30 Things To Do In Bath, England

Bath is one of England’s most beautiful and historic cities, a place where Roman heritage meets elegant Georgian streets and modern spa culture. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is famous for its natural hot springs, golden stone buildings, and its links to Jane Austen and Bridgerton.

The city is compact and walkable, which makes it easy to explore on foot. You can step back in time at the Roman Baths, admire the sweeping curve of the Royal Crescent, or simply wander the cobbled lanes lined with independent shops and cafés.

I’ve visited Bath half a dozen times and I still never tire of it. Every visit feels a little different, whether I’m taking in the history, relaxing in the spa, or just finding a cosy pub for lunch.

Bath works perfectly as a day trip from London since it’s only 90 minutes by train from Paddington (see our full guide to going on a London to Bath Day Trip). But if you have the time, it’s well worth staying longer to enjoy the city at a slower pace or to use it as a base for exploring the Cotswolds, Stonehenge, and beyond.

In this guide, we’ll share the very best things to do in Bath, from world-class museums and historic landmarks to relaxing spas, hidden gardens, and local food you won’t want to miss.

1. The Roman Baths

No trip to Bath is complete without visiting the Roman Baths. Built nearly 2,000 years ago around natural hot springs, the site is remarkably well preserved. You can wander through the ancient bathing rooms, see the original stone pavements, and even peer into the steaming waters of the Sacred Spring.

What I love about the Roman Baths is how immersive the experience is. The museum brings the site to life with models, artefacts, and costumed guides, so you really get a sense of what it would have been like when the Romans were here. You can even taste the mineral-rich spa water (though I’ll be honest, it’s definitely an acquired taste!).

Be sure to give yourself enough time, at least an hour or two, to explore fully. The ticket also includes an excellent audio guide with commentary from curators and even Bill Bryson, which adds plenty of colour.

📍 Location: Abbey Churchyard, Bath
⏰ Tip: Go early in the day or later in the afternoon if you want to avoid the biggest crowds.

2. Bath Abbey

Right next door to the Roman Baths is Bath Abbey, a stunning Gothic church that has stood at the heart of the city for centuries. The Abbey you see today dates from the 16th century, but there has been a place of worship on this site for more than a thousand years.

Step inside and you’ll be greeted by soaring fan vaulted ceilings, beautiful stained glass, and memorials that tell the story of Bath’s people through the ages. It is a peaceful space and a perfect contrast to the busier streets outside.

One of my favourite things to do here is to climb the Abbey Tower. It is a bit of a workout with more than 200 steps up a winding staircase, but the views over Bath’s honey coloured rooftops and the surrounding hills are well worth the effort.

📍 Location: Abbey Churchyard, Bath
⏰ Tip: Check the Abbey’s website before you go as it sometimes closes for services or special events.

3. The Royal Crescent and No. 1 Royal Crescent

The Royal Crescent is one of Bath’s most iconic sights. This sweeping row of thirty terraced houses was built in the late 1700s and is a masterpiece of Georgian architecture. Standing on the lawn in front of it, you really appreciate the scale and elegance of the crescent, with its honey coloured stone glowing in the sunlight.

It is worth more than just a photo stop. Head to No. 1 Royal Crescent, a beautifully restored townhouse that shows what life would have been like here in the 18th century. Each room is furnished in period style, from the grand dining room to the servants’ quarters in the basement. I found it fascinating to see how different classes lived under the same roof.

If the weather is good, take a stroll through Royal Victoria Park, which stretches out just behind the Crescent. It is a lovely place for a picnic or simply a quiet moment away from the city centre.

📍 Location: Royal Crescent, Bath
⏰ Tip: If you plan to visit No. 1 Royal Crescent, book tickets ahead of time, especially in summer.

4. The Circus

A short walk from the Royal Crescent brings you to The Circus, an elegant circle of Georgian townhouses designed by John Wood the Elder and completed in 1768. From above it looks like a giant keyhole, but standing in the centre you are surrounded by graceful, perfectly proportioned architecture.

Each terrace is decorated with classical motifs, and the whole design was inspired by Roman arenas, a fitting nod to Bath’s ancient past. Fans of Bridgerton may also recognise The Circus, which was used as a backdrop for street scenes in the series.

This is not a long stop, but it is an essential one if you want to understand why Bath is considered one of the best preserved Georgian cities in the world.

📍 Location: The Circus, Bath
⏰ Tip: Visit early in the morning if you want to take photos without too many cars parked along the road.

