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One Day in a City

24 Hour Travel Itineraries to Make the Most of a Day in a Destination

One Day in Bath, England Itinerary

June 3, 2021 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in Bath in 24 Hours

Bath, England is one of the best cities to visit in the whole of the United Kingdom and is a great day trip from London, or as its own overnight 24-hour getaway.

With Bath’s majestic buildings harking back from the Georgian era, a 16th century Abbey, and ancient Roman bathhouses, it’s hard to imagine a place more historic, making Bath a wonderful place to spend a day.

History is everywhere in Bath, but the city offers a lot of modern leisure activities as well, which you can easily do even if you have just one day in Bath to spend. These modern activities range from Bath’s restaurants and bars to the relaxing Thermae Bath Spa, which is Britain’s only natural thermal spa.

Although I would highly recommend spending a weekend in Bath so you can see all of the sights without feeling rushed, you can still easily see Bath’s main attractions in just one day. To assist you in doing just that, read on for a detailed 24-hour Bath itinerary to help you pack in as much as possible into your day trip to Bath (plus some hotel options if you decide to spend the night in Bath, too).

How to Get to Bath

First off, where exactly is Bath, England?

Bath is easy to reach from a few cities in England and Wales, helping to make it an ideal day trip. Bath is less than two and a half hours’ drive from London, two hours from Birmingham, two hours from Exeter, one hour 15 minutes from Cardiff, and only 40 minutes from Bristol. If you are visiting from any cities that are a bit further away, it’s worth spending the night in Bath. 

Parking is expensive if you are driving into Bath, although there are lots of options. Bath also has a clean air zone, so you need to pay to drive through the city center in some cars. To avoid this and for cheaper parking, I’d recommend using the Park and Ride service.

Bath is connected to Bristol and London by direct rail, and if you are doing a day trip from other cities, you can change in Bristol or other nearby towns. You can also take a National Express bus from London. 

One Day in Bath Itinerary

Now for the 24-hour Bath itinerary you’ve been waiting for! Here are all the top things to do in Bath if short on time, plus tips on where to eat and where to sleep if staying overnight in Bath.

Breakfast at Boston Tea Party

Once you’ve arrived in Bath, we bet that you’ll be hungry! Boston Tea Party is a popular cafe in the West Country. Founded in Bristol, it provides delicious breakfasts and lunches as well as flavorful coffee. 

There are plenty of veggie, vegan, and gluten-free options – so whatever your tastes and requirements, Boston Tea Party is an excellent place to fuel up. And you’ll need a lot of energy – this Bath day trip itinerary is action-packed! 

Roman Baths

Start your day off by visiting the Roman Baths. This is the most famous attraction in Bath, and you can’t miss it!

The Roman Baths date back nearly 2,000 years; they were built around 70 AD, around 30 years after the Romans first came to England. The Romans discovered Bath’s natural hot springs and decided to make the most of them by building a vast spa town. 

Some of the baths are still intact today, and you can see these and other Roman relics at the museum. I’d definitely recommend following the audio guide, as it will tell you all sorts of interesting Roman anecdotes.

The Roman Baths are right by Bath Abbey, and it’s well worth visiting after you leave the Roman Baths — even if you aren’t religious.

The Abbey has a fascinating history: there used to be a Saxon Abbey on its site, then a Norman Monastery, but it fell into disrepair in Medieval times. In 1499, a bishop called Oliver King had a dream about angels descending an olive tree to reach earth. He interpreted this dream to mean that he should rebuild the Abbey.

He started doing so but had to stop when King Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries and changed the country’s religion from Catholic to Protestant. This was so that Henry could divorce his first wife, Katherine of Aragon, and marry his second, Anne Boleyn — who he later beheaded!

It was eventually rebuilt during the time of Queen Elizabeth I (1558-1603). As a memento to Bishop Oliver king, there are engravings of olive trees, angels, and ladders outside. 

Inside, there are beautiful stained glass windows and lots of interesting statues. If you are there at the right time, you could do a Tower Tour, which will take you to the top of the Abbey’s main tower. From here you can enjoy a beautiful view over Bath. 

Pulteney Bridge and the Weir

Pulteney Bridge is just behind Bath Abbey and is worth checking out while you’re here. This is one of the only bridges in the world that is completely covered with shops.

It was built in the Palladian style by William Johnstone Pulteney in 1769. He wanted to make a new town on the other side of the river to rival Bath — this grand plan didn’t end up coming to anything, but he did at least build the bridge!

Pulteney Bridge is also located just upriver from the Pulteney Weir, a uniquely v-shaped barrier built in the river in the 1970s to help prevent flooding.

Bath Coffee Break at Colonna & Small’s

If you want to have a coffee break now, I highly recommend Colonna & Small’s, which is less than a 10-minute walk west of Pulteney Bridge. This coffee shop serves delicious brews made from high-quality beans in a contemporary setting.

Walk Around Bath’s City Center

One of the best things to do in Bath is to just walk around and admire the architecture, and I recommend doing this even if you’re short on time. You can see the best of the historic and beautiful buildings of Bath simply by walking around the city.

Colonna & Smalls is right by Queen Square, so head to Queen Square first if coming from the coffee shop. The square is framed by Georgian buildings and was built in the early 18th century. 

From Queen Square, walk up Gay Street, and you’ll eventually end up in a circle of terraced houses. This road is called The Circus, and it is a perfect circle. These townhouses were designed by local architect John Wood the Elder in Palladian style in 1754. 

John Wood the Elder was very interested in Druidic history around Bath and designed the Circus to reflect their ancient stone circles, particularly Stonehenge in Wiltshire.

The architect sadly died three months after construction started, but his son oversaw the Circus and also designed the Crescent — which is next on the itinerary!

The Crescent is an iconic Bath scene. Located in the historic Victoria Park (named after Queen Victoria), this unspoiled crescent of houses has been featured in many period dramas and films; most recently, it was a filming spot for the popular Netflix show Bridgerton . 

Tour Another Bath Museum

There are a few other Bath museums that you can see while visiting here – you’ve probably only got time to see one properly if you’re just in Bath for 24 hours or less, but here are a few recommendations. 

No 1 Royal Crescent

If you are a Bridgerton fan, this is a must-see – it was the home of the Featherington family. It’s been a museum for years, though — long before Bridgerton was released — so it is also well worth visiting even if you haven’t seen the show. 

No 1 Royal Crescent is a house that has been remodeled to resemble what it would have been like in the 1800s. It’s a great place to learn about this period of history and is fascinating for adults and children alike. 

Jane Austen Museum

The Jane Austen Museum is an excellent place for book fans to visit. Jane Austen lived in Bath for a time, and some of her books were set here. In the museum, you’ll be able to learn all about Austen’s life and how she became such a popular novelist. 

Fashion Museum of Bath

Bath’s Fashion Museum is a must-visit for anyone who’s interested in clothes and the history of fashion trends. It has several exhibitions that explore the relationship between popular culture and fashion and how clothing trends have changed throughout the centuries. 

Afternoon Tea at the Pump Room 

I bet you’re hungry after so much sightseeing! Bath’s pump house is the ideal place to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. The Pump House is connected to the Roman Baths and is a historic restaurant, dating back to the 18th century.

You can enjoy delicious sandwiches, traditional cakes and, of course, plenty of cups of tea! There are options for vegetarians, although nothing vegan. There is usually classical piano music playing – pair that with the majestic architecture, and you’ll feel like you’re in another century! 

While you’re at the Pump Room, ask to try a glass of hot spa water, which contains 43 minerals and is rumored to have healed many ailments over the years. 

Bath Thermae Spa

The only way to properly end a day in Bath is with a soak in the Bath Thermae Spa. Although this is the modern answer to the Roman Baths, it uses the same natural thermal spring that the ancient society discovered 2,000 years ago. 

Bath Thermae Spa is huge. The best parts are the Minerva Pool downstairs, the four steam rooms all with their own scent, and the heated rooftop pool. Make sure that you leave enough time to enjoy the rooftop pool; you’ll have an epic view of the city and be gloriously toasty and relaxed in the hot waters. 

In addition to soaking in the waters, you can book massage and other spa treatment appointments, too. Be sure to make reservations in advance for treatments and for using the pools since this is a popular place.

Eating and Drinking in Bath

If you’re not too full from your afternoon tea, there are some great restaurants in Bath. If you fancy Italian food, head to Sotto Sotto, an independently owned place serving amazing pizzas. Or visit Oak Restaurant for delicious vegetarian fare; try their five-course taster menu! Alternatively, Yak Yeti Yak is a popular Nepalese restaurant that has a delicious menu.

If you aren’t driving home and want a few drinks, the Canary Gin Bar is the place to go for all things gin. Or, visit the Bath Brew House, which has an on-site microbrewery and serves up delicious local ales. 

Leaving Bath After a Day Trip

The last train from Bath to London leaves at around 10pm, and it’s around 11pm for the last train to Bristol, although these times are subject to change so check on National Rail to find out exact times and confirm that there are no delays or cancellations. 

Coach times vary depending on your provider.

If you are driving, I would recommend waiting until after 7 p.m. to leave to avoid rush hour. 

Staying Overnight in Bath

Planning to spend the night in Bath? Here are some top-rated hotels to stay at for a variety of budgets:

Gainsborough Bath Spa: A Luxury Hotel That Embraces Bath’s Spa Culture

If you want to splurge and really embrace the spa atmosphere of Bath, then a stay at the swanky Gainsborough Bath Spa is a must. It’s a 5-star hotel that has an onsite spa and mineral pool. The pool is definitely what helps to make this place special since it is the only hotel in the United Kingdom that has a naturally thermal heated pool on its premises. It’s also located just 350 feet from the Roman Baths, making this a convenient place to stay for sightseeing in Bath, too. And, as you might expect from a 5-star hotel, the rooms are also gorgeously appointed.

—> Click here for pictures and prices for Gainsborough Bath Spa – YTL Classic Hotel

The Bird, Bath: a Boutique Hotel with Colorful Touches

The Bird, Bath has decor as fun as its name. This is more of a mid-range boutique hotel, with glam, eccentric decor that makes your stay feel unique and like its a destination unto itself. But the city of Bath is of course still a big focus and this hotel is just a few minutes walk from the city center. There is also a parking area, a lovely terrace, a gourmet restaurant, and even cool “Dining Domes” you can reserve for an unforgettable eating experience.

—> Click here for pictures and prices for the Bird, Bath boutique hotel.

Z Hotel Bath: A Budget-Friendly Hotel Right in the City Center

Z Hotel is located right in the city center. It has clean, simple rooms with contemporary decor at a great price. From the hotel, it’s roughly a five minute walk to Pulteney Bridge, Jane Austen Centre, and Queen Square. Plus, you’re right by many bars and restaurants for some evening entertainment and nightlife. There is no parking onsite at this hotel so those driving to Bath will need to find a nearby parking lot.

—> Click here for prices and photos of Z Hotel Bath.

Bath is a must-visit city in the UK, and the good news is that you can see most of it in just 24 hours! Hopefully this article has shown you how to explore Bath if you only have a day, but also enticed you to visit and see some more of it another time!

About the Author: Claire is a South West England travel expert. She currently lives in Devon, but has spent time living in Bristol and Bath. She blogs about the region on her blog Go South West England , where she aims to help both international travelers and locals wanting to explore their own backyard. You can follow her on Facebook or Instagram .

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I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

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How to Spend One Day in Bath: Itinerary with the Best Things to Do and See

Thanks to its compact city centre, one day in Bath is enough to see the top attractions in this gorgeous World Heritage city. Use this handy 1-day Bath itinerary to find the best things to do and see in Bath, England. From the 2,000-year-old Roman Baths to grand architecture and charming cobbled lanes, here are 12 reasons for visiting Bath, one of the prettiest cities in England.

This article contains affiliate links. Please refer to my  Disclaimer  page to learn more about this.

Go straight to: 1. Bath itinerary: the 12 best things to do and see in Bath 2. Know before you go: travel essentials for your day trip to Bath

Oh! Who can be ever tired of Bath?” Jane Austen,  Northanger Abbey

Memoirs of one day in Bath, England

The lovely city of Bath is famous for its elegant tearooms and cosy cafés. Indulging in delightful treats, their ravenous guests come here to relive the city’s Golden Age. The era when, after centuries of decay, Bath had flourished into a fashionable city break destination.

Becoming a popular spa resort amongst socialites in the 18th century, the fabulous Georgian architecture of the time remains one of the main draws of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yet, here I am.

Sat on a bench in the city’s most touristy street, devouring a cheap baguette and getting most of its contents on my face.

I spent the morning sightseeing in Bath and was too famished to venture to a sophisticated café for a graceful lunch like a proper grown-up.

Instead, I grabbed a convenient takeaway lunch from the bakery just outside the Roman Baths. Suspicious of it being an evident tourist trap, I’m pleasantly surprised by the quality of my freshly grilled Mediterranean vegetable roll.

While I wipe the hummus off my chin, a wildly overdressed man across the street catches my eye. Distracted by his top hat and 19th-century black tailcoat with its gold-coloured buttons shimmering in the sunlight, it takes me a moment to notice the sign he’s holding in his hand. ‘Free Jane Austen walking tours’ it says.

Ah, yes, of course.

Jane Austen, one of the most famous British novelists of all time, lived in Bath for a few years during its heyday. Soaking up the atmosphere of the vibrant early 19th-century Bath, the city would inspire her to write her two novels Persuasion and Northanger Abbey .

Curious to learn what made this city so special to her and her contemporaries?

Then use the tips in this itinerary for your perfect day in Bath, one of the most beautiful places in England.

How to spend one day in Bath: the 12 best things to do and see in Bath

1. Your Bath itinerary starts at the Roman Baths

Ever wondered about the origins of certain curious place names?

Beer. Ham. Sandwich.

Not quoting some local caf’s lunch menu here. (Sorry if it made you hungry). But did you know that these are all actual places in England?

Bath fits perfectly in this list. That’s not me suggesting that you should have your beer and ham sandwich in bath. (Not stopping you if you want though.)

It’s just my convoluted way to point out that Bath is a rather strange name for a city. Or is it? Because, you see, long before it was the gorgeous city it is today, the Romans actually founded Bath as a bath and spa complex.

They built the expansive baths and sauna rooms right on top of the bubbling hot springs. But to them, the thermal pools were more than a sanatorium. It was actually a sacred place. That’s why the Romans also built a temple next to the baths which they dedicated to the Celtic-Roman goddess Minerva Sulis whom they believed to be the mystical source of the hot springs.

For the next centuries, Bath remained a popular spa retreat, ever attracting visitors to its healing mineral springs. Yet, the original Roman Baths had to give way for more modern buildings.

Buried underground for years, the baths were eventually excavated and restored in the 1970s and are now open to the public. You can explore the baths either on a guided tour or self-guided audio tour.

For me, the Roman Baths were the main reason for visiting Bath. As a lover of ancient cultures, I’ve wanted to see the baths so badly after first hearing about them over twenty years ago.

Yet, despite ending up living in England, for some reason I just never made the effort. I guess I expected the entire city to be packed with tourists which would obviously make my long-anticipated trip to Bath far from enjoyable. But I was dead wrong about this as it wasn’t nearly as busy as I expected. And that was in August, peak season. So, don’t be a Miss Travel Clogs and do make a day trip to Bath.

You won’t be disappointed. Pinky promise.

Want to learn more about the Roman Baths and what to expect from your visit? Then head over to my full article about the Roman Baths .

2. Must-do in Bath: climb the Bath Abbey Tower

The second must-visit tourist attraction in Bath is the beautiful Bath Abbey . It is conveniently located next to the Roman Baths so you won’t have to walk too far after you’ve ticked off the first item of your Bath itinerary.

You can enter the abbey for free and admire the gorgeous interior at a casual pace. Or if you’re like me and enjoy wearing yourself out (only slightly!), opt for the guided tour instead. When we visited, it only cost £8 per person. It gives you exclusive access to the abbey tower. And it also includes a strenuous climb up 212 steps through a narrow staircase. (She added quietly.)

Hubby was initially less excited about that prospect. But having grown used to what my idea of ‘having a good time whilst travelling’ is by now, he agreed to my suggestion.

A choice he didn’t regret I might add.

The 40-minute long Tower Tour includes several interesting stops on the way to the top. Not only giving you a chance to catch your breath again, these stops also allow entrance to areas that are otherwise off-limits for visitors.

One of the stops I enjoyed most was the hidden room behind the abbey clock. I imagined people in the street looking up at the clock to see the time without realising a small group were sitting right behind the clock face.

Now how often have you sat in a clock tower?

Yeah, that’s what I thought!

But the main reward for your mildly strenuous activity awaits at the very top of the tower. From here you’ll get to enjoy spectacular views of the myriad of ancient lanes laid out beautifully beneath you and the neighbouring Roman Baths.

3. Have lunch in one of the many pretty tea rooms and cafés in Bath

After having visited the top two tourist attractions in Bath, I suspect you’ll be craving lunch. I know I was.

There are dozens of lovely places to eat in Bath with plenty of options within walking distance from the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey.

Within a 2-minute walk you’ll find Sally Lunn’s , the most famous tea house in Bath. Your wobbly legs will thank you for this short walk after the climb to the abbey top.

Established around 1482, this is the oldest remaining house in Bath. Namesake of the historic tea house and museum is Sally Lunn, a Huguenot refugee who worked in the former bakery on these premises. She’s forever immortalised by her invention of the world-famous Sally Lunn Bun. (Try saying that out loud ten times in a row.)

Despite the name, this special treat is more like a light French brioche than a bun. The original recipe was passed onto the owners with the deeds for the property. Although there have been attempts all over the world to copy the bun, you’ll only get the real deal here.

And if you don’t have the energy to walk for 2 minutes, I can assure you that the sandwich shop La Baguette just outside of the Roman Baths (located on 3 Stall Street) does some mean baguettes. You’re welcome.

4. Discover Jane Austen’s Bath at the Jane Austen Heritage Centre

Feeling energised again, the first stop for the afternoon is the Jane Austen Heritage Centre . Housed in a 270-year-old Georgian townhouse, this museum is yet again one of the top tourist attractions in Bath.

The permanent exhibition gives great insight in the life and work of Jane Austen. Providing the context of Jane Austen’s Bath during the Regency era, the guides are actors dressed in dapper costumes whilst they enthusiastically share their extensive knowledge with their visitors. Now, I can guess your burning question. Are any of these actors Mr Darcy lookalikes? Well, you will have to visit to see for yourself!

And while you’re at it, I recommend you visit the gift shop too. I managed to contain myself and left with only a few memorabilia and promised myself to re-read the complete Jane Austen box set when I got back home again.

This may or may not have happened by now. (Hey, I did a special course on just Jane Austen at Uni so I think I deserve some kudoz here.)

Save yourself time and buy your ticket for the Jane Austen Heritage Centre online !

5. Explore the museums in Bath

Jane Austen wasn’t the only famous female British novelist to live in Bath. Whilst living in a boarding house around 1820, teenager Mary Shelley penned down her Gothic novel Frankenstein in Bath. Perhaps not as charming as Mr Darcy, but the iconic monster she created would equally enthral millions of people all over the world for centuries.

