Bath is one of Britain’s most distinctive cities. Roman history, Georgian architecture and natural thermal water come together within a compact centre built almost entirely from warm, honey-coloured Bath stone.
The city is small enough to explore on foot, but there is far more to see than its famous baths and crescent. Historic houses, independent museums, landscaped gardens, riverside paths and surrounding hills make Bath a rewarding destination for a day trip, weekend break or longer stay.
This guide brings together the very best things to do in Bath, combining the city’s essential landmarks with walks, cultural attractions and local experiences that reveal more of its character.
Historic and cultural things to do in Bath
1. Explore the Roman Baths
Business details
Address
Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1LZ
Contact details: +44 1225 477785
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9 am to 6 pm
- Last entry: 5 pm
- Seasonal and festive variations may apply
Price: £££
The Roman Baths are Bath’s most important attraction and one of the best-preserved ancient bathing complexes in Northern Europe. Built around the city’s natural hot spring, the site preserves the Great Bath, Roman pavements, temple remains and thousands of archaeological objects.
The museum explains how Aquae Sulis developed as a centre of worship and bathing under Roman rule. Projections, reconstructed spaces and audio guides help visitors understand how the complex would once have looked and functioned.
Pro tip:
Book the first available entry of the day or visit later in the afternoon. The central Great Bath becomes particularly busy around midday.
2. Step inside Bath Abbey
Business details
Address
Bath Abbey, Bath BA1 1LT
Contact details: +44 1225 422462
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 am to 5:30 pm
- Saturday: 10 am to 6 pm
- Sunday: 1 pm to 3:30 pm
- Visiting hours can change for services and special events
Price: Donation or visitor admission may apply
Bath Abbey stands at the heart of the city beside the Roman Baths. Its present form dates largely from the late medieval period, although the site has been used for Christian worship for more than a thousand years.
Inside, the fan-vaulted ceiling is the defining feature, accompanied by stained glass, memorials and the large Klais organ. Tower tours provide a closer look at the bells and roof while rewarding visitors with panoramic views over central Bath.
Pro tip:
Check the tower tour schedule before arriving. Places are limited and involve a long, narrow staircase, but the view is among the best in the city centre.
3. Walk around the Royal Crescent
Business details
Address
Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LR
Operating hours:
- Open at all times
Price: Free
The Royal Crescent is one of Britain’s finest examples of Georgian architecture. Designed by John Wood the Younger and completed in the 18th century, its sweeping curve of 30 terraced houses overlooks a broad lawn and Royal Victoria Park.
The uniform façade conceals homes of different sizes and layouts, making the crescent as much an architectural illusion as a residential development. It remains one of the city’s most recognisable sights.
Pro tip:
View the crescent from the lower edge of the lawn first, then walk behind it to see how dramatically the architecture changes away from the formal façade.
4. Experience Georgian life at No. 1 Royal Crescent
Business details
Address
1 Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LR
Contact details: +44 1225 428126
Operating hours:
- Opening days and times vary seasonally
- Usually closed on Mondays outside school holidays and bank holidays
- Check before travelling
Price: ££
No. 1 Royal Crescent is a restored Georgian townhouse furnished to show how wealthy residents and their servants lived during the late 18th century. Its rooms include the drawing room, dining room, bedrooms, kitchen and servants’ quarters.
The museum is especially useful for understanding the society behind Bath’s grand architecture. Carefully chosen furniture, decorative objects and interpretation reveal the contrast between elegant entertaining rooms and the work taking place below stairs.
Pro tip:
Visit after walking around the Royal Crescent. Seeing the interior immediately afterwards makes the architecture and social history much easier to understand.
5. Admire the Circus
Business details
Address
The Circus, Bath BA1 2ET
Operating hours:
- Open at all times
Price: Free
The Circus is a circular arrangement of Georgian townhouses designed by John Wood the Elder. Its three curved sections create a perfectly balanced urban space inspired by classical architecture and ancient monuments.
Look closely at the stonework and you will find carved symbols, including acorns, serpents, nautical emblems and Masonic imagery. Mature plane trees now occupy the central lawn, giving the Circus a quieter and more enclosed atmosphere than the Royal Crescent.
Pro tip:
Stand in the centre and slowly turn through the full circle. Each entrance is positioned to reveal a different approach into the space.
