day trip to bath uk

Bath Itinerary – How to plan the perfect Bath day trip (includes map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: April 19, 2024

Are you looking for the best one-day itinerary for the English city of Bath? In this article, you will find the perfect Bath day trip itinerary with all the information you need to plan your visit.

If you’re looking for day trip ideas from London, consider travelling to Bath. It’s only 100 miles to the west of London and is a charming city that can be easily experienced in a single day.

In 1987, Bath was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it the only UK city with that prestigious distinction. The honour was not surprising, given Bath’s richly unique history and culture.

Visiting Bath – an overview

First stop — the roman baths, second stop — bath abbey, third stop — sally lunn’s eating house, fourth stop — the pulteney bridge, fifth stop —the circus and assembly rooms.

• BATH TRAVEL RESOURCES

Sixth Stop — The Royal Crescent

Decision time, seventh stop —the jane austen centre, eighth stop — the pump room, best tickets and tours in bath, one day in bath itinerary map, how to get to bath from london, where to stay in bath.

For the last 2,000 years, its natural thermal springs, which give the city its name, have attracted people looking to take advantage of the water’s medicinal properties. The Romans and Celts might have been the first to make the pilgrimage to Bath but they certainly weren’t the last.

Consequently, Bath is home to various historical attractions like the Roman Baths. It is also home to some of the most impressive Georgian architectural triumphs in the entire UK.

Lucky for visitors, Bath is a walking city, meaning its main attractions are all relatively close to one another and is therefore small enough to explore on foot.

What follows is a quintessential Bath day trip itinerary for a leisurely self-guided walking tour that will allow you to see all of the most popular sights.

Follow along, and we can help you make the most of your time in this fascinating and remarkable city. At the end of the article, there is also a handy map of this Bath itinerary.

Tip – If you prefer to take a tour we recommend this 2-hour tour which covers the Roman Baths, the best of Bath’s Georgian architecture, and its ancient heritage & vibrant modern culture. Or this hop on hop off sightseeing tour where you will learn all about Bath from the audio commentary aboard.

Bath itinerary – how to see the best of Bath in one day

The best place to begin your tour of Bath is in the city centre, where you will find perhaps its most famous attraction: the Roman Baths.

Dating all the way back to 70AD, the Roman Baths were a multi-building complex built on top of the region’s thermal springs. They were a popular place to gather not only for bathing but for socialising as well. Back in the day, if there was gossip to be discussed, it would likely be overheard within the walls of the Roman Baths.

Though today some of the Roman baths complex is in ruins, other sections are amazingly well preserved and can provide insight into how people lived and socialised. Walk along the 2,000-year-old pavements as you explore the changing rooms and plunge pools from days gone by.

There is also an interactive museum on-site appropriate for all ages which details the Baths’ fascinating history. There will even be a chance for you to sample the springs’ mineral-rich water if you are so inclined.

As it’s your first stop on the tour, it is crucial that you arrive at the Baths right as it opens, as it tends to get very busy as the day goes on.

On weekdays, they open at 10:00 a.m. but on weekends they open an hour earlier at 9:00 a.m.

Check online , as their hours will change on and around any holidays.

Just an easy, one-minute walk from the Roman Baths, is the 7th-century Bath Abbey, the parish Church of England. For at least 1,000 years, it has been a sight of Christian worship, having been ruined, rebuilt, reimagined and expanded many times in its history.

Today, it is a breathtaking structure with multi-story stained glass windows and soaring architecture that is truly a sight to behold. Though it is a working church, visitors can venture inside and admire its inspiring high ceilings and wide-open spaces. There are information placards throughout that explain the surroundings and detail the history.

If you’re up for it, climb the 200 plus steps up to the tower to see stunning views of the city and countryside beyond. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures!

Though visiting the Abbey is free, a £5 per person donation is suggested upon entry.

If your legs are tired from that climb up and down the Bath Abbey tower, perhaps you’re ready for a little respite. Just a two-minute walk from Bath Abbey is Sally Lunn’s — a must-visit for any Bath one-day itinerary.

Relax for a while over some tea, cakes or maybe even one of their world-famous Bath buns — the light and airy local delicacy born right at this very teahouse.

At Sally Lunn’s, you’ll be able to soak in a little bit of the local history. The building itself is historic — its fireplaces and chimneys have been dated as far back as 1482 when it may have served as a dormitory for monks.

Eventually, the building became a bakery and in 1680, Sally Lunn herself appeared there looking for work. She was a Huguenot refugee from France and impressed everyone by baking her famous brioche-style buns that were destined to become famous.

When you’re finished enjoying yours, you can actually descend into the building’s basement and see the medieval oven used so long ago. It is part of a tiny kitchen museum that is well worth visiting, especially for those interested in culinary history.

Admission to the museum is free as long as you’ve eaten in the restaurant. Now that you’ve had your fill and are fully recharged, it is time to carry on to the next stop.

From Sally Lunn’s, stroll by the edge of the Parade Gardens and along the River Avon. In less than four minutes, you will have arrived at one of the most photographed bridges in the UK.

Built in 1769, it is a remarkable stone bridge that has built-in shops lining either side, one of the only bridges in the world with that feature. It is named for Frances Pulteney, the wife of an 18th-century landowner, William Johnstone Pulteney, who was at one time the wealthiest man in Great Britain.

Take your time exploring the bridge and poke around in all the quaint shops. When you are feeling like it’s time to get off of your feet, why not jump on a boat?

From the bridge, you can embark on a scenic, one-hour boat ride down the River Avon. The cruise glides along the Avon Valley toward the village of Bathhampton and then travels back again.

On the way you’ll see charming scenery, including local wildlife like kingfishers, herons and swans. These boat trips make quite the impression on most visitors. When you get home, if anyone asks you what to do in Bath, you’ll surely tell them that they should take a cruise!

If you prefer to have a guided tour around Bath it is possible to combine a walking tour with a cruise. Click here for more information.

Now that you’ve arrived back on dry land, it is time to make your way toward the Royal Crescent to see some quintessentially Georgian architecture.

Before you get there, however, and while you’re in an architectural frame of mind, it’s only a 10-minute walk to the Circus. The circus, like with elephants and acrobats? No! It’s a ring of identical Georgian townhouses designed by John Wood the Elder.

He started building them in 1754 but due to his untimely death, the project had to be finished by his son John Wood the Younger several years later.

These magnificent buildings are a monument to man’s ingenuity and are simply marvellous to admire, especially from the shaded park in their middle. While you’re there, consider taking a peek at the Assembly Rooms, which are only steps away.

They were designed by John Wood the Younger in 1769 as a venue for gala civic events like balls or concerts. They’ve been used for a variety of purposes throughout the years, including as a movie house in the 1930s. Today, they have been restored and are open for visitors.

The Assembly Rooms also house the Fashion Museum which contains a collection of historic fashion assembled and donated by Doris Langley Moore in 1963. For those fashion-minded individuals, the museum is well worth visiting.

B ATH TRAVEL RESOURCES

Book your accommodation – Booking.com or VRBO

Book tours & tickets in Bath – Get Your Guide or Viator

Car Hire – Discover Car Hire

UK Travel Itinerary Planners Ebook – Buy here

After you’ve had your fill of the Circus and the Assembly Rooms, it’s only a five-minute walk to the Royal Crescent.

Originally called “The Crescent,” this Georgian architectural marvel gained its “royal” title in the late 1700s when Prince Frederick, Duke of York and Albany, visited the property and briefly stayed there. It probably also looked like a building fit for royalty, what with its 114 Ionic columns.

Today’s visitors will see 30 identical luxury townhouses that were built for the elite aristocracy of Bath. Over the years, their interiors have been refurbished and repurposed but their Palladian facades have remained unchanged.

They form a gracefully curving 500-foot structure that surrounds a lovely green park, making a dramatically large crescent shape.

For those curious about 18th-century living, why not venture into No. 1 Royal Crescent, a museum dedicated to capturing what it would have been like to live and work in one of these buildings back in the 1700s.

As the first townhouse completed, No. 1 Royal Crescent remains decorated, both upstairs and downstairs, exactly as it would have been back in the day, complete with furnishings and household objects.

Here’s where your “Bath in a day itinerary” gives you a choice. If by this point you are feeling exhausted, then by all means consider catching the sightseeing hop-off hop-on bus while at the Royal Crescent and heading back toward the Royal Baths where your tour began.

On the other hand, if you are up for even more sightseeing, then on your walk back you could squeeze in two more stops. The following two stops are for those who just can’t get enough.

A mere seven-minute walk from the Royal Crescent is the Jane Austen Centre, a Georgian townhouse dedicated to Bath’s most famous one-time resident.

The English novelist called Bath home from 1801 through 1806 when her father moved their family there. Apparently, she wasn’t all that happy about it initially, having felt on previous visits that Bath was a frivolous place overly concerned with socializing. Her feelings changed over time, of course, but it is easy to understand why the city gave her that first impression.

When she lived there, Bath was in its heyday of being a prestigious spa resort and social centre — offering countless balls and assemblies for those who could afford it.

Her time in Bath proved influential enough on the author that she set two of her novels there, Persuasion and Northanger Abbey .

At the Jane Austen Centre, visitors can learn about everything from the food, the fashion and the society during Jane Austen’s time. There are a variety of exhibitions about her writing and what Bath was like over 200 years ago.

You can wander the museum at your own pace but there are plenty of well-informed staff members who would be delighted to answer any questions.

Click here for tickets to the Jane Austen centre

You’ve now indulged in almost every aspect of your “One day in Bath itinerary” but haven’t had an opportunity for a little luxury. That must be remedied at once. The eighth and final stop on your tour is only a six-minute walk away at the Pump Rooms, very near the Roman Baths where your tour began.

The Pump Rooms have the distinction of being one of the most elegant venues in the city. Built in the 17th century for those elites who flocked to the area to enjoy the soothing mineral waters, today the Pump Room Restaurant is proud to offer the most delightful late afternoon tea in Bath.

Tickets to their Festive Afternoon Tea with Fizz are £34.50 per person, but haven’t you earned it after such a long walk?

Begin by toasting yourself with a glass of champagne and then take a good long look at the sumptuous spread offered by Searcy’s, renowned British caterers.

Shall it be the salmon tart, cucumber and mint finger sandwiches or maybe something sweet like the homemade buttermilk scones with jam and clotted cream? Maybe after the champagne, you’d prefer a bit of coffee or tea to wake you up after your long journey.

Regardless, a relaxing afternoon tea is a perfect end to a charming day spent enjoying everything that Bath has to offer.

Spending two days in Bath, a long weekend in Bath or looking for more ideas for your Bath itinerary? Find out even more of what Bath has to offer in my complete guide to places to visit in Bath!

Practical information to help plan your Bath day trip

The fastest and easiest way from London to Bath is by train. Leaving from the London Paddington Station, the shortest route will take a mere 1 hour 35 minutes to Bath Spa Station.

Other routes may require a change at Swindon or Westbury and thus may take a bit longer.

Prices begin at £12.60 but will be more expensive if you travel during off-peak times. Click here for train times and tickets to Bath.

Click here for my complete guide to travelling the UK by train

T ravel by Car

Driving your own car may take a little bit longer but it does offer you a great deal more flexibility when you visit Bath.

The trip from London will take approximately 2 hours 30 minutes depending on traffic. If you travel during rush hour, it could take significantly longer.

The fastest route is via Windsor but if you’re a pre-history buff, you could also travel via Stonehenge and spend a few hours exploring the mysteries of that ancient and popular site.

Be ready for a few tolls along the way. Also, keep in mind, parking within the city of Bath can be expensive.

The most economical way to get to Bath from London is by bus. Prices start at £5 one-way and it will usually take around 3 hours to get there.

All you need to do is go to Victoria Coach Station in central London and board the National Express which will arrive at the Bath Spa Bus Station.

Taking a Tour

If you prefer a more structured approach to your sightseeing, you could always book a tour. A tour may be more limited than the self-guided approach but that may be exactly what you are looking for.

Below is my selection of the best day tours to Bath from London (and one 2 day tour!)

Read more – How to visit Bath from London

• Stonehenge and Bath Full-Day Tour from London

Skip the long lines at Stonehenge and tour the Georgian city of Bath at leisure on this guided full-day tour from London.

• Full-Day Windsor Castle, Bath, & Stonehenge Tour

During this 11 hour tour, you are able to visit 3 major attractions in southern England including Windsor Castle , Stonehenge and the wonderful city of Bath.

• Stonehenge, Bath, Cotswolds, & Avebury Small Group Tour

Experience the Georgian splendour of Bath and the mystery of Stonehenge, as well as the picturesque village of Lacock (as seen in Pride and Prejudice and the Harry Potter movies ) during this full-day tour.

• Cotswolds, Bath, and Oxford: 2-Day Tour from London

This 2-day excursion takes you through the scenic Cotswolds and includes visits to the ancient stones of Avebury as well as the cities of Bath and Oxford.

If after reading this itinerary you think you would prefer to spend 2 days in Bath to really soak in the city sights and atmosphere you will need to find some accommodation.

There is a myriad of options in Bath to suit all travel styles and budgets including boutique hotels, luxury spa hotels, and B&Bs.

Some recommended hotels are:

• Best luxury spa hotel in Bath – The Gainsborough Bath Spa is a luxury 5* hotel and the only UK hotel to have access to naturally heated thermal waters within its Spa Village.
• Best mid-range hotel in Bath – Eight is a small independent boutique hotel in the centre of Bath
• Best budget option in Bath – Grays is a boutique B&B situated in an imposing semi-detached Victorian villa located 15 minutes from the centre of Bath.

Find more accommodation options in my Bath Accommodation Guide .

Read more about visiting Bath

You can find more information to help you plan your visit to Bath in my Bath Travel Guide .

Whether you plan to spend one day in Bath, a weekend in Bath (add the thermae bath spa to your Bath itinerary and enjoy the natural hot springs) or base yourself in the city and explore the surrounding areas you will find everything you need to know to make the most of your trip in my detailed guide to the city.

For more information about what to see and do in the South West of England my guide to the region includes lots of ideas and inspiration.

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

The Perfect Day Trip to Bath, England

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Are you planning a day trip to Bath? From visiting Bath Spa to seeing the Royal Crescent, start planning your trip with my 1 day Bath itinerary!

Bath is without a doubt one of the most popular places to visit in the England. Once you’ve spent some time here it’s very easy to see why!

This quaint city feels a world away from the sprawling urban metropolis that is London , delivering a drastic change of scenery and character. For me. it’s the stuff of Jane Austen novels. That means if you’re looking for a stereotypical English town, you’ll find it here.

I’ve been on a day trip to Bath a couple of times now and I just love wandering around the city. It feels a million miles away from London and there is so much to do here. From delicious Michelin-starred restaurants to gorgeous Georgian architecture, it’s got something for everyone too.

There are heaps of other things to in Bath – Bath Spa, Pulteney Bridge, the Sally Lunn museum – I could go on here. And I can assure you the Roman Baths aren’t the only thing to see in the city.

Don’t worry if you only have one day in Bath though. You can still squeeze in plenty of must-see sights and activities in this time, thanks to its easily walkable size.

So, if you’re wondering what to do in Bath for a day, I’ve narrowed down my top suggestions to help you get the most out of your time in the city. Enjoy!

Looking for another weekend break in the UK? Then check out my guides to Bristol , Cambridge , Norwich , Windsor and York .

Getting from London to Bath

Arranging a day trip to Bath from London is super simple.

Direct trains from Paddington Station run regularly and only take around 1 hour 30 mins. Tickets can cost as little as £12.60 when you buy in advance. This is why I always recommend buying in advanced if you can.

Even kinder on your wallet is catching one of the National Express coaches. Incredibly, you can hop on one of their services from Victoria Coach Station for just £5. This is a great money saving tip for travelling.

There is always the option of driving too. It’s only a 2.5-hour journey, depending on where in London you set off from and traffic. Once you get out of London it’s a really beautiful drive too.

However, Bath is definitely not the most car-friendly city. So unless you want the freedom to stop off at a few sights like Stonehenge on the way, I’d stick to the train or bus.

Things to do in Bath, England

Visit the ancient roman baths.

Even if ancient history isn’t usually your thing, I really wouldn’t leave without visiting the Roman Baths . It’s the reason Bath is what it is today, after all.  

Dating back to 70AD, the baths are amazingly well-preserved and it feels like you’re stepping right back into Roman Britain. I was surprised by how entertaining the audio guide that’s included in the ticket is. It’s a real treasure trove of fascinating history, and the interactive museum is worth checking out too.

As you’d expect, the original baths aren’t open, so you can’t wash in the mineral-rich water. However, you can actually get a taste of it in the Pump Room.

The only downside is that the Roman Baths are on everyone’s itinerary for a day trip to Bath, so it’s always busy. Head there as early in the day as you can to beat the crowds.

A great way of seeing the baths is on a Roman Baths and City Walking tour where you get to visit some of the best sites in the city with a local guide.

Take a stroll along Royal Crescent

This is another classic Bath landmark, made up of a glorious curved terrace of Grade I listed houses.

Aside from being lovely to look at from the outside, there’s another chance to dig deeper into Bath’s history inside No. 1 Royal Crescent . It’s a museum, furnished and decorated just as it would have been back in the 18th century. This is like stepping into a time machine and going back a couple of hundred years.

If you’re lucky the sun will be out and you can relax on the inviting stretch of lawn just in front of the crescent. This is a great picnic spot in the city.

Marvel at Bath Abbey

It’s not all Georgian architecture in Bath – the abbey is Victorian Gothic in style and seriously impressive. A place of worship has been stood here for over 1,200 years, so as you can imagine the atmosphere is something special.

Admiring the Bath Abbey from ground level was awe-inspiring enough, but I do wish I’d done the tower tour. These only take 45-50 minutes and you get to see the ringing room, sit behind the clock face and much more. The views from the top are said to be the best in Bath.

Wander around Pulteney Bridge

Only four bridges in the world are completely lined with shops on either side and this is one of them. Fellow architecture geeks like me will love it.

It was built at the request of an ambitious and important man in Georgian Bath, William Johnstone Pulteney. He wanted this bridge to be a major talking point. Today, it’s a symbol of the city and photographed constantly, so I guess you could say he succeeded.

As well as marvelling at the bridge, I followed the lead of locals and popped in for a coffee at The Bridge Coffee Shop . A perfect pick-me-up while sightseeing!

Take in stunning art at the Victoria Art Gallery

Just a stone’s throw from Pulteney Bridge, the Victoria Art Gallery is definitely one for any art lovers wondering what to do in Bath. Ever since its opening in 1900 entry has been completely free, which is always a bonus if you’re on a budget.

Even the dome-topped Grade II listed building that houses the gallery is a sight to behold. Inside, I could have easily spent hours taking in the paintings and sculptures. But with just a day in Bath, I pulled myself away after checking out the permanent collection, to fit in the rest of my schedule.