Two hundred years after the publication, this seminal book would even lead to the opening of the Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein in Bath. Spread over four floors, the house offers an immersive experience leading visitors through ominous rooms filled with curious artefacts.

Other, more traditional, museums and galleries in Bath include the Bath Postal Museum , Fashion Museum and Victoria Art Gallery .

If you’re planning on visiting any of the two latter museums, you may want to take advantage of the special Museums Saver ticket. This ticket allows you entrance to the Roman Baths, Fashion Museum and Victoria Art Gallery for a greatly reduced price. You can purchase it directly at any of these three venues.

6. Wander through the historical lanes

Determined to seek out the mesh of historical lanes I spotted from atop the abbey tower in the morning, Hubby and I left the tourist attractions in Bath behind us for a moment.

The great thing is that you don’t have to ramble far from the main sights in Bath to discover the most alluring hidden corners. Just turn off into some side streets and allow yourself at least an hour to wander through the historical lanes and ancient passageways of Bath.

It’s not hard to imagine how around a hundred years ago these picturesque streets were filled with handsomely dressed people in their beautifully cut gowns and high collared waistcoats.

Barely seeing any tourists around, I was again surprised at how quiet it really was in Bath. Perhaps I’m more accustomed to the throngs of tourists venturing through the West End of London during holiday season. The relative quietness of Bath did make it a joy to stroll around, whilst soaking up the atmosphere and taking in all the beautiful architecture.

7. Seek out quaint shops

The historical centre of Bath is home to numerous fabulous shops. Just window shopping alone is a real delight in this pretty British city. As a lover of vintage maps , I was especially attracted by The Antique Map Shop which you’ll find on Pulteney Bridge.

As you’d expect from a city that oozes sheer elegance and sophistication, there are various marvellous book shops in Bath that will keep any booklover entertained for hours at end. My absolute favourite was Topping & Company Booksellers.

With its inviting atmosphere, cosy reading nooks and genuinely helpful staff, I found myself in literary bliss. Struggling to say goodbye to the beautiful books I’ll never get to read, we eventually continued our explorations of Bath.

8. Visit The Circus

Not as exciting as acrobats flying across the air, but The Circus in Bath is still a sight not to be missed. Derived from the Latin word circus meaning ‘circle’ in English, The Circus refers to a ring of grand historic townhouses in Bath.

Built in the mid-18th century, these curiously curved large Georgian houses make for a perfect romantic backdrop. It’s no surprise that The Circus is one of the top Instagram spots in Bath today.

9. Marvel at the Royal Crescent

I don’t know where this particular fascination with curved streets in Bath comes from, but at less than five minutes from The Circus, you’ll find another striking row of houses. This time they’re laid out in a semicircular shape rather than a near perfect circle.

The 152m-long Royal Crescent is a row of 30 terraced Georgian houses and Grade I listed buildings. Looking out onto a large park, the Royal Crescent is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bath. You might even recognise it from the many films and period dramas it has featured in, including Jane Austen’s Persuasion .

I do like the sight of such arched streets, also called ‘crescents’ (meaning sickle-shaped, like a moon). I’ve seen many of them whilst wandering through London’s posh areas. They’re typically affluent residential streets lined with imposing homes ordinary people like you and I could only dream of living in.

Curious to see what these stunning houses look like from the inside? Then take the opportunity to visit No. 1 Royal Crescent . This former private residence now functions as a museum about Georgian Bath. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about this prosperous period and get a taste of what it must have been like to be a socialite during the Regency era.

For the most of us, this will be a more affordable option than the luxury 5-star Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa just a few metres away.

10. Admire Pulteney Bridge

Nearing the end of our one day in Bath, we’re slowly weaving back towards the train station. Taking a slightly different route, passing the Fashion Museum, make your way to the river Avon. There’s just one more must-see landmark to tick off your Bath itinerary: Pulteney Bridge.

This striking stone bridge was built around the 1760s. It is only one of the four remaining bridges in the world to have shops on them. The aforementioned antique map shop being one of them.

However, the most eye-catching feature isn’t physically part of the bridge but is actually in the water. It’s the horse-shaped weir (a low dam) near the bridge that makes this popular attraction in Bath such a picture-perfect sight.

Hop on this short cruise on the river Avon and see the picturesque Pulteney Bridge from a unique vantage point!

11. Parks and recreation

Having crossed Pulteney Bridge, follow the river southwards and enjoy the glorious city views from across the water.

There’s always something special about cities that have a river flowing through its centre. Forming the life and heart of a place, walks along the riverbank are often so soothing. It’s like life moves slightly slower here.

From across the river Hubby and I caught amazing views of the lovely Parade Gardens. Eager to visit this beautiful looking park, we crossed the river again at the bridge on North Parade.

Outraged about the fact that we needed to pay entrance to visit the park, we decided it wasn’t as pretty was we imagined after all (it still was though), clicked our heels and turned around.

Fortunately, Bath is home to plenty of free parks and gardens. The Royal Victoria Park being a good example.

Opened in 1830 by Queen Victoria herself, this gorgeous 57-acre park offers plenty of activities for children. It’s therefore a perfect destination in Bath for families.

One of the best spots in the park are the enchanting Botanical Gardens. Here you’ll enjoy some of the most idyllic sights in Bath.

12. Traverse the Bath Skyline Walk

Depending on how much time you have left, you may want to grab some dinner in Bath now. Or you may even make your way back home.

But if you have some time left you could end your one day in Bath itinerary with (part of) the Bath Skyline Walk . This 3-mile circular walk from Bath centre leads you to the most breath-taking views such as Sham Castle, pristine woodlands and picturesque vales.

Take the opportunity to catch exceptional city views of Bath, whilst being surrounded by romantic landscapes and beautiful wildlife.

Could there be a possibly better way than to end your day trip to Bath? No, I wouldn’t think so either.

I really believe I shall always be talking of Bath, when I am at home again – I do like it so very much….” Jane Austen

Know before you go: how to prepare your day trip to Bath, England

Where is Bath? | Bath is located in South West England. It lies perched on the river Avon in the county of Somerset. The city lies at the edge of the Cotswolds. This area is famous for its idyllic towns and rolling green hills, making it a popular UK road trip destination. Travel | It’s very easy to reach Bath by train. From London Paddington it takes 1.5 hours to Bath. From the bustling city of Bristol (also a must-visit!) it’s only a 15- minute train ride to Bath. Find the exact train schedules and tickets on Trainline , the most popular train website in the UK. Alternatively, drive to Bath with your comfortable hire car from Rentalcars.com . Accommodation | Want to spend the night in romantic Bath? Check availability and the best prices here . Tours | Being a London city guide myself, I often join guided tours when visiting a new city. I believe this is the best way to see the top attractions while learning more insider tips and stories about the place as well. You can choose from various guided city tours in Bath to choose from, including a special Bridgerton film location walk . But there are also bus tours that combine a visit to Bath with Stonehenge and even Windsor Castle so you can see various impressive World Heritage Sites in one day. Click here to find the best Bath guided tours that match your personal interests and budget. Books | Bath’s most famous resident, author Jane Austen, wrote two of her novels in Bath: Northanger Abbey and Persuasion . Find inspiration for your day trip to Bath with the fantastic travel guides about Bath: Rough Guide and Lonely Planet Pocket .

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Wow, such a useful writeup! Thanks for this!

Bit late reply but I’m very happy it was of use to you! 🙂

Makes me want to visit Bath! Such a lovely city.

Thank you for your lovely comment! Happy it made you want to visit Bath, I hope you’ll get the chance!

A beautiful city that absolutely needs to be visited! Your guide is essential for anyone making this trip. Well done!

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed this guide to things to do in Bath 🙂

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One Day in Bath Itinerary: Epic Day Trip to Bath

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Bath is a historic city in England that is known for its Roman baths and 18th-century Georgian architecture. The city is located in the Avon Valley, about 156 kilometers (97 miles) west of London , making it a perfect day trip to Bath possible! So here is an epic one day in Bath itinerary for you! 

One Day in Bath Itinerary: Plan a Day Trip to Bath

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It is not difficult to understand why Bath ranks high on the list of one the most loved cities of England, right up there alongside Oxford.

Apart from being a popular spa retreat for the socialites since the 18th century, the stunning Georgian architecture of that time is another mega draw that attracts visitors in hordes to this UNESCO World Heritage site.

If you are curious to know why this city was considered so special by such contemporaries as Jane Austen – the famous British novelist, who choose to live here during its heyday, then dive down straight into this perfect Bath one-day itinerary which will unveil one of the most beautiful places in England.

One day in Bath England: Bath in a day (Snapshot)

Breakfast at society cafe .

• See the Roman Baths

Visit the Bath Abbey

• Lunch at Sally Lunn Teahouse or the Abbey Deli
• Visit Jane Austen Centre

Photograph The Royal Crescent

Hang out at the prior park landscape garden.

• See the Pulteney Bridge and Parade Gardens

Relax at the Thermal Spa

Planning a day trip to bath from london united kingdom.

Bath lies just 156 kilometers (97 miles) west of London and is best accessible by train from Paddington Station which takes just an hour and thirty-five minutes. It costs about £12.60.

Driving by car , via Windsor, takes about two and a half hours but offers more flexibility. 

The most economical way is by the National Express bus (which costs about £5) from Victoria Coach Station which usually takes three hours to arrive at the Bath Spa bus station.

For a more structured approach to your one day in Bath, you can book a tour from London which will cover Stonehenge and Bath without you having to stand in long lines for admission to the popular attractions. Here is a day tour we recommend

Recommended tours and excursions in Bath England 

• Walking tour + Roman Baths Ticket: Book it here
• Bridgerton Filming Locations Walking Tour: Here is the 2-hour tour
• Sightseeing Boat Cruise: Book it here
• Bath Ghosts Tour: Click to book here

Pro tip : Late March to June is the peak tourism season. During the month of May, the city comes to life because of the Bath Festival. Expect many public events and street festivals at this time of the year. Winter starts from December to February, when crowds thin out and prices dip a bit.

Read : 4 day London itinerary

Bath one day itinerary: Arriving in the city

For over two centuries, the natural mineral springs, which incidentally gave the city its name, have drawn visitors looking to take advantage of the water’s medicinal properties. 

Fortunately, all the hotspots in Bath are close to each other and can be easily explored on foot. This quintessential Bath day trip itinerary will help you to make most of your limited time in this remarkable city.

This itinerary is crafted assuming you have arrived in Bath a day earlier, as the first train arrives at Bath station only by 10:30 am which can significantly rob you of valuable time. Alternatively, you can drive down to Bath to reach there early on the morning of your trip.

When you arrive, head straight down the Terrace Walks to the Bath Information Center. You will find excellent sources of information here from tickets, and timings to maps of the area (we have also included a handy Google Maps in this article for you). The staff will go out of their way to ensure your time spent in Bath is memorable.

More of a lifestyle concept than a coffee shop, the Society Cafe in Bath is one of the most loved and widely appreciated spots to enjoy some delicious coffee. Owners Jane and Adrian have created a perfect space where people could do their own thing or socialize.

As coffee is their signature beverage, especially because it is sourced from the best coffee farms worldwide, the house coffee changes four times a year.

• Address : Kingsmead Square
• Hours: Monday to Saturday: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm | Sunday: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

See Roman Baths

Dating back to 70 AD, the Roman Baths are perhaps the most famous attractions in the town. Some sections are amazingly well-preserved and provide wonderful insight into how people socialized and lived 2000 years ago. 

Once you have explored the changing rooms and plunge pools you can visit the interactive museum which showcases every detail of Bath’s fascinating history and even get to taste the mineral-rich water.

The tearooms in the Pump Rooms were the centre stage of all social events in Bath for two centuries. You must spend time here to enjoy a snack or afternoon tea in this neo-classical salon.

For the Baths alone, set aside 2 hours – ideally, 10:00 am to noon. 

• Address: Abbey Church Yard, Bath
• Hours: Weekdays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. And weekends from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The last entry is at 5:00 pm
• Admission fee: £27.50 for adults (weekends), and £25.50 for adults (weekdays). Students and Senior (65+) are £26.50 for weekends and £24.50 for the weekday
• You can also get a family voucher for £55.00 for an adult and 2-4 children (the same is £50.00 for weekdays). For 2 adults + 1 child, it is £63.00 to 69.  And 2 adults + 2-4 children it is .£70 – £77.00

Tickets must be booked online in advance. Visitors with additional access needs can book dedicated 15 minute slots booked through the Group Bookings team at least 48 hours in advance. 

It is crucial to arrive here as soon as the complex opens as it tends to get very crowded as the day goes on. After dark, the Baths are lit up and the place looks very atmospheric.

Spend an hour strolling around the abbey which lies right next door to the Roman Baths. We recommend pausing and taking a look at the window that depicts the crowning of the first king of England, King Edgar.

Then enter the Abbey to soak in the beautiful ambiance. Reflect for some moments inside the Border Chapel and pray at one of the chaplains. 

Marvel at the 4000 pipes that make up the Klais organ which is absolutely stunning and explore the newly opened North transept and admire the stained glass windows. Don’t miss the vaulted fan ceiling.

If you wish to understand Abbey’s past, then chat with a volunteer there. Before exiting, you can visit the Abbey shop and browse through the wide selection of Christian books, souvenirs, and music albums.

• Address : In between Pulteney Bridge and Thermae Bath Spa
• Hours: 10:00 am to 5: 30 pm (As a working church, the times may change. Check before you go)
• Admission Free: A donation of £5 expected 

Lunch break at Sally Lunn Teahouse & Museum or The Abbey Deli

After visiting the top two attractions in Bath, we suspect you will be craving a bite to eat. There are dozens of options within walking distance of the baths and the abbey. 

In fact, just a two minute walk will bring you to Sally Lunn , the most famous and oldest remaining teahouse in Bath established in 1482. Their special offering here is the Sally Lunn Bun, which is more like a French brioche than a bun.

Another option is to head to The Abbey Deli , famed as the Modiste, as featured on the NetFlix series Bridgerton. When you are here, you have to opt for their afternoon tea and cake, and see Madame Delacroix’s dress shop in person!

The Abbey Deli is located only a minute away from the Bath Abbey. 

Visit Jane Austen Heritage Centre

The Jane Austen centre focuses on the life and works of the famous novelist through an interactive experience wherein guides dressed in regency attire and exhibits bring visitors closer to Jane Austen.

This is a family friendly attraction and can be completed in an hour’s time, thereby making it a perfect stop for your one day in Bath.

The Regency Tea room on the second floor offers 17 types of leaf teas along with a selection of locally baked cakes and pastries. We found the seating a bit tight, so the late afternoon is the right time. Avoid lunchtime unless you have booked a table.  

• Address : 49, Gay St, Bath
• Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Admission: Adults’ entry fee is £12.50. Senior and students are £11.50. Family Pass (of 2 adults and kids) starts at £35. Get your tickets here

An arduous climb from the city center will bring you to a sweep of houses lined in a rhythmic curve. This is The Royal Crescent, one of the most photographed spots in England and the best example of Georgian architecture. 

The museum here shows how the rich and famous lived in Bath in the 18th century.

You can enjoy quality time in a spectacular setting with afternoon tea for two at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa , which is a tourist attraction in its own right. As you dine on tasty baked scones and traditional Bath buns, you can order your choice of piping hot tea.

Pro Tip: On the right side is an old-fashioned signpost in black and gold. Perfect for a photo shoot. 

Address: The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. 16 Royal Cres, Bath BA1 2LS, United Kingdom

Currently, the Prior Park Landscape Garden is undergoing an exciting restoration project but a little exploration will uncover hidden architectural surprises.

Plan to spend about thirty minutes here to relax and explore the park’s best known feature, the Palladian Bridge of 1775 – the last of three of its kind in existence in England.

• Address: Ralph Allen Dr
• Hours : Every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Prior Park Landscape Garden is about 25 minute walk from the Abbey. When traveling from the Royal Cresent it will take 45 minutes on foot. 

Pro Tip: When pressed for time, you can skip the Prior Park Landscape Garden for the gardens near the iconic Pulteney Bridge. 

See the Pulteney Bridge and Parade Gardens 

There is another famous landmark that has to be ticked off on your one day Bath itinerary. 

For that, you have to make your way to the River Avon to see the graceful arches of the Pulteney Bridge spanning the river. Built by William Johnstone Pulteney in 1771, the Pulteney is the second oldest bridge lined with shops after Ponte Vecchio in Italy.

There is a beautiful riverfront walkway at the back of the bridge which is perfect for a stroll. And adjacent to it are the Parade Gardens. These gardens have an entry fee of 1.50 pounds.

The best way to end your day and care for the aching legs is by visiting any one of the local spas and immersing yourself in the thermal baths. 

There are many in the area, but we strongly recommend Thermae Bath Spa as it has two natural baths, an open air pool on the roof, steam rooms, an ice chamber, and a relaxation room with a choice of over 50 spa treatments and packages.

• Address: The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath St, Bath BA1 1SJ, United Kingdom
• Hours: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Admission costs: £37-£42 for two hours depending on the day of the week

Pro Tip: This is the last stop on the one day Bath itinerary. Plan to get to the Spa by 6:30 pm, so that you have at least 1.50 to 2 hours there. The complex closes at 08:00 pm. 

When you are on a day trip to Bath, you might have to skip this depending on the train schedule. Or you can visit during the day when you are at the Roman Baths. 

If you are driving or can manage an overnight stay then it is soooo worth heading to the Spa in the evening. 

Dinner time in Bath

There are some good outlets for dining in the city center. If you are a wine lover try the impressive wine list at Corkage or if you prefer traditional English fare head to The Elder .

There is also an excellent Italian restaurant, Sotto Sotto near the Roman Baths.

Where to stay in Bath UK?

If you do decide to spend a night in Bath there are plenty of options. If you are looking for budget accommodation then some other centrally placed hotels include Bath YMCA and St Christopher’s Inn Bath.

The Gainsborough Bath Spa is a luxury five-star hotel and the only one in the UK having access to a natural thermal spa within its property. Check availability here

Grays Boutique is another B&B option located in an imposing Victorian villa hardly 15 minutes from the city center.

One Day in Bath England Itinerary: Sightseeing Map

More Things to Do In Bath in one day

Every traveler has different choices when visiting a new place. The top places of interest have been outlined above but there are plenty of other things to do in Bath.

Hire a Bath Narrowboat –  Sydney Wharf, Bathwick Hill

Spend time experiencing the magic of the Avon canal cruising in a Bath Narrowboat. Each boat holds six to ten people and is perfect for getting close to wildlife, historic towns, and country pubs on either side of the canal system.

Or book a boat cruise here

2-hr Bridgerton walking tour – From £15 per person

This two-hour walking tour will take you past locations of the Netflix adaptation of Bridgerton with a certified guide. 

