Bath, in the southwest of England, is best known for its natural hot springs, fascinating history, and 18th-century architecture. This quaint city inspired literary greats, like Jane Austen, Mary Shelley, and Charles Dickens. There are lots of amazing things to see in Bath UK.
Tucked into a loop of the River Avon, the honey-stoned Georgian streets are ensconced in the rolling green hills of Somerset. It is well connected by both train and bus to the rest of England. Located at the southern edge of the picturesque Cotswolds, Bath is a largely flat city, and the best way to get around is by foot.
What Are The Top Things To See In Bath?
The Roman Baths
Perhaps the most iconic landmark of Bath, are the historic Roman Baths that sit on natural hot springs, and give the city its name. Constructed around 70 AD, the baths were the heart of the old Roman city. Today, they are some of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world. Discover the heated rooms, the ancient pavements, and the temple to Minerva. Don’t forget to sample the spa waters in the Pump Room. Full of minerals, they were once thought to have healing powers.
The Royal Crescent
The Royal Crescent, completed in 1774, contains 30 spectacular houses in a sweeping arc. Today, House Number 1 has been converted into a museum, displaying authentic Georgian rooms and furniture. Numbers 15 and 16 in the middle function as the exclusive Royal Crescent Hotel.
Jane Austen Centre
In keeping with this aura of Georgian splendor, the Jane Austen Centre, dedicated to Bath’s most famous residents, offers a snapshot of life in the 18th century. Regency food, fashion, and manners can all be seen here. Don’t miss the annual Jane Austen Festival held along the Royal Crescent to celebrate the author’s time living in the city.
The Old Assembly Rooms
The Assembly Rooms, the heart of Georgian social life, now house the Fashion Museum. It displays clothes from the last 400 years, from gorgeous Georgian gowns to sleek modern fashions. It even has a dress-up room where you can try on historical coats, corsets, dresses, and bonnets!
Prior Park
The Georgian Gardens, meticulously recreated from original 18th-century images, and Prior Park offer some of the best landscapes in the city. Prior Park, built by the landscape designer Capability Brown, contains the famous Palladian Bridge which offers a sweeping view of the city. It is the perfect place to explore woodland paths, or merely relax on the manicured lawns.
Bath Abbey
Bath Abbey is a Grade I listed building in the heart of the city of Bath England. What was a Saxon convent in 675 AD has become a parish church of Bath since 1620, however three different churches have occupied this site since 757 AD. Its honey-gold columns, fan-vaulted Ceiling, memorials and splendid stained-glass windows are the main highlights.
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What Else Can You See Nearby?
Cheddar Gorge
Those wishing for a more magnificent natural setting can visit the nearby Cheddar Gorge. Britain’s highest inland limestone cliffs, and Ice Age melt waters created this natural wonder. Its breathtaking views and abundance of wildlife make it perfect for a long walk or hike. Explore Gough’s Cave to see its fascinating prehistoric findings, and to learn about its Ice Age creation, Stone Age occupation, and Victorian discovery.
Salisbury Cathedral
A short distance away from Bath United Kingdom is the Salisbury Cathedral. Situated within an 80-acre walled close, surrounded by green lawns and historic houses, it is one of the most magnificent of the early English Gothic cathedrals. Built in the 1200s, it has the tallest spire in England (at 123m), and the finest copy of the 1215 Magna Carta.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is also close to Bath. This fascinating Neolithic stone circle is one of the most iconic prehistoric monuments in Europe. It is steeped in mystery – Who built it? What was it built for? How was it built? Yet, thousands of people visit each day to try and unravel its secrets.
Have we missed any of your favorite things to see in Bath? If so, let us know in the comments below.
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FAQs
The many sides of Bath can be explored without spending a penny. The Royal Crescent, Free Live Music, Royal Victoria Park, World Heritage Centre, Summer Carnival, Alexandra Park and Bath Skyline Walk are some of the top things to enjoy for free.
Here are five of the best places to go on day trips from Bath:
1. Wells – A small city that houses the Wells Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace.
2. Bradford-on-Avon – A beautiful riverside town with canal, historic buildings, pubs and restaurants.
3. Oxford – A place with historic colleges including the most prestigious University of Oxford.
The spring months between March to May and the summer months between June to August are great time for a visit. The weather is generally warm and ideal for outdoor activities. Food people who like cold weather can plan a visit during September and November.
Yes, Bath can be visited from London for a day. A train journey to Bath from London takes about 1.5 hours. Travel by bus will take about 3 hours and by car will take 2.5 hours.
Since Bath is compact city, the best way to explore is on foot. There are many walking tours with guides that covers everything that the city has to offer.
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