5. Pulteney Bridge and The Weir

Pulteney Bridge is one of the most photographed spots in Bath. Built in 1774, it is one of only a handful of bridges in the world lined with shops on both sides, a little like the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Stroll across and you will find independent boutiques, cafés and a wonderful view of the River Avon from the windows at the back.

Just below the bridge is Pulteney Weir, a sweeping curve in the river that creates one of Bath’s most recognisable scenes. Stand on the Parade Gardens side of the river and you will see why it is a favourite with photographers.

If you are a fan of Bridgerton, you may already recognise this location. Pulteney Bridge and the Weir appear several times in the series, providing a romantic backdrop for carriage rides and conversations.

📍 Location: Bridge Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: The view is best from the riverside in Parade Gardens. Entry to the gardens has a small fee, but it is worth it for the perspective and the chance to enjoy a quiet green space.

6. Thermae Bath Spa

Bath has been famous for its healing waters since Roman times, and today you can experience them for yourself at Thermae Bath Spa. This is Britain’s only natural thermal spa, and it is the perfect way to combine a little history with some well deserved relaxation.

The highlight is the rooftop pool, which is fed by the same mineral rich springs that the Romans once enjoyed. Floating in the warm water while looking out over Bath’s honey coloured rooftops is an unforgettable experience. Inside you will also find a large Minerva bath, steam rooms and treatment rooms if you want to make a full day of it.

Unlike the ancient Roman Baths, which are for viewing only, this is where you can actually bathe. It is a modern facility, but the connection to the city’s past makes it feel special.

📍 Location: Hot Bath Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: Evenings are particularly atmospheric, and booking ahead is strongly recommended at busy times.

7. The Jane Austen Centre

Bath and Jane Austen are forever linked. The author lived in the city in the early 1800s, and two of her novels, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion, are partly set here. The Jane Austen Centre celebrates her life, her work and the world of Regency Bath.

Inside, costumed guides introduce you to the society and fashions of Austen’s time, and you can see exhibitions about her life in Bath. There is also a waxwork of Jane created with forensic techniques, giving the most accurate likeness of how she may have looked.

At the top of the house you will find the Regency Tea Room, a cosy spot that serves a themed menu including the indulgent Mr Darcy’s Afternoon Tea. The room is quite small, so reservations are a good idea if you want to be sure of a table.

📍 Location: Gay Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: The centre is popular with fans, so book tickets in advance if you are visiting during weekends or school holidays.

8. Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein

For something a little darker, step inside Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein. Mary Shelley wrote much of her famous novel while living in Bath, and this immersive attraction explores both her extraordinary life and the legacy of Frankenstein.

Spread over four floors, the museum combines history with a touch of the theatrical. There are rooms filled with unusual artefacts, interactive displays, and even a recreation of Victor Frankenstein’s laboratory. It is part history lesson, part haunted house, and it is unlike anything else in the city.

I found it a fascinating counterpoint to Bath’s more refined attractions. It shows a different side of the city and is a fun stop if you are travelling with teenagers or simply enjoy something a little quirky.

📍 Location: Gay Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: Some of the exhibits are deliberately atmospheric and may be a bit intense for younger children.

9. Bath Skyline Walk

When you are ready for a break from the city streets, the Bath Skyline Walk offers fresh air and wonderful views. This National Trust trail loops for about six miles around the hills above Bath, passing through woodlands, meadows and hidden valleys.

It is hard to beat the moment when the path opens up and you see the whole city spread out below you, with Bath Abbey rising above the honey coloured rooftops. Even if you do not want to walk the entire route, shorter sections are easy to join from the city centre.

I like this walk because it gives a completely different perspective on Bath. You get a sense of how compact and walkable the city is, and you are rewarded with some of the best photo opportunities in the area.

📍 Location: Trail starts at Bathwick Hill, about a 10 minute walk from the city centre
⏰ Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as parts of the route can be muddy after rain.

10. Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House

No visit to Bath is complete without trying a famous Sally Lunn bun. Served in the oldest house in the city, dating back to the 1400s, Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House is part tearoom, part museum. The buns are somewhere between a brioche and a traditional English teacake, and they come served sweet or savoury.

I usually go for the classic bun with cinnamon butter, though the savoury options make a hearty lunch as well. Downstairs you can explore the little museum, which shows the original kitchen and tells the story of the house through the centuries.

Because it is such a popular spot, the tearoom often gets busy, so go early or be prepared to wait a little.

📍 Location: North Parade Passage, Bath
⏰ Tip: Try to sit upstairs by the window for a cosy view over the street, and don’t forget to take a bun away with you if the tearoom is full.