Go on a boat tour along the river

The River Avon snakes through Bath, making a boat tour a fun way to see the city. You pass plenty of the most notable points of interest as you cruise down the river.

Depending on which tour you choose, you can also get a good glimpse of the scenic countryside just beyond Bath and lots of wildlife too. It’s a relaxing ride and a good excuse to rest your feet for a while.

For something a bit more unique, I recommend hiring a narrowboat and steering yourself along the Kennet and Avon Canal. The hire company will give you the lowdown on what to do beforehand and set you on your way. This is definitely a must on any Bath itinerary.

Wander around Prior Park Landscape Garden

Another place to enjoy the great outdoors and do some wildlife spotting during your Bath day trip is the Prior Park Landscape Garden. Trust me when I say this place is beautiful! A lush green valley, pretty woodlands and sweeping city views. What more could you want from a city garden?

Oh, and there’s yet another unique bridge here too. Like the Pulteney Bridge, the Palladian Bridge is one of just four of its kind in the world. And people think neighbouring Bristol is where all the cool bridges are at – I’m starting to think Bath deserves the reputation!

If you get a ticket for the Bath hop-on, hop-off bus then you’ll be able to hit up a fair few of these spots. Very easy if you’ve only got one day in Bath!

Eat at Chez Dominique

I have a long old list of restaurants I love eating at in Bath, but that’s a whole other blog post. For now, I’m just going to tell you about one of my favourites – Chez Dominique .

This family-run, French-inspired bistro has scooped up a handful of impressive awards. Their menu is full of interesting European dishes, all perfectly cooked, and the desserts are especially dreamy.

But even better than the food is the views from the private dining room. Looking out over the Pulteney Weir while you indulge in some of the city’s best food is a real treat. It would be the ultimate place for a date night dinner.

Pop into Sally Lunn’s House

A world-famous sweet treat originated in Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House – the Bath Bun. They have a similar taste to brioche, which makes sense when you find out Sally Lunn was a French Huguenot. She brought her baking skills to Bath as a refugee, way back in 1680.

What makes tucking into one of these even more special is knowing the tea room is inside one of the city’s oldest houses. Take a look around the micro-museum down in the cellars too. You get to see the original kitchen, bakery and oven, which dates back nearly 1,000 years.

There’s also the option to grab a bun or two to take away. Perfect if you’ve already filled up on food from Chez Dominique.

Hit the pubs

Where better to round off my Bath 1 day itinerary than at a traditional British pub?

There are plenty to choose from and as with practically everything in the city, many of them have an interesting history. If the weather’s wintry and you want to cosy up by an open fire, I would head to The Star Inn . It’s on the Paragon and a pub has stood in its place since the 16th century.

On sunny days, you can’t beat the beer gardens at the Marlborough Tavern and The Bath Brewhouse . The brewery tour at the latter is great too.

Which of my suggested activities will you be doing on your day trip to Bath? Share your thoughts or let me know if I’ve missed your favourite spots in the comments!

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

2 thoughts on “The Perfect Day Trip to Bath, England”

Yes exactly! This is the perfect trip to from London in my opinion. I loved the Marlborough Tavern and The Bath Brewhouse… some great beers there!

Yay! I’m so glad you agree with me Joe! There are some cracking pubs in Bath – sounds like you found a couple of these yourself!

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One Day in Bath Itinerary: Epic Day Trip to Bath

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Bath is a historic city in England that is known for its Roman baths and 18th-century Georgian architecture. The city is located in the Avon Valley, about 156 kilometers (97 miles) west of London , making it a perfect day trip to Bath possible! So here is an epic one day in Bath itinerary for you! 

One Day in Bath Itinerary: Plan a Day Trip to Bath

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

It is not difficult to understand why Bath ranks high on the list of one the most loved cities of England, right up there alongside Oxford.

Apart from being a popular spa retreat for the socialites since the 18th century, the stunning Georgian architecture of that time is another mega draw that attracts visitors in hordes to this UNESCO World Heritage site.

If you are curious to know why this city was considered so special by such contemporaries as Jane Austen – the famous British novelist, who choose to live here during its heyday, then dive down straight into this perfect Bath one-day itinerary which will unveil one of the most beautiful places in England.

One day in Bath England: Bath in a day (Snapshot)

Breakfast at society cafe .

• See the Roman Baths

Visit the Bath Abbey

• Lunch at Sally Lunn Teahouse or the Abbey Deli
• Visit Jane Austen Centre

Photograph The Royal Crescent

Hang out at the prior park landscape garden.

• See the Pulteney Bridge and Parade Gardens

Relax at the Thermal Spa

Planning a day trip to bath from london united kingdom.

Bath lies just 156 kilometers (97 miles) west of London and is best accessible by train from Paddington Station which takes just an hour and thirty-five minutes. It costs about £12.60.

Driving by car , via Windsor, takes about two and a half hours but offers more flexibility. 

The most economical way is by the National Express bus (which costs about £5) from Victoria Coach Station which usually takes three hours to arrive at the Bath Spa bus station.

For a more structured approach to your one day in Bath, you can book a tour from London which will cover Stonehenge and Bath without you having to stand in long lines for admission to the popular attractions. Here is a day tour we recommend

Recommended tours and excursions in Bath England 

• Walking tour + Roman Baths Ticket: Book it here
• Bridgerton Filming Locations Walking Tour: Here is the 2-hour tour
• Sightseeing Boat Cruise: Book it here
• Bath Ghosts Tour: Click to book here

Pro tip : Late March to June is the peak tourism season. During the month of May, the city comes to life because of the Bath Festival. Expect many public events and street festivals at this time of the year. Winter starts from December to February, when crowds thin out and prices dip a bit.

Read : 4 day London itinerary

Bath one day itinerary: Arriving in the city

For over two centuries, the natural mineral springs, which incidentally gave the city its name, have drawn visitors looking to take advantage of the water’s medicinal properties. 

Fortunately, all the hotspots in Bath are close to each other and can be easily explored on foot. This quintessential Bath day trip itinerary will help you to make most of your limited time in this remarkable city.

This itinerary is crafted assuming you have arrived in Bath a day earlier, as the first train arrives at Bath station only by 10:30 am which can significantly rob you of valuable time. Alternatively, you can drive down to Bath to reach there early on the morning of your trip.

When you arrive, head straight down the Terrace Walks to the Bath Information Center. You will find excellent sources of information here from tickets, and timings to maps of the area (we have also included a handy Google Maps in this article for you). The staff will go out of their way to ensure your time spent in Bath is memorable.

More of a lifestyle concept than a coffee shop, the Society Cafe in Bath is one of the most loved and widely appreciated spots to enjoy some delicious coffee. Owners Jane and Adrian have created a perfect space where people could do their own thing or socialize.

As coffee is their signature beverage, especially because it is sourced from the best coffee farms worldwide, the house coffee changes four times a year.

• Address : Kingsmead Square
• Hours: Monday to Saturday: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm | Sunday: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

See Roman Baths

Dating back to 70 AD, the Roman Baths are perhaps the most famous attractions in the town. Some sections are amazingly well-preserved and provide wonderful insight into how people socialized and lived 2000 years ago. 

Once you have explored the changing rooms and plunge pools you can visit the interactive museum which showcases every detail of Bath’s fascinating history and even get to taste the mineral-rich water.

The tearooms in the Pump Rooms were the centre stage of all social events in Bath for two centuries. You must spend time here to enjoy a snack or afternoon tea in this neo-classical salon.

For the Baths alone, set aside 2 hours – ideally, 10:00 am to noon. 

• Address: Abbey Church Yard, Bath
• Hours: Weekdays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. And weekends from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The last entry is at 5:00 pm
• Admission fee: £27.50 for adults (weekends), and £25.50 for adults (weekdays). Students and Senior (65+) are £26.50 for weekends and £24.50 for the weekday
• You can also get a family voucher for £55.00 for an adult and 2-4 children (the same is £50.00 for weekdays). For 2 adults + 1 child, it is £63.00 to 69.  And 2 adults + 2-4 children it is .£70 – £77.00

Tickets must be booked online in advance. Visitors with additional access needs can book dedicated 15 minute slots booked through the Group Bookings team at least 48 hours in advance. 

It is crucial to arrive here as soon as the complex opens as it tends to get very crowded as the day goes on. After dark, the Baths are lit up and the place looks very atmospheric.

Spend an hour strolling around the abbey which lies right next door to the Roman Baths. We recommend pausing and taking a look at the window that depicts the crowning of the first king of England, King Edgar.

Then enter the Abbey to soak in the beautiful ambiance. Reflect for some moments inside the Border Chapel and pray at one of the chaplains. 

Marvel at the 4000 pipes that make up the Klais organ which is absolutely stunning and explore the newly opened North transept and admire the stained glass windows. Don’t miss the vaulted fan ceiling.

If you wish to understand Abbey’s past, then chat with a volunteer there. Before exiting, you can visit the Abbey shop and browse through the wide selection of Christian books, souvenirs, and music albums.

• Address : In between Pulteney Bridge and Thermae Bath Spa
• Hours: 10:00 am to 5: 30 pm (As a working church, the times may change. Check before you go)
• Admission Free: A donation of £5 expected 

Lunch break at Sally Lunn Teahouse & Museum or The Abbey Deli

After visiting the top two attractions in Bath, we suspect you will be craving a bite to eat. There are dozens of options within walking distance of the baths and the abbey. 

In fact, just a two minute walk will bring you to Sally Lunn , the most famous and oldest remaining teahouse in Bath established in 1482. Their special offering here is the Sally Lunn Bun, which is more like a French brioche than a bun.

Another option is to head to The Abbey Deli , famed as the Modiste, as featured on the NetFlix series Bridgerton. When you are here, you have to opt for their afternoon tea and cake, and see Madame Delacroix’s dress shop in person!

The Abbey Deli is located only a minute away from the Bath Abbey. 

Visit Jane Austen Heritage Centre

The Jane Austen centre focuses on the life and works of the famous novelist through an interactive experience wherein guides dressed in regency attire and exhibits bring visitors closer to Jane Austen.

This is a family friendly attraction and can be completed in an hour’s time, thereby making it a perfect stop for your one day in Bath.

The Regency Tea room on the second floor offers 17 types of leaf teas along with a selection of locally baked cakes and pastries. We found the seating a bit tight, so the late afternoon is the right time. Avoid lunchtime unless you have booked a table.  

• Address : 49, Gay St, Bath
• Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Admission: Adults’ entry fee is £12.50. Senior and students are £11.50. Family Pass (of 2 adults and kids) starts at £35. Get your tickets here

An arduous climb from the city center will bring you to a sweep of houses lined in a rhythmic curve. This is The Royal Crescent, one of the most photographed spots in England and the best example of Georgian architecture. 

The museum here shows how the rich and famous lived in Bath in the 18th century.

You can enjoy quality time in a spectacular setting with afternoon tea for two at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa , which is a tourist attraction in its own right. As you dine on tasty baked scones and traditional Bath buns, you can order your choice of piping hot tea.

Pro Tip: On the right side is an old-fashioned signpost in black and gold. Perfect for a photo shoot. 

Address: The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. 16 Royal Cres, Bath BA1 2LS, United Kingdom

Currently, the Prior Park Landscape Garden is undergoing an exciting restoration project but a little exploration will uncover hidden architectural surprises.

Plan to spend about thirty minutes here to relax and explore the park’s best known feature, the Palladian Bridge of 1775 – the last of three of its kind in existence in England.

• Address: Ralph Allen Dr
• Hours : Every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Prior Park Landscape Garden is about 25 minute walk from the Abbey. When traveling from the Royal Cresent it will take 45 minutes on foot. 

Pro Tip: When pressed for time, you can skip the Prior Park Landscape Garden for the gardens near the iconic Pulteney Bridge. 

See the Pulteney Bridge and Parade Gardens 

There is another famous landmark that has to be ticked off on your one day Bath itinerary. 

For that, you have to make your way to the River Avon to see the graceful arches of the Pulteney Bridge spanning the river. Built by William Johnstone Pulteney in 1771, the Pulteney is the second oldest bridge lined with shops after Ponte Vecchio in Italy.

There is a beautiful riverfront walkway at the back of the bridge which is perfect for a stroll. And adjacent to it are the Parade Gardens. These gardens have an entry fee of 1.50 pounds.

The best way to end your day and care for the aching legs is by visiting any one of the local spas and immersing yourself in the thermal baths. 

There are many in the area, but we strongly recommend Thermae Bath Spa as it has two natural baths, an open air pool on the roof, steam rooms, an ice chamber, and a relaxation room with a choice of over 50 spa treatments and packages.

• Address: The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath St, Bath BA1 1SJ, United Kingdom
• Hours: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Admission costs: £37-£42 for two hours depending on the day of the week

Pro Tip: This is the last stop on the one day Bath itinerary. Plan to get to the Spa by 6:30 pm, so that you have at least 1.50 to 2 hours there. The complex closes at 08:00 pm. 

When you are on a day trip to Bath, you might have to skip this depending on the train schedule. Or you can visit during the day when you are at the Roman Baths. 

If you are driving or can manage an overnight stay then it is soooo worth heading to the Spa in the evening. 

Dinner time in Bath

There are some good outlets for dining in the city center. If you are a wine lover try the impressive wine list at Corkage or if you prefer traditional English fare head to The Elder .

There is also an excellent Italian restaurant, Sotto Sotto near the Roman Baths.

Where to stay in Bath UK?

If you do decide to spend a night in Bath there are plenty of options. If you are looking for budget accommodation then some other centrally placed hotels include Bath YMCA and St Christopher’s Inn Bath.

The Gainsborough Bath Spa is a luxury five-star hotel and the only one in the UK having access to a natural thermal spa within its property. Check availability here

Grays Boutique is another B&B option located in an imposing Victorian villa hardly 15 minutes from the city center.

One Day in Bath England Itinerary: Sightseeing Map

More Things to Do In Bath in one day

Every traveler has different choices when visiting a new place. The top places of interest have been outlined above but there are plenty of other things to do in Bath.

Hire a Bath Narrowboat –  Sydney Wharf, Bathwick Hill

Spend time experiencing the magic of the Avon canal cruising in a Bath Narrowboat. Each boat holds six to ten people and is perfect for getting close to wildlife, historic towns, and country pubs on either side of the canal system.

Or book a boat cruise here

2-hr Bridgerton walking tour – From £15 per person

This two-hour walking tour will take you past locations of the Netflix adaptation of Bridgerton with a certified guide. 

Starting from the Abbey Churchyard, hear behind-the-scenes snippets of this well-known TV show shot in Bath. After walking, relax with a tea at the Holbourne Museum cafe or head to Sydney Gardens. Book the tour here

Sydney Gardens –  Sydney Pl, Bathwick

Sydney Gardens date back to 1795 and is the only remaining Georgian garden in the UK. The garden features waterside walks, woodland, tennis courts, and the Temple of Minerva.

The place is just a short walk from the city center and can be approached via Great Pulteney Street. These gardens are open throughout the year and have no admission fee. 

The Assembly Rooms – Bennett St, Bath

For the fashion-minded individuals, the Fashion Museum and the Assembly Rooms are a must-visit spot. Step inside them and let your imagination run riot as you drift back in time when these rooms were full of fashionable and eminent people dancing and playing cards.

The Assembly Rooms are known all over England as a place to be seen as well as entertained. They are open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. 

Day trips from Bath United Kingdom

Time permitting, here are some day trips from Bath which you can consider:

Stonehenge: 

Stonehenge remains a mystery even today as archaeologists still wonder how these stones were lifted up without the use of technology. 

In fact, some of them were transported from Wales, 200 miles away. This mind-boggling structure is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts millions of visitors each year. 

• Distance/ time taken: 55 minutes. 34 miles via A-36
• Hours : 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
• Admission fee : Varies by off-season/Standard/Peak months. For an adult, it is                   £19.50/£21.50/£22.80
• Day tour option from London to Bath and Stonehenge

In addition, special access tickets can be booked for entry outside the regular hours at 5:30 am, 8:00 am, or after 6.30 pm when visitors can actually walk among the stones. However, these tickets need to be booked months in advance as they are grabbed up instantly. 

Cheddar Gorge:

Enjoy a day trip from Bath walking through the largest gorge in England, less than an hour by car from the city center. 

Located on Mendips Hill, an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a walk on the rim of the 400 feet deep and 3-mile long Cheddar Gorge ensures breathtaking views of the hills and the village of Cheddar.

• Distance/time taken : 50 minutes. 30 miles

To experience quintessential British charm, Bristol is an incredibly fun place to visit from Bath. Discover the Stoke Croft neighborhood and its intriguing cafes, street art, vintage stores as well as the most iconic British landmark – The Suspension Bridge.

• Distance/time taken : 12 minutes by train

Cardiff: 

A day trip to the Welsh capital is a perfect excuse to get out of Bath and learn a bit about the city’s history. Visit the imposing Cardiff Castle, the National Museum of Cardiff, or if you are there on a Sunday, head to the Farmer’s Market to sample the best local produce.

Hire a bike to ride the Taff Trail or zoom to Cardiff Bay for some heart-stopping white water rafting.

• Distance/time taken : 1 hour and 15 minutes. 54 miles via M4

Castle Combe:

Castle Combe is a village in the Cotswolds region of England. It is known for its picturesque setting and has been used as a filming location for several movies and television shows. 

The village has a population of approximately 1,000 people. Castle Combe is a popular tourist destination, and there are several historic buildings and sites to see in the village.

• Distance/time taken : 25 minutes from Bath
• Day tour : Here is a private tour to Castle Combe and nearby areas

Was one day in Bath enough?

To be honest, one day gives ample time to visit all the attractions of Bath and soak up in the Georgian architecture, providing you arrive the night before or very early on the morning of your day trip.

That said, if you could squeeze in another day, you can do a short trip to some neighboring places or take your time and relax in the thermal baths.

Additional travel tips for one day Bath England itinerary 

Here are some more travel tips for Bath England. 

Sightseeing tips

When you are wandering through the lanes of Bath, keep an eye for the famous blue plaques on the homes which tell that famous people lived here once.

Also, remember that Bath is a hilly city, so make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes!

Safety tips

Bath is a safe destination and the risk of any violent crime is extremely low. Pickpockets here are known to work in teams so stay alert and keep all valuables out of sight. Keep an eye on your drink when in the bar and if there is an emergency call 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice is to get good travel insurance for protection against theft, illness, injury, and cancellation.

Budget tips

Most of the sightseeing in Bath on a day trip can be done for free if you are not entering the complex premises like the Pulteney Bridge. When visiting the Roman Baths, Abbey, museums, and Spa do set aside £100 per person. It will be about £35+ for the Baths and the Abbey. 

In terms of accommodation, with rooms starting at £80, Bath is not exactly a budget destination. Thankfully many budget hotels provide free breakfast.

You can eat for cheap if you stick to fish and chips (£6) or eat at the many Indian or Thai outlets for £8. On an average, you should keep aside £115 per day for your trip to Bath if you are traveling double.

