Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Bath for First-Timers

Seamlessly blending ancient Roman roots with honey-colored Georgian terraces, Bath is one of the most charming cities in England. I had the chance to spend several days visiting, so I’ve put together a guide for the best things to do in Bath for your visit!

Once known as Aquae Sulis when the town was part of Britannia, the city is steeped in a history of archaeological significance. From tapping into the city’s literary legacy that inspired Jane Austen’s novels to outstanding green spaces and architectural marvels, there are so many things to do in Bath. 

Whether you spend a day slowly strolling between independent stores and local cozy coffee shops or soaking up the atmosphere of some of the best-preserved Roman spas, this makes for a perfect day trip from London or the nearby Cotswolds.

I spent time in Bath this past summer as part of an extended stay in the Cotswolds, and I completely adored it. From the postcard-perfect scenes like the Royal Crescent to overlooking the Palladian bridge at the Priory Park Landscape, Bath quickly became a top spot of places I love in the UK.

This guide brings together the best things to do in Bath, from its must-see landmarks to its hidden corners. And if you’re short on time, I’ve also included a one-day itinerary to help you make the most of a single day in the city.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Bath:

Where to Stay

For the best experience, base yourself near the city center, where you can fully enjoy Bath’s Georgian architecture.

Hotels

1. The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, for a luxury spa break
2. No 15 by GuestHouse, for the best boutique hotel 
3. The Yard in Bath Hotel, for the best cozy comfort hotel

Airbnbs

1. Cumberland Suites – Apartment 2 (where we stayed!), for the best central stay with modern comforts in a classic Georgian townhouse
2. Modernised Loft in a Historic Georgian Building, for the best blend of period charm and contemporary design
3. Light-filled Period Apartment – Central Bath, for the best airy apartment steps from Bath’s main sights

Things to Do

1. Tour the Roman Baths
2. Take a Bath Architecture and History Walking Tour
3. Half-Day Small-Group Tour to Stonehenge
4. Prosecco Boat Trip Down the River Anon
5. Take a Jane Austen History Trail Tour
6. Visit The Jane Austen Centre

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

If you’re planning a trip to the Cotswolds, don’t miss my guides to the best places to stay in the Cotswolds, the most beautiful Cotswolds villages to visit, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Cirencester! If you’re exploring more of England, check out my London itinerary, guide to where to stay in London, and guide to the best things to do in Oxford.

Travel Tip: The best way to explore the Cotswolds is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car in the UK is quite easy, and while you drive on the opposite side, you’ll get used to it quickly (For more, read my guide to renting a car in the Cotswolds). Book your car with Discover Cars here.

15 Best Things to Do in Bath, England

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What to Know About Visiting Bath, England

What is the Best Time of Year to Bath?

Bath is a year-round destination, but it really shines in summer and fall. The rolling green hills are vibrant and full of life from June-August, and the fall foliage as the seasons change hits peak leaf viewing by October. Bath is also a lovely Christmas break, with a market running in the centre of town during December and the historic pubs and cozy cafes making the perfect place to escape the cold.

How Much Time Do I Need in Bath?

Bath is easily visited as a day trip, especially if you’re based in the Cotswolds or traveling from London. If you follow my one-day Bath itinerary above, you’ll hit all the best spots to enjoy this Georgian gem. A few nights will allow more time to visit all the sights.

How to Get to Bath from London?

By Train

The trip to Bath from London is very convenient by train, with the journey taking just under 1 hour and 30 minutes. The train departs from London Paddington train station via Great Western Railway to Bath Spa train station.

By Car

If you plan to drive from London to Bath, the route follows the M4, changing to the A4 near Tourmarton. The drive takes between 2.5 and 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Do I Need a Rental Car When Visiting Bath?

If you are visiting Bath from London, then there is no need to rent a car as it’s an easy journey by train. However, if you are planning to explore more of the villages around the Cotswolds, then a car is the best way to move between the various towns. Public transport options are limited between Bath and the Cotswolds, so a car is advisable to make the most of your time in the area. See my guide to renting a car in the Cotswolds for everything you need to know!

Rental Car Tip: We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car in the UK is quite easy, and while you drive on the opposite side, you’ll get used to it quickly. Book your car with Discover Cars here.

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Where to Stay in Bath

Bath is a walkable city, so staying close to the center of town is the best way to maximize your time and enjoy the Georgian architecture. These are my top picks if you plan on spending a night in Bath.

