Top Things to Do in Bath, England: Attractions, Culture, Day Trips - 2025

Should I go to Bath?

If you like history, architecture, good food, and the idea of wandering around streets that look like a Bridgerton set — Bath is your kind of city.

Bath isn’t just one of the prettiest cities in England; it’s a compact, walkable slice of British history, served up with Georgian elegance and a side of Roman ruins. It’s only place in the world where you can stand in a 2,000-year-old bathhouse, sip tea in a Jane Austen-inspired tearoom, and spend the evening floating in a rooftop thermal spa — all within a ten-minute walk.

For US visitors in particular, it’s got that quintessential England you imagined vibe, without the crowds and chaos of London. It’s relaxed, refined, and packed with enough things to do to fill a weekend (or longer if you want to explore the countryside nearby).

If you’re the sort of traveller who loves beautiful architecture, literary connections, historical sites, and a decent afternoon tea — you’ll love Bath. If you’re more into adrenaline activities and high-octane nightlife… well, maybe not. But for everyone else? Bath is the perfect city break.

In this article we'll explore the must sees attractions, some great hotel recommendations and day trips out of Bath to really complete your trip.

Top Tourist Attractions in Bath

Roman Baths

The Roman Baths are, without question, Bath’s star attraction – the city is literally named after them. Dating back to around 70 AD, this complex was once a social hub where Romans came to bathe, gossip, and show off their togas. Today, you can wander around the beautifully preserved Great Bath, admire ancient mosaics, and learn how the Romans ingeniously channelled the city’s natural hot springs. There’s also an on-site museum packed with fascinating artefacts. Just don’t get tempted to jump in – the water is untreated, and your immune system probably isn’t ready for what’s lurking down there.

Bath Abbey

Located right next to the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey is an architectural masterpiece with over a thousand years of history. The current Gothic structure has been standing since the 16th century and is renowned for its stunning fan-vaulted ceiling, towering stained glass windows, and atmospheric interior. You can join a guided tour or, if you're feeling energetic, climb the 212 steps to the top of the tower. The views over Bath’s rooftops are well worth the effort – and you’ll have earned yourself an extra slice of cake later.

The Royal Crescent & The Circus

If you’ve ever wanted to know what extreme Georgian wealth looks like, the Royal Crescent and The Circus are the answer. The Royal Crescent is an elegant arc of 30 townhouses overlooking Royal Victoria Park, a feat of symmetry and limestone beauty that’s been the backdrop for countless period dramas. A short stroll away is The Circus, a perfectly circular street lined with grand townhouses designed to impress. Together, they showcase the best of Bath’s 18th-century architecture and are a dream for photographers and history nerds alike.

Pulteney Bridge

Pulteney Bridge is one of Bath’s most charming landmarks and one of only four bridges in the world with shops built into it. Completed in 1774, this Georgian bridge was designed to impress and still does to this day. Whether you’re admiring the view from the riverbanks or browsing the tiny independent shops lining the bridge, it’s the perfect spot to slow down and soak in Bath’s elegance. Don’t forget your camera – especially if the weir is in full flow.

Best Cultural Spots in Bath

Thermae Bath Spa

While you can't swim in the historic Roman Baths, you can experience the city’s thermal waters for yourself at Thermae Bath Spa. This modern spa complex is fed by the same natural hot springs that the Romans used, but with the added benefit of clean water and no risk of gladiator fights. The highlight is the rooftop pool, where you can float in warm mineral-rich water while gazing out over Bath’s Georgian skyline. There’s also an indoor Minerva Bath and a selection of saunas, steam rooms, and treatments if you want to lean fully into the pampering experience.

The Jane Austen Centre and tours

Bath was once home to literary legend Jane Austen, and the city celebrates this connection at the Jane Austen Centre. Set in a beautiful Georgian townhouse, the museum offers an insight into Austen’s life and her time in Bath – a city that inspired parts of Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. Exhibits include period costumes, manuscripts, and even a waxwork of Mr Darcy (arguably Bath’s most photographed resident). It’s a must-visit for book lovers and anyone who secretly wishes they’d been invited to the Netherfield Ball.

