Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price, Sandra Frank
25/08/2025
Eren Cebeci, Pexels
I find Bath to be a destination that gracefully combines historical grandeur with a unique sense of relaxation, thanks to its Roman Baths, remarkable Georgian architecture, and Britain's only natural thermal hot springs. Exploring this city reveals a captivating blend of significant landmarks, charming independent shops, and a lively cultural scene.
For those looking to connect with others, the bustling City Centre offers an array of restaurants, bars, and hostels that serve as gathering points. I have seen that many hostels, like Bath Backpackers and St Christopher's Inn, often create a communal atmosphere by arranging social events and activities for guests. Additionally, the Walcot district presents a vibrant nightlife scene, providing further opportunities for social engagement.
Top 7 Things to do in Bath
Exploring Bath offers a blend of ancient history, architectural marvels, thermal relaxation, and scenic walks, catering to both cultural enthusiasts and those seeking tranquil experiences.
1. Roman Baths
Stepping into the Roman Baths transports visitors to an ancient world. This well-preserved complex allows one to explore the Great Bath, the Sacred Spring, and numerous heated rooms and plunge pools. An included audio guide offers detailed insights into Roman bathing rituals and the site's history. It is advisable to allocate 90 minutes to two hours for a comprehensive visit.
Cost: Adult admission ranges from £16 to £23, varying by season and weekday/weekend. Advance online booking typically provides a £2 discount. Guided tours are available for an additional £6 per person.
Transport: The Roman Baths are centrally located and easily accessible on foot, approximately a 5 to 10-minute walk from Bath Spa train and bus station.
2. Thermae Bath Spa
For a modern thermal experience, Thermae Bath Spa offers the unique opportunity to bathe in Britain's naturally warm, mineral-rich waters. The highlight is the open-air rooftop pool, providing spectacular views of Bath and the surrounding hills. Other facilities include the Minerva Bath, steam rooms, and a wellness suite. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekend visits, as it is an adults-only (16+) venue.
Cost: A 'Thermae Welcome' 2-hour spa session, including towel and robe, costs £42.50 from Monday to Friday, and £47.50 on weekends. The more intimate Cross Bath offers a 1.5-hour session for £18 (Mon-Fri) or £20 (Sat-Sun). Additional spa treatments are available at an extra cost and require prior booking.
Transport: Situated in the city centre, Thermae Bath Spa is a short walk from the Roman Baths and other key attractions.
3. Bath Abbey & Tower Tour
The striking Gothic architecture of Bath Abbey, with its magnificent stained glass windows and intricate fan vaulting, is a central feature of the city. Beyond admiring the interior, visitors can embark on a Tower Tour. This guided experience offers a unique look behind the scenes, including the clock face and bells, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views across Bath's cityscape and the surrounding countryside, including glimpses of the Roman Baths and Thermae Bath Spa's rooftop pool. The tour involves climbing 212 steps.
Cost: Entry to Bath Abbey and its Discovery Centre is £8 for adults, £4 for children (5-15), and £6.50 for students. Local residents and Discovery Card holders receive free entry. An audio guide can be purchased for £3.50. The 'Step It Up!' ticket, which includes a Tower Tour, Abbey entry, Discovery Centre access, and a guided Abbey floor tour, costs £16 for adults.
Transport: Bath Abbey is located in the heart of the city, adjacent to the Roman Baths and within easy walking distance of Bath Spa station.
4. Pulteney Bridge & River Avon
Pulteney Bridge is an iconic 18th-century structure, unique for being one of only four bridges globally with shops lining both sides. Walking across it offers a quaint experience, while the most picturesque views, especially of the horseshoe-shaped Pulteney Weir, are captured from Parade Gardens or a leisurely river cruise along the River Avon. These cruises offer a different perspective of the bridge and the city.
Cost: Walking across Pulteney Bridge is free. River cruises vary in price; for example, a sightseeing boat cruise with prosecco has been noted at approximately $47 per adult (around £37.50, depending on exchange rates).
Transport: The bridge is centrally located, a short walk from Bath Abbey.
5. The Royal Crescent and The Circus
These architectural masterpieces exemplify Georgian grandeur. The Royal Crescent is a sweeping arc of 30 terraced houses, while The Circus comprises three curved segments of townhouses forming a perfect circle. Both are remarkable for their symmetrical design and honey-coloured Bath stone. Observing these iconic structures from their surrounding lawns provides a sense of the city's elegant past. Although the interiors are mostly private residences, the exterior views are a must-see.
Cost: Viewing The Royal Crescent and The Circus from the outside is free of charge.
Transport: Both landmarks are within comfortable walking distance from Bath city centre.
6. Jane Austen Centre
For admirers of Jane Austen, the Jane Austen Centre offers an immersive journey into her life and connection with Bath, which greatly influenced her novels. The centre features a permanent exhibition, engaging costumed guides, opportunities for Regency-era dress-up and quill writing, a gift shop, and a Regency Tea Room that boasts pleasant rooftop views of the city. It provides a charming glimpse into the author's historic hometown.
Cost: Adult tickets are typically between £13.25 and £17.00. Children (6-16 years) cost around £6.50 to £9.50, and family tickets (2 adults + up to 4 children) range from £35 to £39. Online booking may offer discounts.
Transport: The centre is centrally located on Gay Street, approximately a 15-minute walk from Bath Spa station. It is also close to the Charlotte Street Car Park.
7. Bath Skyline Walk
For those who enjoy outdoor activity and panoramic vistas, the Bath Skyline Walk is a rewarding experience. This 6-mile (9.6 km) circular National Trust trail takes visitors just outside the city centre, leading through picturesque meadows and ancient woodlands. Along the route, one can discover landmarks such as Sham Castle, all while enjoying stunning elevated views of Bath and its surrounding countryside. The walk is generally considered suitable for active individuals and takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours to complete.
Cost: The Bath Skyline Walk is free to access.
Transport: The walk typically starts at Bathwick Hill, which is about a mile from Bath Abbey and a 20-minute walk from Bath Spa station. The U1 bus service from North Parade also stops at the beginning of the trail.
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