So that’s a wrap! Bath is a beautiful city with a rich history. There are plenty of things to see and do, making it the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. 

Whether you’re interested in exploring the Roman Baths or just want to relax in a rooftop pool, there’s something for everyone in Bath. So, what are you waiting for?

Pin: One day in Bath: Visit Bath in a day

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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One Day in a City

24 Hour Travel Itineraries to Make the Most of a Day in a Destination

One Day in Bath, England Itinerary

June 3, 2021 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in Bath in 24 Hours

Bath, England is one of the best cities to visit in the whole of the United Kingdom and is a great day trip from London, or as its own overnight 24-hour getaway.

With Bath’s majestic buildings harking back from the Georgian era, a 16th century Abbey, and ancient Roman bathhouses, it’s hard to imagine a place more historic, making Bath a wonderful place to spend a day.

History is everywhere in Bath, but the city offers a lot of modern leisure activities as well, which you can easily do even if you have just one day in Bath to spend. These modern activities range from Bath’s restaurants and bars to the relaxing Thermae Bath Spa, which is Britain’s only natural thermal spa.

Although I would highly recommend spending a weekend in Bath so you can see all of the sights without feeling rushed, you can still easily see Bath’s main attractions in just one day. To assist you in doing just that, read on for a detailed 24-hour Bath itinerary to help you pack in as much as possible into your day trip to Bath (plus some hotel options if you decide to spend the night in Bath, too).

How to Get to Bath

First off, where exactly is Bath, England?

Bath is easy to reach from a few cities in England and Wales, helping to make it an ideal day trip. Bath is less than two and a half hours’ drive from London, two hours from Birmingham, two hours from Exeter, one hour 15 minutes from Cardiff, and only 40 minutes from Bristol. If you are visiting from any cities that are a bit further away, it’s worth spending the night in Bath. 

Parking is expensive if you are driving into Bath, although there are lots of options. Bath also has a clean air zone, so you need to pay to drive through the city center in some cars. To avoid this and for cheaper parking, I’d recommend using the Park and Ride service.

Bath is connected to Bristol and London by direct rail, and if you are doing a day trip from other cities, you can change in Bristol or other nearby towns. You can also take a National Express bus from London. 

One Day in Bath Itinerary

Now for the 24-hour Bath itinerary you’ve been waiting for! Here are all the top things to do in Bath if short on time, plus tips on where to eat and where to sleep if staying overnight in Bath.

Breakfast at Boston Tea Party

Once you’ve arrived in Bath, we bet that you’ll be hungry! Boston Tea Party is a popular cafe in the West Country. Founded in Bristol, it provides delicious breakfasts and lunches as well as flavorful coffee. 

There are plenty of veggie, vegan, and gluten-free options – so whatever your tastes and requirements, Boston Tea Party is an excellent place to fuel up. And you’ll need a lot of energy – this Bath day trip itinerary is action-packed! 

Roman Baths

Start your day off by visiting the Roman Baths. This is the most famous attraction in Bath, and you can’t miss it!

The Roman Baths date back nearly 2,000 years; they were built around 70 AD, around 30 years after the Romans first came to England. The Romans discovered Bath’s natural hot springs and decided to make the most of them by building a vast spa town. 

Some of the baths are still intact today, and you can see these and other Roman relics at the museum. I’d definitely recommend following the audio guide, as it will tell you all sorts of interesting Roman anecdotes.

The Roman Baths are right by Bath Abbey, and it’s well worth visiting after you leave the Roman Baths — even if you aren’t religious.

The Abbey has a fascinating history: there used to be a Saxon Abbey on its site, then a Norman Monastery, but it fell into disrepair in Medieval times. In 1499, a bishop called Oliver King had a dream about angels descending an olive tree to reach earth. He interpreted this dream to mean that he should rebuild the Abbey.

He started doing so but had to stop when King Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries and changed the country’s religion from Catholic to Protestant. This was so that Henry could divorce his first wife, Katherine of Aragon, and marry his second, Anne Boleyn — who he later beheaded!

It was eventually rebuilt during the time of Queen Elizabeth I (1558-1603). As a memento to Bishop Oliver king, there are engravings of olive trees, angels, and ladders outside. 

Inside, there are beautiful stained glass windows and lots of interesting statues. If you are there at the right time, you could do a Tower Tour, which will take you to the top of the Abbey’s main tower. From here you can enjoy a beautiful view over Bath. 

Pulteney Bridge and the Weir

Pulteney Bridge is just behind Bath Abbey and is worth checking out while you’re here. This is one of the only bridges in the world that is completely covered with shops.

It was built in the Palladian style by William Johnstone Pulteney in 1769. He wanted to make a new town on the other side of the river to rival Bath — this grand plan didn’t end up coming to anything, but he did at least build the bridge!

Pulteney Bridge is also located just upriver from the Pulteney Weir, a uniquely v-shaped barrier built in the river in the 1970s to help prevent flooding.

Bath Coffee Break at Colonna & Small’s

If you want to have a coffee break now, I highly recommend Colonna & Small’s, which is less than a 10-minute walk west of Pulteney Bridge. This coffee shop serves delicious brews made from high-quality beans in a contemporary setting.

Walk Around Bath’s City Center

One of the best things to do in Bath is to just walk around and admire the architecture, and I recommend doing this even if you’re short on time. You can see the best of the historic and beautiful buildings of Bath simply by walking around the city.

Colonna & Smalls is right by Queen Square, so head to Queen Square first if coming from the coffee shop. The square is framed by Georgian buildings and was built in the early 18th century. 

From Queen Square, walk up Gay Street, and you’ll eventually end up in a circle of terraced houses. This road is called The Circus, and it is a perfect circle. These townhouses were designed by local architect John Wood the Elder in Palladian style in 1754. 

John Wood the Elder was very interested in Druidic history around Bath and designed the Circus to reflect their ancient stone circles, particularly Stonehenge in Wiltshire.

The architect sadly died three months after construction started, but his son oversaw the Circus and also designed the Crescent — which is next on the itinerary!

The Crescent is an iconic Bath scene. Located in the historic Victoria Park (named after Queen Victoria), this unspoiled crescent of houses has been featured in many period dramas and films; most recently, it was a filming spot for the popular Netflix show Bridgerton . 

Tour Another Bath Museum

There are a few other Bath museums that you can see while visiting here – you’ve probably only got time to see one properly if you’re just in Bath for 24 hours or less, but here are a few recommendations. 

No 1 Royal Crescent

If you are a Bridgerton fan, this is a must-see – it was the home of the Featherington family. It’s been a museum for years, though — long before Bridgerton was released — so it is also well worth visiting even if you haven’t seen the show. 

No 1 Royal Crescent is a house that has been remodeled to resemble what it would have been like in the 1800s. It’s a great place to learn about this period of history and is fascinating for adults and children alike. 

Jane Austen Museum

The Jane Austen Museum is an excellent place for book fans to visit. Jane Austen lived in Bath for a time, and some of her books were set here. In the museum, you’ll be able to learn all about Austen’s life and how she became such a popular novelist. 

Fashion Museum of Bath

Bath’s Fashion Museum is a must-visit for anyone who’s interested in clothes and the history of fashion trends. It has several exhibitions that explore the relationship between popular culture and fashion and how clothing trends have changed throughout the centuries. 

Afternoon Tea at the Pump Room 

I bet you’re hungry after so much sightseeing! Bath’s pump house is the ideal place to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. The Pump House is connected to the Roman Baths and is a historic restaurant, dating back to the 18th century.

You can enjoy delicious sandwiches, traditional cakes and, of course, plenty of cups of tea! There are options for vegetarians, although nothing vegan. There is usually classical piano music playing – pair that with the majestic architecture, and you’ll feel like you’re in another century! 

While you’re at the Pump Room, ask to try a glass of hot spa water, which contains 43 minerals and is rumored to have healed many ailments over the years. 

Bath Thermae Spa

The only way to properly end a day in Bath is with a soak in the Bath Thermae Spa. Although this is the modern answer to the Roman Baths, it uses the same natural thermal spring that the ancient society discovered 2,000 years ago. 

Bath Thermae Spa is huge. The best parts are the Minerva Pool downstairs, the four steam rooms all with their own scent, and the heated rooftop pool. Make sure that you leave enough time to enjoy the rooftop pool; you’ll have an epic view of the city and be gloriously toasty and relaxed in the hot waters. 

In addition to soaking in the waters, you can book massage and other spa treatment appointments, too. Be sure to make reservations in advance for treatments and for using the pools since this is a popular place.

Eating and Drinking in Bath

If you’re not too full from your afternoon tea, there are some great restaurants in Bath. If you fancy Italian food, head to Sotto Sotto, an independently owned place serving amazing pizzas. Or visit Oak Restaurant for delicious vegetarian fare; try their five-course taster menu! Alternatively, Yak Yeti Yak is a popular Nepalese restaurant that has a delicious menu.

If you aren’t driving home and want a few drinks, the Canary Gin Bar is the place to go for all things gin. Or, visit the Bath Brew House, which has an on-site microbrewery and serves up delicious local ales. 

Leaving Bath After a Day Trip

The last train from Bath to London leaves at around 10pm, and it’s around 11pm for the last train to Bristol, although these times are subject to change so check on National Rail to find out exact times and confirm that there are no delays or cancellations. 

Coach times vary depending on your provider.

If you are driving, I would recommend waiting until after 7 p.m. to leave to avoid rush hour. 

Staying Overnight in Bath

Planning to spend the night in Bath? Here are some top-rated hotels to stay at for a variety of budgets:

Gainsborough Bath Spa: A Luxury Hotel That Embraces Bath’s Spa Culture

If you want to splurge and really embrace the spa atmosphere of Bath, then a stay at the swanky Gainsborough Bath Spa is a must. It’s a 5-star hotel that has an onsite spa and mineral pool. The pool is definitely what helps to make this place special since it is the only hotel in the United Kingdom that has a naturally thermal heated pool on its premises. It’s also located just 350 feet from the Roman Baths, making this a convenient place to stay for sightseeing in Bath, too. And, as you might expect from a 5-star hotel, the rooms are also gorgeously appointed.

—> Click here for pictures and prices for Gainsborough Bath Spa – YTL Classic Hotel

The Bird, Bath: a Boutique Hotel with Colorful Touches

The Bird, Bath has decor as fun as its name. This is more of a mid-range boutique hotel, with glam, eccentric decor that makes your stay feel unique and like its a destination unto itself. But the city of Bath is of course still a big focus and this hotel is just a few minutes walk from the city center. There is also a parking area, a lovely terrace, a gourmet restaurant, and even cool “Dining Domes” you can reserve for an unforgettable eating experience.

—> Click here for pictures and prices for the Bird, Bath boutique hotel.

Z Hotel Bath: A Budget-Friendly Hotel Right in the City Center

Z Hotel is located right in the city center. It has clean, simple rooms with contemporary decor at a great price. From the hotel, it’s roughly a five minute walk to Pulteney Bridge, Jane Austen Centre, and Queen Square. Plus, you’re right by many bars and restaurants for some evening entertainment and nightlife. There is no parking onsite at this hotel so those driving to Bath will need to find a nearby parking lot.

—> Click here for prices and photos of Z Hotel Bath.

Bath is a must-visit city in the UK, and the good news is that you can see most of it in just 24 hours! Hopefully this article has shown you how to explore Bath if you only have a day, but also enticed you to visit and see some more of it another time!

About the Author: Claire is a South West England travel expert. She currently lives in Devon, but has spent time living in Bristol and Bath. She blogs about the region on her blog Go South West England , where she aims to help both international travelers and locals wanting to explore their own backyard. You can follow her on Facebook or Instagram .

Found this article helpful? Pin to read again later!

I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

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One Day in Bath, England: The Perfect Day Trip Itinerary

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Spending one day in Bath can be hectic (because there is so much to do!), but hopefully, this 1-day itinerary for Bath will take all the planning stress off your shoulders!

Bath is one of the most popular day trips from London, however, most day trips to Bath are sardine-packed tour buses with multiple stops in Windsor, Stonehenge, or the Cotswolds… I think Bath deserves more than 2 hours of walking around the Roman Baths and then leaving.

That’s where I come in! I’m going to tell you how easy it is to take a day trip to Bath from London (and other places) and what to do to get the most out of your day!

*This post may contain affiliate links and I get a commission for the purchase made through the link at no extra cost to you. These are services and items I use and recommend myself.

One Day in Bath, England – The Perfect Itinerary for Bath

Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage City located in the southwest of England. The city gets its name from the ancient Roman baths. The Romans believed the city’s mineral water could cure every disease… and the people kept believing through the centuries.

You can even test the water out for yourself at Thermae Bath Spa !

Bath has a very famous literary history, I’m sure you’ve heard of Jane Austen visiting and then later living in Bath, but did you know Charles Dickens was a big fan of the city? Anna Sewell (Black Beauty) and Mary Shelley (Frankenstein) also drew inspiration from Bath.

How to Get to Bath – One Day Itinerary

The great thing about Bath is how accessible the city is. The train station is SO CLOSE to the city center, taking the train could be your smartest move for visiting Bath for the day. *The train station in Bath is called Bath Spa*

The closest airport is Bristol, however, it’s a local airport with select European flights, so you would most likely have a transfer. It’s better to just fly into Heathrow.

The train from London will take about an hour and 20 minutes, the Great Western Railway has services running to Bath Spa from London Paddington. I book all my train tickets with TRAINLINE.COM .

If you are coming from Bristol, you can take the quick 11 min journey. Even a last-minute ticket can be as low as £8.00 for one-way.

If you are driving into the city for the day, then I highly recommend using one of three Park & Ride buses dotted around the outside of the city.

You don’t have to worry about finding a parking space in the city center, it’s CHEAPER than parking in the center, and it takes the stress out of driving through the city! Win, win, win!

Getting Around Bath

Getting around Bath once you are there is SUPER easy.

This is such an easy city to walk around. Everything is all within 15-20 minutes. Signposts and maps are posted around the city, so getting lost is not an option.

Uber does exist, but there’s not much price difference to grab a taxi at one of the ranks. I haven’t had any issues with Uber in Bath, but I know some people who have had Uber cancel last minute, not show up, or overcharge.

If you plan to take a taxi back to the train station, then you can familiarize yourself with the taxi rank locations .

Roman Baths

No visit to Bath would be complete without touring the Roman Baths. The baths were built after the Roman invasion in the 1st century as a way for the Romans to relax and take full advantage of the hot springs bubbling below the city of Bath.

The baths were not only used for healing, but for leisure and socializing. Sometimes the Romans played board games there and sometimes they held business meetings… I want to know if they had their business meetings in the Great Bath or if it was in the cold plunge pool. What do you think?

If you only have one day in Bath, then you’ll want to get here as soon as possible (since you probably won’t be able to visit right before close or at night time). Make sure you get here before opening so you can be the first person inside!

Once the clock strikes 10am, all the tourist buses from London roll up and it gets VERY crowded, VERY quickly.

You can check out my tips for the Roman Baths or my Guide to Visiting the Roman Baths .

If you want to see it all, then make sure you give yourself at least 2 hours.

Since you just finished the Roman Baths, you are right next to Bath Abbey, so why not take a little peek?

International travelers heading to the UK might think that all cathedrals are the same, but each one around the country is beautiful and unique, using different styles and stones with different facades and different columns lining the naves.

Bath Abbey is no exception.

There has been evidence of a church on this site as early as the 7th century and has survived plenty of battles, including the Reformation in the 1500s and the bombing of Bath during World War II.

The first thing that pops out are the little angels climbing up the ladders on either side of the facade.

Apparently, the idea came to the Bishop of Bath, Oliver King, in a dream.

You also need to check out the fan-vaulted ceiling inside the nave, it’s gorgeous!

Parade Gardens

After you are finished with the abbey, walk towards the River Avon and you’ll run into the parade gardens.

If you want to pretend you are living in the Regency period in the middle of the social season during an episode of Bridgerton and “promenade” around a garden next to a river… this place is for you!

The garden actually predates the Regency period, the two-and-a-half acre grounds were laid out in the early 1700s.

There are plenty of photo ops here and if you walk down to the river, you will get an amazing view of Pulteney Bridge and the weir.

Once you are finished with the gardens, walk up the steps and head to the right (towards the bridge).

Pulteney Bridge

Before you reach the actual bridge, make sure you take in one of Bath’s most famous views.

Trust me, you can’t miss this on your day trip to Bath!

Pulteney Bridge was completed in 1774 and is one of four bridges in the world that is lined with shops on both sides and when you are actually on the bridge, you have no idea you are walking across a bridge.

The weir has been referenced since the 1600s, however, the famous 3-tiered weir you see today was built in 1975. And no, it’s not a fancy “water feature”, the weir is used to regulate the water and help protect the city from flooding.

If you’ve seen the movie Les Misérables then you’ll recognize the weir from Javert’s suicide scene as he jumps off the bridge into the river.

Circus and Royal Crescent

No day trip to Bath is complete without walking around the gorgeous Georgian townhouses… and one of the best examples of Georgian architecture is the Royal Crescent.

The Circus, formally known as King’s Circus, was designed by architect John Wood, the Elder. He also designed the adjoining Gay Street which leads to Queen Square, another one of his designs. From above, these three places form a key.

If you follow Brock Street from the Circus, you will run into one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture, the Royal Crescent.

This crescent was built a few years after the Circus by John Wood, the Younger… yep, John Wood, the Elder’s son! I guess those genes ran in the family.

The crescent consists of 30 terrace houses, VERY expensive terrace houses.

If you want to know what the inside looks like, check out No. 1 Royal Crescent. It’s the first terrace house you come to and the inside is laid out in all its Georgian glory.

The facade of No.1 was used for exterior shots of the Featherington’s house in Bridgerton.

Ending Your Day Trip to Bath

That’s probably all you will have time for with only one day in Bath, but I’m sure you’ll be back… right?

If you are a big fan of Jane Austen then you can visit the Jane Austen Centre, which is a short walk from The Circus.

There is also a taxi rank on George Street, which is very close to the museum. It’s perfect if you want to fit one more thing in before your day in Bath ends.

If you’re not a big fan of Jane Austen, you can wander around Queen Square (it’s not a fancy garden, but there are some benches and pretty terrace houses).

Where to Eat and Drink in Bath

Sally Lunn’s: Bath is famous for the Sally Lunn bun, in fact, Jane Austen even wrote about them in her letters to her family.

If you want to grab one of these buns as a snack or quick lunch, make sure you get there early-ish (after you visit Bath Abbey, take a detour to grab a bun before you head to the Parade Gardens). By the evening, all the buns will be gone!

Are they worth it? Ummmm… YES!

They are fluffy, sweet, light, and delicious… just go get the bun!

Garrick’s Head: This is a great place to sit outside and grab a pint with your lunch. It’s next to the Theatre Royal, so it can get busy if there is a show on that night.

This is a little bit on the pricey side, but the food is good.

