Nestled in the rolling countryside of Somerset, Bath is a city renowned for its Roman-built baths and stunning Georgian architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique blend of ancient history, cultural depth, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, Bath promises a rich selection of experiences. Here are the top 10 things to do in Bath that you shouldn’t miss:
- Visit the Roman Baths: Exploring the Roman Baths is an absolute must. Built around 70 AD, these ancient baths are remarkably well-preserved and offer a glimpse into the daily life of Roman Britain. The site includes the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple, the Roman Bath House, and finds from Roman Bath. Guided tours are available, offering insights into this historical marvel (Visit Bath).
- Bath Abbey: Right beside the Roman Baths stands the magnificent Bath Abbey. Known for its fan-vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows, the Abbey offers tower tours where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city (Bath Abbey).
- Thermae Bath Spa: For relaxation, visit the Thermae Bath Spa where you can bathe in Britain’s only naturally warm, mineral-rich waters just as the Romans did over 2,000 years ago. The rooftop pool has stunning views of the cityscape, making it a perfect spot to unwind (Thermae Bath Spa).
- Royal Crescent: A trip to Bath is incomplete without visiting the Royal Crescent. This iconic landmark, built between 1767 and 1774, is one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture in the UK. The 30 terraced houses laid out in a sweeping crescent offer a spectacular architectural view (Royal Crescent).
- Pulteney Bridge: One of the very few bridges in the world with shops built across its full span on both sides, Pulteney Bridge is reminiscent of Florence’s Ponte Vecchio. It offers picturesque views of the river Avon and is a great spot for photography (Visit Bath).
- The Jane Austen Centre: Celebrate the life and works of Jane Austen at the Jane Austen Centre. This small museum offers a snapshot of what it would have been like to live in the Regency times during which she wrote her major works, many of which mention Bath (Jane Austen Centre).
- The Holburne Museum: Art lovers should visit The Holburne Museum. Housed in a beautiful historic building at the end of Great Pulteney Street, the museum features collections of fine and decorative arts (The Holburne Museum).
- Fashion Museum Bath: The Fashion Museum hosts a world-class collection of contemporary and historical dresses. Discover a history of fashion from the 18th century to the present day, including pieces by contemporary designers (Fashion Museum Bath).
- Walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal: Enjoy a leisurely walk or a boat trip along the Kennet and Avon Canal. The towpath runs through the city and provides a peaceful way to enjoy the local scenery and wildlife (Canal & River Trust).
- Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum: No visit to Bath would be complete without trying a Sally Lunn bun at this historic eating house. One of the oldest houses in Bath, it’s the home of the original Bath bun, which is a part of Bath’s culinary heritage (Sally Lunn’s).
Conclusion: Bath offers an array of activities that cater to all interests, from history enthusiasts and art admirers to those simply seeking relaxation in a beautiful setting. Each of these top ten attractions provides a unique way to experience the charm and history of this exquisite city
