Europe allows the experience of a world dating from the 1st to the 4th century AD. The first Baths were built here in 70 AD. 

Unfortunately, the water in the Roman Baths can’t be consumed or even touched, because of the bacteria developing in the water. However, before exiting the museum you have a chance to try clean and safe hot spring water from the fountain. It contains 43 minerals and with its metallic smell, it has quite an acquired taste. Spa water has been used for curative treatments for centuries.

It originally included bathing in the hot waters and in the late 17th century drinking the spa water was recognized to treat certain health conditions. Want to be healthier? Gulp some spa water!

After visiting the Roman Baths, you can indulge yourself in modern local cuisine in an elegant way and try afternoon tea in the Pump Rooms restaurant. During your visit there, you can also try the hot spa water at the fountain.

Get to the Baths early to avoid the queue, or book a Roman Baths and City Walking Tour (entry ticket included) to learn more about Bath’s history.

Roman Baths opening times: Vary with the season, check the Roman Baths website.

Price: £16.50 with saver options available

# The Bath Abbey and the Tower tour – two top places to visit in Bath

The Bath Abbey is a popular Bath’s attraction. Made from the honey-colored Bathstone, in the typical Georgian way, it towers over the square, just next to the Roman Baths. While admiring the structure from the outside is worth it, I recommend going inside.

The entrance is free and from there you can see the large stained-glass windows and the beautiful ceiling. However, the best part of visiting the Abbey is taking the Bath Abbey Tower tour.

This tour was one of the highlights of my time in Bath, I loved it so much, that I didn’t want to go back down. As I was the last one descending from the tower on the steep stairs, I heard worried voices calling for me when I wasn’t making my appearance for a while 😉 But, y’all know, those views!

The Bath Abbey Tower tour leads you up 212 narrow spiral steps to the highest point of the building. Fortunately, you don’t do the whole climbing at once (it might make you feel a bit claustrophobic), but you stop on the way. 

You have an opportunity to see the backside of the operating room for the Tower Bell, look at the Bell itself, and stand behind the Tower clock. You also learn a lot about the history of the Abbey, the bells, and the city. And I must say, the guys running the tour, really know how to make you interested. Their witty stories and enthusiasm will make you enjoy the tour a lot.

Bath Abbey Tower tour running times: Every 45 minutes, for exact times check the Bath Abbey website

# Bath Skyline Walk

Bath Skyline Walk  is a great idea for a rewarding morning or afternoon activity. One of the unique things to do in Bath, the 6-mile walk is accessible for all fitness levels and allows you to enter another world, beyond the city. The spectacular views of the Bath Skyline are worth the effort!

# Avon River cruise 

The river Avon is one of the top places to visit in Bath, as it meanders around the city. To see the scenery around the town, you can take a river cruise in one of the small boats. The trips run between April and October and they start just next to Pulteney Bridge.

The boat takes you down the river into the countryside until the little village of Bathampton, where you can get off and explore and then take a boat back. I was very tempted to do it, but I ran out of time and the weather was very cold already.

Boat cruise running times: from April to October

# Pulteney Bridge

The covered Pulteney Bridge was built in the 18th century for William Pulteney to connect Bath to the other side of the River Avon. Thanks to the small damn, the water creates a beautiful shape that can be admired from the shore.

You can stop on the bridge or literally “in the bridge” since as one of a few bridges in the world, it has shops built into its sides. There are many cute little cafes located inside the bridge, from where you can look at the water below you. 

# Various museums and galleries

One thing that Bath is not short of is the number of museums and galleries. The good news is that some of them are free of charge, For others, you need to pay, but they are all very interesting.

Some of the best museums in Bath include:

Assembly Rooms and Fashion Museum

I enjoyed my visit to the Fashion Museum . I’m not a fashion blogger or not even a fashion travel blogger. I should probably leave the talk about fashion to them, but, well, I liked the displays in the Fashion Museum. The exhibitions go through different epochs and types of dresses that were worn by people at that time.

I was lucky enough to attend a temporary exhibition with dresses coming from the Royal family. Every dress told a story and was well connected to the lives of the Royals, who wore them.

I could only dream of owning one of the dresses displayed there. Maybe in my next life. When I’m a princess (the one in the hiking shoes, you know ).

Fashion Museum Opening times: 10.30 am -5 pm

Price:  £9

Jane Austen Centre

Jane Austen Centre created in honour of the Bath’s most famous resident, is a great place to get an insight into Jane Austen’s life. You can learn about Jane’s time in Bath and the effect it had on her writing. It’s worth a visit if you are a Jane Austen fan.