Crescent Restaurant and Bar: SUPER convenient since it’s located right next to the Royal Crescent. That means you won’t have to stray too far off the path and get the most out of your one day in Bath.

The Pump Room: I don’t think I could’ve left the Pump Room off this list. This restaurant has been the beating heart of Bath since Jane Austen’s time. If you want to opt for afternoon tea instead of lunch, then I cannot recommend this place enough.

You can also sample more of that delicious Bath water…

If you want an experience in England, then this is the place to go… OH, did I mention they have a trio or a pianist that plays every day?!? The only thing missing is a regency dress and Mr. Darcy!

The Pump Room also offers brunch, so if you skip breakfast, grab a bite to eat here after you visit the Roman Baths!

Regency Tea Room: If you still want afternoon tea but want it in a more cozy setting and maybe a little more budget friendly?

Head to the Jane Austen Centre and go to the Regency Tea Room. For under £10 you can get tea and scones!!

Assembly Rooms

I’m sure a lot of you have heard about the assembly rooms, maybe because it’s a filming location for Bridgerton? Or maybe you are a Jane Austen fan and want to follow in her footsteps? Or maybe you have heard of the Fashion Museum?

Well, you can no longer visit the assembly rooms because the museum has closed down.

The Fashion Museum has shut its doors and will be moving to the center of the city, which is estimated to take anywhere from 3 to 8 years… yikes.

The rooms will re-open “whenever possible” in March 2023 while the National Trust creates their new exhibit in the assembly rooms, which will be an immersive Georgian Bath experience.

Are you taking a day trip to Bath? Or maybe a weekend break? What do you plan on doing in Bath? Lemme know in the comments below!

Related Posts:

• Guide to Visiting the Roman Baths
• Tips for Visiting the Roman Baths
• Travel Guide for Bristol, England
• Weekend Breaks in England

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One Day In Bath England Itinerary, Day Trip From London

“Oh! Who can be ever tired of Bath?” — Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey

If you’re looking for a great day trip from London, Bath England should definitely be on your list! This one day Bath itinerary covers all of the top attractions and best things to do in Bath.

Despite its small size, Bath is a breathtakingly beautiful city nestled in the lush green hillsides. It has been a popular destination for visitors since the Roman times, and it’s easy to see why. 

Bath is a city of both romance and ruins, with its entire historic center designated as a UNESCO-listed site. With its abundance of stunning Georgian architecture and rich Roman history, Bath is one of the most impressive cities in England.

Bath is known for its unique and gorgeous “Bath stone” buildings, which give the city a warm, honey-colored glow. Walking around Bath, you may feel as if you’ve stepped into a Jane Austen novel.

While Bath is a popular tourist destination, its otherworldly charm still makes it an absolute joy to visit. And since the city is located within easy reach of London, it’s the perfect day trip destination — just a quick 1.5 hour train ride away.

A Short History Of Bath

No one day in Bath itinerary would be complete without a short history of the city.

Bath has a rich history, dating back to its time as a Roman city. In 40 A.D., the Roman Emperor Vespasian marched through Britain, and Bath was one of the cities he conquered.

With the formidable power of the Roman war machine behind him, Vespasian had little difficulty in subduing the far-flung city.

READ : Nutshell History of Ancient Rome

The Romans were keenly aware of the incredible value of Bath. They had seen steam rising from a marshy area in the water and knew they had discovered something special.

It turned out that Bath was home to a hot spring, the perfect place for a luxurious Roman-style bath. The Romans wasted no time in creating an elaborate complex of baths, pools, and even a temple on a sacred Celtic site. They named the city Aquae Sulis.

With its seven hills, Bath aimed to become the “Rome of England.” Two hundred years after Vespasian’s army arrived, Bath had become a prosperous trading city. And 300 years later, Bath had become a hub of culture and beauty.

In 480 A.D., the Roman Empire collapsed and the Romans left Bath. When they departed, they took with them their technology and medical knowledge, leaving Bath without access to the advancements that had made the Roman baths so impressive.

By the 5th century, the Roman city of Bath had largely vanished. Buildings fell into disrepair and stones were plundered.

However, in the 7th and 8th centuries, the fortunes of Bath began to improve. The construction of a cathedral put Bath back on the map. The city’s natural hot springs and their purported healing properties soon attracted many visitors, including some notable figures.

Queen Elizabeth I famously bathed in Bath’s waters King James II’s wife also sought refuge in Bath when she was unable to conceive. After visiting the hot springs, she miraculously became pregnant and gave birth to a healthy child.

This event helped to solidify Bath’s reputation as a destination for healing and rejuvenation. Tourists flocked to the city, marking the beginning of Bath’s second golden age.

In 1559, he British painter Thomas Gainsborough arrived in search of better paying clientele. Fashionable ladies who spilled out of the Pump Room on Abbey Street were greeted by a sign advertising Gainsborough’s paintings.

In the early 18th century, a bon vivant named Beau Nash arrived in Bath. He became the chief curator and “master of ceremonies” for visitors. With his dandyish ways, the “pleasure city” of Bath became the Los Angeles of Britain.

In the late 18th century, or Regency era, a succession of gifted architects got busy. They gave Bath a Georgian splendor and order — a kind of serenity in stone — that happily survives.

Bath became a popular stop on the “grand tours” taken by wealthy and fashionable men. It also became a favorite holiday retreat and upper class resort.

The wealthy Londoners went there to escape the city. They would come for the season and amuse themselves by dancing at balls and playing craps.

Jane Austen came to Bath. She actually lived there for a few years during its heyday, gathering her juiciest material. She had many suitors there, but never married.

Austen wrote Persuasion and Northanger Abbey while she lived in Bath. Bath provided the grist for her novels, which satirized the well-heeled denizens of fashionable towns, their scandals, and their matchmaking.

Overview Of One Day In Bath Itinerary

Here’s a quick snapshot of things you can see and do with one day in Bath.

• Historic Center
• Roman Baths
• Royal Crescent
• Fashion Museum
• Jane Austen Heritage Center
• Pulteney Bridge
• Holburne Museum of Art
• Thermal Baths Spa
• Alexandra Park

If you’re in a hurry, below are some of the top tours and experiences for Bath. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting, especially in high season.

• city walking tour
• Jane Austen Center ticket
• ticket to Bath Abbey
• Bridgeton filming locations tour
• sightseeing boat cruise

One Day In Bath England Itinerary

Bath is a city that’s perfect for a one-day visit. Thanks to its compact center, you can easily see the main attractions in just a day. 

Of course, if you have more time, you may want to linger longer and indulge in the hot springs or simply relax in the beautiful, honey-colored city.

If you only have one day to spend in Bath, don’t worry – I’ve got you covered! Below are all the top attractions you can visit in a day. 

Depending on your travel pace, you may not have time to see them all, but I wanted to give you all the options so you can customize your itinerary to your liking.

One Day In Bath Itinerary AM

1. historic center.

Start off your 1 day in Bath with a stroll through the city center. You may want to book a 1.5 hour guided walking tour to get oriented.

Bath is visually one of the prettiest cities I’ve been to in England. There’s lovely honey-washed Georgian architecture hugging pristine roads everywhere you go.

The city’s most popular attractions, the Roman Baths and the Bath Abbey, are next door neighbors. The historic center is filled with fabulous shops, coffee cafes, and tea rooms.

Just window shopping alone is a real delight. The shops aim to provide whatever high quality goods you could want.

On any given day, you may see acrobats, musicians, memes, jugglers, or other buskers performing in the streets. With one day in Bath, you can easily peak in every corner and circle every photogenic square twice.

You may want to poke into the Guildhall Market . There are about 20 stalls. You can get everything from food, jewelry, sweets, and tea.

2. Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey is a massive medieval church built in an eye catching Victorian-Gothic style. The abbey was the last great church built in England. And, happily, it survived the English Reformation.

The stony abbey was originally founded as a Benedictine monastery in the 8th century. The current structure was built over 120 years from 1499-1626.

Gorgeous stained glass windows line towering walls. The facade is dotted with unique memorial stones and sculptures.

It’s worth going inside just to see the vaulted fan ceiling and the magnificent 4000 pipe Klais Organ.

There are 635 memorial on the abbey walls. They mostly commemorate people from the 18th and 19th centuries. The abbey floor is made up of flat grave stones.

Admission is free and by donation. So there’s no reason for you not to step in and at least take a peak.

If you’re up for a hike, you can climb the 212 steps of the tower for £8. Be forewarned, it’s a tight spiral staircase.

You’ll go through the ringing chamber and the bell chamber. At the top, you’ll have a bird’s eye view over the historic center.

This Abbey is reminiscent of St. George’s Chapel in Windsor . The abbey also offers 40 minute tours. You should check the website (linked above) to see what is on offer.

3. Roman Baths

Historically, the Roman Baths played a critical role in the city’s history and development. Dating back to 75 A.D., the baths are the best preserved ancient baths in Northern Europe.

The baths are the top attraction in Bath and have a stunning setting. Above them, you have wonderful views of Bath Abbey.

The baths were discovered in 1880. Walking through them has a time warp feel, with the matte green waters of the baths perfectly reflecting the picturesque Roman facades. You’ll feel as though you’re stepping right back into Roman Britain.

There are four parts: (1) the great bath house; (3) the Sacred Spring; (3) the Roman Temple; and (4) the museum.

The Romans used the bath house for religious and recreational (bathing) purposes. But the baths were also the place to socialize. Food and drink were serve in the bath, including oysters and snails.

The water wasn’t really green. It was colorless, but took on its green hue from algae growth caused by heat and daylight.

The water was revered as a cure for all sorts of ailments, like gout, rheumatism, and skin diseases. You can test this hypothesis in the complex’s Pump Room, where you can sip a free cup of hot spring water.

Visitors pass from the terrace overlooking the baths through hallways and rooms.

In the series of darkish museum rooms, you’ll see the in situ remains and ornate architectural fragments of what was once the magnificent open air Temple of Sulis Minerva.

She was the goddess of the thermal spring. Sulis wasn’t a Roman goddess though. She was a local Celtic deity.

You’ll also find diagrams, dioramas, and models. There are other artifacts like coins, mosaics, tombstones, religious masks, and busts. Videos and holograms are used to make the ruins come alive.

You’ll even see “curse scrolls.” The Romans inscribed curses on tablets made of sheets of pewter or lead.

They threw the curses into the springs hoping to procure justice from Sulis Minerva. Archaeologists discovered the curses during excavations.

The curses are pretty funny. They reveal the petty side of human nature. They were almost like modern day tweets.

One scroll, for example, asks that the thief who stole his gloves lose his “mind and eyes.” Another person sought revenge for the theft of a bronze vessel, asking that it be “filled with the blood of the thief.”

The downward progress ends at a beautiful smoldering pool known as the Great Bath. It’s an elegant hall with a rectangle swimming pool surrounded by broad paved walkways.

There are pillars, long arches, and statues of Roman generals and emperors at the top. At one time, patterned mosaics decorated the floors. It’s now roofless, but wasn’t always that way.

Admission to the Roman Baths is £ 20-25 per ticket, depending on when you go. You should book in advance. Click here to book a ticket on the website.

I was just there on a March weekend and it was fully booked. The price includes an audio guide offering plenty of interesting information. You can pick it up after you hand in your ticket.

You can also take a guided 2 hour walking tour of Bath with an entry to the Roman baths .

4. The Royal Crescent

The Royal Crescent is one of the great set pieces in Europe. It’s a row of terraced Georgian houses, laid out in a graceful 600 foot crescent shape. They were built in 1767-74 by architect John Wood the Younger.

You approach via an arduous climb from the city center. A concave sweep of houses comes suddenly into view. 30 of them stand lined in a rhythmic curve.

You can’t help but think it’s immeasurably beautiful. The crescent has a force and drama that’s reminiscent of the Bernini colonnade in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. One great way to see is on a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride .

READ : 5 Days in Rome Itinerary

Without a doubt, the Royal Crescent is one of the world’s greatest examples of Georgian architecture and one of the most photographed spots in England.

You may remember the Royal Crescent from many period shows like Bridgerton .

#1 Royal Crescent is a museum where you can see how the rich and famous lived in 18th century Bath.

It’s decorated and furnished just as it might have been during the period 1776-1796. It has all the fashionable accoutrements of the era: gloves, a telescope, botanical drawings, and a fine dining room.

Derived from the Latin word  circus , the Circus refers to a semi-circular graceful loop of grand historic townhouses in Bath. It’s just a block away from the Royal Crescent.

Built in 1754-64, the Circus is an architectural masterpiece and was the heart of Georgian Bath. Originally called the King’s Circus, it was designed by English architect John Wood, the Elder.

In the Georgian era, the Circus was home to a veritable who’s who from world history. Plaques mark the houses where Gainsborough, William Pitt (the Prime Minister), and Clive of India (the soldier-statesman) once lived.

The Circus is imperial in scale, like the Roman Colosseum turned inside out. The Greco-Roman inspired building has Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian capital decorations.

Three sets of 11 houses encircle a patch of lawn. Each house looks luxurious and sober.

You should walk all the way around the Circus to view the hundreds of stone ornaments, each different, above the first floor windows.

One Day In Bath Itinerary PM

6. fashion museum.

The Fashion Museum is a window into the Georgian era. You can see how the wealthy dressed at the museum.

It exhibits historic artifacts and garments from nearly every era of England. The featured exhibit is the “Dress of the Year” display.

7. Jane Austen Heritage Centre

Housed in a 270 year old Georgian townhouse, the J ane Austen Heritage Centre is one of the top tourist attractions in Bath. The museum is an homage to Jane Austen.

The permanent exhibition gives insight in the life and work of Jane Austen during the Regency era. Austen lived in Bath from 1800-06.

The guides are actors dressed in period costumes. They enthusiastically share their extensive knowledge with their visitors.

You can watch a short film about her life. And admire portraits that are though to be of Austen.

8. Pulteney Bridge

Next, make your way to the River Avon. There’s just one more must visit landmark to tick off your one day in Bath itinerary: Pulteney Bridge. Three graceful arches span the River Avon.

This is one of very few bridges in the world that are completely lined with shops. The oldest is the Ponte Vecchio in Florence Italy .

READ : 3 Day Itinerary For Florence

It was built by William Johnstone Pulteney in 1771. He wanted to make a grand statement. At the back of the bridge, there’s a riverside walkway where you can stroll.

If you have any time left on your one day in Bath itinerary, there are two very good museums near the bridge.

Just 5 minutes away is the Holburne Museum of Art on Great Pulteney Street. It houses an impeccable collection of British portraits.

Just a few steps away from the bridge is the Victoria Art Gallery . The museum was opened in 1900 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee.

The historic building houses over 1500 objects of art. That includes a collection of oil paintings from British artists dating from 1700 onwards. 

9. Prior Park Landscape Garden

After all that sightseeing, stop and relax in Prior Park Landscape Garden. It’s a beautiful 18th century landscaped garden.

It has an attractive Palladian Bridge. It’s one of only four remaining in the entire world.

READ : Guide To The Palladian City of Vicenza

10. Thermal Bath Spa

Need a good soak like a Roman? Head to the Thermae Bath Spa .

It’s right next door to the Roman Baths. The spa is a bit expensive at £38 on week nights and £43 on weekends.

But it’s the only natural thermal spa in all of England, designed with quartzite stone. You can simmer in the city’s mineral-rich waters and float away your cares.

The complex is quite large. It consists of steam rooms, massage areas, a restaurant and, of course, thermal baths. The crown jewel is the open air rooftop pool, which has wonderful views over the historic center.

11. Alexandra Park

Last but not least, you should finish up your one day in Bath itinerary at Alexandra Park. It’s a 15-20 walk from the city center.

This peaceful park is perched high above the city on Beechen Cliff. It’s quite a hike with steep steps, but definitely worth the effort for the views. 

You’ll have spectacular views over the entirety of Bath. You can catch a beautiful sunset and unwind.

12. Bridgerton Filming Locations In Bath

Did you know that Bath was a major filming location for the smash Netflix series Bridgerton ? The series is an American fantasy of Regency era London in 1813.

But many scenes in the series were actually filmed in Bath, especially the outdoor scenes. You can identify the scenes from the honey colored Bath stone.

The elegant members of the  ton  promenade with parasols along Alfred Street, greet friends on the Royal Crescent, and take a stroll down Bath Stree t .

#1 of the Royal Crescent was used as the Featheringtons’ London home. Abbey Green serves as a backdrop for market shops and strolls.

The Modiste dress shop is actually the Abbey Deli. The Holborn Museum is the exterior of Lady Danbury’s townhouse.

If you, like me, are a massive Bridgerton fan, you can book a 2 hour guided walking tour to the Bridgerton filming locations .

Tips For Spending One Day In Bath

Here are some must know things for spending 1 day in Bath.

1. How To Get Around Bath

Bath is a super walkable small city. The historic sites are clustered in the city center.

The other major sites are just a short 10-15 minute walk away. Bring some comfy walking shoes as Bath is a bit hilly.

You can also take the hop on hop off bus to get to the main attractions of Bath. You can enjoy a Prosecco cruise on the River Avon . You can even book a Jane Austen themed guided tour .

If you need a map, the tourist office is located on the Abbey Churchyard.

2. How To Get To Bath

To get from London to Bath by train, you can take a direct train from London Paddington Station to Bath Spa Station. The journey takes about 1.5 hours and trains run regularly throughout the day.

You should book your tickets in advance to get the best fares and secure your seat, especially during peak travel times.

Bath Spa Station is located in the heart of Bath, so it’s easy to reach the town center on foot in 5-10 minutes . When you exit the station, follow the signs or directions to the city center. 

If you want to drive, Bath is about 85 miles from London. The trip takes just under 2 hours, if there’s no traffic.

You likely won’t find parking on the streets. But there are several car parks in the city center.

If you’re based in London, you can also book a guided day trip tour to both Bath and Stonehenge . You can also book a guided tour that includes Stratford-Upon-Avon, Stonehenge, and Bath .

The second tour is long and packs a lot in. But if you’re in a hurry, it’s an ideal way to see several marquis attractions in England.

A variant of this tour takes you on a day trip to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath .

3. Where To Eat In Bath

For breakfast, you might try a morning cinnabon at Landrace Bakery . It uses organic stone ground flour for its baked treats. Society Cafe also has a broad range of specialty coffees.

Sally Lunn’s is a world famous tea and eating house. The historic building is one of the oldest houses in Bath.

The kitchen museum shows the actual kitchen used by the legendary young Huguenot baker Sally Lunn. She created the first “Bath Bunn,” a semi-sweet bread.

Lunchtime options include Green Street Seafood Cafe , Cafe Lucca , Thai Basil , or Framptons .

For dinner in the city center, you can try Corkage , with an excellent wine list. Or eat at The Elder for traditional English cuisine.

If Italian is what you crave, head to Sotto Sotto . It’s in a cool subterranean setting near the Roman Baths.

If you need a spot of ice cream, head to Marshfields . It’s the local shop and there’s always a line.

