Bucket list destination:
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
Bath is one of the UK’s top tourist destinations for a reason: its beautiful Georgian architecture, aristocratic history and cream teas, along with its ancient and modern spas, make it a refined choice for a relaxing and romantic weekend break.
Culture is key to the city’s appeal, from the fascinating Holburne Museum to the Fashion Museum and the Theatre Royal, not to mention the handsomely preserved streets – backdrop to many a costume drama – and the house where Jane Austen lived and wrote.
The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognised for its Roman baths and elegant architecture.
Like Rome, Bath is a city of seven hills, concentrated in a central valley and edged by the River Avon.
The city centres on the abbey, with upmarket boutiques and the most impressive Georgian architecture, including Pulteney Bridge and Royal Crescent, to the north and east, and the SouthGate shopping centre to the south.
The artisan quarter of Walcot Street runs along the Avon to the north, while Royal Victoria Park is to the west.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this destination, plus helpful tickets and transfers
London
Price £89
Min age 3
Rating 4.65 / 5 [3418 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Bath
Price £20
Min age 0
Rating 4.95 / 5 [1657 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
London
Price £161
Min age 0
Rating 4.73 / 5 [1614 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
London
Price £99
Min age 0
Rating 4.78 / 5 [1380 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
London
Price £109
Min age 0
Rating 4.64 / 5 [676 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Bath has year-round appeal, and hotels are regularly booked up during summer and for events such as Valentine’s Day and the city’s many festivals. Due to the city’s geography, it can be very muggy in summer; July and August are also particularly busy months.
For a quieter spa session or architecture tour, May, June and September are the best times to visit, with (generally) pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
The easiest way to reach Bath is by train to Bath Spa station, which is centrally located with taxi ranks outside. Many sights and hotels are within walking distance of the station. The closest international airports are Bristol (40 minutes by taxi or car) or London Heathrow (1 hour 40 minutes by taxi or car).
Bath is a walking city. The centre has pedestrian zones and a one-way system for cars; driving is stressful and not recommended. Parking is expensive and restricted, although many hotels have their own car parks. After dark, taxis are plentiful and can be hailed on the street or from the taxi rank by the abbey. Bikes are also a good way to get around. The municipal Bike in Bath scheme is cheap and straightforward.
Bath has three shopping areas: SouthGate is a modern, pedestrianised open-air shopping centre; Walcot Street boasts independent retailers, a Saturday flea market and antiques and second-hand shops; and Milson Street has a mix of boutiques, high-street shops and independent lifestyle and fashion stores on the main thoroughfare and streets branching off it.