Hotels

1. The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, for a luxury spa break
2. No 15 by GuestHouse, for the best boutique hotel 
3. The Yard in Bath Hotel, for the best cozy comfort hotel 
4. The Gainsborough Bath Spa, for a central five-star spa hotel
5. The Bear, for a cozy country-inspired boutique hotel

Airbnbs

1. Cumberland Suites – Apartment 2 (where we stayed!), for the best central stay with modern comforts in a classic Georgian townhouse
2. Modernised Loft in a Historic Georgian Building, for the best blend of period charm and contemporary design
3. Light-filled Period Apartment – Central Bath, for the best airy apartment steps from Bath’s main sights

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What Exactly to Do in Bath, England

1. Tour the Roman Baths

With more than 2,000 years of history, if you only do one thing in Bath, it should be this. Combining an extensive network of Roman ruins with one of the best-preserved religious spas of the ancient world, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Roman Baths are the namesake for this charming English city. The interactive museum follows a timeline through history, taking you from the street-level Pump Room into the ancient heart with the mineral-rich green pool. Pre-book your tickets here.

In summer, the museum operates a ‘Summer Lates’ event, taking you through the museum by torchlight, offering live music performances, and letting visitors explore the ancient site well into the evening throughout July and August.

2. Walk the Prior Park Landscape

The gorgeous 18th-century Prior Park Landscape Garden is a National Trust property and home to one of only four Palladian bridges found in the world. The bridge is a signature feature of the grounds, giving the space a poetic charm. The gardens are based on the “English landscape” style that was popular in the 18th century, designed with rolling lawns, carefully placed groups of trees, and winding paths meant for strolling.

Once a private estate, the gardens are now open to the public, and it was one of my favorite places to spend time with my family. It’s the perfect place for a picnic on a sunny afternoon, and there are several well-maintained paths and viewpoint benches, as well as space for running around and exploring with kids.

3. Visit the Bath Abbey

Rising above the skyline of Bath, the city’s Parish church is a masterpiece of late medieval English Gothic architecture. Actively welcoming visitors and those attending worship, Bath Abbey is an icon at the heart of the town. High, vaulted ceilings and dramatic stained glass windows make this heritage site a must-see. 

Inside, a small museum shares the history of the church, from the founding Saxons to Norman rule, and modern-day restoration. In addition to visiting the Abbey floor, a tower tour ticket gives you access to brilliant panoramas across Bath’s rooftops and the surrounding Cotswolds countryside.

4. Have Dinner at Walcot House

Finding home inside a former bakery, Walcot House offers all-day dining and a swanky cocktail bar that proves the perfect place for dinner in Bath. The specialty here focuses on locally reared and aged meat, as Walcott’s owner also operates the local butcher. Think beef tartare and expertly cooked rib eye.

A little further from the typical tourist dining hotspots, Walcott House is popular among locals. I recommend making a reservation for dinner, especially if you plan to visit on the weekend.

5. See the Bath City Parade Gardens

The Grade II listed Parade Gardens are perfectly positioned along the River Avon with views of Pulteney Bridge and the Pulteney Weir. With manicured garden beds, a central bandstand, and set against the backdrop of Bath’s Georgian architecture, the space has been a leisure spot for locals and visitors since the 18th century. 

During the warmer months, the bandstand often hosts concerts and performances, and you might recognize it as a filming spot for popular films, including Wonka.

6. Photograph the Royal Crescent

One of the most iconic spots in Bath, Royal Crescent is a semi-circular stretch of 30 terraced townhouses in Palladian style. Built in the mid-18th century from Bath stone, the curved terrace faces onto an open lawn that is perfect for an afternoon tea picnic and overlooks the Royal Victoria Park. No.1 Royal Crescent has been converted into a museum showcasing Georgian life, and a five-star luxury spa hotel can also be found on the Royal Crescent.

One of the best ways to learn more about Bath’s history and impressive architecture is through this highly recommended guided walking tour.

Fans of Jane Austen will note the significance of the Royal Crescent. There’s no better way to connect the dots and get the complete experience than with this Jane Austen history trail tour that visits the famous author’s former home and uncovers how the city shaped her writing.