4. Where to Stay in Bath

Do you want to spend the night? You have some great options in Bath.

The best place to stay in Bath is the Gainsborough Bath Spa . The luxury hotel is on a quiet lane in Bath’s historic center. It’s crowning glory is the two level spa complex, with three thermal pools fed by Bath’s famed natural spring water.

The Royal Crescent Hotel is a luxury hotel that’s located on the Royal Crescent, occupying #15 and #16. You can wake up with a view of the crescent, laid out like a stone tiara.

15 by Guesthouse is another good option. It’s just minutes from the shop-lined Pulteney Bridge with a beautiful Georgian facade. As a nod to Jane Austen, there are powder blue walls. There’s also a basement spa.

The Yard is another lovely and relaxing spot. Breakfast is delivered to your door in the morning. The best bedroom comes with a rooftop terrace. There’s a courtyard wine bar, Wolf Wine , offering up organic tipples.

5. Is One Day in Bath Enough?

One day in Bath is enough to see the main attractions and soak up the architecture. Especially if you arrive the night before and have the entire day.

But two days is probably better to really enjoy the city. Then, you can take you time and properly sample the thermal baths.

6. When To Visit Bath

Bath’s high season runs from June to September, offering the best chance for sunshine and festivals. However, be prepared to deal with maddening crowds if you visit during the summer months. 

The city center can get quite congested, so it may be a good idea to plan your trip on a weekday rather than a weekend. Additionally, staying overnight could give you the opportunity to enjoy Bath after the day-trippers have left.

If you’re looking for milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season in spring or fall. During my visit in March, I had a fairly warm and sunny day.

Christmas is a pretty time in Bath, when the city is bedecked in lights. And there’s a fun Christmas market.

7. Things To Do Near Bath

If you have more than one day in Bath, there are plenty of interesting things to do and see nearby. Here are some day trips from Bath you might consider:

1. Stonehenge

Just an hour drive from Bath is one of the worlds’ most iconic prehistoric monuments — Stonehenge . The UNESCO-listed landmark dates from 3,000 B.C. Every year, it draws almost a million visitors.

Stonehenge is a circle of standing stones, each weighing several tons, set in a grassy field. The monument’s purpose and construction remain a mystery to this day.

Click here to pre-book an admissions ticket for Stonehenge. The site is best to visit at sunrise or sunset.

2. Castle Combe

The beautiful village of Castle Combe in the Cotswold is just 25 minutes from Bath. It’s a jigsaw‐puzzle painter’s vision of an English village. It’s so cute that it’s inevitably thronged with tourists on weekends.

But go anyway. Laid out in a valley alongside a rushing stream, the town has slate roofed stone cottages and picturesque shop signs. It’s a place where charm negates the crowds.

Castle Combe was once a weaving center. A few years ago, the village was used as the set for the movie Dr. Doolittle .

From Bath, you can book a 5 hour guided tour of both Castle Combe and Lacock (which I discuss below).

Lacock is a quintessential English village just 25 minutes from Bath. It’s a quaint, homey village in Wiltshire.

The bite-sized townscape is dotted with centuries old half timber houses and stone cottages. Lush flower boxes are overflowing with colorful blooms.

Lacock feels trapped in time, with no indicia of modernity. Its untainted historical heritage is sustained by the National Trust, which owns the village (almost) in its entirety.

Lacock has made a few appearances on the big screen. It’s been featured in Pride and Prejudice , Downtown Abbey , and Harry Potter.

Three of the eight Harry Potter films used Lacock as a filming location. As a result, Lacock is a pilgrimage site for die hard Potterheads.

Lacock is home to Lily and James Potter’s House in Godric’s Hollow. Lacock Abbey’s scenic cloisters doubled as Hogwarts and Snape’s Potions Classroom in several films.

4. Wells Catherdral

The stunning Wells Cathedral is just 35 minutes from Bath. Wells’ massive Gothic cathedral sits right in the center of Wells.

Built in stages between 1180 and 1508, it showcases several Gothic styles.

Its West Front is decorated with more than 300 carved figures, which isone of the finest collections of medieval sculpture in Europe.

Other highlight of Wells cathedral are the elegant Lady Chapel, the fan-vaulted Chapter House, and the celebrated Chained Library. The library contains books and manuscripts dating back to 1472.

You should take the 90 minute High Parts Tour . It takes you through hidden chambers to the south transept roof terrace.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one day in Bath itinerary. You may enjoy these other England travel guides and resources:

• 3 Days In London Itinerary
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• Best Day Trips From London
• Best Museums in London
• Tourist Traps To Skip in London
• Guide To the National Gallery of Art
• Guide To the Wallace Collection
• Guide To the Tower of London
• Guide To Hampton Court Palace
• Guide To Hatfield House

If you’d like to spend one day in Bath, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on April 10, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

How to take the perfect day trip to Bath from London

The lovely World Heritage City of Bath, in south west England is a hugely popular destination. With gorgeous Georgian architecture, ancient Roman baths and the UK’s only natural hot springs to relax in, the beautiful city of Bath is an easy day trip from London.

Here’s my favourite itinerary for the perfect day trip to Bath, with timings, things to do in Bath and tips for your visit.

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Getting to Bath

Many visitors taking a day tour to Bath from central London visit Bath as part of a guided tour which also stops at Windsor Castle and Stonehenge. Any chance to see Bath is one worth taking, but I loved Bath so much that I think it’d be a shame not to spend a full day there to take in all the best things to do in this historic city.

By following this Bath day trip itinerary, you’ll be able to see all the main attractions at your own pace, with some extra relaxation built in!

From London

If you’re taking a day trip to Bath from London, then by far the best way to get there is by train. Great Western Trains run frequently between London Paddington station and Bath Spa train station; expect travel time from central London of around 1 hour 20 minutes. As with all fairly long distance trains in the UK you should book your ticket as far in advance as you can (you can do this online) to get the cheapest ticket price.

From Bristol

It’s really easy to take a day trip to Bath from Bristol. Trains to Bath Spa station from Bristol Temple Meads take just 11 minutes and run every 10 to 20 minutes throughout the day. You don’t need to book train tickets for this local route in advance.

However you travel to Bath, aim to be in the city before 9am for the first stop on this Bath day trip itinerary. It might mean an early start, but things are about to get a whole lot more relaxing!

9am: Enjoy a thermal bath at Thermae Bath Spa

The first stop of the day on your day trip to Bath should be the city’s most indulgent attraction, the Thermae Bath Spa . Bath is the only place in Britain with naturally hot springs , and the reason for the city’s existence.

The Romans enjoyed taking thermal baths here, and visitors can too. While you can’t bathe in the famous Roman Baths, you can enjoy the naturally hot, mineral-rich waters at Thermae.

Thermae’s major attraction is its rooftop pool with lovely views towards Bath Abbey and the rolling Somerset hills that surround the city. The water comes from Bath’s three hot springs; it emerges from the ground at 45 ºC (113 º Fahrenheit) but is cooled to 34 ºC (93 º Fahrenheit) so it’s comfortable for bathing.

As well as the outdoor pool, there’s also a large indoor pool with a whirlpool and lazy river.

A wellness centre (included in the ticket price) has two fragrant steam rooms, an infra red room, a space-themed relaxation room and an ice chamber where you can rub yourself down with cooling and exfoliating ice crystals.

Thermae opens at 9am, 7 days a week, and the best time to visit is either when it opens or late into the afternoon/evening as it gets very busy as the day goes on – you don’t want to spend your precious day trip time queuing!

Getting there when it opens also means it’s as quiet as it can be – when I visited at 9am on a Monday morning in June there were around 18 of us in the rooftop pool which was a very comfortable amount, and for quite a while there was just the two of us in the large indoor bath.

Towels, robes and flip flops are included in the Thermae entry price, so if you’re taking a day trip to Bath from London by train then the good news is that all you have to bring is your bathing suit and whatever toiletries you need. If you’re hungry during your visit, there’s a cafe inside.

Read more: Tips for your visit to Thermae Bath Spa

11am: Visit the Roman Baths

The Roman Baths are absolutely incredible and surprisingly large, so I’ve allowed 2 hours for your visit. I’d thought that all there was to see was the big pool, but there’s an awful lot more to it than that.

The entry price of £25 for adults seems pretty steep (especially if you’re expecting a quick look at a murky green pond) but it’s an unmissable part of any day trip to Bath.

You’ll enter the Roman Baths from the Abbey Churchyard – there wasn’t a queue when I visited but you can book tickets online if you like. The entry price includes the audio tour, with a choice of commentaries and languages including an option for children. As soon as you walk in, you see the large pool, which is fantastically well preserved.

You’ll walk around the 19th century platform with statues of Roman emperors, then go down to the museum, which shows how large the bathing complex was in Roman times.

There are displays of Roman coins and other treasures found in the ruins, but I particularly enjoyed the displays of curse tablets – little pieces of metal inscribed with complaints to the goddess Minerva about someone who’d wronged the writer. Curse tablets were popular throughout the Roman world – the ones found in Bath tend to be requests for revenge for the theft of a cloak or money taken while the owner was bathing.

The next section of the museum is the remains of the Roman temple dedicated to the goddess Minerva, who the Romans who came to Bath merged with the Celtic goddess Sulis to give Bath its Roman name Aquae Sulis (the waters of Sulis). One of the most precious artefacts in the collection is a stunning gilt bronze head of Sulis Minerva which was found on the site in 1727.

From the temple, you’ll go outside to see the Roman Baths at their original level, far beneath modern street level. The water is a murky green and doesn’t look terribly inviting, but walking in the footsteps of Romans is incredibly moving and atmospheric – I got the same kind of feeling as I did when I visited Pompeii .

It’d be easy to miss the rooms off the side of the pool but they’re really worth a look. The audio guide gets really interesting here as it talks about the everyday life of the Romans who came here, and the videos that are projected into each room are really well done.

Towards the way out, you can see the hot spring water running into the Roman bath underneath your feet. There’s a drinking fountain where you can taste the waters, or you can save that particular Bath treat for later when you visit the Pump Rooms.

Stay in Bath’s historic centre and keep it fairly light as you’ll be going for afternoon tea soon!

You could visit Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House , which is in one of the oldest houses in Bath and serves up a range of sandwiches made with their famous Sally Lunn’s Bunns which they claim are the original Bath bun).

If that doesn’t appeal, or the queue is too long, there are lots of other options. I particularly liked the Scandi-style cafe Mjölk ‘s sandwiches for lunch – you can find them opposite the Pump Room and Roman Baths in the Abbey Churchyard.

2pm: Free guided walking tour

The Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides run free, 2 hour-long walking tours of Bath, taking in all Bath’s most popular sights like the Royal Crescent, the Circus, the Assembly Rooms, Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge. It’s a great way to understand the city, its history and its 18th century architecture in a very short time.

The guides themselves are a bit of a Bath institution – established in 1938, the volunteers have been showing visitors around the city for over 80 years. The knowledgeable guides don’t accept tips or gratuities so your tour is completely free.

4pm: Afternoon tea at the Pump Room

The Pump Room was a fashionable meeting place in Georgian times, and counted Jane Austen among its elegant, society visitors; it features in her novels Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. If you’re a Jane Austen fan, you could also use any free time to visit the Jane Austen Centre ; it’s a small museum only a short walk from most other Bath attractions in the city centre.

The Pump Room takes its name from the pump that brings water from the King’s Spring up to a drinking fountain in the restaurant. You can “take the waters” here as the Georgians did – with over 42 minerals the water is reputed to have health benefits (they do taste nasty enough to be medicinal!). It also boasts its own musical ensemble who play as diners enjoy the refined surroundings.

A Pump Room afternoon tea includes a selection of savoury sandwiches and tarts, scones and pastries and a pot of tea or coffee. If you’re in the mood for some more bubbles after Thermae this morning, you can add a glass (or bottle) of Champagne or English sparkling wine to give your afternoon tea some extra fizz.

5pm: Shopping

Bath has lots of fantastic independent shops, along with the usual British chains. Most of the big chains like Boots or Primark are open until 7pm Monday to Saturday.

One of my favourite shops in Bath is the Topping & Company bookshop which is in a former chapel near the Abbey. It’s one of the UK’s largest independent bookshops and an absolute delight if you love books – the building is gorgeous, they stock over 45,000 titles and they run regular events with big-name authors. It’s well worth checking on their website to see who’s going to be in town at the same town as you.

7pm: Pizza and cocktails

By now you’ll be getting peckish again, so head for some laid-back but award-winning pizza and cocktails at Bath’s old Green Park railway station . The station still has its huge arched roof and hosts craft markets, farmers’ markets and antique markets. Even if you don’t stay for pizza, it’s worth a look for the old station’s huge arched roof.

Bath in the evening

Regular trains back to London from Bath finish just after 9pm – there’s one last train after 10 but I’d aim to be on one of the earlier ones. The train times mean that a theatre show probably isn’t going to be an option but there are other things to do in Bath in the evening.

If you’re in the mood to see the darker side of Bath, you can take one of the ghost tours – some of which have audience participation!

Bath has a lively pub scene, ideal to round off your day trip to Bath. The Bath Brew House , just across the road from Green Park Station, has brewery tours most days at 6pm, a pub quiz on Tuesdays and live music from up-and-coming Bath acts on Sundays.

The Grapes , on Westgate Street, has been a pub since 1792 and hosts live music most nights, including jazz and Irish folk. There’s a stunning 17th-century Jacobean ceiling in the function room upstairs. The Bell Inn , on arty Walcot Street, has an eclectic lineup of live acts 3-4 times a week and is loved by music greats like Robert Plant and Peter Gabriel.

What would you do on a day trip to Bath?

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Perfect day trip itinerary for bath, uk.

The beautiful World Heritage city of Bath is one of England’s top highlights.

Even if only you’re travelling in this country for a week or so, then you really can’t miss this stunning town situated in the country’s southwest corner.

Unbelievably, I hadn’t visited this gem in my home country, until this summer – 32 years in!

With a trip to Bristol to see friends booked (read more about the best free things to do in Bristol here), Bath seemed like the perfect accessory, only 15 minutes away by train.

But Bath certainly isn’t just a Bristol accessory, it’s very much a jewel in its own crown – in fact it’s amazing just how close and how different the 2 cities are.

Bath is all glamour, while Bristol is all grit. Both are magnificent, it just depends what you’re into.

And FYI: I’m into both!

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How to Travel from London to Bath?

The other thing that differentiates the 2 cities is size.

Bath is much smaller, and the centre more easily explored on foot in a shorter amount of time than Bristol.

This makes a quick excursion to Bath really manageable. In fact, Bath is one of the best day trips from London.

If you’re looking to see more of England outside of the capital, then I can highly recommend Bath which combines all the necessary factors of history, heritage, finesse and countryside charm.

Visiting Bath on a day trip from London (or Bristol for that matter – you can actually cycle between the 2!) is also one of the most cost-effective ways to see the city.

It’s only a 90 minute train ride from Paddington station and, as always, I use Trainline to find the best prices – with a handy journey planning feature and live departure updates, this is my one-stop shop when it comes to organising all my UK train adventures.

Alternatively, if you’re really on a budget, you can hop on the Megabus from London Victoria Coach Station to Bath for as little as £5 one way!

You can also, of course, drive to Bath. The journey takes just 2.5 hours from London. If you want to hire a car in the UK, check out Discover Cars .

Bath have recently brought in a clean air initiative and, as such, strongly encourage all visitors to use the Park & Ride services when travelling from further afield – this helps reduce congestion and air pollution in the busy city centre.

The city has 3 Park & Ride services , which are open 7 days a week and located just 10 minutes from the city centre.

Buses run into the city from all three Park and Ride sites at least every 15 minutes.

Finally, you can also take a day trip tour to Bath from London. Check out this great option , which actually covers Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath and the Roman Baths all in a day trip from London.

Top Bath Day Trip Attractions

Originally a Roman settlement and later a popular Georgian town, Bath is famous for its history and no few than 13 museums can be found in the compact city centre.

Most entrance tickets can either be bought online in advance, or on the door on the day.

From the Jane Austen Centre to the Fashion Museum, the Holburne Museum to the Museum of Bath Architecture, there’s plenty to choose from.

Add into this mix the Bath art scene with its Victoria Art Gallery and Theatre Royal, as well as its burgeoning restaurant scene, and there’s more than enough to fit into a Bath day trip!

If you’re still looking for more, then check out this great guided Bath trip with a blue badge holder to get all the historic lowdown on this amazing city and many of its top attractions.

Or, something lighter, this sightseeing boat cruise with prosecco is a winner!

Of course the main attraction in the city is the Roman Baths, sadly you can no longer dive in here, but it is a fascinating historic site to wander around.

And don’t forget the 7th century Bath Abbey, which is Grade I listed.

Well-worth a visit, head here to explore the magnificent stained-glass windows, the impressive stone columns and the incredible fan vaulted ceiling. There’s also a heritage museum in the cellars and an impressive view of the city from the roof.

Buy your tickets ahead of time here .

How to Get Around Bath?

Bath’s city centre is pretty compact and getting around on foot is both easy and enjoyable.

Thankfully the bus and train station are also central, which means if you’re arriving into the city this way, it’s usually easy to get to your accommodation and all the city’s main attractions.

If you’d rather hop on a bus however, then First Bus run a service around the city centre, as well as to neighbour towns and villages. Check out their journey planner here .

You can pay for bus journeys on the bus using the contactless card terminal by the driver, which cost £2 each.

Alternatively, you buy a FirstDay ticket giving you 1 day of unlimited travel across the Bath Zone for £6. But form the driver or the First Bus app .

Otherwise, if you want to combine transport with sightseeing, this Tootbus Discovery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in Bath is a winner!

Best Itinerary for Your Bath Day Trip

Of course , the key to getting the best out of any day trip is to plan your itinerary in advance, so you can jam pack your day and get the most of it!

So here, to help you out, is my ideal Bath Day trip itinerary, which is easy to copy for a fab quick visit to this city.

No day trip to Bath is complete without breakfast at the historic Sally Lunn’s cafe.

One of the oldest houses in Bath – dating back to 1483 – this place oozes tradition and has been serving up the same iconic (and delicious) Bath Buns for over 300 hundred years!

Legend has it the recipe for these rich round buns was brought to Bath in 1680 by a Huguenot refugee from France.

The buns are still made by hand, using the same original recipe, today – a recipe closely guarded and only passed on with the deeds of the house!

Choosing from a sweet or savoury Sally Lunn bun is the perfect way to start your day in Bath.

Not only that, but by dining here will also grant you free access to the museum room below.

Perfect for those wishing to see Bath on a budget, this small exhibition brilliantly displays the real age of this house from this Tudor fireplaces to its 11 th century baker’s oven to the Roman and Saxon pottery remains found on site.

After Sally Lunn’s, head to the Bath Weir for some iconic photos of the Pulteney Bridge, before cutting across town to The Circus for some equally attractive photograph opps.