Starting from the Abbey Churchyard, hear behind-the-scenes snippets of this well-known TV show shot in Bath. After walking, relax with a tea at the Holbourne Museum cafe or head to Sydney Gardens. Book the tour here

Sydney Gardens –  Sydney Pl, Bathwick

Sydney Gardens date back to 1795 and is the only remaining Georgian garden in the UK. The garden features waterside walks, woodland, tennis courts, and the Temple of Minerva.

The place is just a short walk from the city center and can be approached via Great Pulteney Street. These gardens are open throughout the year and have no admission fee. 

The Assembly Rooms – Bennett St, Bath

For the fashion-minded individuals, the Fashion Museum and the Assembly Rooms are a must-visit spot. Step inside them and let your imagination run riot as you drift back in time when these rooms were full of fashionable and eminent people dancing and playing cards.

The Assembly Rooms are known all over England as a place to be seen as well as entertained. They are open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. 

Day trips from Bath United Kingdom

Time permitting, here are some day trips from Bath which you can consider:

Stonehenge: 

Stonehenge remains a mystery even today as archaeologists still wonder how these stones were lifted up without the use of technology. 

In fact, some of them were transported from Wales, 200 miles away. This mind-boggling structure is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts millions of visitors each year. 

• Distance/ time taken: 55 minutes. 34 miles via A-36
• Hours : 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
• Admission fee : Varies by off-season/Standard/Peak months. For an adult, it is                   £19.50/£21.50/£22.80
• Day tour option from London to Bath and Stonehenge

In addition, special access tickets can be booked for entry outside the regular hours at 5:30 am, 8:00 am, or after 6.30 pm when visitors can actually walk among the stones. However, these tickets need to be booked months in advance as they are grabbed up instantly. 

Cheddar Gorge:

Enjoy a day trip from Bath walking through the largest gorge in England, less than an hour by car from the city center. 

Located on Mendips Hill, an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a walk on the rim of the 400 feet deep and 3-mile long Cheddar Gorge ensures breathtaking views of the hills and the village of Cheddar.

• Distance/time taken : 50 minutes. 30 miles

To experience quintessential British charm, Bristol is an incredibly fun place to visit from Bath. Discover the Stoke Croft neighborhood and its intriguing cafes, street art, vintage stores as well as the most iconic British landmark – The Suspension Bridge.

• Distance/time taken : 12 minutes by train

Cardiff: 

A day trip to the Welsh capital is a perfect excuse to get out of Bath and learn a bit about the city’s history. Visit the imposing Cardiff Castle, the National Museum of Cardiff, or if you are there on a Sunday, head to the Farmer’s Market to sample the best local produce.

Hire a bike to ride the Taff Trail or zoom to Cardiff Bay for some heart-stopping white water rafting.

• Distance/time taken : 1 hour and 15 minutes. 54 miles via M4

Castle Combe:

Castle Combe is a village in the Cotswolds region of England. It is known for its picturesque setting and has been used as a filming location for several movies and television shows. 

The village has a population of approximately 1,000 people. Castle Combe is a popular tourist destination, and there are several historic buildings and sites to see in the village.

• Distance/time taken : 25 minutes from Bath
• Day tour : Here is a private tour to Castle Combe and nearby areas

Was one day in Bath enough?

To be honest, one day gives ample time to visit all the attractions of Bath and soak up in the Georgian architecture, providing you arrive the night before or very early on the morning of your day trip.

That said, if you could squeeze in another day, you can do a short trip to some neighboring places or take your time and relax in the thermal baths.

Additional travel tips for one day Bath England itinerary 

Here are some more travel tips for Bath England. 

Sightseeing tips

When you are wandering through the lanes of Bath, keep an eye for the famous blue plaques on the homes which tell that famous people lived here once.

Also, remember that Bath is a hilly city, so make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes!

Safety tips

Bath is a safe destination and the risk of any violent crime is extremely low. Pickpockets here are known to work in teams so stay alert and keep all valuables out of sight. Keep an eye on your drink when in the bar and if there is an emergency call 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice is to get good travel insurance for protection against theft, illness, injury, and cancellation.

Budget tips

Most of the sightseeing in Bath on a day trip can be done for free if you are not entering the complex premises like the Pulteney Bridge. When visiting the Roman Baths, Abbey, museums, and Spa do set aside £100 per person. It will be about £35+ for the Baths and the Abbey. 

In terms of accommodation, with rooms starting at £80, Bath is not exactly a budget destination. Thankfully many budget hotels provide free breakfast.

You can eat for cheap if you stick to fish and chips (£6) or eat at the many Indian or Thai outlets for £8. On an average, you should keep aside £115 per day for your trip to Bath if you are traveling double.

So that’s a wrap! Bath is a beautiful city with a rich history. There are plenty of things to see and do, making it the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. 

Whether you’re interested in exploring the Roman Baths or just want to relax in a rooftop pool, there’s something for everyone in Bath. So, what are you waiting for?

Pin: One day in Bath: Visit Bath in a day

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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The Perfect Day Trip to Bath, England

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Are you planning a day trip to Bath? From visiting Bath Spa to seeing the Royal Crescent, start planning your trip with my 1 day Bath itinerary!

Bath is without a doubt one of the most popular places to visit in the England. Once you’ve spent some time here it’s very easy to see why!

This quaint city feels a world away from the sprawling urban metropolis that is London , delivering a drastic change of scenery and character. For me. it’s the stuff of Jane Austen novels. That means if you’re looking for a stereotypical English town, you’ll find it here.

I’ve been on a day trip to Bath a couple of times now and I just love wandering around the city. It feels a million miles away from London and there is so much to do here. From delicious Michelin-starred restaurants to gorgeous Georgian architecture, it’s got something for everyone too.

There are heaps of other things to in Bath – Bath Spa, Pulteney Bridge, the Sally Lunn museum – I could go on here. And I can assure you the Roman Baths aren’t the only thing to see in the city.

Don’t worry if you only have one day in Bath though. You can still squeeze in plenty of must-see sights and activities in this time, thanks to its easily walkable size.

So, if you’re wondering what to do in Bath for a day, I’ve narrowed down my top suggestions to help you get the most out of your time in the city. Enjoy!

Looking for another weekend break in the UK? Then check out my guides to Bristol , Cambridge , Norwich , Windsor and York .

Getting from London to Bath

Arranging a day trip to Bath from London is super simple.

Direct trains from Paddington Station run regularly and only take around 1 hour 30 mins. Tickets can cost as little as £12.60 when you buy in advance. This is why I always recommend buying in advanced if you can.

Even kinder on your wallet is catching one of the National Express coaches. Incredibly, you can hop on one of their services from Victoria Coach Station for just £5. This is a great money saving tip for travelling.

There is always the option of driving too. It’s only a 2.5-hour journey, depending on where in London you set off from and traffic. Once you get out of London it’s a really beautiful drive too.

However, Bath is definitely not the most car-friendly city. So unless you want the freedom to stop off at a few sights like Stonehenge on the way, I’d stick to the train or bus.

Things to do in Bath, England

Visit the ancient roman baths.

Even if ancient history isn’t usually your thing, I really wouldn’t leave without visiting the Roman Baths . It’s the reason Bath is what it is today, after all.  

Dating back to 70AD, the baths are amazingly well-preserved and it feels like you’re stepping right back into Roman Britain. I was surprised by how entertaining the audio guide that’s included in the ticket is. It’s a real treasure trove of fascinating history, and the interactive museum is worth checking out too.

As you’d expect, the original baths aren’t open, so you can’t wash in the mineral-rich water. However, you can actually get a taste of it in the Pump Room.

The only downside is that the Roman Baths are on everyone’s itinerary for a day trip to Bath, so it’s always busy. Head there as early in the day as you can to beat the crowds.

A great way of seeing the baths is on a Roman Baths and City Walking tour where you get to visit some of the best sites in the city with a local guide.

Take a stroll along Royal Crescent

This is another classic Bath landmark, made up of a glorious curved terrace of Grade I listed houses.

Aside from being lovely to look at from the outside, there’s another chance to dig deeper into Bath’s history inside No. 1 Royal Crescent . It’s a museum, furnished and decorated just as it would have been back in the 18th century. This is like stepping into a time machine and going back a couple of hundred years.

If you’re lucky the sun will be out and you can relax on the inviting stretch of lawn just in front of the crescent. This is a great picnic spot in the city.

Marvel at Bath Abbey

It’s not all Georgian architecture in Bath – the abbey is Victorian Gothic in style and seriously impressive. A place of worship has been stood here for over 1,200 years, so as you can imagine the atmosphere is something special.

Admiring the Bath Abbey from ground level was awe-inspiring enough, but I do wish I’d done the tower tour. These only take 45-50 minutes and you get to see the ringing room, sit behind the clock face and much more. The views from the top are said to be the best in Bath.

Wander around Pulteney Bridge

Only four bridges in the world are completely lined with shops on either side and this is one of them. Fellow architecture geeks like me will love it.

It was built at the request of an ambitious and important man in Georgian Bath, William Johnstone Pulteney. He wanted this bridge to be a major talking point. Today, it’s a symbol of the city and photographed constantly, so I guess you could say he succeeded.

As well as marvelling at the bridge, I followed the lead of locals and popped in for a coffee at The Bridge Coffee Shop . A perfect pick-me-up while sightseeing!

Take in stunning art at the Victoria Art Gallery

Just a stone’s throw from Pulteney Bridge, the Victoria Art Gallery is definitely one for any art lovers wondering what to do in Bath. Ever since its opening in 1900 entry has been completely free, which is always a bonus if you’re on a budget.

Even the dome-topped Grade II listed building that houses the gallery is a sight to behold. Inside, I could have easily spent hours taking in the paintings and sculptures. But with just a day in Bath, I pulled myself away after checking out the permanent collection, to fit in the rest of my schedule.

Go on a boat tour along the river

The River Avon snakes through Bath, making a boat tour a fun way to see the city. You pass plenty of the most notable points of interest as you cruise down the river.

Depending on which tour you choose, you can also get a good glimpse of the scenic countryside just beyond Bath and lots of wildlife too. It’s a relaxing ride and a good excuse to rest your feet for a while.

For something a bit more unique, I recommend hiring a narrowboat and steering yourself along the Kennet and Avon Canal. The hire company will give you the lowdown on what to do beforehand and set you on your way. This is definitely a must on any Bath itinerary.

Wander around Prior Park Landscape Garden

Another place to enjoy the great outdoors and do some wildlife spotting during your Bath day trip is the Prior Park Landscape Garden. Trust me when I say this place is beautiful! A lush green valley, pretty woodlands and sweeping city views. What more could you want from a city garden?

Oh, and there’s yet another unique bridge here too. Like the Pulteney Bridge, the Palladian Bridge is one of just four of its kind in the world. And people think neighbouring Bristol is where all the cool bridges are at – I’m starting to think Bath deserves the reputation!

If you get a ticket for the Bath hop-on, hop-off bus then you’ll be able to hit up a fair few of these spots. Very easy if you’ve only got one day in Bath!

Eat at Chez Dominique

I have a long old list of restaurants I love eating at in Bath, but that’s a whole other blog post. For now, I’m just going to tell you about one of my favourites – Chez Dominique .

This family-run, French-inspired bistro has scooped up a handful of impressive awards. Their menu is full of interesting European dishes, all perfectly cooked, and the desserts are especially dreamy.

But even better than the food is the views from the private dining room. Looking out over the Pulteney Weir while you indulge in some of the city’s best food is a real treat. It would be the ultimate place for a date night dinner.

Pop into Sally Lunn’s House

A world-famous sweet treat originated in Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House – the Bath Bun. They have a similar taste to brioche, which makes sense when you find out Sally Lunn was a French Huguenot. She brought her baking skills to Bath as a refugee, way back in 1680.

What makes tucking into one of these even more special is knowing the tea room is inside one of the city’s oldest houses. Take a look around the micro-museum down in the cellars too. You get to see the original kitchen, bakery and oven, which dates back nearly 1,000 years.

There’s also the option to grab a bun or two to take away. Perfect if you’ve already filled up on food from Chez Dominique.

Hit the pubs

Where better to round off my Bath 1 day itinerary than at a traditional British pub?

There are plenty to choose from and as with practically everything in the city, many of them have an interesting history. If the weather’s wintry and you want to cosy up by an open fire, I would head to The Star Inn . It’s on the Paragon and a pub has stood in its place since the 16th century.

On sunny days, you can’t beat the beer gardens at the Marlborough Tavern and The Bath Brewhouse . The brewery tour at the latter is great too.

Which of my suggested activities will you be doing on your day trip to Bath? Share your thoughts or let me know if I’ve missed your favourite spots in the comments!

Like this blog post? Then make sure you Pin it!

About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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2 thoughts on “The Perfect Day Trip to Bath, England”

Yes exactly! This is the perfect trip to from London in my opinion. I loved the Marlborough Tavern and The Bath Brewhouse… some great beers there!

Yay! I’m so glad you agree with me Joe! There are some cracking pubs in Bath – sounds like you found a couple of these yourself!

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10 Best Places To Visit In Bath (In A Day)

• Written By Brandon Saltalamacchia

Hungry for more history? Curious about cute villages?

Bath is an amazing destination in itself, but it’s also close to the M4 motorway and has great rail links to get to other awesome places that have their own unique character.

The local counties are also jam packed with things to do, and being so close to Wiltshire, it opens up even more excuses to explore outside of the city should you have some spare time.

Drop in at one of the best hotels in Bath , hit up the best coffee shops in Bath and get exploring.

Whether you’re spending an extended period in the city, or are a local looking for a different day out, here are the best places to visit in Bath on a day trip.

Table of Contents

1. Stonehenge  

Bath is blessed with a rich history from Romans to the Regency era, but when it comes to ancient attractions, Stonehenge takes the top title.

Known around the globe for its stone circle dating back to Neolithic times, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stonehenge is only a 45-minute drive from Bath, making it a popular day trip for tourists.

Were the prehistoric megalith stones rolled all the way from Wales or put there by aliens?

Find out  more about popular theories at the visitor centre or take an after-hours tour to go inside the circle without the crowds and why this one of the best places to visit in Bath.

Check out the smallest city in England, which has this title thanks to the grand Wells Cathedral.

Thought to have been built between 1175-1490, it’s known as ‘the most poetic of the English Cathedrals’ and is the earliest English cathedral designed in the Gothic style.

Visit the Bishop’s Palace and Gardens to explore some of the 14 acres of gardens, discover the Medieval palace, or tuck into a slice of cake at The Bishop’s Table. Look out for the famous swans on the moat and listen out for them ringing their swan bells!

Take a stroll around the city’s Artisan Quarter to shop in local boutiques and head there on Wednesdays and Saturdays (9am-3pm) for bustling market days where you can pick up locally grown and made produce.

I often find myself in Wells multiple times a year, it’s a genuine, authentic British city with the feel of a small town.

3. Glastonbury

Head to Glastonbury for a hippy heaven of witch shops, woowoo, and plenty of quirky places to wet your whistle.

Close to Wells and other attractions like Cheddar Gorge, Glastonbury might be world famous for its muddy music festival, but it’s also the ideal day trip from buttoned-up Bath to go and absorb the viiiiibe, man.

Pack your crystals and your walking shoes to take a trek to the top of 158m high Glastonbury Tor for sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and the Somerset Levels.

Just don’t forget to take some snacks, because you’ll be taking in the view for a while.

If you’re into shops there’s also a massive shopping area called “Clarks Village” just 5 minutes away from Glastonbury Tor. it’s one of the best places to visit in Bath for sure!

Long-time home to HRH Prince Charles, the tiny town of Tetbury is close to Highgrove, the now-king’s favourite place to be.

Stop at the Highgrove gift shop to pick up gifts like lavender soap and other finery, or explore some of the trendy boutiques that line the streets.

The second largest town in the Cotswolds also hosts a twice weekly market underneath the Grade 1 listed market house.

Head there on Wednesday for fresh veggies, fish, and other edible goodies or go on a Saturday to stock up on bric-a-brac, books, and jewellery, or take a look upstairs in the market house to catch craft fairs and local art shows. 

Lovely Lacock is a star of TV shows and films from Cranford to Downton Abbey. It’s easy to see why this quaint National Trust owned village gets featured so often as it’s a cocktail of thatched cottages, idyllic facades, and cute places to indulge in a sumptuous cream tea.

Avoid the crowds and enjoy a Pimm’s and lemonade amongst the rose bushes in Sign of the Angel’s hidden garden or pick up a local gin from the shop Quintessentially English’s micro distillery .

Take some change to buy some homemade jam from one of the stalls found on people’s walls around the village.

Harry Potter fans will recognise the imposing Abbey, where Hogwarts scenes were filmed, and photography fans can check out the Fox Talbot museum where the very first photo was taken!

6. Castle Combe

Picture postcard perfect Castle Combe is another quintessential English village with quaint cottages and cute churches like St Andrew’s.

Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there are plenty of countryside walks to work up an appetite before heading to one of the local pubs like The Old Stables to enjoy a pint and a panini in front of a roaring fire, or treat yourself to a Michelin-starred meal at the nearby Manor House.

If you want a long walk you can actually walk from Castle Combe to Lacock in a couple of hours. I have personally done this many of times, and parked at one of the villages, walked to the other had lunch, and then walked back!

There’s a couple of pubs, and a coffee shop to choose from, but make sure to take some change as the residents tend to sell freshly baked goods on their door steps!

Personally, it’s one of my best places to visit in Bath.

Beautiful Bristol is only a 15-minute train ride from Bath but worlds apart with its laidback waterfront vibe.

Home of Banksy, trip hop, and a thriving cultural scene, Bristol is a patchwork of interesting neighbourhoods from picturesque Clifton and its famous suspension bridge and Downs to edgy Stokes Croft and the city centre where you’ll find attractions like the free M Shed museum, the famous steamship SS Great Britain, and art centres like the Arnolfini.

If you’re a fan of cycling you can get on your bike and explore the city on two wheels, with plenty of dedicated cycle lanes and easy routes to follow.

Relax with some shopping on Gloucester Road, take a dip in the Bristol Lido, or enjoy a ferry ride around the harbour. 

Fuel up with lunch from one of the funky food places inside shipping containers at Wapping Wharf, or head to St Nick’s Market for a snack or an original Pieminster pie and mash. 

8. Bradford on Avon

Day’s out don’t have to involve driving! If you’re feeling active, walk the Kennet & Avon Canal from Bath to Bradford on Avon (or get the train if you don’t fancy a 10 mile walk).

Stop at the Cross Guns pub in Avoncliff for a pint near the aquaduct or enjoy your afternoon in the pretty town of Bradford on Avon, where the hilly streets are home to cute boutiques and cosy cafes, ideal for a rest after a walk along the canal.

Water babies can take a dip in the River Avon in the summer or try kayaking and stand up paddleboarding for an alternative way to see the sights.

While you’re in Bradford On Avon be sure to check out the local Italian restaurant, or if you want to stay visit some of the best cabins in Bath , there’s one in Bradford on Avon that will blow your mind.

It’s one of the best places to visit in Bath if you want to test out one of the oldest tea rooms in the UK, and then go for a lovely walk.

If hanging out at the ‘henge feels too touristy for your day trip, take a ride to Avebury, which is only 22 miles from Bath and is also a World Heritage Site.

