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Explore the Historic City of Bath, UK: A Traveler's Guide

About Bath, United Kingdom

Bath, UK is a charming, picturesque city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its Roman baths, Georgian architecture, and stunning countryside, this travel destination is perfect for anyone looking to experience the best of English culture and scenery.

Bath is a beautiful and historic city in Somerset, England. It is known for its stunning Georgian architecture, Roman Baths, and natural hot springs. Bath has a rich history, having been settled by the Romans in AD 60, and its impressive architecture reflects this history.

One of the most popular attractions in Bath is the Roman Baths. These well-preserved ruins date back to the Roman era and are a testament to the city's ancient past. Visitors can explore the ancient baths and learn about the history of the site through interactive exhibits and guided tours.

Another must-visit attraction in Bath is the Royal Crescent. This iconic crescent-shaped row of houses is one of the most beautiful examples of Georgian architecture in the world. Visitors can take a stroll along the crescent and admire the stunning views of the city.

Bath is also home to a number of museums and galleries. The Victoria Art Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers, with a collection of paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts. The Museum of Bath at Work is another great option for those interested in the city's industrial heritage.

For a taste of the local cuisine, visitors should head to the Bath Farmers' Market. Here, they can sample a range of locally-produced food and drink, including artisan bread, cheese, and cider. The market is open every Saturday and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Bath is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside. The Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is just a short drive away and is home to picturesque villages and rolling hills.

Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or just want to relax in the hot springs, Bath is a must-visit destination in the UK. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful countryside, it's no wonder that Bath has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Popular Stays in Bath, United Kingdom

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Bath, United Kingdom

Francis Hotel Bath opened in 1858. The luxury 98-room boutique hotel is set in the heart of Bath and was opened by Emily Francis, a leading entrepreneur of her time, who merged seven Georgian townhouses to form the property standing today. The hotel has an idyllic location adjacent from Queen's Square, which plays host to some of the city's events. The hotel is also just a short walk from the Roman Baths, The Jane Austen Centre, The Royal Crescent, Theatre Royal, as well as the city's elegant shopping and culinary centre. It is perfectly located to enjoy a cultural escape in the wonders of Bath. Our restaurant Boho Marché offers outdoor dining and drinking, with a Moroccan theme celebrating Marrakech in the 60s and 70s. Breakfast is also available and includes a range of international and traditional English classic options. If you are visiting us by car please note parking is available at an additional charge, subject to availability. Parking operates on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved.
Imaginative boutique luxury in the heart of Bath. With Bath’s top attractions right on your doorstep, Abbey Hotel, BW Signature Collection is the perfect base for exploring the unique sights of this historic city. We’re only a two-minute walk from the Roman Baths, Thermae Bath Spa and Bath Abbey, and five minutes from the railway station. Our 62 stylish bedrooms have superfast free WiFi, bespoke Hypnos cashmere beds, flat screen TVs and iPads. And several rooms boast panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Imaginative artwork adorns the walls throughout the hotel, including the ArtBar, known for its unique style and character. It’s here that many of our guests choose to relax over cocktails and coffee after savouring a meal cooked to perfection in our award-winning restaurant Koffman Mr Whites. In summer, the wide pavement terrace area at the front of the hotel is the place to be for al fresco dining, while during the festive season the space is transformed into a twinkling pop-up Apres Ski Bar.
Explore historic Bath from the DoubleTree by Hilton Bath City hotel, in the heart of the city, on the River Avon. Enjoy seasonally inspired a la carte dining in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of our Atelier Restaurant. We serve a good range of cocktails in the sophisticated Lobby Bar as well as coffees and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Work out in our well-equipped, air-conditioned 24-hour gym. The DoubleTree by Hilton Bath City hotel is set amid the fine Georgian architecture of central Bath. Visit Bath attractions like Royal Crescent, Theatre Royal, and Roman Baths or relax at the Thermae Bath Spa. Only 90 minutes by train from London, our hotel in Bath City provides three air-conditioned meeting rooms to cater for up to 200 people. The hotel's County Suite accommodates private dinner banquets, exhibitions or seminar events for up to 200 delegates. All bedrooms at the hotel offer WiFi, internet access (fees apply), 32-inch flat-screen TVs with pay on-demand movies, and a range of luxury complimentary bathroom products. Step up to a deluxe room or suite for extra space and amenities.
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Macdonald Bath Spa