No Bath day trip is complete without a wander up to the Royal Crescent – a fabulous stretch of Georgian houses, set up on a hill and clustered around an attractive green – that exemplifies the high society Bath lifestyle fashionable at the time.

Head back into town, admiring the boutique shop windows and the traditional Bath Stone buildings on the way, before stopping to check out the UNESCO World Heritage Bath Abbey .

A place of worship for more than 1200 years, the stunning stained-glass windows of the church shed light on some of the world’s most impressive vaulted ceilings.

A climb to the top of the Abbey’s 212 steps for incredible views across the city is well worth the £6.50, although I suggest buying your tickets in advance to avoid the queue!

Otherwise, why not enjoy some fabulous free street entertainment in the square outside with one of the most quintessential English backdrops imaginable.

When it comes to lunch in Bath, I recommend heading to the Bath Guildhall Markets, which are just around the corner from the Abbey.

Stock up here on picnic goods and then head to one of the city’s many green spaces to enjoy a delicious picnic lunch.

No perfect Bath day trip itinerary would be complete with a visit to the Roman Baths , which really are the foundations of the city.

You can’t bathe in them sadly, so leave your swimsuits at home, but visiting them is a must do during your bath day trip.

Entrance fees for adults are £20.50 on a weekday or £23.50 at the weekend.

This seems quite expensive, but is well worth it given the wealth of information imparted via the included audio tour.

You really can spend a good few hours here, imaging what life would have been like thousands of years ago, as the same natural spring continues to pump its healing waters for all to marvel at.

If you want a Bath walking tour that includes entry to the Roman Baths, check out this option .

Finish up your afternoon with a classic English ale.

The Huntsman on Bath’s North Parade is a wonderful pub for this, featuring local beers on tap amidst a great atmosphere.

Finally, why not finish your budget day trip to Bath with a stroll along this city’s lovely canals?

The walk to nearby Bathampton is very manageable and will also give you a delightful glimpse into the rolling hill countryside that surrounds the city.

If the stroll has made you a bit peckish, then why not stop at one of Bathampton’s waterside pubs.

The George is particularly popular and we enjoyed a very well-priced meal here, that would be perfect for those also seeking to explore Bath on a budget.

Where to Stay in Bath?

Budget: Top budget accommodation spots include Bath YMCA and St Christopher’s Inn Bath , which are both well-located in the city centre. Otherwise, the YHA Bath is a little further out of town, but set within a listed Italianate mansion!

Mid-range: The Z Bath Hotel is a fab, modern hotel in the heart of the city or this beautiful, modern 1 bedroom apartment in city centre is also great.

Luxury: My pick has to be the The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel by YTL is a 5* property with guest access to massage, hot tub and fitness centre on-site.

When to Visit Bath?

The best time to visit Bath is definitely during the summer months in my opinion.

The better weather from June to August will definitely allow you to get out and explore the glorious parts and historic sights of this iconic city.

Christmas is also a lovely time to visit Bath when the markets and festive atmosphere are in full flow.

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So that’s my perfect Bath day trip itinerary – ideal for those on a budget!

Have you visited this fantastic English city?

What did you enjoy doing there and what are your top Bath budget tips?

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

6 thoughts on “ Perfect Day Trip Itinerary for Bath, UK ”

Bath seems like a great budget destination! How do you suggest exploring the city?

Definitely on foot is the best (and cheapest way) to get around Bath Agness. Getting there from Bristol or London – the 2 closest major cities – is very easy via train or bus 🙂

I really want to go to Bath as it looks so pretty and I’m always on the look out for affordable travel destinations! Great post and I love your photos!

Thanks so much Chloe – I can highly recommend bath, it’s a great UK spot and definitely VERY pretty!

I want to do Bath and Bristol in one day from London. I would only like to visit the Bath Cathedral and Roman Baths and in Bristol only the Arnos Vale Cemetery before heading back to London. How could I do it?

Hi Mithu, thanks for your questions. You can easily drive from London to all the destinations you mention in a day – this is very do-able. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to Bath, visit the Abbey and Roman Baths, and then take a train or bus to Bristol to visit Arnos Vale Cemetery. From Bristol, you can then easily take a train or bus back to London. Hope this helps and happy travels. Best wishes, Steph 🙂

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The Ultimate Bath Day Trip Itinerary

By Discover More UK

Published: 2 November 2021

Last updated: 16 february 2022.

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Bath is a constant favourite for weekend trips and getaways in the southwest of England, but it’s also a great option for a Bath day trip.

With stunning historic architecture, the iconic sandstone facades, historic cobbled streets and plenty of attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Bath which make it perfect for a day trip in the south of England.

If you’re looking for more day trips in the area, check out this Cotswolds day trip itinerary.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won’t cost you anything, they will help us to keep this site up and running! See the full disclosure policy for more details.

One Day Tours and Coach trips to Bath

If you’re without a car or travelling as a larger group, you might prefer one of these tour options. This also means less hassle as your entire tour is organised for you and you can see other sights in the surrounding areas.

National Express is the best provider to use for UK coach travel between major cities, use their booking tool to find the route closest to you.

Book the Hop-on Hop-off Bath bus tour here .

If you’d prefer to explore on foot, this walking tour includes entry to the famous Roman Baths in Bath city and it’s super budget friendly!

Or if seeing the city from the water is more your thing, check out this boat trip and walking tour combination.

If you’d prefer to see more of Bath and the surrounding area, this bargain 12-hour day tour covers Bath, Stonehenge, Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds!

Psst. If you’re a fan of the Netflix Series, Bridgerton, there’s a well-reviewed Bridgerton tour in Bath! Book the Bridgerton Experience here.

Coach day trip to Bath from London

If you’re coming from London, you, fortunately, have plenty of options for incredible day trips from London to Bath!

London to Bath and Stonehenge

Combine your trip to Bath with seeing the famous historic landmark, Stonehenge. There are a couple of options for this tour too, depending on your budget and how long you have.

This 10-hour coach trip from London to Bath and Stonehenge has the option to include entry to the Roman Baths in Bath.

This 12-hour day trip from London to Bath day trip also includes Stonehenge and is the highest review Bath day tour on Get Your Guide.

If you prefer to pack in as many sights as possible, t his day trip from London to Bath also includes Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Lacock.

Where to stay in Bath

Bath is known for being a little bit pricey, but as is much of the southwest of England! There are still a few options for each budget which you’ll find below if you do plan to stay overnight.

Budget-friendly place to stay in Bath

For a great price and location, the Parade Park Hotel is the ideal option in a beautiful Georgia Townhouse and just 5 minutes from the Roman Baths.

Or the classic Holiday Inn Bath is of course a great budget friendly option in the city.

Mid-range accommodation in Bath

For mid-range and incredible location, the Hotel Indigo by IHG is a modern luxury hotel, perfect for a weekend getaway.

Alternatively, SACO Bath offers similar modern accommodation but as self-catered apartments so the price is lower but you’re still in an incredible location and it’s a hotel near the Thermae Bath Spa too.

Luxury places to stay in Bath

If you really want to treat yourself, Bath has so many beautiful hotels and spas, perfect for a special occasion or romantic weekend away.

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is a 5-star hotel just a short 15 minute walk from the city and offers incredible amenities, 18th-century luxury decor, wonderful spa and restaurants in a stunning countryside setting.

Another option is Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel which is just 10-minute walk from Bath city centre and set in stunning gardens with fountains and terraces, a beautiful house and award-winning restaurant.

How to get to Bath

Being so well connected to London and other cities in the southwest like Oxford and Bristol means that getting to Bath for the day is very straightforward whether you’re driving or taking public transport.

Getting to Bath by Car

If you’re driving to Bath, parking at a park and ride is probably the best option unless you prefer taking your chances with finding parking in the city centre! There are three park & ride options in Bath to choose from:

• Lansdown P&R
• Odd Down P&R
• Newbridge P&R

All will drop you off at stops in the city centre.

For driving to Bath you’ll mostly likely be arriving on the M5 if you’re coming from the North or South. Or on the M4 if you’re coming from London and the East.

Getting to Bath by train

Bath Spa train station is centrally located in the city and has regular services that link it with the rest of the country. There are direct trains to Bath from:

To name a few, with of course many stops along those lines too. Check the GWR or South Western Railway websites for more information and to book your tickets.

The perfect day trip: Bath itinerary

Make the most of your one day in Bath with this guide to the city and the best things to do in Bath if you’re limited on time.

Grab Breakfast at Boston Tea Party

The Boston Tea Park is a small chain of cafes founded in the West Country, they have some of the best breakfast dishes and options for a variety of dietary requirements, the portions are great and because you can only find them in a select few cities in the southwest, it would be rude not to grab breakfast here!

There are two locations in the city, Alfred Street and Kingsmead Square, both are great. The West Country Breakfast or The Boss are great for big portions. The Sweetcorn Hash and Smash Avo Toast are favourites too.

They also do burgers and sandwiches if you fancy heading there for lunch instead!

Roman Baths Tour

You can’t visit Bath without visiting the Roman Baths. 

The Roman bathhouse and ancient ruins of the Temple of Sulis Minerva are incredible to see and you can actually walk on original Roman pavements as you explore this historically significant place.

Your ticket also includes an audio tour and museum entry. Ticket prices also vary depending on if you visit on a weekend or weekday so check the website for more details and booking your ticket.

Generally about 2 hours should be enough to see everything at the baths.

Refuel at Sally Lunn’s for a famous Lunn Bun

You can’t spend one day in Bath without visiting the oldest house in Bath. And it’s just around the corner from the Roman Baths.

The house was built in the 1480s and is home to the famous Sally Lunn buns. These sweet bread-like buns are famous in Bath, the UK and beyond. It’s also a great opportunity to treat yourself to afternoon tea at their quaint tearoom.

You’re just around the corner from Bath Abbey and the cute Abbey Green Square. Don’t forget to snap some photos here and off the North Parade Passage where Sally Lunn’s is located – these are some of the most picturesque streets in Bath! 

Walk through Parade Gardens and across Pulteney Bridge

It’s a short 4 minute walk from the Roman Baths and Sally Lunn’s to Parade Gardens which are beautifully situated next to the river, surrounded by the Georgian sandstone buildings of Bath city centre.

Stroll through the park and along the river where you’ll see the famous view of Pulteney Bridge and the weir in the centre of the River Avon.

Pulteney Bridge is a unique sort of covered bridge built in 1774 with quaint shops and businesses on either side which are well worth taking the time to explore, especially if you enjoy antique shops or quirky vintage and restoration spots.

Explore the Markets and Shops, or head to a museum if it’s raining!

The Bath Guildhall Market is the oldest shopping area in the city and the vibrant stores here are always fun to explore and make a purchase or two from local businesses and stallholders.

The main shopping area of Bath is also nearby around Cheap Street if you want to enjoy a spot of retail therapy.

If you’re visiting during the festive period, find out more about the Bath Christmas Market.

If you’re not lucky with the weather, there’s also plenty of things to do in Bath in the rain. The city is full of museums to explore:

• The Victoria Art Gallery
• The famous Bath Fashion Museum
• The Herschel Museum of Astronomy
• The Victorian Collection at the Holburne Museum
• The Jane Austen Centre for fans of the famous Regency author
• The reconstructed Victorian factory at the Bath at Work Museum

The Bath Brew House for craft beer, cider and burgers

Finish your day with craft beer and great pub grub at the Bath Brew House. The Brew House is situated in a gorgeous Georgian building and they’ve been brewing there since 2013.

This pub has a brewery on site and you can even book a tour around the brewery too.

Try their house ale or guest ale. They also have other local craft beers available like Tiny Rebel which is brewed in Newport, not too far away across the border into Wales.

The rustic, casual vibe at the Brew House is a great way to end the day and the menu is huge! You’re pretty much guaranteed to find something you like. If you visit on a Sunday, their Roast DInners are great and brilliant value for money.

Summary: Making the most of your day trip to Bath

Whether you’re planning a Bath day trip from London, the southwest or coming from up North, there’s no doubt that 1 day in Bath isn’t enough to see it all. But a day in Bath is a great amount of time to get a feel for this city and explore some of the main sites it has to offer.

There’s a lot of history and culture in the city and it’s fantastically walkable, so you can pack a lot into a short space of time. Hopefully this Bath 1 day itinerary has given you some inspiration to help you plan your trip!

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Adventures of Alice

One Day in Bath, UK: The Perfect Itinerary

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Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in England, with a rich history and bustling tourist industry. This one day in Bath itinerary will take you on a tour of the city, from historic landmarks to hidden gems that only locals know about. 

The city has served as a place of pilgrimage for centuries. It was one of England’s major cities during its medieval period. It’s also the only city in the UK that’s entirely a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

So, if you’re looking for an excuse to visit one of Britain’s most charming towns , or want an unforgettable day trip from London to get some culture, a visit to Bath should be on your list.

I’m going to cover everything you need to know about one day in Bath: how to get there, what to do when you’re there, and how long it takes.

Start your journey by discovering why the Romans came here 2000 years ago…

My favourite travel resources for Bath

✅ Here’s the best hotel in the city. ✅ Don’t miss the best tour in Bath ✅ Don’t forget your travel insurance .

The History of Bath

Bath was founded by the Romans as a thermal spa. It grew to be an important centre of production in medieval England. George III encouraged the development of the town in the 18th century, with neo-classical buildings nestled among the well-preserved Roman baths.

Even hundreds of years later, it’s still known for these buildings and the ancient baths that gave the city its name.

The history of Bath spans centuries. It’s been a city for over 2000 years, and there are many buildings from medieval times to neoclassical periods that make this one of England’s most beautiful cities. And it’s easily reachable from London .

Is One Day in Bath enough?

Yes, one day in Bath is enough to explore the major sights of the city. If you want to spend a little more time exploring, relaxing in the city, and wandering the ancient streets, then you could stay two or three days. But most people can see plenty of Bath in just a day.

How to Get to Bath From London

There are multiple ways to get from London to Bath, but one of the fastest and most convenient is by train.

The most popular (and quickest) route is via Paddington, but you can also catch the train at Waterloo Station. If you’re just spending a day in Bath, I recommend taking an early morning train out of London, spending the day exploring this beautiful city before returning to London in the evening.

The quickest train journey roughly takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes in each direction between London and Bath. However, some journeys are around 2 hours 30 minutes each way, so be sure to check your tickets before you buy. One-way ticket prices range between £26 to £40.

You could also get to Bath by car. There’s affordable parking in the city centre and the roads are fairly easy to navigate. This would also give you more freedom to explore and you won’t be limited by public transport times. The car journey takes around 2 hours from the capital.

Of course, you will run the risk of getting stuck in traffic though, especially when coming out of London .

Finally, you can also get the bus if trains aren’t your thing. This will be slightly cheaper at around £9 per ticket but is also a much slower journey at around 3.5 and sometimes as much as 4 hours each way.

How To Get Around for One Day In Bath

Once you’re in Bath, the easiest way to get around the city is simply to walk. This is the best way to get around and appreciate all the city’s beauty.

If you’re not up for long walks (or if it starts raining!), then one option is using one of Bath’s hop-on/off-bus routes. These will cost £17 per day and include unlimited use on all 37 stops throughout the city.

With this, you’ll see more sights in less time. But you’ll still be able to stop off wherever take your fancy along the route.

Another option is renting a bike and cycling through this gorgeous part of England. It’s one of the best ways to explore this beautiful city and bicycle hire costs around £20 per day . 

What Do You Do During a Day Trip to Bath?

So, if you’re looking to spend one day in Bath, here are some of the top things you shouldn’t miss in this beautiful city:

See the Roman Baths

No day trip to Bath would be complete without a visit to the attraction that gave the city its name. The baths are the most famous site in the city, and one you simply cannot miss. 

Considered to be one of the greatest spas in ancient times, Bath’s unique thermal springs allowed for a perfect flow of naturally hot water. Inside is truly fascinating. You can actually view the hot spring and see where the water that heats the thermal bath comes from.

When Romans occupied this area in the distant past, they built a reservoir to control the water. Then, they built their city around the baths. A temple was constructed on the site between 60-70CE and the communal bathhouse gradually grew over the next 300 years.

The entrance fee is up to £27.00 – it changes during peak summer and also increases at weekends. The price includes access to all of the baths and the museum. They seem a little pricey, but it’s worth every penny.

You’ll get an up-close look at what made this one of England’s greatest Roman monuments and be able to explore all their beauty from to bottom.

Explore Bath Abbey

Located right next to the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey is one of the most stunning buildings in one of England’s prettiest cities .

It is one of Bath’s three medieval parish churches. You simply cannot miss this during your one day in Bath. Built from Bathstone, the church was completed in 1611, following the destruction of an earlier church dating back to 1499.

This former one had been destroyed by Parliamentary forces by order of Henry VIII during the Civil War, and then rebuilt due to public demand.

The nave, chancel, transepts, chapels, and side altars are all worth exploring – as well as its beautiful stained glass windows. Although there is no set entry price as this is still a working church, Bath Abbey welcomes donations to help maintain its status and beauty.

Visit Pulteney Bridge

Another must-see during a day in Bath, this bridge crosses the River Avon.

It was completed by 1774, after 5 years of construction. It was originally made to connect the city with the land of the Pulteney family.

It’s one of the most popular examples of Georgian architecture in the city, with its arches carved from blocks of Bathstone. It’s one of the most iconic symbols in all of England.

Explore Pulteney Street

While you’re near Pulteney Bridge, walk to the end and then you’ll reach Pulteney Street. This beautiful street is lined with shops, cafes, and small independent restaurants.

It’s the perfect spot to do a bit of window shopping or stop for lunch before exploring the rest of the city.

Walk around the Royal Crescent

This is one of the most famous streets in all of England.

It’s a beautiful Georgian street lined with houses that are some of Bath’s most expensive properties. It was designed to be one of the finest examples for aspiring architects on how to build an elegant city.

It has been designated as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1987 due to its significance – not just for architecture but also for social history.

The homes here were built from 1774 onwards by John Wood (who had previously helped design our Houses of Parliament) following his return from Bombay. There he learned Persian architectural designs first-hand while working there during wartime exile.

The street features twelve grand townhouses, each double or triple-fronted. They have become known as one of the finest examples of neoclassical, Georgian architecture. They’re also a popular filming location, especially for films set in Jane Austen’s era.

Visit Bath’s Museums

Although it’s not known for its museums the way Cambridge , London , or Oxford are, Bath has plenty of historical collections just waiting for you to explore them. A few of the top ones include on your day trip to Bath are:

The Fashion Museum

The Fashion Museum is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. The museum explores fashion and costume design from 1750 onwards, displaying historical dresses including gowns worn by Queen Victoria.

It houses more than 100,000 pieces of clothing and footwear. They also have collections that explore how society has changed.

It’s one of the most popular museums in town, but if you want to avoid crowds then go during weekday mornings as these are less busy. Admission is free, too!

The Ameican Museum

This one is one of the newer museums in town and explores how America has changed.