Alternatively, there are a great range of Jane Austen tours in Bath, showing you all of the city's links to the author.

Nature & Outdoor Activities in Bath

Walking Tours

If wandering aimlessly isn’t your thing, there are plenty of guided walking tours in Bath that bring the city’s layers of history to life. From classic heritage walks covering Roman ruins and Georgian architecture, to themed tours about Jane Austen, film locations, or even Bath’s ghostly past – there’s something for everyone. Local guides are full of quirky facts and hidden gems you’d easily miss on your own, plus it’s a great way to get your steps in while pretending you're not just following someone with a clipboard. Whether it’s your first time in Bath or your fifth, a walking tour is one of the best ways to experience the city in all its storybook glory.

Royal Victoria Park

If you need a break from Bath’s cobbled streets, Royal Victoria Park is a fantastic green space right behind the Royal Crescent. Opened in 1830 by none other than Queen Victoria (when she was still a princess), the park covers 57 acres of lawns, botanical gardens, and walking paths. It’s the perfect place for a picnic, a lazy stroll, or to simply collapse on the grass after one too many cream teas. In summer, there are often open-air events and music performances in the park.

Bath Skyline Walk

For one of the best views of the city, lace up your walking shoes and tackle the Bath Skyline Walk. This 6-mile circular trail leads you through meadows, ancient woodlands, and hilltop vantage points with sweeping views over Bath’s rooftops. It’s a brilliant way to escape the city centre for a few hours and get a different perspective – plus, it helps burn off that extra scone you definitely ordered at tea.

Things to Do Near Bath

Bath is a stunner in its own right, but if you’ve got the time (and a decent playlist), you’re perfectly positioned for some incredible day trips that make the most of the surrounding region. Want to roam ancient ruins, tiptoe through university quads, or glide through countryside that looks straight off a postcard? You’ll want a set of wheels.

While there are tons of amazing tours tours and some public transport options, renting a car in Bath will give you the most flexibility at a reduced cost, especially if you’re planning to visit charming but hard-to-reach villages in the Cotswolds or hop between attractions at your own pace. Bonus: no awkward tour group selfies. You’re in control, Captain.

The Cotswolds

Just a 30-minute drive from Bath lies the Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty packed with chocolate-box villages, cosy pubs, and country walks. Explore the storybook streets of Castle Combe, Bibury, or Bourton-on-the-Water, and you’ll quickly see why this region is one of England’s most popular countryside escapes. Whether you fancy a day of antique hunting, pub lunches, or just frolicking through rolling hills like you’re in a period drama, the Cotswolds delivers. For a full deep dive into the Cotswolds and all of its treasures - check out this full guide! Alternatively, let an expert take the reins and show you the best that the Cotswolds has to offer with a private guided tour.

Stonehenge and Avebury Stone Circle

If you fancy adding a touch of prehistoric mystery to your Bath trip, Stonehenge is less than an hour away by car. This world-famous stone circle has been puzzling visitors for over 4,000 years. Was it a temple? A burial ground? An ancient calendar? No one really knows what, or how it even got here – but it’s one of the most iconic sights in the UK, and well worth a detour.

Alternatively, if Stonehenge is too crowded for your liking, head to Avebury Stone Circle instead. This enormous Neolithic stone circle is older and larger than Stonehenge – and you can walk right up to (and between) the stones. It’s also surrounded by charming countryside and a quaint village pub if all that ancient history leaves you in need of refreshment.

There are several tours from Bath - many of which go to both Stonehenge and Avebury or just day trips out to see Stonehenge.