This wonderful hotel enjoys a charming hillside setting in Bath, lying just 200 metres away from the city centre. The hotel is located within easy access of the main attractions that this beautiful English town has to offer. This luxurious hotel enjoys an attractive architectural design, bathing guests in elegance and charm. The guest rooms are superbly designed, offering a cocoon of peace and serenity in which to completely unwind at the end of the day. The hotel features a seemingly boundless array of exemplary facilities and services, meeting the needs of even the most discerning traveller. This hotel is sure to impress, delivering the utmost in comfort, convenience and impeccable service. Children up to age 14 can use the swimming pool, accompanied by an adult, during the hours of 08:00 -11:00 and 15:00 - 18:00. These times may vary during school holidays.I hope you are well. Leisure Facility Access for hotel residents and day spa guests: Hotel Residents – access to the leisure facilities are allowed from 12pm on the day of arrival until 11am on the day of departure. Exception to this is if you have a Spa treatment booked before 12pm on day of arrival or 11am on day of departure Day Spa Guest - access to the leisure facilities are allowed up to a maximum of 90 minutes both before and after spa treatments. Dogs are permitted in ground floor rooms at a charge of £20 per room per night. This includes the use of a dog basket and dog bowl. Guide/Service dogs are free of charge Valet parking is available for £10 per night however this is offered as a complimentary service for anyone booking our Presidential, Belgrave or Cavendish Suite. Please note that the hotel doesn't accept any cash payments
Bedrooms at this boutique hotel in Bath are contemporary with a traditional twist, reflecting the age and style of the 18th century Georgian building but also catering for modern tastes. Stay in one of the stunning 166 bedrooms - all with fabulously comfy Hypnos beds with luxury Egyptian cotton linen, spa-inspired bathrooms, Nespresso coffee machines, air conditioning, high speed Wi-Fi and a variety of channels on your 40” flat screen TV.
Best Western Plus Centurion Hotel, renowned for its relaxed and friendly environment, is conveniently situated between Bath and Wells. It's therefore an ideal place to base yourself when exploring the West Country! For families, Longleat Safari Park is a thrill for the family just over 15 miles away, and Cheddar Caves and Gorge offer something a little different for those seeking to venture off the beaten track. Back at the family run hotel, Cubros Bar and Restaurant offers a traditional yet modern menu at lunch time and in the evening, when you can combine the stunning view on your plate with that of our parkland golf course. The hotel is also attached to the Centurion Fitness Centre which has a fully air-conditioned gym, with extra escapism available in the form of a steam room, sauna, spa pool. Jays Bar and a delightful nine hole golf course mean you really can have it all.
Set in beautiful countryside, this luxury country house hotel is one of the best accommodations in Bath and the West Country. The original building dates from the thirteenth century and is only 10km from Bath city centre and a 30-minute drive away from the M4 motorway. The hotel has received many accolades for the service and facilities provided and guests always appreciate the warm welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. Each of the guest rooms present a tastefully and individually decoration, with high standard furnishings, offering a very comfortable and luxurious stay. The on-site awarded restaurant invites travellers to sample exquisite English cuisine with a modern touch and guests may enjoy an authentic English afternoon tea. The spa is a complete space of relaxation with an exceptional ambiance and provides a range of luxurious treatments and excellent facilities such as a sauna, a steam room and a heated outside swimming pool. Please note the Mews room types are 100 metres away from the main hotel building.
This hotel offers a total of 17 rooms. All guests staying at this property can enjoy the convenience of 24-hour reception. Communal areas are wheelchair accessible at Henrietta House, a member of Radisson Individuals. Travellers arriving by car will appreciate parking available at Henrietta House, a member of Radisson Individuals. The hotel applies a sustainable policy. The hotel may charge a fee for some services.