11. Holburne Museum

Set at the end of Great Pulteney Street, the Holburne Museum is Bath’s first public art gallery. The collection ranges from Renaissance treasures to Impressionist paintings, and the building itself is a fine example of Georgian architecture. Behind the museum are the leafy Sydney Gardens, once a Georgian pleasure garden and still a lovely spot for a stroll.

📍 Location: Great Pulteney Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: The café has outdoor seating overlooking the gardens, a peaceful escape from the city centre.

12. Prior Park Landscape Garden

Created in the 18th century by entrepreneur Ralph Allen, Prior Park Landscape Garden is now managed by the National Trust. The sweeping valley offers postcard views of Bath, but the star feature is the elegant Palladian Bridge, one of only a few left in the world.

📍 Location: Ralph Allen Drive, Bath
⏰ Tip: The gardens are hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and allow a couple of hours to explore.

13. Herschel Museum of Astronomy

Step into the modest townhouse where William Herschel discovered the planet Uranus in 1781. The Herschel Museum of Astronomy is filled with original instruments, personal belongings and displays that reveal how groundbreaking his work was. It is a small but fascinating museum that highlights Bath’s role in scientific history.

📍 Location: New King Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: A great option if you are looking for something indoors on a rainy day.

14. Assembly Rooms

The Assembly Rooms were the heart of Georgian high society. Designed for balls, concerts and social gatherings, they still retain their grandeur with sparkling chandeliers and sweeping reception rooms. Fans of Bridgerton will be delighted to know that several ballroom scenes were filmed here.

📍 Location: Bennett Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: Check opening times before visiting, as the rooms are occasionally closed for events.

15. Fashion Museum (reopening planned)

Housed within the Assembly Rooms, the Fashion Museum is due to reopen in a new location, but it remains one of Bath’s cultural highlights. The collection spans over 400 years of style, from elaborate Georgian gowns to contemporary couture. Keep an eye out for the latest updates on its new home.

📍 Location: Previously in Assembly Rooms, new venue to be confirmed
⏰ Tip: Look for combined tickets with the Assembly Rooms once the museum reopens.

16. Museum of Bath Architecture

If you are curious about how Bath was built, the Museum of Bath Architecture is the place to go. Exhibits explain how local Bath stone was quarried and used, and models show how the city’s Georgian streets and crescents took shape.

📍 Location: The Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel, The Paragon, Bath
⏰ Tip: Combine with a visit to The Circus and Royal Crescent nearby to see the real-life results.

17. Victoria Art Gallery

This free public gallery showcases works by British and European artists from the 15th century to the present day. The Victoria Art Gallery often hosts temporary exhibitions too, so it is worth checking what is on during your visit.

📍 Location: Bridge Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: Admission to the permanent collection is free, making it an easy cultural stop while exploring the city centre.

18. American Museum & Gardens

A short drive from the centre, the American Museum & Gardens is the only museum of Americana outside the United States. The collection includes folk art, textiles and period rooms that showcase American life through the centuries. The gardens, with sweeping views back towards Bath, are a highlight in summer.

📍 Location: Claverton Manor, Bath
⏰ Tip: Allow half a day here if you want to enjoy both the museum and the gardens.

19. Bath Postal Museum

Tucked away near the Guildhall, the Bath Postal Museum tells the story of the British postal system, which began right here in Bath. It is a small, quirky attraction filled with vintage post boxes, stamps and historic letters.

📍 Location: Northgate Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: A fun hidden find for history lovers or anyone travelling with kids.

20. Bath Guildhall Market

For a taste of everyday life in Bath, wander through the Guildhall Market, which has been trading for over 800 years. You will find stalls selling everything from fresh produce to crafts and local souvenirs.

📍 Location: High Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: Try one of the local cheese stalls or grab a coffee from one of the independent vendors.

21. Royal Victoria Park and Botanical Gardens

Opened in 1830 by the 11-year-old Princess Victoria, this large park just behind the Royal Crescent is one of Bath’s best green spaces. You will find wide lawns, a boating pond, a children’s play area and the beautiful Botanical Gardens, which are perfect for a quiet stroll among exotic plants and trees.

As well as the lawns and gardens, the park has plenty of things to do. You will find an 18 hole mini golf course, children’s adventure playground, tennis courts, a small lake, skatepark and a bandstand that often hosts live music. There is also a café in the park, which makes it an easy place to pause for coffee, cake or an ice cream on a sunny day.

📍 Location: Marlborough Lane, Bath
⏰ Tip: Pack a picnic if you are visiting on a sunny day.

