Welcome to Bath
Explore the 18th century architecture in the largest city in Somerset.
Set in the rolling countryside of the south west of England, Bath was founded by the Romans as a thermal spa destination and is jam-packed full of history. Once you've finished admiring the neoclassical buildings, there's plenty more to do on a city break in Bath.
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Five free things to do in Bath
Royal Crescent
One of Bath’s most famous landmarks, and an image you’ll have doubtless seen on postcards and more recently on Instagram posts, the Royal Crescent is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture, with its stunning symmetry and Ionic columns. A must visit to get that photo!
Victoria Art Gallery
If visiting quality art galleries are your thing, you can enjoy free entry at both the Victoria Art Gallery. The Gallery boasts an exciting and varied programme of exhibitions, plus stunning permanent collections including work from Turner and Gainsborough.
Holburne Museum
One of Bath’s grandest and most beautiful buildings, The Holburne Museum is Grade 1 listed and is well worth a visit if just for its aesthetic qualities alone. Inside, collections include 18th century culture, Renaissance pieces and a fine assortment collated by Holburne himself.
Visit a park
Bath is home to a plethora of parks, some of which offer stunning views over the city. Perhaps the pick of the bunch is Prior Park, which features landscaped gardens and an attractive Palladian bridge.
Enjoy a walk
Take on the Bath Skyline walk, a six mile circular route that rewards you with picturesque views over the city. Look out for an 18th century landscaped garden, an impressive castle and miles of surrounding fields, grassland and woods, all from the door of YHA Bath.
Explore the rich heritage of Bath
One of the UK’s most illustrious cities, Bath is famous for its Roman Baths, its natural spa water and its beautiful Georgian architecture, all of which make it a popular holiday destination for those looking for a cultured British city break. Somerset’s largest city, Bath is compact but stylish, with a pretty skyline and a unique feel for an English city. Its streets are awash with history, with 17 sites of historic interest within the city centre alone, plus plenty of museums and galleries to enjoy, neatly complemented by cafes, bars and restaurants to sustain your wanderings.
Plus, a stay in Bath means you’re well-located for trips slightly further afield, with Stonehenge, Bristol and Longleat all comfortably within an hour’s drive of the city.
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Bath Abbey
Whether you want to join in with a service or just take in the breathtaking architecture, the abbey is a must see!
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Bath Thermal Spa
Enjoy a spa experience in Britain's only natural thermal waters as the Celts and Romans did over 2000 years ago.
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Fashion Museum
If you love fashion, you will love this world class collection of contemporary and historical dress.
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Jane Austen Centre
The exhibition tells the story of Jane Austen's Bath experience and the effect that living here had on her and her writing.
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Running in Bath
Bath's architecture, beautiful parks and small city feel make it the perfect spot for you to stretch your legs on a run.
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Sally Lunn's
This world famous tea and eating house, home of the famous bun, is open all day to eat in or take away your treat.
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The Museum of East Asian Art
One of the most unique art collections in the UK housing ceramics, jades and bronzes from China, Korea and Japan.
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The Roman Baths
Visit one of the finest thermal spas of the ancient world here in Bath. The bathing complex still flows with natural hot water.
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Theatre Royal
Brimming with history, the Theatre Royal is one of the oldest theatres in Britain offering entertainment all year round.
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Walking and Rambling in Bath
Very close to the Avon & Kennet Canal, there is a walking track through National Trust grounds.
View some of our popular Bath blogs
Exploring Bath with kids
In the walled garden at Avebury Manor lime-green fists of rhubarb were punching through the soil. A ladybird crept out of hibernation to warm up on a twig. The low sun lit up snowdrops and crocuses; now and then a bee buzzed past. After a dreary winter, spring was coming…
Alternative things to do in Bath
Bath is typically associated with its Georgian architecture and Roman baths, but there are many alternative things to do in Bath if you fancy something different. Here’s our top picks...
Bath: The water of life
The past bubbles up around you in Bath. I’m wallowing in what must surely be the country’s most unique rooftop pool, staring out at the Mendip Hills and soaking myself in water that originally fell as rain during the Stone Age..