Slightly smaller and more spread out, you can see the stone circles without so many people, and soak up the Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments at a quieter pace.

You can also get a lot closer to the stones than Stonehenge as there are fewer restrictions. Pop into one of the New Age shops in Avebury or have an ale in the historic Red Lion pub nearby.  

10. Longleat Safari and Adventure Park

Take your little monkeys on a safari through the wilds of Wiltshire at Longleat Safari and Adventure Park near Warminster.

Explore the stately Longleat House or drive amongst the lions and the actual little monkeys (watch they don’t yank your windscreen wipers off though!).

Take a jungle cruise or mini train through the park, keeping an eye out for unexpected sights like the sea lions in the lake!

It’s one of the best places to visit in Bath, and is only a 20 – 30 minute drive from the city, and you’ll find a whole day here will be an incredible day out.

A little tip, take a packed lunch because you can sit on the green outside the Longleat house away from the crowds!

Brandon has lived in Bath his whole life, exploring the local food, testing far too many pubs and even building his own media company just outside of the city. He has years of experience travelling the world and now he wants to help the city flourish using his content building experience.

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One Day in Bath, England: The Perfect Day Trip Itinerary

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Spending one day in Bath can be hectic (because there is so much to do!), but hopefully, this 1-day itinerary for Bath will take all the planning stress off your shoulders!

Bath is one of the most popular day trips from London, however, most day trips to Bath are sardine-packed tour buses with multiple stops in Windsor, Stonehenge, or the Cotswolds… I think Bath deserves more than 2 hours of walking around the Roman Baths and then leaving.

That’s where I come in! I’m going to tell you how easy it is to take a day trip to Bath from London (and other places) and what to do to get the most out of your day!

*This post may contain affiliate links and I get a commission for the purchase made through the link at no extra cost to you. These are services and items I use and recommend myself.

One Day in Bath, England – The Perfect Itinerary for Bath

Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage City located in the southwest of England. The city gets its name from the ancient Roman baths. The Romans believed the city’s mineral water could cure every disease… and the people kept believing through the centuries.

You can even test the water out for yourself at Thermae Bath Spa !

Bath has a very famous literary history, I’m sure you’ve heard of Jane Austen visiting and then later living in Bath, but did you know Charles Dickens was a big fan of the city? Anna Sewell (Black Beauty) and Mary Shelley (Frankenstein) also drew inspiration from Bath.

How to Get to Bath – One Day Itinerary

The great thing about Bath is how accessible the city is. The train station is SO CLOSE to the city center, taking the train could be your smartest move for visiting Bath for the day. *The train station in Bath is called Bath Spa*

The closest airport is Bristol, however, it’s a local airport with select European flights, so you would most likely have a transfer. It’s better to just fly into Heathrow.

The train from London will take about an hour and 20 minutes, the Great Western Railway has services running to Bath Spa from London Paddington. I book all my train tickets with TRAINLINE.COM .

If you are coming from Bristol, you can take the quick 11 min journey. Even a last-minute ticket can be as low as £8.00 for one-way.

If you are driving into the city for the day, then I highly recommend using one of three Park & Ride buses dotted around the outside of the city.

You don’t have to worry about finding a parking space in the city center, it’s CHEAPER than parking in the center, and it takes the stress out of driving through the city! Win, win, win!

Getting Around Bath

Getting around Bath once you are there is SUPER easy.

This is such an easy city to walk around. Everything is all within 15-20 minutes. Signposts and maps are posted around the city, so getting lost is not an option.

Uber does exist, but there’s not much price difference to grab a taxi at one of the ranks. I haven’t had any issues with Uber in Bath, but I know some people who have had Uber cancel last minute, not show up, or overcharge.

If you plan to take a taxi back to the train station, then you can familiarize yourself with the taxi rank locations .

Roman Baths

No visit to Bath would be complete without touring the Roman Baths. The baths were built after the Roman invasion in the 1st century as a way for the Romans to relax and take full advantage of the hot springs bubbling below the city of Bath.

The baths were not only used for healing, but for leisure and socializing. Sometimes the Romans played board games there and sometimes they held business meetings… I want to know if they had their business meetings in the Great Bath or if it was in the cold plunge pool. What do you think?

If you only have one day in Bath, then you’ll want to get here as soon as possible (since you probably won’t be able to visit right before close or at night time). Make sure you get here before opening so you can be the first person inside!

Once the clock strikes 10am, all the tourist buses from London roll up and it gets VERY crowded, VERY quickly.

You can check out my tips for the Roman Baths or my Guide to Visiting the Roman Baths .

If you want to see it all, then make sure you give yourself at least 2 hours.

Since you just finished the Roman Baths, you are right next to Bath Abbey, so why not take a little peek?

International travelers heading to the UK might think that all cathedrals are the same, but each one around the country is beautiful and unique, using different styles and stones with different facades and different columns lining the naves.

Bath Abbey is no exception.

There has been evidence of a church on this site as early as the 7th century and has survived plenty of battles, including the Reformation in the 1500s and the bombing of Bath during World War II.

The first thing that pops out are the little angels climbing up the ladders on either side of the facade.

Apparently, the idea came to the Bishop of Bath, Oliver King, in a dream.

You also need to check out the fan-vaulted ceiling inside the nave, it’s gorgeous!

Parade Gardens

After you are finished with the abbey, walk towards the River Avon and you’ll run into the parade gardens.

If you want to pretend you are living in the Regency period in the middle of the social season during an episode of Bridgerton and “promenade” around a garden next to a river… this place is for you!

The garden actually predates the Regency period, the two-and-a-half acre grounds were laid out in the early 1700s.

There are plenty of photo ops here and if you walk down to the river, you will get an amazing view of Pulteney Bridge and the weir.

Once you are finished with the gardens, walk up the steps and head to the right (towards the bridge).

Pulteney Bridge

Before you reach the actual bridge, make sure you take in one of Bath’s most famous views.

Trust me, you can’t miss this on your day trip to Bath!

Pulteney Bridge was completed in 1774 and is one of four bridges in the world that is lined with shops on both sides and when you are actually on the bridge, you have no idea you are walking across a bridge.

The weir has been referenced since the 1600s, however, the famous 3-tiered weir you see today was built in 1975. And no, it’s not a fancy “water feature”, the weir is used to regulate the water and help protect the city from flooding.

If you’ve seen the movie Les Misérables then you’ll recognize the weir from Javert’s suicide scene as he jumps off the bridge into the river.

Circus and Royal Crescent

No day trip to Bath is complete without walking around the gorgeous Georgian townhouses… and one of the best examples of Georgian architecture is the Royal Crescent.

The Circus, formally known as King’s Circus, was designed by architect John Wood, the Elder. He also designed the adjoining Gay Street which leads to Queen Square, another one of his designs. From above, these three places form a key.

If you follow Brock Street from the Circus, you will run into one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture, the Royal Crescent.

This crescent was built a few years after the Circus by John Wood, the Younger… yep, John Wood, the Elder’s son! I guess those genes ran in the family.

The crescent consists of 30 terrace houses, VERY expensive terrace houses.

If you want to know what the inside looks like, check out No. 1 Royal Crescent. It’s the first terrace house you come to and the inside is laid out in all its Georgian glory.

The facade of No.1 was used for exterior shots of the Featherington’s house in Bridgerton.

Ending Your Day Trip to Bath

That’s probably all you will have time for with only one day in Bath, but I’m sure you’ll be back… right?

If you are a big fan of Jane Austen then you can visit the Jane Austen Centre, which is a short walk from The Circus.

There is also a taxi rank on George Street, which is very close to the museum. It’s perfect if you want to fit one more thing in before your day in Bath ends.

If you’re not a big fan of Jane Austen, you can wander around Queen Square (it’s not a fancy garden, but there are some benches and pretty terrace houses).

Where to Eat and Drink in Bath

Sally Lunn’s: Bath is famous for the Sally Lunn bun, in fact, Jane Austen even wrote about them in her letters to her family.

If you want to grab one of these buns as a snack or quick lunch, make sure you get there early-ish (after you visit Bath Abbey, take a detour to grab a bun before you head to the Parade Gardens). By the evening, all the buns will be gone!

Are they worth it? Ummmm… YES!

They are fluffy, sweet, light, and delicious… just go get the bun!

Garrick’s Head: This is a great place to sit outside and grab a pint with your lunch. It’s next to the Theatre Royal, so it can get busy if there is a show on that night.

This is a little bit on the pricey side, but the food is good.

Crescent Restaurant and Bar: SUPER convenient since it’s located right next to the Royal Crescent. That means you won’t have to stray too far off the path and get the most out of your one day in Bath.

The Pump Room: I don’t think I could’ve left the Pump Room off this list. This restaurant has been the beating heart of Bath since Jane Austen’s time. If you want to opt for afternoon tea instead of lunch, then I cannot recommend this place enough.

You can also sample more of that delicious Bath water…

If you want an experience in England, then this is the place to go… OH, did I mention they have a trio or a pianist that plays every day?!? The only thing missing is a regency dress and Mr. Darcy!

The Pump Room also offers brunch, so if you skip breakfast, grab a bite to eat here after you visit the Roman Baths!

Regency Tea Room: If you still want afternoon tea but want it in a more cozy setting and maybe a little more budget friendly?

Head to the Jane Austen Centre and go to the Regency Tea Room. For under £10 you can get tea and scones!!

Assembly Rooms

I’m sure a lot of you have heard about the assembly rooms, maybe because it’s a filming location for Bridgerton? Or maybe you are a Jane Austen fan and want to follow in her footsteps? Or maybe you have heard of the Fashion Museum?

Well, you can no longer visit the assembly rooms because the museum has closed down.

The Fashion Museum has shut its doors and will be moving to the center of the city, which is estimated to take anywhere from 3 to 8 years… yikes.

The rooms will re-open “whenever possible” in March 2023 while the National Trust creates their new exhibit in the assembly rooms, which will be an immersive Georgian Bath experience.

Are you taking a day trip to Bath? Or maybe a weekend break? What do you plan on doing in Bath? Lemme know in the comments below!

Related Posts:

• Guide to Visiting the Roman Baths
• Tips for Visiting the Roman Baths
• Travel Guide for Bristol, England
• Weekend Breaks in England

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The Best One Day in Bath Itinerary for First-Timers

• David Angel
• England , United Kingdom

About the author: David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian with 30+years experience exploring Europe. His work regularly appears in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Guardian.

Welcome to my guide to spending one day in Bath.  This stunning spa city is one of the most beautiful in Britain, with a wealth of Georgian architecture.

It also has one of the finest Roman Baths in Europe, and Bath Abbey is one of the greatest late medieval churches in England.

It’s one of the best cities to visit in England, and one of the most popular day trips from London. It’s also an excellent base for exploring the West Country, the Cotswolds and South East Wales.

I’ve probably done the day trip to Bath 15-20 times over the years, as it’s only an hour away from my home city, Cardiff.  Faye and I love visiting the Georgian city, and we would often take friends there when they visited us from overseas.

My Bath in 1 day guide points you in the direction of the must-see places in Bath. I also suggest guided trips including boat tours or walks around the Georgian city. I also cover the practicalities of getting there, places to stay and places to visit near Bath.

We’ve been so fortunate to have visited Bath many times  – I hope you get to do so too.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Bath

Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site twice over – for its superb Georgian architecture and its status as one of the Great Spas of Europe.

The Bath Roman Baths complex is one of the best-preserved in Europe, an amazing way of discovering over 2,000 years of history – and in an extraordinary setting.

The 18 th -century Georgian crescents, streets as terraces of Bath are also uniquely well-preserved. You’ll find Georgian buildings all over the UK, but Bath is a complete Georgian city.

Bath Abbey is one of the most beautiful churches in England, a masterpiece of the uniquely British Perpendicular Gothic style.

Bath History

The town of Bath was founded by the Britons, who discovered the thermal waters there and may well have built a shrine there dedicated to their god Sulis.

The Romans conquered Britain in 55 BC, and took over the site, renaming it Aquae Sulis – the waters (or baths) of Sulis. They continued to develop the site over the following four centuries of occupation of the island.

Around a century after the Romans left, the area may have been the site of the momentous Battle of Badon Hill. The Britons suffered a catastrophic defeat to the Anglo-Saxons there. Nobody knows the site of the battle, and we probably never will. However, the Welsh (and British) name for the town is Caerfaddon, the fort of Baddon (or Badon).

King Alfred rebuilt the town in the 9 th century, and William Rufus, the second Norman King of England, granted the town to John of Tours, who became Bishop, in 1088.

The Abbey was rebuilt in the early 15 th and 16 th centuries, the church surviving the Dissolution (and destruction) of the Monasteries as the city’s parish church.

Bath’s spa became popular in the second half of the 16 th century, beginning a long period of growth for the city. This continued through the Stuart period (17 th and early 18 th centuries) and into the Georgian era.

Bath’s fortunes rose in the Georgian era, the spa bringing in great wealth. This is reflected in the many Georgian houses and streets built during this period. Bath was the most fashionable spa resort in Britain at the time.

Renowned English painter Thomas Gainsborough lived in Bath during the 18 th century. Author Jane Austen lived in the city from 1801 and 1806, but did not enjoy the experience!  

One day In Bath – Planning Tips

Bath is a small city, and one day is enough to cover the best things to do in Bath.

The main things to see in Bath are all within a mile walk of the city centre, and the city is easy to get around by bus or on foot.

Three of the top Bath attractions are within metres of each other. The Roman Bath, Pump Room and Bath Abbey are in a cluster in the city centre.

Some of the best Bath Georgian architecture is around 15 minutes’ walk from the centre, and I’d allow a couple of hours to see this. 

Some of you may be tempted to combine a day in Bath with Stonehenge, a little over 30 miles (50 km) away near the city of Salisbury. If you’re visiting Bath from London and want to tag Stonehenge on, I suggest doing so. It’s one of the most famous UK landmarks , and the Stonehenge visitor experience has improved immeasurably in recent years.

There are also day tours from London taking in Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath. You might get something out of visiting Stonehenge. But you won’t be doing Windsor Castle or Bath any justice.

I’ve allowed a 10.00 am start for this one-day trip to Bath. I assume that some of you will visit Bath on a day trip from London, so this is the time you would arrive in the city.                                  

Bath In One Day Itinerary

10.00 am – arrive in bath, then visit the roman baths.

If you’re spending a day in Bath, head straight for the centre and the outstanding Roman Baths.

You can visit them as part of a package with a guided walking tour of Bath.

They are over 2,000 years old, dating back to pre-Roman times, and are one of the finest Roman sites in Europe.

The site is magnificent – you can walk around the bath at ground level or view it from the terrace above.

There’s also a phenomenal archaeological collection, including a famous gilt bronze head of the goddess Minerva and a carved stone Gorgon. For me the most fascinating exhibits are a series of ‘curse tablets’. 

These are messages carved on pewter or lead for the goddess Sulis Minerva by visitors. Some of them ask for revenge to be exacted on individuals, who had taken or damaged things owned by the author of the message.  

12.00 pm – Afternoon Tea at the Pump Room

The Pump Room , which overlooks the Roman Baths, was the focal point of social life in Bath in its 18th-century heyday.

It’s a wonderful experience, on a par with Afternoon Tea at one of the top London hotels such as the Ritz, Savoy or Claridge’s.

I’ve suggested afternoon tea as the Pump Room doesn’t serve lunch at the time of writing. They have a Morning Bakery serving, followed by a Champagne Brunch.  In late July and August they also offer Summer Evening Dining. 

1.30 pm – Visit Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey is one of the most beautiful churches in England. It’s a soaring English Perpendicular gem, built in the uniquely British late Gothic style in the early 16 th century.

You may well have seen this style elsewhere in Britain, from the Henry VII Chapel in Westminster Abbey to the breathtaking King’s College in Cambridge.

The Abbey’s history goes back over a millennium, and the present church was rescued from ruin in the 16 th century. King Henry VIII had dissolved the monastery there and the church was left to ruin. Fortunately it was allowed to become the parish church of Bath, and restoration ensued.

The interior is wondrous, its large clerestory windows flooding the church with light. The fan vaulting throughout the Abbey is magnificent. You can also climb the Tower on a one-hour guided tour.

2.30 pm – Walk to Pulteney Bridge and enjoy a Bath boat trip on the River Avon

Any Bath day trip itinerary is incomplete without a visit to the handsome Pulteney Bridge.  This is one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe , and one of only four to be lined with shops on both sides.

It was built by Robert Adam, inspired by Andrea Palladio’s rejected design for the Rialto Bridge on the Grand Canal  Venice . Palladio submitted his designs 200 years before Adam followed up on them, but lost out to Antonio da Ponte.

The shops have changed significantly from Adam’s original design. The Bridge is open to pedestrians, buses and taxis, and leads to Great Pulteney Street, one of the most beautiful in the city.

All of the Bath boat tours tend to travel close to the Weir just below Pulteney Bridge. Many of them depart from Bath Quays, a short walk to the west of Bath Bus Station.

4.00 pm to 7.00 pm – Walk uphill to Bath Georgian Crescents and Terraces

You cannot leave the Georgian city of Bath without walking some of its most beautiful and elegant streets. The best of these can be found at the top of the hill to the north of the city centre. They are a 10-15 minute walk from Bath Abbey, or a few minutes’ bus ride.

The first Georgian terrace you reach is The Circus. This ring of houses around a central garden (and roundabout) was designed by John Wood the Elder, and completed by his son, John Wood the Younger. It was eventually completed in 1769, 15 years after building commenced.

Royal Crescent, the work of John Wood the Younger, was completed five years after The Circus. It’s one of the most beautiful streets in Bath , indeed Europe, a grand sweep of 30 Palladian-style terraced houses. The front is embellished with Ionic columns between each set of windows.

Number 1 Royal Crescent is a Museum, the house restored to how it would have looked in the late 18 th century. It’s decorated in the style wealthy owners would have chosen at the time, and if you have an hour spare, is well worth your while.

For some of the best photos in Bath, I suggest walking a short distance downhill to the gardens below the Royal Crescent lawn. These are especially beautiful in springtime, when they are usually planted with tulips. The view of these gardens, with the Royal Crescent behind, is a joy to behold.

While in the area, I also suggest taking a brief look at the Georgian Garden. It’s a restored garden with parterres at the back of one of the houses on The Circus, just off the Royal Avenue.

1 Day Bath Itinerary Summary

Arrival In Bath

Visit Bath Roman Baths

Afternoon tea at Bath Pump Room

Pulteney Bridge and Boat Trip

Walk To Bath Crescents And Terraces On The Hill Above The City Centre

At the venue of your choice

More Than 1 Day In Bath – More Things To Do In Bath

There are too many places to see in Bath to get around them all in a day. If you have any additional days in Bath I’d suggest taking time to see some of these places around the city.

Prior Park is one of the best hidden gems in Bath. It’s a stunning 18th-century landscaped park to the south of the city, with views over some of it. You can only get there on foot or by bus, with only a few accessible car parking spaces available.