6. Cross Pulteney Bridge
Business details
Address
Bridge Street, Bath BA2 4AT
Operating hours:
- Open at all times
- Individual shops keep their own hours
Price: Free
Pulteney Bridge is one of Bath’s most photographed landmarks. Completed in the 18th century, it crosses the River Avon and is lined with shops on both sides, making it one of only a small number of historic bridges in Europe built in this way.
The classic view includes the bridge, the curved weir and the Georgian buildings lining the river. Crossing the bridge leads naturally towards Great Pulteney Street and the Holburne Museum.
Pro tip:
For the best view, walk to Grand Parade or the riverside path below. The bridge itself is easier to appreciate from a slight distance.
7. Visit the Holburne Museum
Business details
Address
Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DB
Contact details: +44 1225 388569
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm
- Sunday and bank holidays: 11 am to 5 pm
Price: Free for parts of the collection, with charges for some exhibitions
The Holburne Museum occupies a grand building at the far end of Great Pulteney Street. Its collection began with Sir William Holburne and now includes paintings, silver, ceramics, sculpture and decorative art.
The museum combines historic interiors with a modern rear extension overlooking Sydney Gardens. Works by Gainsborough, Guardi, Stubbs and Ramsay sit alongside changing exhibitions and smaller displays.
Pro tip:
Approach from Pulteney Bridge and walk the full length of Great Pulteney Street. The formal avenue creates one of Bath’s most impressive architectural views.
8. Discover Jane Austen’s Bath
Business details
Address
40 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2NT
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9:45 am to 6 pm
- Last full admission is one hour before closing
Price: ££
The Jane Austen Centre explores the author’s relationship with Bath and the influence the city had on novels including Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. Costumed guides, displays and period dress introduce visitors to Regency society and Austen’s years in the city.
Although the centre is not one of Austen’s former homes, it provides an accessible introduction to the streets, customs and social rituals that shaped her experience of Bath.
Pro tip:
Combine the centre with a self-guided walk along Gay Street, Gravel Walk and around the Assembly Rooms to place Austen’s Bath in its real setting.
9. Visit the Herschel Museum of Astronomy
Business details
Address
19 New King Street, Bath BA1 2BL
Contact details: +44 1225 446865
Operating hours:
- Opening days and hours vary seasonally
- Check the official website before visiting
Price: ££
The Herschel Museum occupies the former home of William and Caroline Herschel. It was here in 1781 that William Herschel discovered the planet Uranus using a telescope of his own construction.
The small museum preserves period rooms, scientific instruments, musical connections and a garden workshop. It tells not only William’s story but also that of Caroline Herschel, an important astronomer in her own right.
Pro tip:
Allow around an hour. The museum is compact, but its original setting and specialist collection reward visitors who take time to read the displays.
10. Browse the Victoria Art Gallery
Business details
Address
Bridge Street, Bath BA2 4AT
Contact details: +44 1225 477233
Operating hours:
- Opening hours vary
- Check the current exhibition schedule before visiting
Price: Free and paid areas depending on the exhibition
The Victoria Art Gallery sits close to Pulteney Bridge and holds Bath’s public art collection. Displays include British paintings, decorative art and works connected with the city and surrounding region.
The upper galleries regularly host temporary exhibitions, while the permanent collection offers a quieter cultural stop between the Abbey quarter and Great Pulteney Street.
Pro tip:
This is an easy attraction to pair with Pulteney Bridge and the Holburne Museum, particularly when the weather makes a longer outdoor walk less appealing.
Relaxing and outdoor things to do in Bath
11. Bathe in the thermal waters at Thermae Bath Spa
Business details
Address
The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath Street, Bath BA1 1SJ
Contact details: +44 1225 331234
Operating hours:
- Opening times vary by day and session
- Advance booking is available for selected sessions
- Minimum admission age: 16
Price: £££
Thermae Bath Spa allows visitors to bathe in the city’s naturally warm, mineral-rich water. Its best-known feature is the open-air rooftop pool, which looks across Bath’s skyline and surrounding hills.
A standard spa session also includes indoor pools and wellness facilities. It is a modern experience rather than a preserved historic bath, but it connects directly with the natural springs that have defined the city for centuries.
Pro tip:
Choose a late-afternoon session so you can see the city in daylight and remain as the rooftops begin to light up.