22. Boat Trips on the River Avon

Seeing Bath from the water gives a different perspective on the city. You can take a short cruise from Pulteney Bridge, join a longer trip along the Avon, or even hire your own punt or rowing boat. Gliding past weeping willows with the city skyline in the distance is a lovely way to slow down your sightseeing.

If you prefer to be in charge of your own route, you can also hire a punt, canoe, rowing boat or kayak from Bath Boating and explore the Avon at your own pace.

📍 Location: Pick-up points near Pulteney Bridge and Parade Gardens
⏰ Tip: Evening cruises are especially atmospheric in summer.

23. Mayor’s Honorary Guides Walking Tour

For a free and fascinating introduction to Bath, join a walking tour with the Mayor’s Honorary Guides. These volunteers know the city inside out and bring its history to life with stories and anecdotes you will not find in guidebooks. Tours run most days and cover all the main landmarks.

📍 Location: Tours start outside the Roman Baths
⏰ Tip: No need to book, just turn up a few minutes early.

24. Bridgerton Filming Locations

If you are a fan of the Netflix hit, Bath is packed with filming locations to explore. The Royal Crescent doubled as the Featheringtons’ home, the Assembly Rooms hosted glittering balls, and the streets around The Circus became the backdrop for fashionable promenades. Walking through these locations makes it easy to imagine yourself in Regency high society.

📍 Location: Across central Bath
⏰ Tip: Guided Bridgerton tours are available if you want insider filming details.

25. Bath Christmas Market

If you are visiting in late November or December, Bath’s Christmas Market is one of the most magical in the UK. Wooden chalets fill the streets around the Abbey, selling handmade gifts, festive treats and mulled wine. Combined with the city’s Georgian backdrop, it feels like stepping into a Christmas card.

📍 Location: Abbey Churchyard and surrounding streets
⏰ Tip: Weekday mornings are quieter if you want to browse without the crowds.

26. The Pump Room

Located beside the Roman Baths, the Pump Room has been the place to meet and be seen since the 18th century. Today it is a stylish restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, often accompanied by live music from the Pump Room Trio. You can even sample a glass of the famous spa water here.

📍 Location: Abbey Churchyard, Bath
⏰ Tip: Afternoon tea is very popular, so book ahead.

27. Independent Shopping Streets

Bath has a thriving independent shopping scene that makes a refreshing change from the usual high street. Milsom Street is the place for stylish boutiques, while Walcot Street is known for antiques and quirky finds. The Artisan Quarter is a good area to pick up gifts and locally made crafts.

📍 Location: Central Bath
⏰ Tip: Allow time to explore side streets, you often stumble across the most interesting shops.

28. Bath Festivals

Throughout the year, Bath hosts a range of festivals that celebrate everything from books to comedy. The Bath Festival in May combines music and literature, the Jane Austen Festival in September fills the city with Regency costumes, and the Bath Comedy Festival brings laughs every spring. Checking the calendar can add something special to your visit.

📍 Location: Various venues across Bath
⏰ Tip: Book accommodation early if your trip coincides with a major festival.

29. Abbey Green

Tucked just behind the busy shops of the city centre, Abbey Green is a quiet square shaded by a huge plane tree. It is one of the prettiest corners of Bath and makes a lovely place to pause for a few minutes between sightseeing stops. You will also find traditional pubs and cafés around the edge.

📍 Location: Just off Abbey Street, Bath
⏰ Tip: This is one of the most photogenic hidden spots in the city.

30. Bath Skyline Walk (Extended Route)

If you loved the shorter Skyline Walk, consider the full six-mile National Trust route. It takes you further into the countryside, with meadows, woodlands and Iron Age forts along the way. The views back over Bath are some of the best you will find, especially at sunset.

📍 Location: Trail starts at Bathwick Hill
⏰ Tip: Pick up a trail map from the National Trust website before you go.

Day Trips from Bath

Bath is such a rewarding city to explore, but it also makes a fantastic base for discovering more of the southwest of England. If you have extra time, here are three easy day trips to consider.

Stonehenge and Salisbury

Less than an hour’s drive from Bath is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric sites, Stonehenge. Walk around the mysterious stone circle, learn about its history in the visitor centre, and soak up the atmosphere of this ancient landscape. Combine it with a visit to Salisbury, where the magnificent cathedral is home to the best preserved original copy of Magna Carta.