The steep park was laid out by Ralph Allen, and the highlight is the gorgeous Palladian Bridge over one of the ponds. It’s one of just four of similar design in the world, and one of the most famous landmarks in Bath .

I also recommend the Bath Skyline Walk, which takes you just outside the city. It’s between an hour and a half and two hours long, a moderate walk into the surrounding countryside. It’s a great way to appreciate this small but stunning city, surrounded by gentle hills. The walk starts from Kingston Parade, just outside Bath Abbey.   

There are several other great walks around Bath. I also suggest taking a stroll along the Kennet and Avon Canal, which you can reach via Great Pulteney Street and Sydney Gardens. There is a beautiful stretch around Cleveland House (pictured), with some canal boats and cafes along the wharf the other side of the pedestrian tunnel.

Best Time To Visit Bath

Bath is very much a year-round destination, and we have visited Bath in all four seasons, each several times.

Bath is very beautiful in springtime, when the flower beds are packed with colourful tulips. Bath is also one of the best Christmas cities in England, with a Christmas Market around the Abbey and Roman Baths in November and December.

And if you want to experience the Roman Baths by torchlight, as in our image earlier in the article, winter is the time to see it. In December and January, the Baths are still open as it’s getting dark, and seeing it at dusk is wonderfully atmospheric.

Where Is Bath

Bath is in the county of Somerset in the south-west of England.

It’s 12 miles – 19 km – east of the much larger city of Bristol. It’s also 115 miles (185 km) west of London, and 109 miles (175 km) south-west of Birmingham.

How To Get To Bath

Bath is easy to reach by rail, coach and car.

Bath Spa is on the main line between Bristol Temple Meads and London Paddington.  It’s just 17 minutes’ journey from Temple Meads. If you’re travelling from the Midlands you’ll need to change at Temple Meads. And if you’re travelling from Wales, Wiltshire or Hampshire, Bath Spa is on the Cardiff Central to Portsmouth Harbour route.

Bath Spa station is at the southern end of the city centre and is a 10-minute walk from the main Bath sights.

You can also get from London to Bath by coach. The National Express 403 service runs 12 services daily to Bath, terminating at Bath Bus Station. This is also on the southern edge of the city centre, close to Bath Spa station.  The service from London is usually considerably cheaper than the train, but takes much longer. The train takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, whereas the coach takes 3 hours.

Bath also has excellent road connections. It’s 12 miles (19 km) south of junction 18 of the M4, less than half an hour’s drive. Otherwise it’s a similar distance along the A4 to Bristol.

Day Trips from Bath

There are a great many places to visit near Bath. The Cotswolds, West Country, Bristol and South Wales are all within easy reach of the city, and here are some of the best options.

Bath’s near-neighbour Bristol is a fantastic city, one of immense cultural wealth. I used to live up the hill from the city centre in the elegant suburb of Clifton, and grew to adore the place. It’s best-known for the outstanding Clifton Suspension Bridge, which is over 100 metres (330 feet) above the Avon Gorge.

The city is also home to the SS Great Britain, the first great ocean liner in the world. It’s also home to the street artist Banksy , and one of the most popular things to do in Bristol is a guided tour taking you around some of his surviving art.

Many visitors are surprised to learn that Bath doesn’t have a Cathedral, believing that the Abbey has this status. The Cathedral covering Bath is 20 miles south in the city of Wells in Somerset.  One of the smallest and most underrated cities in Europe , Wells has an amazing collection of ecclesiastical buildings.

The Cathedral, with its astonishing west front, is one of the greatest cathedrals in England. And just around the corner, don’t miss Vicar’s Close, one of the most beautiful streets in Europe.

To the north, there are some brilliant things to see around Bath. Westonbirt Arboretum is magnificent year-round – we visited in springtime, but autumn is also breathtaking. The Arboretum is just south of Tetbury, one of the gateways to the Cotswolds.

These gentle hills are home to some of the most beautiful villages in England. The region grew wealthy from the wool trade in the Middle Ages, and it’s an area we’ve dipped in and out of many times.

If it’s your first Cotswolds visit,  I recommend Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter, close to Stow-on-the-Wold. It’s only a few miles’ drive from there to quirky Snowshill Manor and the landmark Broadway Tower nearby.

For a wider selection, take a look at our article on places to visit near Bath and Bristol .

How To Get Around Bath

Several buses run from the bus station or Bath Spa station to the city centre.  The most convenient stop is the Guildhall, close to Bath Abbey. The 6, 6A, 7 and 11 Bathcity services all call there.

The same buses also call at Alfred Street and Milsom Street. These are a few minutes’ walk from The Circus and the best area for Georgian architecture in Bath.

Alternatively the City Tour bus takes you right into the Georgian crescents and streets.

Much of Bath city centre is pedestrianised, so whenever I’ve gone to see Bath in a day I’ve tended to walk up the hill rather than wait for a bus.

How Many Days In Bath Ideally?

Over 20 or so trips to Bath, one of the most enjoyable aspects has been finding new hidden gems and corners of Bath. This is why I suggest staying in Bath for two or three days – possibly more if you intend to explore some of the surrounding region.

This will give you time to seek out more places around the city and surrounding countryside.

One Day In Bath – Final Thoughts

We have been so lucky to have lived within an hour of Bath, and done a one day trip to Bath so many times over, in all seasons. I suggest staying overnight if you can,  but a Bath one day tour is a great introduction to this beautiful city.

Check Out More Of Our One Day Itineraries Here:

• 1 Day London Itinerary  – The Perfect 24 Hours in London
• One Day In Nuremberg  – Exploring Germany’s Magnificent Imperial City
• One Day In Hamburg – discover Germany’s great maritime melting pot
• One Day In Avignon  – 24 Hours In The City Of The Popes
• One Day In Santorini – a day on one of the most beautiful Greek Islands
• One Day In Zagreb – a day in the gorgeous capital of Croatia
• One Day In Brno – 24 hours in the Czech Republic’s superb second city

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

Last Minute Trips

November 9, 2023, destination: cotswolds, how to spend a day in bath.

Bath, a city steeped in history with UNESCO World Heritage status, offers a splendid array of activities that can be achieved in a day.

Known for its hot springs, Roman baths, splendid Georgian architecture, and as the home of Jane Austen, it delights visitors with its quintessentially English charm.

Our itinerary for a day in Bath is pretty gruelling, but there’s just so much to see!

So, if you want to take it slower then use this as a guide to help plan a day itinerary that suits you. Let’s get into it…

1. Roman Baths

Begin your morning with a visit to the Roman Baths, a well-preserved bathing complex above the city’s hot springs.

The Romans built the city around the baths and constructed the temple between 60-70 CE. On your visit, you can walk around the temple, feeling the heat from the water, heated naturally by the hot springs.

Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1LZ. Romanbaths.co.uk .

2. Bath Abbey

Just next to the Roman Baths, visit the stunning Bath Abbey. With its origins in the 7th century, this Gothic church has been a place of Christian worship for over 1,200 years.

Bath Abbey, Bath BA1 1LT, UK.

3. Thermae Bath Spa

If after visiting the Roman Baths you’re hankering after a relaxing dip yourself then for a modern twist, indulge in Britain’s only natural thermal waters as the Romans did over 2000 years ago. The rooftop pool offers a stunning view of the cityscape.

The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath St, Bath BA1 1SJ. Thermaebathspa.com .

Stop for a Spot of Lunch

4. sally lunn’s historic eating house & museum.

Enjoy a midday meal in one of the oldest houses in Bath, serving the famous Bath Bun, which is still baked to a secret recipe.

The Bath Bun was invented in the 18th century, by Dr William Oliver, for his patients. It was so tasty that patients ate too many of them, so he had to rework the recipe a little. But the buns are still an iconic sweet treat in Bath.

4 North Parade Passage, Bath BA1 1NX. Sallylunns.co.uk .

5. The Bath Skyline Walk

See Bath from a different perspective, with this popular 6-mile (9.6km) circular walk, on the Bath skyline. Follow the marked National Trust trail through the tree-lined hills, soak up the fresh air and the stunning views.

If you want to fit more sights in during your day in Bath, opt for a shorter walk. This 3-mile (5 km) out and back, still reaches the viewpoint but is a great alternative if you’re tight for time.

Prior Park Landscape Garden, Ralph Allen Dr, Bath BA2 5AH, UK. Nationaltrust.org.uk/bath-skyline .

6. Pulteney Bridge

Completed in 1774, five years after construction started, this beautiful bridge is reminiscent of Florence’s Ponte Vecchio, with shops built across its full span on both sides.

Crossing the River Avon, originally it was built to connect the city with the land of the Pulteney family (Sir William Pulteney was the Earl of Bath).

Pulteney Bridge, Bridge Street, Bath, Avon, BA2 4AT.

7. Royal Crescent & No. 1 Royal Crescent

Take a tour of No. 1 Royal Crescent, a museum that’s been decorated and furnished just as it might have been during its late 18th-century heyday.

No. 1 Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LR, UK.

8. The Circus

Not far from the Royal Crescent, you’ll find The Circus, a striking circular space surrounded by striking Georgian townhouses.

9. Visit a Museum or Art Gallery

Victoria art gallery.

Featuring an outstanding collection of artworks, it’s a pleasant spot for art lovers to spend an hour or so.

Bridge St, Bath BA2 4AT, UK. Victoriagal.org.uk

American Museum & Gardens

We may be in the UK, but Bath is home to one of the only American Museums outside of the USA.

The four galleries cover a variety of different topics, from popular culture to global consumerism.

Claverton Manor, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7BD. Americanmuseum.org .

10. Jane Austen Centre

Delve into the life of the famous author at this permanent exhibition which explores the effect of Bath on her life and work.

Jane Austen spent several years living in Bath, in the early 1800s. In fact, two of her first novels, ‘Northanger Abbey’, and ‘Persuasion’, are set in the city.

Alongside the exhibition, you can also join the costumed guides on a journey of her life, have a go writing with a quill pen and ink, and even taste some Regency food. There’s also a selection of dresses, bonnets, coats, spencers, and accessories if you fancy looking the part, too.

After the exhibition, enjoy afternoon tea in the Regency Room.

40 Gay St, Bath BA1 2NT. Janeausten.co.uk

11. Dine in Style

The Olive Tree

For an exquisite dining experience, the Olive Tree, located beneath the Queensberry Hotel, offers the city’s only Michelin-starred meal.

4-7 Russell St, Bath BA1 2QF, UK. Olivetreebath.co.uk .

Hall & Woodhouse

If you’re visiting Bath during the summer and fancy dining with a view, Hall & Woodhouse (pictured above) is a stylish pub with a roof terrace right in the heart of the city.

Unwind above the city streets, with traditional pub food and a good ale (or cocktail).

1 Old King Street, Bath, Somerset, BA1 2JW. Hall-woodhousebath.co.uk .

12. Theatre Royal, Bath

If time allows, catch an evening performance at one of the oldest theatres in Britain. Made in a distinctive Georgian style, it’s also one of the most beautiful.

There are regular shows at the theatre, so if you can get tickets, we highly recommend booking a seat.

Saw Cl, Bath BA1 1ET. Theatreroyal.org.uk .

If you decide that a day in Bath just isn’t long enough, don’t miss the many landscaped parks and markets…

13. Explore Bath’s Parks and Gardens

Just because Bath’s a city, doesn’t mean it lacks green space.

Take a stroll around Prior Park and admire the wonderful landscaped gardens; the Royal Victoria Park is home to a botanical garden, and also has a great kid’s play area with activities like crazy golf; Alexandra Park is an 11-acre woodland escape and a great spot for a picnic.

14. Take a Stroll through the Markets

Bath holds weekly markets where you can find local produce and goods from independent traders.

Once Bath’s main railway station, Green Park Station in West Bath is home to the Bath Farmer’s Market (Saturdays), and Bath Flea Market (Sundays).

If you’re visiting over the festive period , make sure you visit the Christmas markets.

Green Park Station, Bath, BA1 1JB. Greenparkstation.co.uk .

How to Get to Bath

Bath is in the county of Somerset in the West of England. The city is easily accessible by train from London with a journey time of approximately 90 minutes from London Paddington Station to Bath Spa Railway Station. Direct services are frequent, providing a convenient option for travellers.

If you prefer to drive, Bath is about 100 miles west of London, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic. There’s a Park & Ride ( Firstbus.co.uk/bath-park-and-ride ) service if you’re visiting by car and don’t want to contend with the city traffic.

Thinking of a trip to Bath? Consider making your way there through the Cotswolds on one of our guided walking tours .

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How to Spend One Day in Bath, England

By: Author Kristi

Just an hour and a half to the West of London lies Bath, an English city named for its thermal hot springs in which the Romans would bathe. Because of its location, coming from London to Bath by train or car is easy. If you have the time, be sure to take the time to spend at least one day in Bath.

Bath is chocked full of Roman history and because of this, it is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A day trip to Bath will allow you to see things you won’t see in any other part of the English countryside!

While you can use a guide to give you a walking tour of Bath , we did just fine on our own.

One Day Bath Itinerary

• Hop on Hop off Bus Tour
• Royal Crescent
• Sally Lunns

Roman Baths

• Jane Austen Centre

If you are coming from London to Bath for the day, you can expect to do quite a bit.

While the Roman Baths are the main draw to the city, you will find that there are many other things you can experience while here.

Pulteney Bridge

When you arrive in Bath one of the first landmarks you will discover is Pulteney Bridge.

Crossing over the River Avon, this bridge was built in 1774 and was designed after bridges found in Venice, Italy.

Much of Bath is designed in Georgian Architecture and this bridge is no different. Enjoy the view and the beautiful backdrop for a selfie!

Terrace Walk

Make your way down the Terrace Walk and take a minute to pop in the Tourist Office located there.

The Bath Visitor Information Center is a great source for everything from information and tickets to maps of the area.

The people there are lovely and will help you find just what you need to make your time in Bath special.

Bath Sightseeing Bus

I suggest that you begin your trip with the Bath Hop on Hop off bus tour so that you can get your lay of the land and get an overview of some of the more popular sites.

While the entire tour of Bath takes approximately 50 minutes, you can hop on and off whenever you would like to stop at a place of interest.

The Royal Crescent

One of the stops on the Hop on Hop Off Bus tour of Bath is The Royal Crescent.

It is a row of 30 terraced houses laid out in a semi-ellipse that was built in the mid-18th century and overlooks a well-manicured park.

Bridgerton fans will remember this building from the series! In fact, if you love Bridgerton, you probably should download this self-guided tour of Bridgerton sites in Bath .

The Royal Crescent is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site since it is a perfect example of Georgian architecture.

Sally Lunn’s Eating House

Want to know what it was really like in Bath in 1680? Head over to Sally Lunn’s Eating House.

You will get to walk inside Bath’s oldest house & see the kitchen Huguenot baker Sally Lunn used to create her famous Bath bun.

Serving authentic historical dishes for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea & dinner, you will want to be sure to stop here for a quick bite to eat during your day in Bath just to experience the Bath bun.

The main attraction is the Roman Baths and you will not want to miss this on your day in Bath!

In the heart of the city, below the current city streets is an extensive set of Roman ruins along with an interactive museum about the Romans that once lived in Bath.

While you can purchase your tickets at the door, you will save up to 10% if you book them ahead of time online.

The trip into the Roman bath complex allows you to see the actual baths that the Romans would use in ancient times. The Great Bath is the focal point of the Roman Bath Experience.

Thermal springs from below the ground, heat the water.

Currently, it is open air, but in ancient times it would have had a roof.

Not only will you see the Roman baths, but you will see ancient Roman artifacts and sculptures.

If you buy your tickets on the spot, your tour will include an audio guide that will explain each detail.

There are even some parts that are narrated by Bill Bryson (national best-selling author).

While you can take a free guided tour, we prefer experiencing the Roman Bath at our leisure.

During your day in the Roman Baths, you will see ancient items excavated from this site alongside costumed characters who are based on real people who lived and worked at Aquae Sulis more than 2000 years ago.

Take the time to speak with them and you will find that they don’t break character!

If you are traveling from London to Bath with children, you will find that the Roman Baths are very child-friendly.

There is an audio guide specifically geared toward kids and activities they can complete while touring the site.

If you happen to visit during afternoon tea, the Pump Room is a gorgeous spot to unwind. They even have live music during certain parts of the day.

Visit the Jane Austen Center

You don’t have to be a Jane Austen fan to appreciate this living museum.

Not only will you learn about the life history of Jane Austen, you will be able to see how Bath inspired some of her works.

The museum also does a great job of showcasing what life was like during the Regency Era in which she lived.

The history of Bath Abbey is quite lengthy.

The first King of England, King Edgar was crowned here in 973 and set the precedent for the coronation of all future Kings and Queens of England.

In 1539, King Henry VIII ordered the dissolution of all monasteries so Bath Abbey was ransacked and left for ruin for nearly 70 years.

Like many other English abbeys, the stained glass was removed and the roof was stripped for lead.

It wasn’t until the early 1600s that the Abbey began being repaired and used as a parish church.

During the 1800’s, the architect George Manners added new pinnacles and flying buttresses, built a new organ on a screen over the crossing, added galleries over the choir, and installed extra seating.

Bath Abbey Tower Tour

Tower Tours are fully guided and will show you the Abbey from a different perspective, giving you glimpses of things you might not otherwise get to see.

You will start by visiting the ringing room and bell chamber and finish by climbing the 212 steps to the top of the tower where you will get to see amazing views of Bath & the countryside.

The fully guided tour lasts about 45 min and tickets can be purchased from the Abbey shop on the day of your visit.

Visit the Thermal Spas in Bath

A great way to end your day in Bath is by visiting one of the local Thermal Spas.

After a day of walking, there is no better way to relax and allow your muscles to rest than by being immersed in the local thermal baths.

There are several in the area, but one of the most popular is Thermae Bath Spa.

It has two natural thermal baths, an open-air rooftop pool and an indoor pool, and a large Wellness Suite with two aromatic steam rooms, an Ice Chamber, an Infrared Sauna, and a Celestial Relaxation Room.

Getting to Bath from London

London to bath train trip.

Bath is such a wonderful city and is one of my favorite day trips from London . Getting from London to Bath by train is quite easy.

Take the train from Paddington Station. Trains leave every 30 minutes and take approximately 90 minutes to get to Bath.

The station at Bath is Bath Spa. It is a 5-10 minute walk to the Roman Baths from the train station.

Need to Store Your Luggage in Bath?

If you are traveling to Bath and need a place to put your luggage, Bath has storage locations throughout the city . They are relatively inexpensive because you only pay per bag and can be used for the full day.

Have you had a chance to visit Bath? What was your favorite parts of your trip?

Special thanks to Visit Bath for sponsoring part of our trip to Bath, England.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Wednesday 4th of July 2018

My son has visited Bath, but I think the tour only allowed time for the Roman Baths. Thanks for letting us know that we have other places to visit while there.

How To Spend The Perfect One Day In Bath, England

With the whole city declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and depicting the very essence of English idyll, Bath is one of our favourite UK cities.

It’s historic and beautiful and the entire vibe of the place is like something out of a Jane Austen novel.