Things to do in Bath, United Kingdom

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Bath, United Kingdom

Enjoy a private guided tour of the extraordinary prehistoric sites of Wiltshire including Stonehenge and Avebury. All tours are by air conditioned car and include pick up from your local* hotel or arrival point. Full day (minimum 8 hours) or half day (minimum 5 hours) tours are available. Full day tours include visits to both Stonehenge and Avebury. West Kennet Long Barrow, Silbury Hill and Durrington Walls are also on route. Your expert local guide has a degree in archaeology and classical studies. As a local he knows the most scenic routes and the more hidden and unusual sites along the way. He also knows the best places to eat and drink including traditional English pubs and the best spots for a picnic lunch. *local means local to the Stonehenge and Avebury area west of London. Local towns include Salisbury, Bath, Swindon and Marlborough. Pick ups outside of this area including London are possible but may bear an extra cost. Pick up and drop off points can differ to suit you.
See an official residence of The King and home of the British monarchy for more than 900 years*, explore the beautiful Georgian city of Bath and its ancient Roman Baths*, and uncover the mystery behind Stonehenge - the world's most famous Neolithic site.
Sit back and relax as you travel by luxury air-conditioned coach from London to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Bath. On your way, discover the iconic prehistoric stone formation of Stonehenge. Spend a full afternoon exploring Bath, and take advantage of the opportunity to see the ancient Roman Baths or the Jane Austen Visitor Centre.
*Stonehenge entrance ticket included in the tour price. Explore southwest England in three wonderful days on this small-group tour from London. See the mystic stone circle of Stonehenge and discover the historic city of Exeter, where you will stay two nights. Also visit Glastonbury with the impressive Tor, and end your small-group tour in the Georgian city of Bath. In a group of less than 16 people, you are sure to enjoy a personalized and valuable experience with your guide.
Visit two of England's UNESCO World Heritage Sites on this fantastic Stonehenge and Bath tour from London. Explore the beautiful Georgian city of Bath and visit Stonehenge, where you will decipher the mystery surrounding its construction over 5,000 years ago. • Discover the beautiful city of Bath • Optional Roman Baths visit and learn about the history of the Roman Baths • Unravel the mystery of Stonehenge with an interactive audio map
Enjoy a unique, relaxed yet unforgettable day on our 'Stonehenge & Secret England' Signature Tour that combines a visit to Stonehenge with a private guide along with a journey of discovery into authentic, hidden, rural England, away from the crowds, to encounter beautiful villages, romantic ruins, enchanting stories and an exquisite lunch at a quintessential English country inn. This tour is ideal for those who are more interested in connecting with the local region over just sightseeing. Every part is carefully planned so to share the best and breadth of the local region and is perfect for lovers of history, culture, photography, food and drink and those wanting a meaningful, personal and engaging experience in the company of a passionate local.
Visit two top UK attractions in one day with a luxury guided coach tour to Stonehenge and Bath, departing from London. Stopping first in the stunning city of Bath, enjoy the breathtaking Georgian architecture on a guided walking tour and visit the Roman Baths that date back to 40 AD and surround Britain’s only natural hot spring. Afterwards, head to the ancient and iconic structure on Salisbury Plain, Stonehenge. Learn about this mysterious and impressive formation and decide for yourself what it means.
Enjoy a private guided tour around one of Britain's most famous icons, Stonehenge. Fast-track pre-booked admission is included. This half-day tour gives you plenty of time to explore the ancient prehistoric monument and includes private transportation to and from Bath. You can choose either a morning or afternoon tour.

Why People Love Bath, United Kingdom

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Bath, United Kingdom

G
Getaway292000
5
Jun 2022
We spent the day with Laurence and it was an amazing and informative experience. His knowledge and expertise is outstanding and we gained so much from listening to his explanations. He was very accommodating and we would not have had such a positive outing without him. He took a very thoughtful a...
KZ
karl z
5
Jun 2022
Ich habe Stonehenge schon einge Male besucht (das 1. Mal 1974, als der ganze Kreis noch frei zugänglich in der freien Wiese lag) und war denn auch nicht besonders nur an diesem Ort allein sondern im Zusammenhang mit einem Besuch ähnlicher Anlagen auf den Orkneys vor einigen Jahren an andern vorze...
LC
Liz C
5
Jun 2022
Our day was packed with fascinating history, beautiful scenery and memorable experiences. We could not have a had a more expert guide than Laurence, who grew up in the area and holds a degree in archeology with a focus on the Neolithic period. In addition to being so knowledgeable, Laurence is pe...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bath

What are some must-see attractions in Bath?