You can also meet there Martin Salter, one of Bath’s best-known characters. Martin is a man standing in front of the Jane Austen Centre and greeting visitors for over 10 years! And he always has a smile for everyone 😉

Opening times: 10 am – 4 pm

Price: £5.20-£28

# Royal Crescent and Circus

Built in the 18th century, the Royal Crescent is Bath’s world-famous landmark. The set of thirty identical Georgian townhouses curves around the lush park and a perfectly cut lawn. Next to the Royal Crescent, you can find a similar set of terraced houses, laid out in a perfectly circular shape, which gave the street the name “The Circus”.

Both the Circus and Royal Crescent are great locations for photos and a good opportunity to discover more of Bath’s history.

No. 1 Royal Crescent

No.1 Royal Crescent , the first house in Bath’s Royal Crescent, was designed as a luxurious accommodation for aristocrats and royalty visiting the city. Now, it is one of the top places to visit in Bath as it has been turned into a museum.

It’s the only house in the Royal Crescent that is open to the public. You can step into the past and experience a bit of the Georgian splendour, with the authentic furniture and decoration of the rooms.

Opening times: 10 am -5 pm .

Price: From £5.10-£10.30

# Relax in the Bath Spa

Bath has been famous as a spa destination thanks to the natural hot springs running through the city. You can try them yourself at the Bath’s original natural thermal spa Thermae Bath Spa . The heated rooftop pool with stunning views of the Bath’s landscape looks like a dream.

I haven’t tried the spa, as it was a bit out of my budget, and I didn’t have much time ( Ya know, my type of spa is more like the natural hot springs in Iceland or the local hammam in Morocco ). But if you spend a weekend in Bath and want to indulge in the local hot springs, you should definitely try it. And then tell me how it was 😉

Where to eat and drink in Bath?

Have dinner in one of the “secret” restaurants.

In between the Royal Crescent and the Circus, lies the Circus Restaurant . It was voted No.4 in the UK by “The Times” in the article about “20 secret restaurants that foodies love”. The menu changes frequently and the restaurant uses only seasonal and local produce.

I can confirm that the food is really good, and the atmosphere is relaxed. I stopped there for early dinner and even though I was by myself and the restaurant was quite busy, I was served well and sat at a nice table by the window. 

Have a bite in a green cafe

I love vegan products, especially raw cakes, but I am not a vegan myself. This doesn’t prevent me from searching for healthy, yummy vegan treats everywhere I go. I’ve learned that those types of restaurants normally have raw cakes, that are pretty much guilt-free. They’re made from fruit with no sugar and they are so delicious.

When I found the Green Rocket vegan cafe  in Bath, I was very eager to try their cakes. Hmmm , it turned out their food was so good and I ordered so much that there was no more space for the cake. Well, next time. 

I can highly recommend visiting the Green Rocket cafe for its great coffee, matcha latte, and wide selection of healthy vegan food (they even have vegan cheese and vegan mayo – yum!).

Try Sally Lunn bun in the Historic Eating House

The most famous local delicacy from Bath, the Sally Bunn, can only be tasted in Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House . The bun is a kind of brioche spread with butter or cream.

The building dates all the way back to 1482, which makes it one of the oldest ones in Bath. You can visit the historic kitchen and the museum to learn how the house has been serving refreshments to travelers since Roman times. Sally Lunn’s is also open for lunches and dinner, but do make a reservation as it’s always very busy.

Stock up with local products in Guildhall

I love buying local produce anywhere I travel. The Bath Guildhall Market is a perfect place for that.  It has been in operation since the Middle Ages, which makes it well over 800 years.

Today, on the market you can find everything from the local cheeses, meats, jams, pastries, and pies, and also non-food items, clothes, and souvenirs.

Have a take-away-mulled-cider

This probably made me happier than I should admit. When you live in Norway , where alcohol prices are outrageous and drinking on the street is illegal, small things like these can make your day.

I’ve seen the sign about take-away mulled cider in the Stables on the street (apparently the home to the cider, pies, and pizza). I went in and took my mulled alcoholic cider in a paper cup for £3.5 to warm myself up on the way to the station.

A perfect end to the perfect day they say ;-). If you’re in Bath – stop by for the cider treat.

Visit Bath Gin Distillery

Bath Gin Distillery  is Bath’s first distillery in over 250 years. If you love gin, a visit to the distillery and the Canary Gin Bar is a must. Very popular on weekend nights!

Where to stay in Bath?

Bath can be a city more on the pricey side when it comes to accommodation, especially in the historic center.

Budget accommodation in Bath:

If you are on a budget, you can find one of the best deals on Bath’s University student accommodation. The biggest availability of rooms is during the summer when the students are gone, but you can also find some of the rooms throughout the year.