It’s also a very walkable city so you can easily spend just one day in Bath and see a whole bunch of amazing highlights.

Although if you can spend a weekend here or come back more than once then we’d definitely urge you to!

From the Georgian buildings and the stunning abbey to the ancient Roman baths, this entire city is a cultural and historical wonder.

Scott and I love Bath so much that we actually now live just 30 minutes away from the city in a quiet suburb of Bristol. I think we’re pretty lucky to have two amazing UK cities right on our doorstep!

So if you’re wondering what you can see and do within a quick 24 hours in Bath then read on for some ideas including what you should see, where you should go and what you should eat.

How To Spend The Perfect One Day In Bath

The roman baths.

This is where you can see the Ancient Roman baths after which the city is so named.

Considered to be one of the greatest religious spas of the ancient world, Bath’s unique thermal springs allow for the perfect flow of naturally hot water.

When Romans settled here all those years ago, they built a reservoir to control this water and built the city around the baths themselves.

Interestingly, the Romans thought these baths were sacred and so they threw valuable items into the water in order to please the Gods.

As a thriving museum today, you can expect to see some of these rescued artefacts including coins and jewellery, as well as intricate mosaics, old stonework and ancient monuments.

You should expect to spend a couple of hours wandering around the museum and then you can also have a delicious afternoon tea in the neighbouring Pump Rooms if you fancy it.

When not holding religious services, you are able to wander around inside this magnificent abbey located right next to the baths.

From glinting stained glass windows to intricate architecture, there is so much beauty to see in this centuries-old abbey.

Although there is no set entry price, donations are valued to help keep this abbey thriving, protected and exquisite.

Royal Crescent

Home to many filming sets, especially those set in Austen’s era, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as soon as you turn the corner onto the Royal Crescent parade.

We adore the golden-coloured stone buildings in Bath as they’re so iconic to this city. In Bath, the Royal Crescent is the perfect place to see these types of houses .

There is a large green park in front of the Royal Crescent, which often makes for the perfect vantage point across the whole street.

Equally, standing to one side of the crescent also makes for stunning photographs, framing the houses beautifully.

Top Tip: On the right-hand side of the crescent, you’ll find an old-fashioned signpost in black and gold. This can be found right in front of the Royal Crescent sign, which makes for the perfect photo opportunity.

The Jane Austen Centre

Located in the heart of Bath within an original Georgian townhouse, The Jane Austen Centre is the perfect place to learn more about this incredible author.

You’ll find out more about her time spent in Bath and what effect that time had on her personality and writing.

It’s universally known that Austen spent two long visits in the city, and from 1801 to 1806, Bath was also her home.

The city plays a key role in several of her novels , which suggests that Bath held a secure place in her heart.

You should aim to spend around 1-2 hours here learning all about Jane Austen.

Ensure you head upstairs to the Regency Tea Room as well, which offers you the chance to have some delicious British cakes such as Victoria Sponge, Lemon Drizzle or tea and scones.

The seating area is a little small here (the whole house is a little small after all), but you should find a space if you head here in the late afternoon or early morning.

Lunchtimes should of course be avoided unless you’ve booked ahead.

Assembly Rooms

An exquisite National Trust property , The Assembly Rooms is one of the finest Regency buildings and looks just like how you would imagine an 18th-century ballroom or walkabout room to look like.

They were opened in 1771 and were originally known as the New or Upper Rooms. They were also described at the time as “the most noble and elegant of any in the kingdom”.

Used as an entertainment room in the 18th Century, large gatherings of people would have met here to dance, drink tea, play cards or attend musical performances. Equally, they would also come here during the day to just “walk about”.

Entry to the Assembly Rooms is free.

The Fashion Museum

The Fashion Museum used to be housed within a section of the Assembly Rooms, but it’s temporarily closed as they’re moving the museum to a different location.

Once it’s open again, it’ll certainly feel like you’re stepping back in time even further.

This museum is internationally recognised for showcasing collections of the most perfect dresses and period fashions.

Lace held centre stage in the collection when we visited. You can easily spend about an hour here admiring each and every piece.

Bath Botanical Gardens

We adore escaping to gardens, nature and green spaces during our travels (especially when exploring busy cities).

The Bath Botanical Gardens are free to visit and are beautiful. There are a number of paths you can follow to see various plants, flowers, trees and shrubs, as well as a number of wooden benches to help rest your feet.

These gardens are perfect for relaxing in with a good book and a picnic if you so wish. Whilst walking around, make sure you keep an eye out for original and unique gardening arrangements.

When we visited, there was a very clever arrangement by the Women’s Institute depicting a woman soaking in a bubble bath!

Bath Skyline Walk

If you have a little longer to spend in the city, or you just fancy a sunset-induced hike, then the Bath Skyline Walk is always a good option.

As can be expected, you will have some of the best views of the city from up here, plus the ability to walk through endless meadows, secluded valleys and ancient woodlands for 6 miles. It’s also a great place to walk your dog !

We recommend looking over the skyline at sunset if you have time, although remember to pack your torch for when it gets dark!

Prior Park Landscape Garden

Found close to the Bath Skyline Walk is Prior Park Landscape Garden . In fact, you’ll actually wander past the estate during your walk, so why not make a slight detour if you have time?

If you do, you’ll find a Palladian bridge, which dates back to 1755 and is one of only four of its kind in the whole world. It even has centuries-old graffiti carved into its stonework!

This particular estate is owned and looked after by the National Trust, so you’ll either need to pay an entry fee or visit for free as part of your NT membership .

• How To Visit Prior Park Landscape Garden
• National Trust Cotswolds – 11 Stunning Places To Visit

Bath has some incredible shopping on offer. What could be more magical than browsing in designer boutiques while surrounded by the ancient buildings of this incredible city?

Plus, through the months of November and December, the Bath Christmas Markets spring up all throughout the city.

These markets are world-renowned and are the perfect place for finding unique gifts, fabulous fudge and tasty street food.

Keep an eye on the official website for dates each year – and just watch this captivating city turn into an incredible winter wonderland . 

Bath On Ice & Glow Golf

If you’re in Bath across the festive period, then you might also want to check out Bath On Ice and Glow Golf .

A large ice skating rink and Apres ski lodge is erected each year in Royal Victoria Park and it’s great fun for kids and adults alike.

But the best bit is that next door, the mini-golf stays open late into the night for Glow Golf. They adorn the course with twinkling fairy lights and coloured light displays while your ball lights up in the dark. Such a fun spin on a game of mini-golf!

Where To Eat

When exploring idyllic English towns and cities like this, our recommendation would always be tea and cake, or even the ultimate afternoon tea .

The Regency Tea Room in The Jane Austen Centre offers you the chance to sip tea from quaint china cups and nibble at delightful English cakes whilst admiring the original Georgian features and architecture all around you.

As far as English cakes go, be sure to try a Victoria Sponge, Lemon Drizzle or scones.

Although we’ve not yet experienced afternoon tea at The Pump Rooms ourselves, we’ve been told how incredible it is by a fellow travel blogger. This ultimate afternoon tea article details her experience plus her recommendations on what to order.

As for dinner, nothing beats having either popular pub grub in a typical English pub, or a delightfully English affair at a fine dining restaurant.

For pub food, your best bet in Bath would be The Hop Pole along Upper Bristol Road, which is a super cosy and heartwarming country-style pub. 

For a fine dining experience, you should consider The Dower House Restaurant found along the Royal Crescent. However , do book ahead in advance as it’s very popular. You can even eat al fresco if the weather’s good! 

Getting To Bath

Bath is easily accessible by car via the M4 motorway and A36 main road. However, parking in the city is not only difficult but expensive if you’re here for a full day.

Personally, we’d suggest you catch a train. The Bath Spa railway station is just a couple of minutes walk from the city centre (across the river) and serves most train lines. Although you may have to change at another station on the way if you’re travelling from afar.

Coaches and buses also frequent the city regularly from surrounding areas. For instance, a regular bus from Bristol to Bath only takes about an hour.

You should now be ready to spend the perfect one day in Bath!

Have you also thought about visiting the luxury thermae spa overlooking the city? This is still on our bucket list to try, but we’d love to hear from you if you think it’s worth it.

Did you like this? Pin it now and read this guide to 24 hours in Bath again later!

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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Bath Travel Guide (with Practical Tips, Itinerary + Map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: July 22, 2023

Our Bath Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most beautiful of England’s cities. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Bath!

Plan your trip to Bath

The beautiful city of Bath England is located on the edge of the Cotswolds in the South West of England is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.

The city (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is famous for its beautiful Georgian architecture, literary connections and ancient Roman legacy.

Perfect for a weekend stay Bath can also be visited easily by train from London making it a popular day trip from London.

If Bath is somewhere you wish to visit in the UK this article contains everything you need to plan your trip including things to do in Bath, places to visit in Bath, where to stay, where to eat and top tips to help you make the most of your time in this compact but stunning English city .

🏆 Q uick Picks

What you will find in this complete Bath Travel Guide

• 🏆 Quick Picks

Map of Bath

Attractions and things to do in bath, 🏨 accommodation in bath, option 1 – by car, option 2: by train, option 3: by bus, option 4 – by tour (best tours to bath from london), experiences, tickets and tours in bath, best day trips from bath, uk travel planning itinerary planners, sally lunn’s historic eating house, books to read about bath.

There are lots of things to do and see in Bath – enough to keep you busy for a couple of days. If you can we recommend staying for at least one night and giving yourself some time to really explore this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city.

Some of the most popular places to visit in Bath include

• Roman Baths
• Jane Austen Centre
• Pulteney Bridge
• The Royal Crescent
• The Pump Room s
• Sally Lunns

Places to visit in Bath (+ things to do, map & travel tips)

Bath Itinerary – How to plan the perfect Bath day trip (includes map)

Bath is a wonderful destination in which to spend a couple of days to really explore the city. There is a wide range of accommodation options available in Bath to suit a variety of travel styles and budgets.

If you are driving we recommend booking accommodation with parking provided.

Best for couples – Grays Boutique B&B or the Black Fox Inn

Best hotel for a relaxing break – Gainsborough Bath Spa

Most budget-friendly hotel – Z Hotel Bath

Need parking? – The Roseate Villa Bath & Grays Boutique B&B or The Kennard

Best for groups – Hill House

Pet-friendly Bath accommodation – Grosvenor Villa

Read more Area and accommodation guide to Bath

Find more options in my Accommodation Guide for England.

🚗 How to get to Bath from London

Bath is within easy travel distance of London and if you are based in the capital there are a number of options to get to the city.

Read more – How to visit Bath from London

Bath is located 115 miles to the west of London. Plan at least 2 1/2 to 3 hours to drive between the 2 cities (this will vary depending on traffic but this can be a busy route). Directions can be found here.

This is my preferred way to travel to Bath and is one of our favourite train journeys to take in the UK (London to Penzance with a stopover in Bath)

Bath Spa train station is a short 10-minute walk from the centre of Bath.

The trip only takes 90 minutes from London Paddington. Click here for train times and ticket prices to Bath from London.

It is possible to take a bus from Victoria Coach Station to Bath. The journey takes 3 to 4 hours as there are stops along the way (Heathrow Airport)

This is the cheapest way to travel to Bath from London though so if you are on a budget this may be your best option. Click here for coach times and prices from National Express.

Read more – Complete transportation guide to the UK

If you prefer to combine a visit to Bath with other popular destinations in the south of England such as the Cotswolds, Oxford or Windsor there are a number of tours from London that will enable you to do so.

These are the perfect option if you are trying to see as much as possible within a short time frame. Below I have selected the best tours available to Bath:

• Stonehenge and Bath Full-Day Tour from London

Skip the long lines at Stonehenge, and tour the Georgian city of Bath at leisure on a guided full-day tour from London. Travel by coach to the standing stones of Stonehenge and learn the theories of their mystery, before heading to Bath in time for lunch.

• Full-Day Windsor Castle, Bath, & Stonehenge Tour

Explore the stately Windsor Castle . Marvel at the ancient mystery that is Stonehenge. Discover the wonderful city of Bath, England’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ride in comfort on an air-conditioned coach/bus with Wi-Fi on this 11-hour tour.

• Stonehenge, Bath, Cotswolds, & Avebury Small Group Tour

Enjoy a day out from London exploring some of England’s most beautiful sites. Experience the Georgian splendour of Bath and the mystery of Stonehenge, as well as the picturesque village of Lacock , seen in Pride and Prejudice and the Harry Potter movies .

• Cotswolds, Bath, and Oxford: 2-Day Tour from London

This 2-day excursion to the scenic Cotswolds, with a stop at the ancient stones of Avebury and the majesty of Bath and Oxford, will show you an England that you may have only seen in your history books.

Read – 7 Best Day trips to Bath from London

With so many things to do and places to visit in Bath, I recommend planning your itinerary and purchasing tours, tickets and experiences as soon as you can to avoid disappointment, especially during the busy summer months.

• 25-Minute City Boat Trip to Pulteney Bridge

Cruise down the River Avon on a traditional vessel and enjoy all the canal-side highlights of this ancient city.

• City Sightseeing Bath: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Hop-on to a City Sightseeing Bath bus tour and enjoy unlimited hop on hop off for 24 hours. Discover sights such as the River Avon and Great Putney Bridge, as you travel on an open-top, double-decker bus with panoramic views of the city.

• 1.5-Hour Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tourist Guide

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath with a fully qualified and professional tour guide. Visit the city’s major landmarks and hear about its history along the way.

• The Jane Austen Centre Ticket (Skip the line)

Celebrate Bath’s most famous resident and get a snapshot of what it would have been like to live in Regency times at the Jane Austen Center. Find out about everything that would have inspired Austen’s timeless novels, such as fashion, food, and society.

• Bath Cycle Tour

This 2-hour cycle tour of Bath takes you through the City’s oldest street. See beautiful Georgian architecture, Victorian public gardens, the Medieval city walls and the legacy of Britain’s Roman occupation before enjoying views over the city from the Kennet and Avon canal.

• Professional photoshoot in Bath

Have your photographs taken against the backdrop of Bath by a professional photographer. Perfect to share Instagram or Facebook or for the family album.

> Click here for more tickets and tours in Bath

Bath is the perfect base to explore the surrounding countryside and cities. The Cotswolds, Bristol, Salisbury, Corsham Court and village (as seen in Poldark), Lacock, Avebury and Stonehenge are all within easy reach.

This is my selection of day tours to take from Bath. Many places can be travelled to by bus or car too.

• Avebury & Stonehenge Private Tour – Day Tour From Bath

Follow in the footsteps of Britain’s ancient ancestors and explore fascinating historic sites which continue to amaze and baffle people today. Sites include Avebury, the world’s largest stone circle, and Stonehenge, one of Britain’s most famous icons.

• Stonehenge Private Half Day Tour

Enjoy a private guided tour around one of Britain’s most famous icons, Stonehenge. This is a half-day tour giving you the flexibility to do other things on the day.

• Wells, Cheddar Cheese & Cheddar Gorge – Day Tour

Visit the beautiful cathedral city of Wells, England’s smallest city, and enjoy a tasty insight into the area’s most famous creation – Cheddar Cheese! The tour ends with a visit to the spectacular Cheddar Gorge, England’s largest gorge.

Read more – Best day trips and tours from Bath

Where to eat in Bath

There are many wonderful teahouses, cafes, gastropubs and restaurants in Bath. Don’t miss a visit to Sally Lunn’s tearooms to try one of the famous buns!

The tearooms in the Pump Rooms at the Roman Baths were the social heart of Bath for more than two centuries. Enjoy a meal or afternoon tea in the beautiful neo-classical salon.

Where – Roman Baths, Abbey Church Yard, Bath, BA1 1LZ

One of the oldest houses in Bath is also the location of the bakery which serves one of the most famous local delicacies. The Sally Lunn bun is a brioche type creation that you really must try when in Bath.

Where – 4 North Parade Passage, Bath, BA1 1NX

Tips for visiting Bath

• Bath is a fantastic destination in itself and a wonderful place to base yourself to explore the surrounding countryside too. If possible and time allows plan a few days in the city – you won’t regret it!
• Look out for the famous blue plaque s on some of the houses which tell of the famous people who once lived there. There are over 100 in the city.
• Go to the Roman Baths early in the day as they are very popular. Avoid the weekend if possible. If you are visiting in the summer there are late-night openings available too.
• There are lots of festivals held in Bath throughout the year including the Bath Festival and the Children’s Literature Festival. Find out more on the Bath Festival website here.
• Visit the Thermae Bath Spa and enjoy bathing in the naturally warm waters in the rooftop pool (whatever the season!)
• If you enjoy books we recommend popping into Mr B’s Emporium . The staff are fantastically knowledgeable and the beautiful bookstore is filled with quirky furniture and a labyrinth of rooms to explore.
• Bath is a hilly city – make sure to wear comfortable shoes!

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

One Day In Bath England Itinerary, Day Trip From London

“Oh! Who can be ever tired of Bath?” — Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey

If you’re looking for a great day trip from London, Bath England should definitely be on your list! This one day Bath itinerary covers all of the top attractions and best things to do in Bath.

Despite its small size, Bath is a breathtakingly beautiful city nestled in the lush green hillsides. It has been a popular destination for visitors since the Roman times, and it’s easy to see why. 

Bath is a city of both romance and ruins, with its entire historic center designated as a UNESCO-listed site. With its abundance of stunning Georgian architecture and rich Roman history, Bath is one of the most impressive cities in England.

Bath is known for its unique and gorgeous “Bath stone” buildings, which give the city a warm, honey-colored glow. Walking around Bath, you may feel as if you’ve stepped into a Jane Austen novel.

While Bath is a popular tourist destination, its otherworldly charm still makes it an absolute joy to visit. And since the city is located within easy reach of London, it’s the perfect day trip destination — just a quick 1.5 hour train ride away.

A Short History Of Bath

No one day in Bath itinerary would be complete without a short history of the city.

Bath has a rich history, dating back to its time as a Roman city. In 40 A.D., the Roman Emperor Vespasian marched through Britain, and Bath was one of the cities he conquered.

With the formidable power of the Roman war machine behind him, Vespasian had little difficulty in subduing the far-flung city.

READ : Nutshell History of Ancient Rome

The Romans were keenly aware of the incredible value of Bath. They had seen steam rising from a marshy area in the water and knew they had discovered something special.

It turned out that Bath was home to a hot spring, the perfect place for a luxurious Roman-style bath. The Romans wasted no time in creating an elaborate complex of baths, pools, and even a temple on a sacred Celtic site. They named the city Aquae Sulis.

With its seven hills, Bath aimed to become the “Rome of England.” Two hundred years after Vespasian’s army arrived, Bath had become a prosperous trading city. And 300 years later, Bath had become a hub of culture and beauty.

In 480 A.D., the Roman Empire collapsed and the Romans left Bath. When they departed, they took with them their technology and medical knowledge, leaving Bath without access to the advancements that had made the Roman baths so impressive.

By the 5th century, the Roman city of Bath had largely vanished. Buildings fell into disrepair and stones were plundered.