Bath is known for its stunning Georgian architecture, and there are several landmarks that should be on every visitor's list. The Roman Baths, a well-preserved ancient bathing complex, is a must-see. The Bath Abbey, with its beautiful Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, is another popular attraction. Finally, the Royal Crescent, a row of 30 terraced houses built in the 18th century, is a great place to take a stroll and admire the architecture.

What are some popular activities in Bath?

Bath is a city with a rich history, and there are many activities that allow visitors to experience that history firsthand. Taking a guided walking tour of the city is a great way to learn about Bath's past. Visitors can also take a dip in the Thermae Bath Spa, a modern spa complex that uses the city's thermal waters. Finally, the Jane Austen Centre is a must-visit for fans of the author, with exhibits and displays that explore her life and work.

What are some family-friendly activities in Bath?

There are several family-friendly activities in Bath that are sure to keep kids entertained. The Bath Maze is a fun and challenging maze that's perfect for families to navigate together. The Herschel Museum of Astronomy is a great place to learn about the stars and planets, and has interactive exhibits that kids will love. Finally, the Fashion Museum is a great place to learn about fashion through the ages, with exhibits that showcase clothing and accessories from the 17th century to the present day.

What are some free things to do in Bath?

There are several free things to do in Bath, which makes it a great destination for budget travelers. Taking a stroll through the Royal Victoria Park is a great way to enjoy the city's green spaces. The Bath Skyline Walk is another great option, with stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. Finally, the Victoria Art Gallery is free to enter and has an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures.

What are some recommended restaurants in Bath?

Bath is known for its excellent food scene, with many restaurants that serve up delicious meals made with locally-sourced ingredients. The Circus Cafe and Restaurant is a popular spot that serves up modern British cuisine. The Scallop Shell is a seafood restaurant that's known for its delicious fish and chips. Finally, the Real Italian Pizza Company is a great option for fans of Italian cuisine, with delicious pizza and pasta dishes.

What are some recommended bars in Bath?

Bath has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and pubs that are perfect for a night out. The Bell Inn is a traditional English pub that's known for its excellent selection of local ales. The Dark Horse is a popular cocktail bar that serves up delicious drinks in an intimate setting. Finally, The Moles Club is a great option for music lovers, with live music events and DJ sets throughout the week.

What are some recommended hotels in Bath?

Bath has a range of hotels to suit different budgets and needs. The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is a luxurious option that's located right in the heart of the city. The Gainsborough Bath Spa is another high-end option, with a spa that uses the city's thermal waters. Finally, the Z Hotel is a great budget option, with stylish rooms and a central location.

What is the best time to visit Bath?

The best time to visit Bath depends on what you're looking for. The city is busiest in the summer months, with warm weather and plenty of tourists. However, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn also have their charms, with milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be cold and damp, but it's also a great time to enjoy some of the city's indoor attractions, such as the museums and galleries.

What is the best way to get around Bath?

Bath is a small city that's easy to get around on foot, and this is the best way to see many of the city's attractions. However, there are also several other options for getting around. The city has a good bus network, and visitors can also take a boat tour along the River Avon. Taxis and rental cars are also available, but they're not necessary for most visitors.

What are some day trips that can be taken from Bath?

Bath is located in the beautiful countryside of southwest England, and there are several great day trips that can be taken from the city. The city of Bristol is just a short train ride away, and it's home to several excellent museums and galleries. The Cotswolds, a picturesque region of rolling hills and pretty villages, is also within easy reach. Finally, the city of Wells, with its stunning cathedral and medieval streets, is a great option for history lovers.