12. Walk through Prior Park Landscape Garden
Business details
Address
Ralph Allen Drive, Bath BA2 5AH
Contact details: +44 1225 833977
Operating hours:
- Usually open daily from 10 am
- Closing times vary by season
Price: ££, free for National Trust members
Prior Park is an 18th-century landscaped garden set in a valley overlooking Bath. Its most famous feature is the Palladian Bridge, one of only a small number of surviving bridges of its kind.
Paths descend through woodland, lawns and restored lakes before climbing back towards viewpoints over the city. The changing levels make the garden visually dramatic, although visitors should expect steep slopes.
Pro tip:
There is no general visitor parking at the garden. Use public transport or walk from the city, and wear footwear suitable for uneven and sometimes muddy paths.
13. Follow the Bath Skyline Walk
Business details
Address
Multiple access points around the eastern side of Bath
Operating hours:
- Open at all times
Price: Free
The Bath Skyline Walk is a six-mile circular route through woodland, meadows and elevated countryside above the city. It offers some of the best views across Bath and a complete contrast to the busy historic centre.
The full route passes through areas including Bathwick Fields, Smallcombe Wood and Claverton Down. Shorter sections can be enjoyed independently by visitors without time for the entire circuit.
Pro tip:
Start near Bathwick Hill and complete only the viewpoint section if you want the scenery without committing to the full six-mile walk.
14. Relax in Royal Victoria Park
Business details
Address
Marlborough Lane, Bath BA1 2NQ
Operating hours:
- Open daily
Price: Free
Royal Victoria Park stretches west from the Royal Crescent and provides 57 acres of open lawns, mature trees and recreational spaces. It was opened in 1830 by the future Queen Victoria, then still a princess.
The park includes a botanical garden, children’s play area, tennis courts and broad spaces for picnics. It offers an easy place to slow down after exploring the densely built city centre.
Pro tip:
Walk through the park immediately after visiting the Royal Crescent, then continue towards the botanical garden at its western end.
15. See Bath from Alexandra Park
Business details
Address
Shakespeare Avenue, Bath BA2 4RQ
Operating hours:
- Open daily
Price: Free
Alexandra Park sits above the city on Beechen Cliff and provides one of Bath’s best panoramic viewpoints. From the terrace, the historic centre, Abbey, surrounding hills and rows of Bath-stone terraces spread out below.
The park is less famous than the central landmarks and often considerably quieter. Reaching it involves a steep climb, but the view gives visitors a clear sense of Bath’s setting within the Avon valley.
Pro tip:
Take the steep pedestrian route from the railway station only if you are comfortable with steps. An alternative route by road is longer but gentler.
16. Walk beside the Kennet and Avon Canal
Business details
Address
Access from Sydney Gardens and Bathwick, Bath
Operating hours:
- Towpath open at all times
Price: Free
The Kennet and Avon Canal provides a peaceful walking route just beyond the city centre. From Sydney Gardens, the towpath follows locks, bridges, narrowboats and tree-lined sections towards Bathampton.
It is a particularly good option for repeat visitors who have already seen the main landmarks. The level path makes for an easy walk, while waterside pubs and cafés provide natural stopping points further along the route.
Pro tip:
Start beside Sydney Gardens and walk towards Bathampton. Turn back whenever you are ready or return by bus to avoid retracing the entire route.
Memorable Bath experiences
17. Eat a historic bun at Sally Lunn’s
Business details
Address
4 North Parade Passage, Bath BA1 1NX
Contact details: +44 1225 461634
Operating hours:
- Open daily
- Breakfast, daytime and evening hours vary
Price: ££
Sally Lunn’s occupies one of the oldest houses in Bath and is famous for the large, light Sally Lunn bun. The building contains a restaurant and a small museum area displaying the remains of an earlier kitchen.
The bun is served in both sweet and savoury dishes, making the experience more substantial than a simple bakery stop. Its exact origin is surrounded by legend, but the building and recipe have become part of Bath’s visitor tradition.
Pro tip:
Reserve a table at busy times. Visitors who only want a bun to take away can use the small shop rather than waiting for the restaurant.
18. Take a boat trip on the River Avon
Business details
Address
Departures vary around Pulteney Weir and Bath riverside
Operating hours:
- Seasonal
- Sailings depend on weather and river conditions
Price: ££
A boat trip provides a different view of Bath’s riverfront, bridges and surrounding countryside. Depending on the operator, cruises range from short sightseeing journeys to longer trips towards Bathampton.