However, in the 7th and 8th centuries, the fortunes of Bath began to improve. The construction of a cathedral put Bath back on the map. The city’s natural hot springs and their purported healing properties soon attracted many visitors, including some notable figures.

Queen Elizabeth I famously bathed in Bath’s waters King James II’s wife also sought refuge in Bath when she was unable to conceive. After visiting the hot springs, she miraculously became pregnant and gave birth to a healthy child.

This event helped to solidify Bath’s reputation as a destination for healing and rejuvenation. Tourists flocked to the city, marking the beginning of Bath’s second golden age.

In 1559, he British painter Thomas Gainsborough arrived in search of better paying clientele. Fashionable ladies who spilled out of the Pump Room on Abbey Street were greeted by a sign advertising Gainsborough’s paintings.

In the early 18th century, a bon vivant named Beau Nash arrived in Bath. He became the chief curator and “master of ceremonies” for visitors. With his dandyish ways, the “pleasure city” of Bath became the Los Angeles of Britain.

In the late 18th century, or Regency era, a succession of gifted architects got busy. They gave Bath a Georgian splendor and order — a kind of serenity in stone — that happily survives.

Bath became a popular stop on the “grand tours” taken by wealthy and fashionable men. It also became a favorite holiday retreat and upper class resort.

The wealthy Londoners went there to escape the city. They would come for the season and amuse themselves by dancing at balls and playing craps.

Jane Austen came to Bath. She actually lived there for a few years during its heyday, gathering her juiciest material. She had many suitors there, but never married.

Austen wrote Persuasion and Northanger Abbey while she lived in Bath. Bath provided the grist for her novels, which satirized the well-heeled denizens of fashionable towns, their scandals, and their matchmaking.

Overview Of One Day In Bath Itinerary

Here’s a quick snapshot of things you can see and do with one day in Bath.

• Historic Center
• Roman Baths
• Royal Crescent
• Fashion Museum
• Jane Austen Heritage Center
• Pulteney Bridge
• Holburne Museum of Art
• Thermal Baths Spa
• Alexandra Park

If you’re in a hurry, below are some of the top tours and experiences for Bath. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting, especially in high season.

• city walking tour
• Jane Austen Center ticket
• ticket to Bath Abbey
• Bridgeton filming locations tour
• sightseeing boat cruise

One Day In Bath England Itinerary

Bath is a city that’s perfect for a one-day visit. Thanks to its compact center, you can easily see the main attractions in just a day. 

Of course, if you have more time, you may want to linger longer and indulge in the hot springs or simply relax in the beautiful, honey-colored city.

If you only have one day to spend in Bath, don’t worry – I’ve got you covered! Below are all the top attractions you can visit in a day. 

Depending on your travel pace, you may not have time to see them all, but I wanted to give you all the options so you can customize your itinerary to your liking.

One Day In Bath Itinerary AM

1. historic center.

Start off your 1 day in Bath with a stroll through the city center. You may want to book a 1.5 hour guided walking tour to get oriented.

Bath is visually one of the prettiest cities I’ve been to in England. There’s lovely honey-washed Georgian architecture hugging pristine roads everywhere you go.

The city’s most popular attractions, the Roman Baths and the Bath Abbey, are next door neighbors. The historic center is filled with fabulous shops, coffee cafes, and tea rooms.

Just window shopping alone is a real delight. The shops aim to provide whatever high quality goods you could want.

On any given day, you may see acrobats, musicians, memes, jugglers, or other buskers performing in the streets. With one day in Bath, you can easily peak in every corner and circle every photogenic square twice.

You may want to poke into the Guildhall Market . There are about 20 stalls. You can get everything from food, jewelry, sweets, and tea.

2. Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey is a massive medieval church built in an eye catching Victorian-Gothic style. The abbey was the last great church built in England. And, happily, it survived the English Reformation.

The stony abbey was originally founded as a Benedictine monastery in the 8th century. The current structure was built over 120 years from 1499-1626.

Gorgeous stained glass windows line towering walls. The facade is dotted with unique memorial stones and sculptures.

It’s worth going inside just to see the vaulted fan ceiling and the magnificent 4000 pipe Klais Organ.

There are 635 memorial on the abbey walls. They mostly commemorate people from the 18th and 19th centuries. The abbey floor is made up of flat grave stones.

Admission is free and by donation. So there’s no reason for you not to step in and at least take a peak.

If you’re up for a hike, you can climb the 212 steps of the tower for £8. Be forewarned, it’s a tight spiral staircase.

You’ll go through the ringing chamber and the bell chamber. At the top, you’ll have a bird’s eye view over the historic center.

This Abbey is reminiscent of St. George’s Chapel in Windsor . The abbey also offers 40 minute tours. You should check the website (linked above) to see what is on offer.

3. Roman Baths

Historically, the Roman Baths played a critical role in the city’s history and development. Dating back to 75 A.D., the baths are the best preserved ancient baths in Northern Europe.

The baths are the top attraction in Bath and have a stunning setting. Above them, you have wonderful views of Bath Abbey.

The baths were discovered in 1880. Walking through them has a time warp feel, with the matte green waters of the baths perfectly reflecting the picturesque Roman facades. You’ll feel as though you’re stepping right back into Roman Britain.

There are four parts: (1) the great bath house; (3) the Sacred Spring; (3) the Roman Temple; and (4) the museum.

The Romans used the bath house for religious and recreational (bathing) purposes. But the baths were also the place to socialize. Food and drink were serve in the bath, including oysters and snails.

The water wasn’t really green. It was colorless, but took on its green hue from algae growth caused by heat and daylight.

The water was revered as a cure for all sorts of ailments, like gout, rheumatism, and skin diseases. You can test this hypothesis in the complex’s Pump Room, where you can sip a free cup of hot spring water.

Visitors pass from the terrace overlooking the baths through hallways and rooms.

In the series of darkish museum rooms, you’ll see the in situ remains and ornate architectural fragments of what was once the magnificent open air Temple of Sulis Minerva.

She was the goddess of the thermal spring. Sulis wasn’t a Roman goddess though. She was a local Celtic deity.

You’ll also find diagrams, dioramas, and models. There are other artifacts like coins, mosaics, tombstones, religious masks, and busts. Videos and holograms are used to make the ruins come alive.

You’ll even see “curse scrolls.” The Romans inscribed curses on tablets made of sheets of pewter or lead.

They threw the curses into the springs hoping to procure justice from Sulis Minerva. Archaeologists discovered the curses during excavations.

The curses are pretty funny. They reveal the petty side of human nature. They were almost like modern day tweets.

One scroll, for example, asks that the thief who stole his gloves lose his “mind and eyes.” Another person sought revenge for the theft of a bronze vessel, asking that it be “filled with the blood of the thief.”

The downward progress ends at a beautiful smoldering pool known as the Great Bath. It’s an elegant hall with a rectangle swimming pool surrounded by broad paved walkways.

There are pillars, long arches, and statues of Roman generals and emperors at the top. At one time, patterned mosaics decorated the floors. It’s now roofless, but wasn’t always that way.

Admission to the Roman Baths is £ 20-25 per ticket, depending on when you go. You should book in advance. Click here to book a ticket on the website.

I was just there on a March weekend and it was fully booked. The price includes an audio guide offering plenty of interesting information. You can pick it up after you hand in your ticket.

You can also take a guided 2 hour walking tour of Bath with an entry to the Roman baths .

4. The Royal Crescent

The Royal Crescent is one of the great set pieces in Europe. It’s a row of terraced Georgian houses, laid out in a graceful 600 foot crescent shape. They were built in 1767-74 by architect John Wood the Younger.

You approach via an arduous climb from the city center. A concave sweep of houses comes suddenly into view. 30 of them stand lined in a rhythmic curve.

You can’t help but think it’s immeasurably beautiful. The crescent has a force and drama that’s reminiscent of the Bernini colonnade in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. One great way to see is on a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride .

READ : 5 Days in Rome Itinerary

Without a doubt, the Royal Crescent is one of the world’s greatest examples of Georgian architecture and one of the most photographed spots in England.

You may remember the Royal Crescent from many period shows like Bridgerton .

#1 Royal Crescent is a museum where you can see how the rich and famous lived in 18th century Bath.

It’s decorated and furnished just as it might have been during the period 1776-1796. It has all the fashionable accoutrements of the era: gloves, a telescope, botanical drawings, and a fine dining room.

Derived from the Latin word  circus , the Circus refers to a semi-circular graceful loop of grand historic townhouses in Bath. It’s just a block away from the Royal Crescent.

Built in 1754-64, the Circus is an architectural masterpiece and was the heart of Georgian Bath. Originally called the King’s Circus, it was designed by English architect John Wood, the Elder.

In the Georgian era, the Circus was home to a veritable who’s who from world history. Plaques mark the houses where Gainsborough, William Pitt (the Prime Minister), and Clive of India (the soldier-statesman) once lived.

The Circus is imperial in scale, like the Roman Colosseum turned inside out. The Greco-Roman inspired building has Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian capital decorations.

Three sets of 11 houses encircle a patch of lawn. Each house looks luxurious and sober.

You should walk all the way around the Circus to view the hundreds of stone ornaments, each different, above the first floor windows.

One Day In Bath Itinerary PM

6. fashion museum.

The Fashion Museum is a window into the Georgian era. You can see how the wealthy dressed at the museum.

It exhibits historic artifacts and garments from nearly every era of England. The featured exhibit is the “Dress of the Year” display.

7. Jane Austen Heritage Centre

Housed in a 270 year old Georgian townhouse, the J ane Austen Heritage Centre is one of the top tourist attractions in Bath. The museum is an homage to Jane Austen.

The permanent exhibition gives insight in the life and work of Jane Austen during the Regency era. Austen lived in Bath from 1800-06.

The guides are actors dressed in period costumes. They enthusiastically share their extensive knowledge with their visitors.

You can watch a short film about her life. And admire portraits that are though to be of Austen.

8. Pulteney Bridge

Next, make your way to the River Avon. There’s just one more must visit landmark to tick off your one day in Bath itinerary: Pulteney Bridge. Three graceful arches span the River Avon.

This is one of very few bridges in the world that are completely lined with shops. The oldest is the Ponte Vecchio in Florence Italy .

READ : 3 Day Itinerary For Florence

It was built by William Johnstone Pulteney in 1771. He wanted to make a grand statement. At the back of the bridge, there’s a riverside walkway where you can stroll.

If you have any time left on your one day in Bath itinerary, there are two very good museums near the bridge.

Just 5 minutes away is the Holburne Museum of Art on Great Pulteney Street. It houses an impeccable collection of British portraits.

Just a few steps away from the bridge is the Victoria Art Gallery . The museum was opened in 1900 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee.

The historic building houses over 1500 objects of art. That includes a collection of oil paintings from British artists dating from 1700 onwards. 

9. Prior Park Landscape Garden

After all that sightseeing, stop and relax in Prior Park Landscape Garden. It’s a beautiful 18th century landscaped garden.

It has an attractive Palladian Bridge. It’s one of only four remaining in the entire world.

READ : Guide To The Palladian City of Vicenza

10. Thermal Bath Spa

Need a good soak like a Roman? Head to the Thermae Bath Spa .

It’s right next door to the Roman Baths. The spa is a bit expensive at £38 on week nights and £43 on weekends.

But it’s the only natural thermal spa in all of England, designed with quartzite stone. You can simmer in the city’s mineral-rich waters and float away your cares.

The complex is quite large. It consists of steam rooms, massage areas, a restaurant and, of course, thermal baths. The crown jewel is the open air rooftop pool, which has wonderful views over the historic center.

11. Alexandra Park

Last but not least, you should finish up your one day in Bath itinerary at Alexandra Park. It’s a 15-20 walk from the city center.

This peaceful park is perched high above the city on Beechen Cliff. It’s quite a hike with steep steps, but definitely worth the effort for the views. 

You’ll have spectacular views over the entirety of Bath. You can catch a beautiful sunset and unwind.

12. Bridgerton Filming Locations In Bath

Did you know that Bath was a major filming location for the smash Netflix series Bridgerton ? The series is an American fantasy of Regency era London in 1813.

But many scenes in the series were actually filmed in Bath, especially the outdoor scenes. You can identify the scenes from the honey colored Bath stone.

The elegant members of the  ton  promenade with parasols along Alfred Street, greet friends on the Royal Crescent, and take a stroll down Bath Stree t .

#1 of the Royal Crescent was used as the Featheringtons’ London home. Abbey Green serves as a backdrop for market shops and strolls.

The Modiste dress shop is actually the Abbey Deli. The Holborn Museum is the exterior of Lady Danbury’s townhouse.

If you, like me, are a massive Bridgerton fan, you can book a 2 hour guided walking tour to the Bridgerton filming locations .

Tips For Spending One Day In Bath

Here are some must know things for spending 1 day in Bath.

1. How To Get Around Bath

Bath is a super walkable small city. The historic sites are clustered in the city center.

The other major sites are just a short 10-15 minute walk away. Bring some comfy walking shoes as Bath is a bit hilly.

You can also take the hop on hop off bus to get to the main attractions of Bath. You can enjoy a Prosecco cruise on the River Avon . You can even book a Jane Austen themed guided tour .

If you need a map, the tourist office is located on the Abbey Churchyard.

2. How To Get To Bath

To get from London to Bath by train, you can take a direct train from London Paddington Station to Bath Spa Station. The journey takes about 1.5 hours and trains run regularly throughout the day.

You should book your tickets in advance to get the best fares and secure your seat, especially during peak travel times.

Bath Spa Station is located in the heart of Bath, so it’s easy to reach the town center on foot in 5-10 minutes . When you exit the station, follow the signs or directions to the city center. 

If you want to drive, Bath is about 85 miles from London. The trip takes just under 2 hours, if there’s no traffic.

You likely won’t find parking on the streets. But there are several car parks in the city center.

If you’re based in London, you can also book a guided day trip tour to both Bath and Stonehenge . You can also book a guided tour that includes Stratford-Upon-Avon, Stonehenge, and Bath .

The second tour is long and packs a lot in. But if you’re in a hurry, it’s an ideal way to see several marquis attractions in England.

A variant of this tour takes you on a day trip to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath .

3. Where To Eat In Bath

For breakfast, you might try a morning cinnabon at Landrace Bakery . It uses organic stone ground flour for its baked treats. Society Cafe also has a broad range of specialty coffees.

Sally Lunn’s is a world famous tea and eating house. The historic building is one of the oldest houses in Bath.

The kitchen museum shows the actual kitchen used by the legendary young Huguenot baker Sally Lunn. She created the first “Bath Bunn,” a semi-sweet bread.

Lunchtime options include Green Street Seafood Cafe , Cafe Lucca , Thai Basil , or Framptons .

For dinner in the city center, you can try Corkage , with an excellent wine list. Or eat at The Elder for traditional English cuisine.

If Italian is what you crave, head to Sotto Sotto . It’s in a cool subterranean setting near the Roman Baths.

If you need a spot of ice cream, head to Marshfields . It’s the local shop and there’s always a line.

4. Where to Stay in Bath

Do you want to spend the night? You have some great options in Bath.

The best place to stay in Bath is the Gainsborough Bath Spa . The luxury hotel is on a quiet lane in Bath’s historic center. It’s crowning glory is the two level spa complex, with three thermal pools fed by Bath’s famed natural spring water.

The Royal Crescent Hotel is a luxury hotel that’s located on the Royal Crescent, occupying #15 and #16. You can wake up with a view of the crescent, laid out like a stone tiara.

15 by Guesthouse is another good option. It’s just minutes from the shop-lined Pulteney Bridge with a beautiful Georgian facade. As a nod to Jane Austen, there are powder blue walls. There’s also a basement spa.

The Yard is another lovely and relaxing spot. Breakfast is delivered to your door in the morning. The best bedroom comes with a rooftop terrace. There’s a courtyard wine bar, Wolf Wine , offering up organic tipples.

5. Is One Day in Bath Enough?

One day in Bath is enough to see the main attractions and soak up the architecture. Especially if you arrive the night before and have the entire day.

But two days is probably better to really enjoy the city. Then, you can take you time and properly sample the thermal baths.

6. When To Visit Bath

Bath’s high season runs from June to September, offering the best chance for sunshine and festivals. However, be prepared to deal with maddening crowds if you visit during the summer months. 

The city center can get quite congested, so it may be a good idea to plan your trip on a weekday rather than a weekend. Additionally, staying overnight could give you the opportunity to enjoy Bath after the day-trippers have left.

If you’re looking for milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season in spring or fall. During my visit in March, I had a fairly warm and sunny day.

Christmas is a pretty time in Bath, when the city is bedecked in lights. And there’s a fun Christmas market.

7. Things To Do Near Bath

If you have more than one day in Bath, there are plenty of interesting things to do and see nearby. Here are some day trips from Bath you might consider:

1. Stonehenge

Just an hour drive from Bath is one of the worlds’ most iconic prehistoric monuments — Stonehenge . The UNESCO-listed landmark dates from 3,000 B.C. Every year, it draws almost a million visitors.

Stonehenge is a circle of standing stones, each weighing several tons, set in a grassy field. The monument’s purpose and construction remain a mystery to this day.

Click here to pre-book an admissions ticket for Stonehenge. The site is best to visit at sunrise or sunset.

2. Castle Combe

The beautiful village of Castle Combe in the Cotswold is just 25 minutes from Bath. It’s a jigsaw‐puzzle painter’s vision of an English village. It’s so cute that it’s inevitably thronged with tourists on weekends.

But go anyway. Laid out in a valley alongside a rushing stream, the town has slate roofed stone cottages and picturesque shop signs. It’s a place where charm negates the crowds.

Castle Combe was once a weaving center. A few years ago, the village was used as the set for the movie Dr. Doolittle .

From Bath, you can book a 5 hour guided tour of both Castle Combe and Lacock (which I discuss below).

Lacock is a quintessential English village just 25 minutes from Bath. It’s a quaint, homey village in Wiltshire.

The bite-sized townscape is dotted with centuries old half timber houses and stone cottages. Lush flower boxes are overflowing with colorful blooms.

Lacock feels trapped in time, with no indicia of modernity. Its untainted historical heritage is sustained by the National Trust, which owns the village (almost) in its entirety.

Lacock has made a few appearances on the big screen. It’s been featured in Pride and Prejudice , Downtown Abbey , and Harry Potter.

Three of the eight Harry Potter films used Lacock as a filming location. As a result, Lacock is a pilgrimage site for die hard Potterheads.

Lacock is home to Lily and James Potter’s House in Godric’s Hollow. Lacock Abbey’s scenic cloisters doubled as Hogwarts and Snape’s Potions Classroom in several films.

4. Wells Catherdral

The stunning Wells Cathedral is just 35 minutes from Bath. Wells’ massive Gothic cathedral sits right in the center of Wells.

Built in stages between 1180 and 1508, it showcases several Gothic styles.

Its West Front is decorated with more than 300 carved figures, which isone of the finest collections of medieval sculpture in Europe.

Other highlight of Wells cathedral are the elegant Lady Chapel, the fan-vaulted Chapter House, and the celebrated Chained Library. The library contains books and manuscripts dating back to 1472.