The campus is located around a mile from the city center but there are buses running between the two. Rooms start at £36 per night. Check the availability here.

Read more about UK destinations:

Best places to visit in Portsmouth

Brighton in a day

London New Year’s Eve on a budget

London Street art Brick Lane

Visit Scotland

Disclaimer: This post was created as a collaboration with Visit Bath Tourist Board.

Published: december 2018, updated: may 2024.

Would you like to visit Bath? Do you know any other things to do in Bath? Would you like to do a day trip to Bath or rather stay the whole weekend in Bath? Let me know in the comments!

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2 thoughts on “ 16 Top Places To Visit in Bath – Charming English Town Guide ”

Shame you only mentioned the places in the town centre! (Tourist traps!!!) try getting out and about to some of the cities hidden gems where the really beauty lies… beckfords tower, American museum and gardens, victoria park … take the time to explore places that aren’t always mentioned by every tourist blogger!!!

Fiona, thanks for your advice. This post is about top attractions in Bath, which naturally includes the most popular ones (with some added ones that I discovered when walking around, like a vegan cafe that I loved). I wouldn’t call them tourist traps, though – I think they are well worth a visit. As I mention in the post, I’ve only been to Bath on a day trip, so, unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time to venture too far out of the city center. I would love to visit more of the hidden gems on my next trip, and I would certainly share them here 🙂

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Tourist information

Visitor information for Bath, England

The Tourist Information Centre is in the center of town in the Abbey Chambers, on a square off the sourthern flank of Bath Abbey.

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• Abbey Chambers, Abbey Churchyard Downtown Bath

At York St., on the S side of Bath Abbey

Mon-Sat: 9:30–17:30 Sun: 10–16

• Full Bath Map
•    Bath Abbey (Church)
•    Free Bath walking tours (Tour)
•    Roman Baths (Ancient site)
•    Tea in the Pump Room (Cafe)
•    Royal Crescent (Monument)
•    Walking tour (Tour)
•    The Circus (Building)
•    Jane Austen Centre (Museum)
•    Hot air balloon flight (Sidetrip)
•    Museum of Georgian Life (Museum)
•    Pulteney Bridge (Bridge)
•    The Bath Spa (Spa)
•    Beazer Maze (Monument)
•    Victoria Art Gallery (Museum)
•    Bath Fashion Museum (Museum)
•    The Pump Room (Restaurant)
•    Sally Lunn’s (Restaurant)
•    The Raven (Pubs)
•    Chai Walla (Restaurant)
•    Old Green Tree (Pubs)
•    Royal Crescent Hotel (Hotel)
•    Abbey Hotel (Hotel)
•    Crystal Palace Apartment (Apartment)
•    Abbey Green Apartment (Apartment)
•    University of Bath City Centre Campus (University dorm)
•    Harington's City Hotel (Hotel)
•    The Bath House Boutique Bed & Breakfast (B&B)
•    Berdoulat & Breakfast (B&B)
•    18 The Circus (Apartment)
•    SACO Bath - St James Parade (Residence hotel)
•    The Gainsborough Bath Spa (Hotel)
•    St Christopher's Inn Bath (Hostel)

An hour from the seaside

There is no place in the United Kingdom that is more than 113km (70 miles) from the sea. The most landlocked place in all of Britain? Coton in the Elms, an English village of around 900 souls in Derbyshire, just NE of Birmingham.

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Self-guided walking tour of Bath (3.1 miles circular)

By Author Lucy Dodsworth

Posted on Last updated: 27 May 2024

Follow in the footsteps of Jane Austen on this self-guided walking tour of Bath , which takes you through the highlights of its UNESCO World Heritage listed historic centre, with spectacular Georgian architecture, leafy garden squares, thermal baths, museums and churches.

The route takes in some of Bath’s best-known sights, including the Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge and the Roman Baths. It starts at the Holburne Museum on the edge of Sydney Gardens and crosses the River Avon, running past the Abbey and through Royal Victoria Park to the Royal Crescent before climbing up through Bath’s quieter, hillside Georgian terraces.

This Bath walking tour covers 3.1 miles/5km and takes around 1–1.5 hours to walk straight through. But you could easily spread it out over a day or more if you want to visit some of the attractions along the route, browse the shops or stop off at Bath’s cafés, pubs and restaurants.

The walk is easy to moderate, with some hilly and cobbled sections – though there is a shortcut available if you want to avoid the steepest climbs, which cuts it down to 2.5 miles/4km.