The experience is especially enjoyable in warmer months, when the River Avon and Kennet and Avon Canal become a lively part of the city’s outdoor life.
Pro tip:
Check the departure point carefully. Different operators leave from different sections of the river and canal, and services may be reduced outside summer.
19. Watch a performance at Theatre Royal Bath
Business details
Address
Saw Close, Bath BA1 1ET
Contact details: +44 1225 448844
Operating hours:
- Varies by performance
Price: ££ to £££
Theatre Royal Bath is one of Britain’s most attractive historic theatres and presents drama, comedy, opera, dance and touring productions throughout the year.
The main auditorium is joined by the Ustinov Studio and the egg, a dedicated theatre for children and families. Its varied programme makes it one of the strongest evening options after the daytime attractions close.
Pro tip:
Look beyond the main auditorium listings. The Ustinov Studio regularly stages smaller productions that may not be touring elsewhere.
20. Explore Bath’s independent shops and markets
Business details
Address
Walcot Street, Milsom Street, Green Park Station and central Bath
Operating hours:
- Varies by shop and market
Price: Free to explore
Bath’s compact centre contains a strong mix of independent shops, galleries, food businesses and markets. Walcot Street is known for antiques, interiors and creative businesses, while the streets around Milsom Street combine established retailers with smaller independents.
Green Park Station hosts changing markets and food traders beneath its former railway roof. The covered setting makes it useful in poor weather and adds another layer to Bath’s architectural history.
Pro tip:
Check the market schedule before visiting Green Park Station, as the strongest mix of traders appears on particular days rather than throughout the week.
How to make the most of a visit to Bath
Bath is easy to explore on foot, and most central attractions sit within a 15-minute walk of one another. However, the city becomes steep very quickly beyond the centre, particularly around Prior Park, Alexandra Park and the Skyline Walk.
A strong first-day route begins at the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey, continues across Pulteney Bridge, then follows Great Pulteney Street to the Holburne Museum. From there, return through the centre towards the Circus and Royal Crescent.
Thermae Bath Spa is best reserved in advance, particularly for weekends. The Roman Baths, No. 1 Royal Crescent and the Jane Austen Centre can also become busy during school holidays and summer weekends.
Visitors arriving by train will find Bath Spa station close to the historic centre. Driving is less convenient because central parking is limited and traffic can be slow, so park-and-ride services are often the simplest option for a day visit.
Bath Business & Travel Statistics
Planning a business visit or researching the local commercial scene? View the official Bath Companies House Registration Statistics for insights on active businesses and local sectors.
Related guides
Things to Do
Top Date Ideas in London
Discover 25 of the best date ideas in London, from romantic restaurants and riverside walks to creative workshops, free museums and unusual shared experiences.
Updated 13 July 2026
Things to Do
12 of the best tours in London for memorable city experiences
Discover 12 of the best tours in London, from Harry Potter and hop-on hop-off sightseeing to food walks, river cruises, cycling tours and historical experiences.
Updated 13 July 2026
Things to Do
15 of the best walking tours in London for curious wanderers
Discover 15 of the best walking tours in London, from royal history and wartime Westminster to Harry Potter, Sherlock Holmes, street art, food and historic pubs.
Updated 13 July 2026
Things to Do
30 of the best things to do in London for free for locals and visitors
Discover 30 of the best free things to do in London, from world-class museums and royal parks to historic ceremonies, skyline views, live music and unusual hidden attractions.
Updated 13 July 2026
Things to Do
20 best things to do in Aberdeen for an unforgettable visit
Discover the best things to do in Aberdeen, from its granite architecture, museums and historic university quarter to coastal walks, gardens, dolphin watching and memorable day trips.
Updated 10 July 2026
Things to Do
20 best things to do in Brighton for an unforgettable visit
Discover the best things to do in Brighton, from the Royal Pavilion, Palace Pier and famous beach to independent shopping, museums, gardens and memorable coastal walks.
Updated 10 July 2026
Know a business we should consider?
Send us the details and our editorial team will review whether it fits a future guide.
Submit businessWriter profile
George Davies
Regional and city guide writer
George covers location led guides, city roundups, regional comparisons, attractions, markets, museums and practical local recommendations.