Lacock Village

Only 45 minutes drive away from Bath lies a A National Trust village frozen in time. When visiting Lacock you may think it looks like something straight out of a film set – and it often is! It’s been used as a backdrop in everything from Harry Potter to Pride & Prejudice. Wander the cobbled streets, pop into the village’s cosy pubs, or visit Lacock Abbey and its cloisters, which doubled as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films. There are tours to Lacock but if they fail to impress (or are too expensive) - steal their itinerary and drive there yourself.

Oxford

Just over an hour from Bath by car or train, Oxford makes for an excellent day trip, especially for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone who just wants to see where half the cast of The Crown probably went to university. Walk the hallowed halls of Christ Church College, admire the dreaming spires, and visit the world-famous Bodleian Library. You can even try your hand at punting if you fancy a bit of light river-based chaos. Oxford offers the perfect mix of academic grandeur and British charm – ideal for a cultured day out with a scholarly edge. We have a full guide on Oxford here.

Glastonbury and Cheddar Gorge

If you're up for something a little more mystical, head 45 minutes south of Bath to Glastonbury – a quirky, spiritual town best known for its legendary music festival, but there’s plenty to explore even when there isn’t a single wellie boot in sight. Climb Glastonbury Tor for sweeping views over the Somerset Levels, explore the haunting ruins of Glastonbury Abbey (allegedly the resting place of King Arthur), and browse the endless array of shops selling crystals, tarot cards, and every flavour of incense under the sun.

While you’re in the area, it’s well worth taking a detour to Cheddar Gorge, just 30 minutes away. This dramatic limestone gorge is the deepest in England, and it’s seriously impressive – think towering cliffs, winding roads, and wild goats clinging to impossibly steep rock faces. You can hike the cliff-top trail for panoramic views, explore hidden caves where Britain’s oldest complete skeleton (Cheddar Man) was discovered, or reward yourself with some actual Cheddar cheese from the village below. Yes, the cheese is that famous. Whether you’re here for the geology, the hiking, or the snacks, Cheddar Gorge adds a wild, rugged twist to your Glastonbury day out.

Where to Stay in Bath

Bath offers a great range of accommodation options, whether you're after five-star luxury or somewhere budget-friendly to rest your head after a day of sightseeing. Here’s where to stay.

Luxury Stays

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
For a true taste of Georgian grandeur, book a stay at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. Set inside Bath’s most iconic crescent, this five-star hotel is the ultimate in elegance, complete with a beautiful spa and private gardens.

The Gainsborough Bath Spa
This luxurious hotel is the only one in the UK to offer direct access to Bath’s natural thermal waters. Rooms are stylish, service is top-notch, and the spa is one of the best in the city – ideal if you want to treat yourself.

Mid-Range Stays

No.15 by GuestHouse
A boutique gem just off Great Pulteney Street, No.15 offers individually decorated rooms filled with quirky, colourful details. There’s a cosy spa downstairs and a cocktail bar upstairs – what more do you need?

Harington’s Hotel
Tucked away on a quiet cobbled street in the heart of Bath, Harington’s Hotel is friendly, stylish, and perfectly located for exploring the city. Bonus points for their private outdoor hot tub, which you can book for a post-sightseeing soak.

Budget-Friendly Stays

Z Hotel Bath
If you’re after something simple, central, and affordable, Z Hotel Bath is an excellent option. The rooms are compact but well-designed, and you’ll be right in the middle of the action.

Bath YMCA Hostel
For backpackers and budget travellers, the Bath YMCA Hostel offers clean, affordable dorms and private rooms. It’s centrally located, making it easy to get to all of Bath’s major attractions.

Final Thoughts

Bath is the kind of city that charms you without even trying. From Roman history and Georgian elegance to riverside strolls and spa experiences, there’s something here for everyone – whether you’re a history buff, a culture lover, or just someone who appreciates a decent afternoon tea. And with so many fantastic places to visit nearby, Bath is the perfect base for a wider West Country adventure.