Self-guided walking tour of Bath details and map

• Distance : 3.1 miles/5km.
• Time : 1–1.5 hours.
• Elevation : 184 feet elevation gain.
• Difficulty : Easy to moderate.
• Paths : Mainly pavements and concrete paths, with some cobbled sections.
• Accessibility : A few fairly steep up- and downhill sections in the second half.
• Map : 155 Bristol & Bath *
• Toilets : There are public toilets in Sydney Gardens (BA2 4DB) near the start of the walk. You can also find toilets along the route in the Parade Gardens, at the Roman Baths and in the Charlotte Street Car Park on the edge of Royal Victoria Park, near the Royal Crescent.
• Facilities : There’s a wide selection of shops, cafés and restaurants in Bath.

Click on the map above to be taken to Wikiloc , a free app where you can download a map and GPS directions for this self-guided walking tour of Bath.

Start/finish point

The starting point for the walk is the Holburne Museum on the edge of Sydney Park, to the northeast of the city centre. The finishing point is Pulteney Bridge, but if you want to end up back at the museum, just retrace your steps back down Great Pulteney Street (8 minutes’ walk).

If you’re travelling by car, there’s a small car park at the museum (BA2 4DB) which costs £7 for 3–4 hours. But Bath is notorious for its slow traffic, so another option would be to use one of the Park and Ride car parks around the edge of Bath and take their shuttle bus into the city.

Or it’s easy to reach Bath by public transport . From Bath Spa railway station it’s an 18-minute walk to the Holburne Museum. Or you could extend your walk by following the towpath of the Kennet and Avon canal from the station to the Bath Locks and then walk across Sydney Park to reach the museum, which would add on an extra 1.3 miles or 30 minutes’ walk to the route.

Self-guided walking tour of Bath route

Stage 1: holburne museum to the royal crescent.

Start your Bath walk in front of the Holburne Museum . The museum is located in a grand former hotel on the edge of Sydney Park, former haunt of Jane Austen who lived across the street at 4 Sydney Place. Bridgerton fans might recognise the museum as Lady Danbury’s townhouse from the Netflix series. And inside there are 18th-century artworks, porcelain and silver on display.

With the museum behind you, walk down Great Pulteney Street . It was built in 1789 for Sir William Pulteney and is Bath’s widest street, lined with impressive Georgian townhouses. You pass through Laura Place, named after Pulteney’s daughter, with a pretty fountain in the centre.

At the end of the street, cross over Pulteney Bridge . It’s one of Bath’s most iconic sights and one of only four bridges in the world with shops built into each side (if you look through the windows on the left you’ll see how narrow they are). The bridge was built for William Pulteney to help drive up land prices on the other side of the River Avon, and was inspired by classical design.

Once you’ve crossed the bridge, turn left down Grand Parade. If you look behind you there’s a great view of Pulteney Bridge and the horseshoe-shaped weir beneath it – this was used as a location for the 2012 film Les Misérables , with Javert jumping to his death into the weir.

Follow the road as far as the Parade Gardens , built on the site of an 18th-century pleasure garden and known for their beautiful floral displays. Cross the road with Bath Abbey in front of you, and walk down Terrace Walk, taking the pathway between The Abbey Hotel and The Huntsman.

Walk along North Parade Passage past Sally Lunn’s , one of the oldest houses in Bath from around 1482. It’s the home of the Sally Lunn bun, a kind of brioche brought to Bath by a 17th-century French emigrant – you can see her original kitchen in a small museum in the basement.

At the end of the passage, turn right down Church Street and you’ll see Bath Abbey ahead. The abbey was built in 1499 on the site of an older church, and has impressive fan-vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows – you can also climb the tower for great views over Bath. Look out for the stone roundel in the Abbey Churchyard too which marks the end of the Cotswold Way .

Opposite the abbey are the Roman Baths , built in 70 BC on the site of Britain’s only natural hot springs with water heated to 46°C. They were part of a large Roman site which also included a temple to the goddess Sulis Minerva. And next door are the Pump Rooms , built in 1776 for visitors coming to take the waters and still a popular spot for a traditional afternoon tea.

Go under the arches at the end of the Abbey Churchyard and turn left onto Stall Street, taking the first right down Bath Street. At the end of the street you’ll see the Cross Bath ahead. This is part of the Thermae Bath Spa complex to your left, where you can soak in Bath’s naturally heated spring waters – you can just see their rooftop pool as you walk round to the left of the Cross Baths.

Turn right down Hetling Court, then right at the end and follow Westgate Buildings uphill. Carry straight on along Saw Close and then Barton Street. On your left you’ll see Queen Square , surrounded by elegant Georgian buildings with a stone obelisk in the centre. This was erected in 1738 by Beau Nash, the dandy and socialite who helped Bath become a fashionable resort.

