bath, uk travel guide 2026
Bath
Named for and known as a spa and wellness city since the Roman times because of the natural hot springs that flow through the city.
Although the original Roman Baths are not safe to bathe in anymore, the city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to draw visitors from all over for its Roman history, Georgian architecture, modern spas and commerce, all contributing to its charming small town vibe.
Bath was in my top 3 places to visit in the UK (next to London & Edinburgh), mostly thanks to reading regency romance books. Thank you, Jane Austen.
This trip began as soon as we landed and set off via private driver service to Bath immediately from London Gatwick Airport to spend the first 3 nights based in Bath, with day trips to Glastonbury and Stonehenge (more details in another post!).
With the day trips, I admit it was a bit packed and would’ve loved to have had one more day in Bath but I guess I have an excuse to return some day ;)
I hope this travel guide helps with your planning to maximize your trip to Bath!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
When we went
We went mid-April, and got lucky with the weather being amazing! We’ve read and seen how UK weather can be grey and rainy, and although we had some days/mornings like that, most of the time it was sunny blue skies.
How to get to Bath & getting around
You can reach Bath by car rental, by train, or by day trip tours from London.
If you plan on staying only in Bath (and arriving by train), the city center is very walkable. Most, if not all, of the sights I have listed below can be walked and accessed by public bus.
However, car rental is best if you plan to go on day trips to nearby areas in Somerset or Cotswolds.
Buses, taxis and Uber are also available.
Things to know
For highly rated restaurants, it’s best to book a table ahead. Check their Google Map pin for the link to their reservations system.
Majority of the establishments are cashless, although it’s still a good idea to bring some cash for places like the flea market, or in case there’s a connectivity issue (we were in the UK when the M&S cyberattack happened).
Hotel Recommendations
DoubleTree by Hilton- Where we stayed and recommend staying. My parents did have specific requirement with hotels (must have elevators), so that crossed out a bunch of renovated hotels in old buildings. Since we were 3 people, we got the King Superior Room with Sofa Bed.
The hotel is located on the quieter side of Bath but still considered central, and very walkable to the sights and shops. It’s also close to a supermarket (Waitrose), Landrace Bakery ;) and right next to the Flea & Antique Market that happens every Saturday! There was an issue with only 1 elevator working though, but I hope that has since been fixed.
Other family/group friendly hotels we considered are: Travelodge Bath City Centre, Apex City of Bath Hotel and Hampton by Hilton Bath
Things to see & do in Bath
Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Bath as well as some of the places we went to.
The Roman Baths & The Pump Room
The number one thing to see in Bath! There are guide options (select times) or a DIY audio tour which we went for to be able to go through on our own pace.
It did get crowded at some points, but still very interesting to see the smaller rooms for baths and saunas, the holograms of how they figured out the engineering of the building, as well as the artifacts they found through the years of restoring.
Most importantly, be careful not to fall into the main bath because, well, bacteria. There is no rail to guard you from falling in, and there are small signs not to touch the water. Yes, I saw someone dip their hand to feel the water. I hope he’s ok.
The Pump Room is right beside the baths, and offers high tea service and where they have a running tap of the spring. We’re not a fan of high tea, so we skipped it, sorry!
Bath Abbey
All roads seem to lead to it and the Roman Baths right beside it! When we arrived the first day, it was already closed, and to be honest, we didn’t prioritize going in, but the craftsmanship of the doors are a must see!
The Royal Crescent & The Circus
If you watch period dramas or movies, you’ll can identify this iconic half circle building block overlooking a park. Down the road is The Circle, another set of buildings which, as you guessed it, forms a circle. There’s a magnificent set of trees in the middle of it! And if you fancy a nice set meal, The Circus restaurant is right by its namesake.
The Bath Lookout at Alexandra Park
Around 15-20 minutes from central Bath is Alexandra Park. The bus stop closest to the park is Bear Flat, and then it’s a an uphill walk towards the park entrance and to the lookout. It’s a bit of exercise, but a beautiful view awaits!
Bath City Parade Gardens & Pulteney Bridge
A small park by Pulteney Bridge and near the Abbey. Lots of people were picnic-ing here and enjoying the nice spring day.
Royal Theatre, Bath
Be sure to check what shows are on going at the Royal Theatre! My mom and I managed to catch the last show for Pride & Prejudice (sort of). Being able to enjoy a show in the historical theatre was such a memorable part of the trip.
The Jane Austen Centre
The one spot I wasn’t able to go despite what got me into Bath - I KNOW! The shame.
Honestly, was a little short on time, and I prioritized the places I could go with my parents. So next time!
It’d be fun to visit during the Jane Austen festival that happens every September though!
Bath Saturday Flea & Antique Market
I had a nice morning browsing through the vendors, so if you like browsing through markets and maybe even finding something unexpected, check out this flea market every Saturday, right beside where we stayed - DoubleTree by Hilton.
Not the best photo, but better on the vlog!
Topping & Co, Booksellers of Bath
A building you could easily pass by if you didn’t know there is a bookstore inside. Under the “Friends Meeting House” is a cozy bookstore with rolling library ladders, the latest books as well as classics and rare collectibles.
The Holburne Museum
If you’re a fan of Bridgerton, then you must recognize this building. Yes, it’s Lady Danbury’s mansion! In real life, it’s an art museum with a modern extension at the back. Didn’t think we would be able to drop by, but it was on the way and back from the Bath Lookout, so I dropped by for a quick photo!
Where we ate
SAVORY FOOD
The Circus Restaurant - Just down the road from the Royal Crescent and The Circus. They offer seasonal British food in a cozy setting. We went for lunch and opted for the lunch menu (ala carte is available, too). With the seasonal menu, everything was unique, interesting, and all delicious. Highly recommend, and definitely book in advance!
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum - Located in what is said to be the oldest building in Bath, and known for their buns. It’s best to book ahead especially during busy periods. To be frank, I would skip the savory meals here and keep it simple with the buns with jam and clotted cream. The buns are huge, so definitely shareable. Overall, I can say to try once is enough, as personally, I found the novelty of it is the surreal feeling of dining in a piece of history. Check out the basement to catch a glimpse of what it was like baking back in the day, along with a small gift shop to take home some buns (expires in 3 days though) - this you don’t need a reservation for!
Amarone Kitchen - An Italian restaurant right next to the Theatre
Bonghy Bo - an Asian restaurant serving dishes from various Asian cuisines, and that cured our craving for Asian food
COFFEE & PASTRY
Landrace Bakery - expect a line upon opening! People recommend their cinnamon buns, but I prefer their savory pastries. They serve coffee and make a good flat white, too. Cashless.
Green Street Butchers - the sandwiches they’re known for is served during lunch so we were only able to try the Sausage Breakfast bun, and it was delicious!
Cascara - A vegan cafe
Hope that helps! Thanks for reading!