Four galleries cover different topics: an introduction to American history, a look at a family home from 1930s Brooklyn, exploring global consumerism through pop culture products, and one dedicated to gender – both masculinity and femininity.

It’s the only museum that purely explored American culture outside of the USA itself. Plus, it’s surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens.

The Museum of Bath at Work

This museum covers how the city has been one of England’s most important industrial centres for centuries. It was one of the first cities to have a railway station. It also had plenty more factories which contributed massively to its growth in trade during the 1800s.

Exploring these changes, the museum also looks at Bath’s position as one of Britain’s most important industrial centres, how Bathonians bartered with the Romans, and how the famous Bath Stone was mined.

See the Circus

Not a traditional red-top circus, the Circus in Bath is another of Bath’s gorgeous examples of Georgian architecture. Located near the Royal Crescent, it was designed to be a fashionable promenade in 1775.

It is one of Bath’s best examples of 18th-century architecture. It’s been restored over recent years so visitors can have an authentic experience when they visit.

Visit the Assembly Rooms

This one is one of the most famous buildings in all of England. It’s a beautiful Georgian venue that was also designed by architect John Young as part of his original plans for developing what would become one of England’s finest cities.

The Assembly Rooms were built from 1771 onwards and are known for their stunning, decorative plasterwork. They were one of the first buildings to be completed as part of their ambitious plans for building an elegant city. They were restored in 1963 and designated to the World Heritage list 13 years earlier in 1950.

Explore Bath’s parks and gardens

One day in Bath should not be spent just exploring architecture. There are plenty of parks and gardens to explore too. 

Prior Park provides gorgeous views and lovely landscaped gardens. 

The Royal Victoria Park here has facilities for grown-ups and children. It has a botanical garden, a kids’ play area, outdoor activities like skateboarding and crazy golfing, and even the opportunity to try model boating. 

Then, Alexandra Park has even more beautiful woodland views, picnic areas and children’s play areas.

Visit the Jane Austen Centre

What one day in Bath is complete without a visit to the city’s famous Jane Austen Centre ? Part museum, part recreated Georgian townhouse, it covers all things related to one of England’s most iconic literary figures.

Austen spent several years in the city and lived there between 1801 to 1806; Bath also plays a key part in several of her novels. The museum has a wide range of interactive displays and exhibits that cover her life as well as how she influenced popular culture today.

There are also plenty of events here too. From temporary exhibitions to talks by experts on everything about one of England’s favourite authors.

Go on a walking tour of the city

The perfect spot to explore on foot, a walking tour of Bath will cover one of the most beautiful parts of England.

The city has a lot to see and the route will cover around three miles on foot. You’ll head through the busy streets before reaching the historic town centre.

There are plenty of places at which visitors can take their time for exploring. From ancient Roman remains like baths to modern-day landmarks such as Curzon Park.

There should also be stops along the way that allow you to explore more during this one day in Bath. You’ll discover history, architecture, and culture, covered by local historians who know everything there is to know about this stunning city in Somerset.

Browse the markets

As with many of the beautiful towns and villages in England , Bath has a plethora of markets to explore. 

The Bath Street Food Market happens twice a month (except at Christmas and peak summer). The Bath Artisan Market pops up every Sunday at Green Park Station. 

Then, in the winter months , Bath Abbey features 150 chalets throughout December in the very festive atmosphere of a typical Christmas Market.

See the Bath skyline

One of the final things one day in Bath should include is a walk to the top of the city to view the skyline from above. There are several places where you can view the beautiful skyline:

• From the top of Bath Abbey
• The Bath Skyline walking route. This English walking trail is a 6-mile circular route and one of the National Trust’s most downloaded routes!
• Alexandra Park also offers stunning views over the city

If you have more than one day in Bath…

There are some gorgeous areas surrounding Bath if you have slightly longer than a day in the city. It’s just an hour’s drive to Stonehenge and an hour in the opposite direction to the beautiful Cheddar Gorge.

Surrounded by natural wonders, and full of man-made ones, Bath is not a city to skip if you’re visiting the UK and it will thoroughly mesmerise you.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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I am begging you where are these 15P tickets from London to bath? literally cant find anything under 45 and most are about 100P

Unfortunately, prices have increased a lot recently. The cheapest single journey I can find is for £28.50 and this is a super off peak ticket. You can save quite a bit with a railcard though, especially if you make a lot of journeys. 🙂

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A weekend in Bath: 2-day Bath itinerary

Posted on Last updated: October 19, 2023

How to spend a weekend in Bath: Discover the best things to see, do, eat and drink in Bath in a two-day itinerary featuring this historic city’s Georgian architecture, thermal spas and literary links.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

With its famous golden-stone Georgian terraces, steaming spa waters, afternoon teas and Jane Austen links, you can’t say Bath isn’t on the UK tourist trail. Its quintessentially English charms pull in visitors from around the world and it has so many historic buildings that the entire city centre has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But although you might have to dodge a few tour groups, it’s more than worth it to explore one of England’s most beautiful historic cities. So here’s my two-day Bath itinerary to help you plan the perfect weekend in Bath, with what to see, where to eat, drink and stay.

How to spend a weekend in Bath

Friday evening

Check into your accommodation then start your weekend in Bath with a pre-dinner drink at the Canary Gin Bar on Queen Street. The bar is run by the Bath Distillery, who brought distilling back to the city after a 250-year absence. They’ve created a menu of ‘Gin’ Austen cocktails using their small-batch gins, as well as serving 230 other gins.

Then head to Green Park Brasserie & Bar on Green Park Road for dinner – a steakhouse and jazz bar located inside a former 1870s railway station booking hall. It’s a relaxed place, serving produce sourced from the adjacent Bath Farmers’ Market in dishes like steak, cider-glazed ribs and wood-fired pizza. There’s also live music on Saturday nights.

Saturday morning

For an insight into Bath’s history, start the day with a walking tour with the Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides . These two-hour tours are led by knowledgeable local guides who share their love of the city on a relaxed stroll through some of its highlights. Tours are free (with no need to tip) and leave from the courtyard by the Roman Baths at 10.30am.

Or you can take your own tour of Bath’s honey-stone highlights. Start at the Royal Crescent, one of Bath’s most famous landmarks. This curved terrace of Georgian townhouses arcs around a perfectly manicured lawn. The Royal Crescent was built in the 1770s and its buildings haven’t changed much since then, at least on the outside.

Most are private residences – when they’re not being used by film crews for period dramas like Bridgerton . But Number 1 Royal Crescent has been converted into a museum. Inside you can go back to the 18th century and see how wealthy Georgians lived, complete with authentic furniture, décor and fascinating details of their everyday lives.

The Royal Crescent is one of many buildings made from the distinctive golden Bath Stone. Quarried out from the hills around the city, it’s a type of limestone that was first used by the Romans and later for churches, bridges and houses around Bath.

Another impressive Bath address is The Circus, with three sections of curved buildings forming a circle. And it’s just a few minutes walk from there to the Bath Assembly Rooms . These were the hub of the 18th-century social scene, with elegant rooms for tea drinking, cards and dancing. Today they’re open to the public when not in use for events.

Follow in the footsteps of Jane Austen, who attended balls at the Assembly Rooms when she lived in Bath in the early 1800s and featured them in her novels Northanger Abbey and Persuasion . You’ll also find the Jane Austen Centre on Gay Street a few minutes’ walk away, which tells the story of her life in Bath (and has lots of dressing up opportunities).

Then stop for lunch at Sally Lunns , the oldest house in Bath. It’s home to a Bath classic – the ‘Sally Lunn bun’. This kind of brioche is spread with butter or cream, made to a recipe allegedly brought to the country by a 17th-century French emigrant.

Saturday afternoon

After lunch, cross the Abbey Church Yard to Bath Abbey. The current abbey was built in 1499 but there’s been a church on the same site since the 8th century. Admire the west front, with carved stone angels climbing Jacob’s Ladder to heaven, then head inside to see the cathedral’s impressive fan-vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows.

Or take a guided tower tour and climb 212 spiral steps to the abbey roof for panoramic views over Bath and down to the Roman Baths below you. Tours take 45–60 minutes and also give you a behind-the-scenes view of the ceilings and bell tower.

Then head to Pulteney Bridge, passing the Parade Gardens, which was a popular spot for a promenade in Jane Austen’s day. The bridge was built in the 18th century for William Pulteney to connect Bath to the other side of the River Avon to help drive up land prices. He wanted his bridge to be eye-catching and elegant and certainly managed it.

Pulteney Bridge is one of only four bridges in the world with shops built into both sides, like Florence’s Ponte Vecchio – Les Misérables fans might also recognise it as the spot Javert jumped from in the 2012 film. Today it’s home to independent shops and cafés.

For a good view of Pulteney Bridge, take an open-top boat trip along the River Avon. The tour starts at Pulteney Weir below the bridge and takes around an hour (though trips don’t run if the river level is too high). You travel under Pulteney Bridge and out into the countryside as far as the pretty little village of Bathampton before returning to Bath.

Before dinner, call into Le Vignoble , an independent wine merchant and bar on Milson Street. Their wine selection changes every month, with 64 different wines to taste including small producers and unusual varieties, so it’s a good place to try something new.

Then head back towards the Royal Crescent for dinner at The Circus , an award-winning family-run restaurant in a Georgian building which serves modern European food using local and seasonal ingredients, like Wiltshire lamb, Devon scallops and Cornish fish.

Sunday morning

Start your Sunday with a late breakfast at the Green Bird Café near the Royal Crescent. It has won awards for Bath’s best breakfast, with tasty French toast with maple syrup and bacon, scrambled egg and chorizo hash or you can ‘build your own breakfast’.

Then go back in time at the Roman Baths , built on the site of Britain’s only natural hot springs which gave Bath its name. In 70 BC, the Romans built a bathing complex around the steaming waters, with hot and cold pools, steam rooms and an elaborate temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva – giving the town its Roman name Aquae Sulis.

Over a million litres of water heated to 46°C still flows into the baths every day, but don’t be tempted to take a dip. If the bright green colour doesn’t put you off, tales of bacteria and radioactive lead pipes might. Instead take a tour of the baths which includes the Sacred Spring of Sulis Minerva, the original foundations and open-air Great Bath.

There’s also a museum of Roman artefacts like statues and carvings, as well as some of the 17,000 Roman coins which were thrown into the spring, and prayers or curses written on lead tablets which visitors threw in to ask for the goddess’ help.

Sunday afternoon

Then compare the Roman spa experience with the modern version at the Thermae Bath Spa . This huge spa building has taken historic buildings and transformed them with a modern glass and steel extension. There are two separate spa areas – the main New Royal Bath and the smaller circular Cross Bath, which you can hire for small groups.

The New Royal Bath is spread over three floors, with spring waters flowing into the ground floor Minerva thermal baths. There are circular glass steam rooms, a sauna and spa treatment rooms above, where you can book a relaxing massage, facial or body wrap.

But the Thermae Spa’s star attraction is the rooftop pool, where you can soak in mineral-rich steaming water with spectacular views across Bath’s skyline. Entry to the spa costs £43 for a two-hour session at weekends, and includes towel, robe and flip flop hire.

Then finish your weekend in Bath with afternoon tea at a city institution – the Pump Room . Located next to the Roman Baths, the Pump Room was built in 1776 for visitors coming to take the waters and, like the Assembly Rooms, it was at the heart of the city’s social scene for the fashionable 18th-century set, including Jane Austen and Charles Dickens.

Indulge in a traditional Champagne afternoon tea (with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options available) with sandwiches, scones and cakes served in opulent splendour under the chandeliers and accompanied by music from the Pump Room Trio.

And while you’re there, don’t forget to taste the spa waters from the King’s Fountain (free to Pump Room customers). With 43 different minerals it is reputed to be the cure for all sorts of ills, though lukewarm water with a metallic tang is definitely an acquired taste.

Map of things to do in Bath

The details

How to get to bath.

Bath Spa train station is around 1 hour 20 minutes by direct train * from London, and there are frequent rail services from around the UK to nearby Bristol Temple Meads station, where you can catch the train on to Bath, which only takes 12 minutes.

If you’re driving, Bath is 13 miles from Bristol or 115 miles (around 2.5 hours’ drive) from London. Overnight parking is available in the city centre at Charlotte Street (BA1 2NE), Avon Street (BA1 1UF) and Manvers Street (BA1 1JQ) car parks.

Bath’s roads are narrow and can get very busy, so if you want to avoid driving in the city you can use the Park and Rides on the edge of the city at Lansdown, Newbridge and Odd Down. Parking is free, you just pay for the bus in and out of the city.

The nearest airport is in Bristol, which is around 45 minutes’ drive from Bath. You can also catch the Bristol Airport Flyer bus from the airport to Bristol Temple Meads train station (25 minutes) and then catch the train from there on to Bath (12 minutes).

Getting around Bath

The centre of Bath is fairly compact with the main attractions all within walking distance – though beware that it’s pretty hilly so you will get a bit of a workout.

Where to stay in Bath

At the Royal Crescent Hotel *, two 18th-century Georgian townhouses have been merged together to create a five-star hotel and spa. It’s full of original features with period artworks, classical statues and chandeliers. There’s a luxurious spa with indoor pool, a restaurant, bar and an acre of landscaped gardens tucked away behind the hotel.

The Hotel Indigo * is another Georgian property, which stretches along the length of South Parade. Inside it mixes historic features with lots of quirky, colourful prints, fabrics and curios. The 166 rooms are more restfully designed, and range from stylish standard rooms to big two-room suites, and there’s also a restaurant and terrace bar.

Or if you’re on the budget, one of the city’s best deals is Bath University’s student residences . There’s a mix of double, twin and single rooms with en-suites in buildings ranging from Georgian terraces to modern residences. Availability is mainly in the Easter and summer holidays, with rooms available to book two–three months in advance.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Bath?*

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Deborah Kukal

Sunday 4th of February 2024

This has been the most helpful article I've read in preperation for our time in Bath - and I've read a lot! :) Thank you for the excellent ideas for both activities and resturants.

Lucy Dodsworth

Wednesday 14th of February 2024

Thanks so much, hope you enjyo Bath!

Lynn Oliver

Monday 7th of September 2020

Thank you for this reminder of my wife and my weekend in Bath. We stayed at a lovely B&B a few hundred feet from the Abbey, Baths and shoppes... Three Abbey Green. Bath has a plethora of lovely B&Bs that are decidedly not 5-Star, but great. Also, the free guided walks are wonderful and the buskers in the plaza in front of the Baths and Abbey were a hoot. I pull out the photos of the unicyclist for a smile. Thanks for the reminder. I'd love to go back someday... another world from Florida where we live.

Monday 28th of September 2020

Bath is such a lovely place – so much history! Glad to bring back some good memories.

10 Things To Do on a Day Trip to Bath from London.

Categories England , London , U.K

A day trip to Bath from London is one of the best day trips from London by train that you can do because it does not take long to get from London to Bath by train. There are also plenty of day tours from London to Bath so you can see Bath with a knowledgable guide, have time to explore Bath yourself and most tours include a stop elsewhere like Stonehenge and Windsor Castle. I took a  Stonehenge and Bath tour from London a few years ago and loved it!

Whether you live in London and need a break from the big smoke, or you are visiting London and want to see more of England, a day trip to Bath from London is a great idea!

Here’s how to do a day trip to Bath from London including how to get to Bath from London by train, day tours to Bath from London, and 10 of the best things to do in Bath in 1 day because you can see a lot of this pretty city in one day thanks to how walkable the centre is!

Day Trip to Bath from London

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

How To Get to Bath from London By Train.

London Padding Station to Bath Spa Station is the train from London to Bath that you will need to take, the journey takes between 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 25 minutes depending on which train you get for your day trip to Bath from London.

I recommend purchasing your train tickets from London to Bath in advance on The Train Line . I always use The Train Line because it is easy to compare prices and times. I also recommend buying your tickets in advance because in the UK, the closer you get to your departure date, the higher the prices go, if you can, book your tickets a few weeks in advance.

• More of my must-read day trip from London posts:
• 10 Things To Do On A Brighton Day Trip from London!
• 12 Things To Do On A Day Trip To Oxford From London!
• How To Visit The White Cliffs of Dover From London On A Day Trip!
• 25+ Day Trips from London By Train Ideas!
• 18 Road Trip From London Ideas!

Day Trips to Bath from London.

If you want a really easy day and if you want to see Bath with a knowledgable guide and a group of people, going on a day tour to Bath from London is a great idea! Most of these tours include visiting additional places on route like Stonehenge and the Cotswolds which will really enhance your day and enable you to see even more of England .

I loved my day tour to Bath and Stonehenge because I had never been to Stonehenge or Bath before and you don’t need that much time at Stonehenge so there is plenty of time in 1 day to see both places and because you travel by bus this is possible.

• Here are the best day trips to Bath from London that you can book:
• London: Bath, Stonehenge & West Country Full-Day Tour
• London: Bath & Stonehenge Full-Day Tour
• London: Bath, Windsor Castle & Stonehenge Full-Day Tour

Things To Do in Bath.

1. roman baths.

Bath is named after it’s Roman Baths so a visit to the Roman Baths Museum is needed as one of the top things to do in Bath on a day trip, especially if you want to see the iconic Roman Bath that everyone gets a photo of in Bath!

Inside you’ll get to see a range of Roman bathing and leisure facilities and displays of Roman and Celtic objects and to make the museum interactive there are costumed Roman characters who chat to visitors!

Be sure to book a ticket and book a time slot in advance on the official Roman Baths website here !

2. Bath Abbey

On your day trip to Bath from London, you’ll no doubt pass by Bath Abbey, it is a beautiful building that can be admired from the outside and if you have time, you can have a look inside too.

3. The Royal Cresent

For places to see in Bath, The Royal Cresent is very famous and it is easy to visit it with 1 day in Bath.

The Royal Cresent is a row of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape built between 1767 and 1775 and is a great example of Georgian architecture. These days the houses are made up of mostly luxury hotels but on your day trip to Bath from London, you can visit, take some photos and take in the architecture.

4. The Circus

Another one of the famous places to visit in Bath is The Circus which are the iconic curved shaped houses in Bath. This is again one of the good places to visit on a day trip to Bath because they are so famous to Bath and perfect for a photo opportunity.

When you walk to The Royal Crescent and The Circus from Bath centre be sure to keep a lookout for all of the other pretty streets that you’ll see on your way!

5. Thermae Bath Spa

If you’re happy to bring your swimming stuff on your day trip to Bath from London, then look into visiting Thermae Bath Spa where you can relax in a rooftop pool in steaming thermal water with an amazing view of the city below!

It’s possible to book a 2-hour spa session which includes access to 2 baths plus the use of a towel, robe and slippers do you do not need to bring too many extra things with you on your Bath day trip from London.

Check packages and book tickets on Thermae Bath Spa here.

6. River Boat Cruise

Bath holds so much history and meeting with a local guide who can tell you about the history, city and give you some tips is a great idea.