Carry on past Queen Square along Gay Street, passing two museums dedicated to authors who lived in Bath in the 1800s – the Jane Austen Centre and Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein . Then turn left down Queen’s Parade Place, taking the steps on the left into the park.

Royal Victoria Park was dedicated to Princess (later Queen) Victoria, who opened it in 1830 on her one and only visit to Bath. It covers 57 acres, with botanic gardens, ponds, tennis courts and an adventure playground. Follow the Gravel Walk which runs along the edge of the park.

Look out for the Georgian Garden through a doorway in the wall on the right. This tucked-away garden recreates what it would’ve looked like around 1760–1770. Excavations uncovered the original position of flower beds and paths, and it’s been planted with species popular at the time.

At the end of the path you’ll emerge into a grassy area with the Royal Crescent to your right. Follow the path ahead for a great view of the whole crescent. Then turn right at the end and walk along Marlborough Buildings before turning into the crescent to take a closer look.

One of Bath’s most iconic landmarks, the Royal Crescent was built between 1767 and 1775, and is made up of 30 houses. It’s been seen on screen in period dramas like The Duchess (2008) and Persuasion (2022). In the middle is the luxurious, five-star Royal Crescent Hotel, and No 1 Royal Crescent is a museum showing what life would’ve been like for its Georgian residents.

Stage 2: The Royal Crescent to Pulteney Bridge

When you reach the end of the Royal Crescent, go straight on down Brock Street. At the end of the street is another of Bath’s most impressive addresses – The Circus . This circular street was designed by architect John Wood the Elder, and completed by his son in 1768 after his death.

Wood was fascinated by druids, and designed the Circus to have the same diameter as Stonehenge. If you look closely at the stonework you can see carvings of animals, plants and symbols, and there are plaques showing where famous residents like painter Thomas Gainsborough once lived.

Follow the Circus around to the left, and then turn off down Bennett Street. On your left is the Museum of East Asian Art , and on your right is the Bath Assembly Rooms . This was where members of Georgian high society would gather to be entertained with ballroom dancing, card games and concerts. They’re now open to the public when not being used for events.

If you want a shorter walk (and to avoid the hills), you can turn right down Saville Row at this point, crossing the road to pick up the route at Milsom Street, cutting off 0.5 miles.

Turn left up Russell Street after the Assembly Rooms, then cross over the road and walk along the left-hand side of Christ Church towards the Museum of Bath at Work . This museum reconstructs different workplaces from Bath’s history, from stone mines to an ironmonger’s shop.

Walk up the steps towards the museum and go around to the left walking through the gateway onto Morford Street and climbing uphill. At the end of the street, cross over Lansdown Road (watch out for traffic as it can be busy) for a short diversion along Camden Crescent .

The crescent has beautiful Georgian houses – but if you look closely you can see that the central buildings with the pillars aren’t in the middle, as a landslide knocked down nine houses originally at the east end. Partway along there’s a bench with panoramic views out over Bath.

Retrace your steps back to the start of Camden Crescent and turn immediately left down Upper Hedgemead Road. Turn off into Hedgemead Park and walk through the park, passing the bandstand and children’s playground. The park was originally covered in houses, but a series of landslides made it unsafe so it was turned into a terraced pleasure gardens in 1889.

At the south end of the park, cross over Guinea Lane and walk down the steps next to the nursery to join The Paragon. Follow this wide street of Georgian houses to the right, passing the Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel which houses the Museum of Bath Architecture .

At the end of The Paragon, cross over Broad Street and take the next left down Milsom Street (shorter version of the walk rejoins at this point) . Milsom Street is a popular shopping street with high-end stores, including Jolly’s which has been serving Bath shoppers since 1830.

When you reach the end of Milsom Street, carry on straight ahead, following Burton Street then Union Street. Turn left down pedestrianised Northumberland Place, which has a few good places to stop for food and drink, including the Victorian Coeur de Lion , Bath smallest pub.

At the end of Northumberland Place, go through the archway and you’ll see the Guildhall in front of you. Walk through the Guildhall Market , an indoor market selling food and drink, hardware, pet supplies and arts and crafts. There’s been a market here since 1284. The exit on the other side of the market takes you back out onto Grand Parade, with Pulteney Bridge in front of you.

If you want to return to the starting point at the Holburne Museum, cross Pulteney Bridge and walk straight ahead down Great Pulteney Street. Otherwise there are lots of cafés, pubs and restaurants nearby to finish your self-guided walking tour of Bath – or you can explore further on a boat trip along the River Avon, which departs from Pulteney Weir and takes around an hour.

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