7. Get a Local Coffee

Bath has an impressive specialty coffee scene, with plenty of cozy cafes for enjoying a morning brew with a book in hand. So, where would I recommend? Colonna & Small’s opened in Bath in 2009 as a specialty roaster and tasting room. A rotating menu of beans and expertly brewed filter coffees is the norm, making coffee at Colonna & Small’s an experience. WatchHouse has expanded beyond the capital with its Bath outpost serving well-made espresso-based drinks paired with baked bites and a tasty brunch menu. A small local spot is No. 11 Espresso Bar, which I enjoyed for the relaxed neighborhood feel. Another fav is Society Café, a small independent coffee shop that invites you to stay for a while in its calming space and with great light meals to complement their coffee selection.

8. Shop Local in Bath

If you want to pick up some keepsakes or gifts from Bath, then there is no shortage of independent local stores to choose from. With Bath’s literary ties, it’s hardly surprising to find it full of charming bookshops. One of my top picks is Persephone Books, a delightful bookstore that specializes in reprints of 20th-century women’s writing and often sells curated editions with distinctive grey covers. A popular UK book franchise is Waterstones, which has a broad range of new releases, classics, and guidebooks.

I also adore Paxton & Whitfield, a cheese monger where you can pick up a variety of well-aged British and continental cheeses. I’d grab some bits here on a sunny day and enjoy a picnic on the Royal Crescent Lawn.

9. See the Botanical Gardens

Bath is full of beautiful gardens and nature spots, and the Botanical Gardens are another to consider for some green space. Combining elegant Georgian greens and carefully planned garden beds, you’ll find a mix of exotic plantings that were planted during the period of botanical exploration, with a range of modern conservation plants. The best time to visit is during spring when the gardens are full of spring blooms or in autumn as the fall foliage appears. 

10. Have Lunch at Noya’s Kitchen

Serving delicious, home-style Vietnamese cuisine, Noya’s Kitchen has been awarded ‘Bath’s Best Restaurant in 2022’. Focused on using local and seasonal ingredients, the menu changes regularly. With a rotating selection of Vietnamese favorites, including pho, summer rolls, Vietnamese curries, and noodles, it’s a great choice for lunch. If you’re looking for something a little more elevated, owner and head chef Noya is known for her sell-out Friday Night Supper Clubs on Friday nights, which offer a delicious five-course set menu. 

11. Stroll The Circus

Much like the Royal Crescent, The Circus is another outstanding example of Georgian architectural design. Three sections of Grade I listed townhouses form a complete ring that was built in the mid-18th century. The name of this area references the shape and the classical ambition of the scheme, with the circus, the Latin translation for circle.

The townhouses are decorated with classical stone carving and complement the nearby Royal Crescent. This area is a must-see for architecture lovers to stroll around and soak up the city’s exceptional urban design.

12. Have Tea at Sally Lunn’s

One of the oldest houses in Bath is home to Sally Lunn’s, a must-visit afternoon tea experience while in town. The birthplace of Sally Lunn Bunn, this bakery was opened in the late 17th century and has been welcoming hungry patrons ever since. Something between brioche and cake, these Bath buns can be enjoyed with sweet or savory toppings. 

Mostly a tearoom, there is also a small museum comprising two rooms in the cellar displaying archaeological finds from Roman and medieval layers found during excavation and are displayed for visitors.

13. Walk Across the Pulteney Bridge

Connecting Bath with Bathwick, Pulteney Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in the UK. This postcard-worthy 18th-century bridge crosses the River Avon and is home to a selection of local stores. The design features classic Palladian facades and is one of only four bridges in the world where shops span both sides. One of the most iconic scenes in Bath, the bridge has been protected as a Grade I listed building to preserve its historic and architectural significance.

14. Book in at the Thermae Bath Spa

While you can’t soak in the Roman Baths, you can enjoy the mineral-rich natural hot springs waters at Thermae Bath Spa. Blending historic spa buildings with a contemporary glass and stone space that works in seamlessly with Bath’s Georgian cityscape, Thermae Bath Spa reopened following restoration in the early 2000s. The space offers guests a selection of indoor thermal pools, multi-sensory wellness suites, and an open-air rooftop pool with panoramic views across the city of Bath.

The option to overlook places like Bath Abbey and a collection of Georgian roofs makes this one of the best experiences to enjoy in Bath. Capacity is limited, so I recommend booking in advance for your preferred time and day for your visit.

15. Visit The Jane Austen Centre

If you want to imagine what life during the Regency era was like, then The Jane Austen Centre offers a glimpse into the period that inspired the famous British author Jane Austen’s novels. Set inside a quintessential Georgian townhouse, your visit starts with a welcome talk from one of the team before you’re given free time to explore the exhibition. This is a top choice among Pride and Prejudice fans if you’re interested!

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