One of the best ways to see Bath is from it’s river. You can book a River Boat Trip in Bath which will give you an overview of Bath’s rich history and learn how to orientate yourself within the city.

A Bath attraction like this is a good thing to do in the morning of your Bath day trip because afterwards you will know where to go and where you want to see in Bath.

Here are some Bath Boat Trips that you can book online in advance to save you time when you get there and ensure you get a place:

• 80 Minute City Boat Trip and Walking Tour
• 50 Minute Canapes and Prosecco Boat Trip in traditional 1960’s River Cruiser
• 25 Minute City Boat Trip

7. Walk along the River

Another enjoyable way of exploring the river is by walking along it because there is a footpath that runs quite far along the river.

On your day trip to Bath from London I suggest walking from Bath Spa Train Station to Pulteney Bridge along the river which is the iconic bridge in Bath and a great place to start your things to do in Bath, or as you are ending your day you can walk from Pulteney Bridge to Bath Spa Station to catch your train as you can access the river easily from the train station.

8. Shopping in Bath

Bath is a great place for shopping, it has all of the high street stores on offer but also lots of independent shops. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, looking in these boutique independent stores is a great way to pass some time on your Bath day trip from London because many of them are very pretty and very British.

You’ll notice quite a few Fudge shops in Bath so be sure to go in and treat yourself to hand made and locally made Fudge!

9. The Jane Austen Centre

The famous author Jane Austen lived in Bath from 1801 to 1806 when it was a fashionable spa resort. If you are a fan of her work you can visit the Jane Austen Centre and retrace her steps on your day trip to Bath to find the elegaent city that inspired two of her famous novels.

In the Jane Austen Centre, you can get a feel for what life would have been like in Bath when Jane resided there through exhibitions, photos and costume dress-ups.

Purchase a ticket in advance to The Jane Austen Centre here!

10. Afternoon Tea in Bath

As you can probably tell from this post, Bath is a very quaint British city so why not add in the classic and quintessentially English tradition of going for Afternoon Tea in Bath on your day trip to Bath.

There are lots of Afternoon Tea options in Bath on offer. To get a really good real I recommend looking on Wowcher who offer 2 for 1 discounts and huge savings on Afternoon Tea!

How to Get Around Bath.

Bath City Centre is very walkable which is why it is the perfect day trip from London .

If you are visiting Bath by train from London, Bath Spa Station is located in the city next to the river and you can use the river to walk to and from the centre.

You can also walk to all of the Bath attractions and Bath things to do I have mentioned above in one day in Bath.

If you don’t want to spend all day walking, or perhaps the weather isn’t looking great and you want undercover transport, you can book onto the Bath Hop-On Hop-Off Bus which will take you to all of the main Bath tourist attractions in a quick, easy, dry and warm way!

Book a ticket for the Bath Hop-On Hop-Off Bus here to save you time and to ensure you get a space.

Enjoy your day in Bath!

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Day Trips to Bath from London: An Awesome Escape from London

D uring one of my visits to london, i decided to take a day trip to bath, a city i had always dreamed of exploring especially as a jane austen fan. i found bath to be an absolute gem. in this guide, i’ll share everything you need to know to make your own day trip to bath from london just as unforgettable..

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Why Day Trips to Bath from London?

Bath beckons with its rich tapestry of history, nestled within the rolling hills of Somerset. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city dazzles with ancient Roman Baths and splendid Georgian architecture. Journeying from London to this historic city has never been easier. Modern conveniences meet historic charm as Great Western Trains whisk you from Paddington Station to Bath in comfort.

The allure of wandering through streets lined with centuries-old buildings, where every corner tells a story, cannot be overstated. Bath seamlessly combines the grandeur of its past with the pulse of today, making it an unforgettable day trip destination from London.

Key Takeaways:

• Bath’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site highlights its historical and architectural significance.
• The city’s ancient Roman Baths and Georgian architecture are central to its charm and appeal.
• Its accessibility from London, particularly via train, makes Bath a convenient and compelling day trip option for both history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Getting to Bath from London

Embarking on day trips to Bath from London starts at Paddington station. Here, you’ll find great western trains ready to whisk you to the historic city of Bath, a journey that unfolds over approximately 90 minutes. Bath Spa station is your gateway to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its ancient Roman baths and stunning Georgian architecture.

Securing train tickets has never been more straightforward. Aim for early bookings; these often come at lower prices, providing more value for your travel plans. For those prioritizing flexibility, a same-day return option ensures ample time to explore Bath’s rich history without the rush. Remember, journey times can vary slightly depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Hence, checking the schedule beforehand is a good practice, allowing for extra time to immerse in Bath’s captivating charm.

First Stop: The Historic Roman Baths

Your journey through Bath’s rich history starts at the renowned Roman Baths. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ancient thermal springs, captivates with tales from Roman times. You’ll find that ticket prices offer access to not just the ancient baths but also to a world of Roman temples and fascinating artifacts. With the option of an audio guide, explore at your pace, immersing in the stories of those who walked these very floors over 2,000 years ago.

To ensure a seamless experience, it’s advisable to purchase tickets online ahead of your visit. This strategy not only saves time but also avoids the inconvenience of waiting in lines, allowing more time to marvel at the natural hot springs and the Georgian pump room’s elegance. Bath awaits with its doors open to a past well preserved and ready to be rediscovered.

Exploring Bath Beyond the Baths

After soaking in the ancient Roman Baths, your next steps take you through the cobblestone streets lined with history. Bath Abbey towers with its Gothic architecture, beckoning you to discover its rich past. The Royal Crescent, a masterpiece of Georgian architecture, offers a panoramic vista of the charming town below.

Not far, the Jane Austen Centre invites literature enthusiasts to step back into the romantic Regency era. These sites, mere short walks apart, provide a glimpse into the town’s vibrant history and its connection to famous literary figures. They stand as testaments to Bath’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by an aura of timeless elegance. Each attraction, from the majestic Abbey to the historic Centre, promises a captivating experience for visitors, making Bath more than just a day trip—it’s a journey into England’s heart.

Free Walking Tour of Bath

You can’t beat a local guide and you really luck out in Bath with a free walking tour. If you’d like to go out on the walk, everyone gathers at 10:30 AM or 2:00 PM, with Saturdays offering a single chance at the earlier time. You won’t miss the starting point, thanks to a conspicuously placed sign right outside the famed Roman Baths proclaiming, “free walking tours start here.”

Notable Eateries & Coffee Shops

A visit to Bath will be incomplete without savoring the flavors of the local delicacies and engaging in the town’s vibrant café culture. Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House stands out as a must-visit for anyone eager to experience the traditional cream tea.

Here, the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air, making it a great option for those looking to indulge in Bath’s culinary heritage. As you wander through the charming town, exploring its Georgian architecture and historic sites, you’ll find plenty of options for a quick bite or a relaxing beverage. Bath’s eateries and coffee shops present a delightful way to experience the local culture, one sip and bite at a time.

Combining Bath with Other Destinations

Embarking on a tour that fuses the historic city of Bath with Stonehenge creates a really great travel experience. You had the chance to soak up centuries of history at the ancient Roman Baths, now imagine venturing next to the stone circle that has mystified scholars for years.

When I went to Bath it was on a trip that included Windsor Castle and Stonehenge . It was a really great experience and I would highly recommend. Beyond these, considering the addition of the Cotswolds to your itinerary wraps the journey with vistas of quintessential English countryside.

These premium tours, perfect for history buffs, ensure not just a glance but a deep dive into Britain’s rich past. Your day could start in central London, taking you through the rolling hills to Bath, then Stonehenge, with the Cotswolds potentially next door. Each destination, revealing stories from Roman baths to medieval stone circles, promises not just a visually stunning day but an educational adventure. With expert guides sharing insights, your day out evolves into a compelling narrative of England through the ages.

Relax at Thermae Bath Spa

After a day of exploring the charming town and its historic sites, an ideal way to unwind awaits you at Thermae Bath Spa . Bath, renowned for its natural hot springs, offers visitors the therapeutic benefits of these warm waters in a state-of-the-art facility. Here, the open-air rooftop pool stands out as a perfect place for relaxation and provides a unique vantage point to admire the cityscape.

You can bask in the naturally warm water while enjoying the panoramic views of Bath and its Georgian architecture. This spa not only promises a rejuvenating experience but also connects you to the ancient Roman tradition of bathing in these healing waters.

Bath’s Shopping Scene

You’ll relish the opportunity to explore Milsom Street. Here, unique boutique stores beckon with an array of distinctive finds. The Georgian architecture adds a historic charm to your shopping spree, leaving an impression long after you’ve returned home. Milsom Street isn’t just a shopping destination; it’s a journey back in time.

Bath offers you more than just memories. The experience of strolling through these historic streets, surrounded by years of history, allows for a deeper appreciation of the town’s rich past. As you weave through the bustling lanes, the Georgian pump room and the charm of the river Avon serve as your backdrop. Bath has perfected blending its celebrated history with a refined shopping experience.

Personally, I saved my shopping for the Jane Austen Centre. They had some gorgeous jewelry and tons of books (of course).

Bath: A Lover of Literature and Film

Bath has long captivated literature and film enthusiasts alike. The city’s Georgian architecture and historical depth served as a backdrop for Jane Austen’s novels, offering visitors a glimpse into the era’s societal norms and customs. Austen lived in Bath during its Regency period peak, and her experiences in this vibrant city influenced her works profoundly. You might find yourself strolling through the same streets that inspired some of her most beloved characters.

More recently, Bath gained attention as a key filming location for the hit series ‘Bridgerton’. Fans of the show will recognize the charming town as the setting for many of its scenes, bringing the lavish world of Regency England to life. The Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge, and other iconic landmarks provide a visual feast, teleporting viewers back in time. This fusion of rich history and modern storytelling makes Bath a must-visit for anyone eager to step into a world where classical literature meets contemporary cinema.

Before You Go: Tips for a Smooth Experience

Planning one of these day trips to Bath from London is a bit more than just marking a date on your calendar. Choosing the right time of year can dramatically enhance your experience. Bath, with its rich history and picturesque Georgian architecture, shines under the soft glow of spring and autumn. These seasons not only boast comfortable temperatures but also smaller crowds, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s charm without the rush.

What you pack for this adventure could make or break your day. Comfortable walking shoes are a must as the best way to explore Bath is on foot, wandering through its ancient Roman Baths, majestic Bath Abbey, and the iconic Royal Crescent. Don’t forget to bring a camera or ensure ample space on your phone. Bath’s scenic views, from the Pulteney Bridge to the River Avon, deserve to be captured. Considering unpredictable weather, an umbrella or a light raincoat will save the day.

For those with mobility challenges, Bath’s commitment to accessibility ensures a pleasant visit. Wheelchair users will find most historic sites, including the Roman Baths, equipped with lifts and ramps. Meanwhile, visitors with visual impairments can benefit from audio guides available at several attractions, enhancing their understanding and enjoyment.

FAQ for Day Trips to Bath from London

Can you take a day trip to bath from london.

Yes, you can definitely take a day trip to Bath from London. With convenient and frequent train services, you can explore the historic city and return to London all in one day.

What is the best way to go to Bath from London?

The best way to travel to Bath from London is by train. Great Western Railway offers regular services from London Paddington Station to Bath Spa Station, with the journey taking approximately 90 minutes.

How far is Bath from London?

Bath is about 115 miles (185 kilometers) west of London. By train, the journey takes around 90 minutes, while driving typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic.

Is a day trip to Bath from London worth it?

Yes, a day trip to Bath from London is definitely worth it. Bath offers a rich historical and cultural experience, with highlights including the ancient Roman Baths, stunning Georgian architecture, and charming streets perfect for leisurely exploration.

Is it worth visiting Windsor, Stonehenge, and Bath if I only have a day to go there from London?

Visiting Windsor, Stonehenge, and Bath in one day is ambitious but possible with a well-organized tour. While you might not have time to explore each destination in depth, you’ll get a taste of England’s diverse historical sites. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, focusing on just one or two of these destinations might be more enjoyable.

What is the most scenic route to drive from London to Bath, England?

The most scenic route to drive from London to Bath is via the A4, also known as the Great West Road. This route takes you through picturesque countryside, charming villages, and historic towns like Marlborough and Chippenham. The A4 offers a more leisurely drive with beautiful landscapes compared to the faster but less scenic M4 motorway.

Final Thoughts on a Day Trip to Bath

The city offers a unique mix of ancient Roman Baths, stunning Georgian architecture, and a rich tapestry of history that culminated in its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The allure of Bath is undeniable.

Whether you’re marveling at the famous Roman Baths, taking a leisurely stroll across Pulteney Bridge, or experiencing the magic of the free walking tour with an expert guide revealing the city’s hidden gems and lesser-known tales, a day trip to Bath transforms from a simple excursion into an unforgettable adventure.

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How to get to London during train strike - Bath Forum

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5 replies to this topic

Whilst it may still happen on that date…… there are no strikes at all scheduled for Great Western Railways. Unions must give 14 days notice of a strike action therefore you will see a definite situation on the 11 June.

If you remain concerned about lack of trains then the sooner you book at http://www.nationalexpress.com the sooner you will ensure you have a seat on the coach.

Thank you. I must have misread the date someplace, perhaps looking at strike action in past years. I'll keep monitoring planned industrial action and book the bus if needed.

There were strikes around this time last year - planned to coincide with people travelling to the Glastonbury Festival. No strikes are (currently) planned for 25 June this year.

I have twice travelled on that train on what was allegedly a strike day. Trains ran, but only hourly: and seat reservations counted for naught. First time, when the strikes first began, it didn't matter, the train was empty. Not so more on a more recent date.

" I'll keep monitoring planned industrial action and book the bus if needed."

Don't leave it too late. As soon as it is announced the seats on NEx will be taken.

Personally I now prefer the coach. I've had 2 trains cancelled (not a strike) leaving me on a cold platform. With the coach they seem to overcome all odds, take you luggage and stow it. I've even been taken to where I can get a take away coffee by the drivers. So much more relaxing than lugging a case on and off a train and having to search for storage and a seat.

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Observe Memorial Day with these events in southern Maine

Tons of towns have parades and ceremonies happening Monday.

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Kids and adults gathered at the Memorial Day parade to honor and celebrate veterans in South Portland. Sofia Aldinio/ Staff Photographer

BATH 10 a.m. Monday. Parade begins at 200 Congress Ave. and concludes at Library Park and will be followed by a wreath-laying service at 11 a.m.

BERWICK 11 a.m. Monday. Parade begins at Berwick Town Hall/Sullivan Square and proceeds to Lord’s Cemetery by way of Wilson and Allen streets. After a ceremony there, the parade will continue down Saw Mill Hill Street with a pause at the Somersworth-Berwick Bridge for a brief memorial service for those lost at sea. The parade ends at Sullivan Square with a memorial service honoring area veterans.

BIDDEFORD-SACO Opening ceremony at 9:55 a.m. Monday at Saco City Hall. Parade starts at 10 a.m. from Saco City Hall and proceeds along Main Street and down York Hill into Biddeford, continues along Main Street, onto Alfred Street and finishes at Veteran’s Memorial Park with a closing ceremony at 10:45 a.m.

BRUNSWICK-TOPSHAM 9 a.m. Monday. Parade proceeds from Topsham Town Hall, pauses for observances while crossing the Brunswick-Topsham bridge and concludes at the Brunswick Mall.

CAPE ELIZABETH 9 a.m. Monday. Parade begins at the middle school parking lot, turns right on Scott Dyer Road, right onto Route 77 and ends at the village green adjacent to the town hall. A brief ceremony and laying of the wreath will be held at the Village Green after the parade.

CUMBERLAND 8 a.m. Monday. Kids run at Greely High School followed by 5K Run and Remember race at 8:30 a.m. Parade starts at 10 a.m. at Mabel I. Wilson School and ends at the veterans’ monument in Moss Side Cemetery in Cumberland Center, where a ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m. Advertisement

FALMOUTH 10 a.m. Monday. Parade proceeds from 65 Depot Road (Falmouth American Legion) to Pine Grove Park, where a ceremony will be held.

FREEPORT 9:30 a.m. Monday. Parade proceeds from Holbrook Street, heads north on Main and makes a right onto School Street, then right onto Park Street, ending in Memorial Park. There will be a small ceremony in the Memorial Park starting at 10 a.m.

GORHAM 11 a.m. Monday. Parade starts at Village School (12 Robie St.) and ends at Eastern Cemetery on Johnson Road.

GRAY 11:30 a.m. Monday. Parade leaves the Russell School (8 Gray Park), proceeds to Shaker Road and continues to the Soldiers Monument at the intersection of Routes 26 and 3 for a wreath-laying ceremony. Parade continues north to the American Legion Post (15 Lewiston Road) for a closing ceremony.

LYMAN 1 p.m. Monday. Parade starts at Waterhouse Road/Mill Pond in Goodwins Mills and ends at the Lyman Town Hall on South Waterboro Road.

NEW GLOUCESTER 9 a.m. Monday. Parade leaves from Memorial Elementary School (86 Intervale Road) and heads down Intervale Road to Route 100/202 to Veterans Park for a memorial service. The parade will reconvene and go down Peacock Hill Road, then take a left on Gilmore Road. Advertisement

OLD ORCHARD BEACH 1 p.m. Monday. Parade starts at the corner of Ballpark Way and E. Emerson Cumming Boulevard and proceeds down Saco Avenue, Old Orchard Beach Street to First Street and ends at Veteran’s Memorial Park.

PORTLAND 2 p.m. Monday. The procession starts at Longfellow School (432 Stevens Ave.) and ends at Evergreen Cemetery for a commemoration ceremony.

SANFORD 10 a.m. Monday. The parade starts at the Sanford Armory (88 William Oscar Emery Drive), proceeds up Gowen Park Drive and ends at Central Park.

SCARBOROUGH 10 a.m. Monday. Parade starts at Scarborough High School, turns onto Route 114 and then Route 1, past town offices to the Maine Veterans Home and concludes with a ceremony there.

SOUTH PORTLAND 10:30 a.m. Monday. Parade starts at Southern Maine Community College parking lot, proceeds down Broadway to the Veterans Monument for a short Memorial Day recognition service.

WELLS 9 a.m. Monday. Parade starts at Wells High School (200 Sanford Road) and proceeds to Ocean View Cemetery for a ceremony and musical performances. Advertisement

WESTBROOK 10 a.m. Monday. Parade proceeds down Main Street and will be followed by a ceremony in Riverbank Park.

WINDHAM 9 a.m. Monday. Parade starts at Windham Town Hall and proceeds onto Route 202 towards Windham High School. At 10 a.m., there will be a ceremony in front of Windham’s Veterans Memorial Flagpole at Windham High School.

YARMOUTH 10 a.m. Monday. Parade leaves from Yarmouth High School (286 West Elm St.) and proceeds to the Memorial Green at Town Hall for a ceremony.

YORK 10 a.m. Monday. Parade starts near St. Christopher’s Church (4 Barrell Lane) and proceeds down York Street to York Town Hall.

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