The Cotswolds

With its rolling hills, golden stone cottages and picture perfect villages, the Cotswolds are only about 45 minutes from Bath. Towns like Castle Combe and Lacock (also popular filming locations) are ideal for a leisurely day of exploring. Expect cosy pubs, traditional tearooms and plenty of scenic walks.

Bristol

Just 15 minutes away by train, Bristol offers a lively contrast to Bath’s elegance. Explore the harbourside, visit Brunel’s engineering masterpiece Clifton Suspension Bridge, and enjoy the city’s thriving food and street art scene.

📍 Tip: We will be publishing a full guide to the best day trips from Bath soon, so check back if you want more inspiration.

How Long to Spend in Bath

You can see Bath’s highlights in a single day, which is why it is such a popular day trip from London. If your time is short, a one day visit will give you enough to enjoy the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent and a stroll across Pulteney Bridge.

Two days is even better. With an overnight stay you can explore at a gentler pace, enjoy an evening soak at Thermae Bath Spa, and fit in a couple of smaller museums or gardens.

If you have three days or more, Bath makes a wonderful base for the region. You can spend one or two days in the city itself and then use the extra time for day trips to Stonehenge, Salisbury, the Cotswolds or Bristol.

Where to Stay in Bath

If you decide to stay overnight, Bath has a wide choice of accommodation from boutique guesthouses to luxury hotels.

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa – A five star hotel in one of Bath’s most iconic addresses, complete with landscaped gardens and an indulgent spa.
Abbey Hotel – A stylish mid range option right in the heart of the city, just steps from Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths.
The Z Hotel – A modern, good value hotel in the city centre, just a short walk from the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey, ideal if you want a convenient base without stretching the budget.

📍 Tip: Bath is a small city and hotels book up quickly, especially in summer and during festivals. Reserve early if you want the best choice.

We will be putting together a separate guide to the best places to stay in Bath, so keep an eye out for that if you are planning a longer visit.

Where to Eat and Drink in Bath

Bath has plenty of places to enjoy a good meal, whether you are looking for a cosy pub, a traditional tearoom or modern dining.

Sally Lunn’s – Famous for its historic buns, served both sweet and savoury, in the oldest house in Bath.
The Pump Room – Elegant dining beside the Roman Baths, where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea with live music.
The Crystal Palace – A classic pub right in the centre of Bath.
The Raven – Known for its hearty pies and real ales.
Clayton’s Kitchen – Modern seasonal British food with a focus on local ingredients.
The Scallop Shell – A favourite for excellent fish and chips served in a relaxed setting.
Rosarios – A traditional Italian café serving cakes, pastries and light meals such as sandwiches, paninis, salads and homemade soups. They also offer a good range of gluten free options and takeaway coffee if you are on the move.
The Bathwick Boatman – A riverside restaurant overlooking the Avon, about a 15 minute walk from the centre. It is a lovely choice for a relaxed lunch or dinner, especially if you have spent part of the day on the water.
The Bell Inn – A much loved co-operative pub with live music, real ales and classic pub games such as table football, chess and backgammon. It has a friendly, local feel and often has something going on in the evenings.

How to Get to Bath

Bath is very well connected, which makes it easy to visit whether you are coming from London or elsewhere in the UK.

By Train: The fastest and most convenient way from London is the direct service from London Paddington to Bath Spa, which takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day.
By Car: Bath is about 2.5 hours from London via the M4 motorway. Parking in the city centre is limited, so consider using one of the Park & Ride services on the edge of the city.
By Coach: National Express and Megabus both run services from London and other UK cities. This is the cheapest option, though usually slower than the train.

How to Get Around Bath

One of the best things about Bath is how compact it is. Most of the main attractions, shops and restaurants are within easy walking distance of each other, so you will rarely need transport once you are in the city centre.

There are local buses and taxis if you need them, and Bath Spa station is just a short stroll from the Abbey and Roman Baths. If you are visiting the outskirts, such as the American Museum or Prior Park Gardens, you may want to take a bus, taxi or drive.

If you prefer not to walk too much or want an overview of the main sights at the start of your visit, the City Sightseeing hop on hop off bus is a handy option. There are usually two routes, one focusing on the city centre and one taking in the wider skyline. Tickets are valid for 24 hours, so you can use the buses as occasional transport as well as a tour.

📍 Tip: Comfortable shoes are a must. Bath’s cobbled streets and gentle hills are best explored on foot.

Free Resources

Visit Bath also offers free downloadable audio tours, including a World Heritage Site trail and a Jane Austen themed walk. They can be a nice alternative if you prefer to explore independently but still want some background on what you are seeing.