You should take the 90 minute High Parts Tour . It takes you through hidden chambers to the south transept roof terrace.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one day in Bath itinerary. You may enjoy these other England travel guides and resources:

• 3 Days In London Itinerary
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• Best Day Trips From London
• Best Museums in London
• Tourist Traps To Skip in London
• Guide To the National Gallery of Art
• Guide To the Wallace Collection
• Guide To the Tower of London
• Guide To Hampton Court Palace
• Guide To Hatfield House

If you’d like to spend one day in Bath, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on April 10, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Only 24 hours in bath | what you should see + do in bath, uk (1-day itinerary).

Here’s your bath itinerary for what to see in 24 hours in Bath.

You may wish to adjust depending what time you arrive but hopefully, this will help you plan your trip and enjoy all the best bits of Bath City in a short time.

The great thing about visiting Bath in the UK, well two things really.

Firstly, the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage so you’re in for some beautiful historic places on your visit.

But secondly, all this is in a relatively small area so you can see a lot of Bath in a short time . Whether you’re visiting Bath for 24 hours, 48 hours, a long weekend or a one-day trip from London, even in a few hours you won’t be disappointed.

Whether you’re visiting Bath for 24 hours, …. or a day trip from London, even in a few hours you won’t be disappointed

Where do you start your visit to beautiful Bath? If you’re like me then as soon as I arrive in a city I deviate towards the river. This is a great way to orientate yourself if you’re short on time and it’s very pretty too!

The River Avon runs from its source at Acron Turville in Gloucestershire for 70 miles until Avonmouth, near Bristol.

Did you know there were NINE rivers named the ‘ River Avon ‘ in the UK? Anyway back to your 24 hours in Bath visit!

This Bath itinerary includes approximate times to help you plan your day but free to tweak to your own personal itinerary for what you like to see and do on city visits.

Have an awesome trip to Bath!

Planning your holiday to Bath now? Ask me any more questions in the comments below.

Bath 1-day Itinerary (A 24-hour Trip)

The famous pulteney bridge.

Cost : Free Time: 20 minutes

This iconic bridge crosses the River Avon in England and is a magnet for tourists so it won’t be hard to miss.

The bridge has been standing for many years, completed in 1774, they had some good builders, demonstrating stunning Georgian architecture!

The interesting thing about the bridge is from the other side you’d have no knowledge that it was a bridge at all . Pretty little shops line each side of the road , from flower shops to bakeries and the architecture is gorgeous, well worth a few photos.

Once across the bridge you’ll see Pulteney Bridge in all its splendour, facing the bridge with the river on your right you’re actually quite high above the River Avon in Bath and you can walk alongside the wall to capture some pretty shots, all for free of course!

You might like to read Things to do in Pembrokeshire, South Wales

Relax in Bath’s Paradise Gardens

Cost:  £1.50 adults/ £0.80 children Time:  20-45 minutes (depending on how long you want to sit and relax)

As you walk down the road by the river, there’s a beautiful garden you can visit . It’s not free but only costs £1.50 to enter but it’s a relaxing place to stop by the river and in spring there are some beautiful cherry blossom trees.

I arrived later in the day and was eyeing this garden up for some chill time but sadly I didn’t quite make it. (I did say 24 hours in Bath isn’t quite enough time to see and do everything!)

There’s a gorgeous bandstand which would be perfect for a few photos and ironically I found out afterwards that this can be used as a wedding venue (in case you’re planning something special on your Bath trip!)

Admire the beauty of Bath Abbey

Cost: Donation box (Tower tour £8 adults/ £4 children) Time: 20 – 30 minutes (45 minutes extra if you do the tour)

The Abbey is instantly in your sight as you walk into the city and no visit to Bath would be complete without seeing the Abbey.

From the outside Bath Abbey is stunning but don’t miss out on going inside too, the detail is mesmerizing . You can’t help but spend the entire time walking and looking up at the ceiling and windows.

You can either take the opportunity to go inside and explore now or save for later on in the day (unless you’re visiting on a Sunday*).

But make sure you are back in time for the last entry of the day (Monday – Friday at 5.15 pm and weekends* 5.45 pm).

* Please check the hours for Sundays as Bath Abbey is a working church . Normal hours on a Sunday are 1-2.30 pm and 4.30-6pm so you might need to change your plans to fit this in.

Bath Abbey Tower Tours

If you’re feeling energetic then you can also buy a ticket to climb the tower , just 212 steps to the top. I ran out of time for this but if you want to fit into your day then allow an extra hour for this part of the trip.

The tours start every hour, check out more details here Tower Tours

Next to Bath Abbey is the must-see Roman Baths, it’s my recommendation to leave this for now and come back a bit later. But at least you know where it is now!

Walk through the streets of Bath

Cost: Free (unless you go shopping) Time: 30 minutes to an hour (or as long as your legs last)

What to see and do in Bath?  

As a UNESCO World Heritage City , you can enjoy some time exploring the streets of Bath City or popping in the local shops.

You’ll notice the pretty architecture as you walk down little alleyways so don’t feel like you need to stick to the main paths through the city.

There’s nothing more satisfying than getting a little bit lost in a new city, then finding something awesome or a cute little coffee shop.

Be sure to include Queen Square and the  King’s Circus on your walk, there are both gorgeous squares (or circles) with stunning Georgian architecture .

The Circus will also lead you to the next stop on my suggested Bath itinerary, how good is that!

Royal Crescent + No. 1 Royal Crescent Museum

Cost: Free (or museum £10.30 adult/£5.10 child) Time:  20 – 40 minutes (add an extra hour for the museum)

As you walk up from King’s Circus you’ll reach the Royal Crescent, a spectacular property overlooking a large green space. You can walk, sit or play on the grass in front of the Royal Crescent.

I was surprised how big it was and the detail on every door and window is beautiful . Be sure to stop for a few photos here in this iconic spot.

The challenge is where to stand to get you and the entire Royal Crescent in the photo, I’ll tell you now there’s no best place!

Bath Crescent Museum  

The museum at the Royal Crescent is definitely a must-visit place on your Bath visit. The home to Henry Sandford between 1776 and 1796, each room is beautifully set out with a museum guide and information in each room so you have the chance to ask questions.

The tour takes you through each room from the parlour, dining room, kitchen and gentleman’s retreat to the lady’s and gentleman’s bedroom upstairs.

On a gorgeous sunny day you might not want to go indoors but this is a fascinating museum it really transports yourself back to the 18th century way of life.

Stroll around the Georgian Gardens

Cost: Free Time: 10-15 minutes

Looking for more free things to do for you Bath visit? – Once back outside take a different route back via the Georgian Gardens, a small but quaint garden often overlooked.

In spring, when I visited the flowers were just starting to peek through the soil. I can imagine it’s a beautiful garden to visit during the summer months in Bath.

Bathe in History at the Roman Baths Museum

Cost: From £16.50 adults/ £10.25 children Time: 1 – 2 hours

This is a must-see thing to see and do on your Bath trip.

One of the biggest museums in Bath, ok well I didn’t visit every museum but I certainly felt this was pretty big. There is so much to see, read and explore in the Roman Baths Museum (oh and take photos of haha).

To immerse yourself more in the museum remember to pick up the audio guide included in the entry fee . It’s a simple step by step numerical guide so you press the number of the information point you’re at and it tells you all about it.

Be prepared, there are a lot of numbers, to listen to the entire guide would take several hours!

You can really imagine yourself in Roman times.  Ok well, maybe not with all the cameras and mobile phone selfies going on. But anyway the Roman Baths are stunning.

You start by walking around the top section, which also has a great view of Bath Abbey too. Around the outside section of the baths, you can meet Roman characters hanging out or playing games.

Tips for planning your visit to the Roman Baths

• I visited the museum late on a Friday and it was very busy inside (the end of Easter the holidays).
• Weekends can be pretty busy so if you’re visiting Bath for only 24 hours, especially on a Saturday or Sunday.
• I would aim to do add this to your Bath itinerary for earlier in the morning to avoid the crowds.

The opening times vary throughout the year, most of the time last entry is 5 pm, however, this is extended from mid-June to August to 9 pm. Check the Roman Baths  opening times here.

*Prices vary due to the time of year, see full price list here.

Bath Itinerary for a longer visit?

More than 24 hours in Bath? Lucky you! Here are a few more things you could add to a 2-day weekend itinerary for visiting Bath:

Jump on the Bath hop-on/hop-off bus . You can buy your tickets in advance here .

Thermae Bath Spa  

• In need of some pure indulgence? Why not enjoy the historic city of Bath with a mix of contemporary design as you relax at this gorgeous spa in the heart of the city.
• Read more here at Bath Spa .

Visit some of the many museums in Bath City  

• Bath Postal Museum for all things postal,  Jane Austen Centre , telling the story of Jane’s life in Bath, The Holburne Museum and many more which you can find here museums and galleries in Bath.

Treasure Hunt  

• Fancy a challenge? Then try one of two fun walks through Bath city, with ‘Curious About’ collecting useful information as you go.
• Two route options – Bath Abbey to the Circus (1.5 miles/ 2.4 km – 1 hour 30 minutes) or The Circus to Royal Crescent (1 mile/ 1.6 km – 1 hour). Simply click the link to purchase and download the walks.

Day trips from Bath  

• There are also a couple of great day trips not far from Bath, the mighty Stonehenge , Salisbury and the beautiful Cotswolds villages. 

Where to stay in Bath?

I stayed at the Rising Sun Inn B&B , located close to Pultney Bridge so an ideal location for your trip and perfect if you’re following my itinerary.

There are plenty of cheap hotels or hostels in the city so you have a great choice. But of course, Bath is a popular destination for a weekend break so be sure to book your accommodation in advance.

You can read my full review of The Rising Sun Inn B&B here

For more information or help planning your visit then check out visitbath.co.uk

Looking for a day trip from Bath? Visit the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon

What do you think of my 24 hours in Bath itinerary? Do you want to know anything else you should see and do in Bath?

Feel free to drop me an email or message in the comments below.

Save to your UK  Pinterest travel board for your trip

*My visit was in partnership with Visit Bath . All thoughts and opinions are my own.

*Becky the Traveller participates in the Amazon Services Associates Programme, as well as other affiliate programmes. If you make a purchase through these, I earn from the qualifying links. This is at no extra cost to you. Read more here .

Becky the Traveller

7 thoughts on “ only 24 hours in bath | what you should see + do in bath, uk (1-day itinerary) ”.

I loved Bath! Unfortunately, when I was there, the cathedral was closed. One regret but I’d happily go back there. Your photos reminded me of what a wonderful place it is. thanks!

Ah thank you April,yeah is such a pretty city. I hope you get chance to go back to see Bath Abbey on the inside too it’s stunning 🙂

I hate that we missed Bath where we were in the UK last summer. I really want to see this charming city. Thanks for the great itinerary. I’ll be saving it for my next trip 🙂

Aw such a shame you missed it but sometimes it’s so hard to decide which places to visit. When are you planning on coming back? 🙂

I took a day trip to Bath during a summer at Oxford and wish I could’ve stayed longer! It is so beautiful. I’m going to save this for later because I’m planning to go back this summer.

Yeah it’s gorgeous isn’t it, I really loved it. Have a wonderful time when you got back 🙂

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Perfect day trip itinerary for bath, uk.

The beautiful World Heritage city of Bath is one of England’s top highlights.

Even if only you’re travelling in this country for a week or so, then you really can’t miss this stunning town situated in the country’s southwest corner.

Unbelievably, I hadn’t visited this gem in my home country, until this summer – 32 years in!

With a trip to Bristol to see friends booked (read more about the best free things to do in Bristol here), Bath seemed like the perfect accessory, only 15 minutes away by train.

But Bath certainly isn’t just a Bristol accessory, it’s very much a jewel in its own crown – in fact it’s amazing just how close and how different the 2 cities are.

Bath is all glamour, while Bristol is all grit. Both are magnificent, it just depends what you’re into.

And FYI: I’m into both!

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How to Travel from London to Bath?

The other thing that differentiates the 2 cities is size.

Bath is much smaller, and the centre more easily explored on foot in a shorter amount of time than Bristol.

This makes a quick excursion to Bath really manageable. In fact, Bath is one of the best day trips from London.

If you’re looking to see more of England outside of the capital, then I can highly recommend Bath which combines all the necessary factors of history, heritage, finesse and countryside charm.

Visiting Bath on a day trip from London (or Bristol for that matter – you can actually cycle between the 2!) is also one of the most cost-effective ways to see the city.

It’s only a 90 minute train ride from Paddington station and, as always, I use Trainline to find the best prices – with a handy journey planning feature and live departure updates, this is my one-stop shop when it comes to organising all my UK train adventures.

Alternatively, if you’re really on a budget, you can hop on the Megabus from London Victoria Coach Station to Bath for as little as £5 one way!

You can also, of course, drive to Bath. The journey takes just 2.5 hours from London. If you want to hire a car in the UK, check out Discover Cars .

Bath have recently brought in a clean air initiative and, as such, strongly encourage all visitors to use the Park & Ride services when travelling from further afield – this helps reduce congestion and air pollution in the busy city centre.

The city has 3 Park & Ride services , which are open 7 days a week and located just 10 minutes from the city centre.

Buses run into the city from all three Park and Ride sites at least every 15 minutes.

Finally, you can also take a day trip tour to Bath from London. Check out this great option , which actually covers Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath and the Roman Baths all in a day trip from London.

Top Bath Day Trip Attractions

Originally a Roman settlement and later a popular Georgian town, Bath is famous for its history and no few than 13 museums can be found in the compact city centre.

Most entrance tickets can either be bought online in advance, or on the door on the day.

From the Jane Austen Centre to the Fashion Museum, the Holburne Museum to the Museum of Bath Architecture, there’s plenty to choose from.

Add into this mix the Bath art scene with its Victoria Art Gallery and Theatre Royal, as well as its burgeoning restaurant scene, and there’s more than enough to fit into a Bath day trip!

If you’re still looking for more, then check out this great guided Bath trip with a blue badge holder to get all the historic lowdown on this amazing city and many of its top attractions.

Or, something lighter, this sightseeing boat cruise with prosecco is a winner!

Of course the main attraction in the city is the Roman Baths, sadly you can no longer dive in here, but it is a fascinating historic site to wander around.

And don’t forget the 7th century Bath Abbey, which is Grade I listed.

Well-worth a visit, head here to explore the magnificent stained-glass windows, the impressive stone columns and the incredible fan vaulted ceiling. There’s also a heritage museum in the cellars and an impressive view of the city from the roof.

Buy your tickets ahead of time here .

How to Get Around Bath?

Bath’s city centre is pretty compact and getting around on foot is both easy and enjoyable.

Thankfully the bus and train station are also central, which means if you’re arriving into the city this way, it’s usually easy to get to your accommodation and all the city’s main attractions.

If you’d rather hop on a bus however, then First Bus run a service around the city centre, as well as to neighbour towns and villages. Check out their journey planner here .

You can pay for bus journeys on the bus using the contactless card terminal by the driver, which cost £2 each.

Alternatively, you buy a FirstDay ticket giving you 1 day of unlimited travel across the Bath Zone for £6. But form the driver or the First Bus app .

Otherwise, if you want to combine transport with sightseeing, this Tootbus Discovery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in Bath is a winner!

Best Itinerary for Your Bath Day Trip

Of course , the key to getting the best out of any day trip is to plan your itinerary in advance, so you can jam pack your day and get the most of it!

So here, to help you out, is my ideal Bath Day trip itinerary, which is easy to copy for a fab quick visit to this city.

No day trip to Bath is complete without breakfast at the historic Sally Lunn’s cafe.

One of the oldest houses in Bath – dating back to 1483 – this place oozes tradition and has been serving up the same iconic (and delicious) Bath Buns for over 300 hundred years!

Legend has it the recipe for these rich round buns was brought to Bath in 1680 by a Huguenot refugee from France.

The buns are still made by hand, using the same original recipe, today – a recipe closely guarded and only passed on with the deeds of the house!

Choosing from a sweet or savoury Sally Lunn bun is the perfect way to start your day in Bath.

Not only that, but by dining here will also grant you free access to the museum room below.

Perfect for those wishing to see Bath on a budget, this small exhibition brilliantly displays the real age of this house from this Tudor fireplaces to its 11 th century baker’s oven to the Roman and Saxon pottery remains found on site.

After Sally Lunn’s, head to the Bath Weir for some iconic photos of the Pulteney Bridge, before cutting across town to The Circus for some equally attractive photograph opps.

No Bath day trip is complete without a wander up to the Royal Crescent – a fabulous stretch of Georgian houses, set up on a hill and clustered around an attractive green – that exemplifies the high society Bath lifestyle fashionable at the time.

Head back into town, admiring the boutique shop windows and the traditional Bath Stone buildings on the way, before stopping to check out the UNESCO World Heritage Bath Abbey .

A place of worship for more than 1200 years, the stunning stained-glass windows of the church shed light on some of the world’s most impressive vaulted ceilings.

A climb to the top of the Abbey’s 212 steps for incredible views across the city is well worth the £6.50, although I suggest buying your tickets in advance to avoid the queue!

Otherwise, why not enjoy some fabulous free street entertainment in the square outside with one of the most quintessential English backdrops imaginable.

When it comes to lunch in Bath, I recommend heading to the Bath Guildhall Markets, which are just around the corner from the Abbey.

Stock up here on picnic goods and then head to one of the city’s many green spaces to enjoy a delicious picnic lunch.

No perfect Bath day trip itinerary would be complete with a visit to the Roman Baths , which really are the foundations of the city.

You can’t bathe in them sadly, so leave your swimsuits at home, but visiting them is a must do during your bath day trip.

Entrance fees for adults are £20.50 on a weekday or £23.50 at the weekend.

This seems quite expensive, but is well worth it given the wealth of information imparted via the included audio tour.

You really can spend a good few hours here, imaging what life would have been like thousands of years ago, as the same natural spring continues to pump its healing waters for all to marvel at.

If you want a Bath walking tour that includes entry to the Roman Baths, check out this option .

Finish up your afternoon with a classic English ale.

The Huntsman on Bath’s North Parade is a wonderful pub for this, featuring local beers on tap amidst a great atmosphere.

Finally, why not finish your budget day trip to Bath with a stroll along this city’s lovely canals?

The walk to nearby Bathampton is very manageable and will also give you a delightful glimpse into the rolling hill countryside that surrounds the city.

If the stroll has made you a bit peckish, then why not stop at one of Bathampton’s waterside pubs.

The George is particularly popular and we enjoyed a very well-priced meal here, that would be perfect for those also seeking to explore Bath on a budget.

Where to Stay in Bath?

Budget: Top budget accommodation spots include Bath YMCA and St Christopher’s Inn Bath , which are both well-located in the city centre. Otherwise, the YHA Bath is a little further out of town, but set within a listed Italianate mansion!

Mid-range: The Z Bath Hotel is a fab, modern hotel in the heart of the city or this beautiful, modern 1 bedroom apartment in city centre is also great.

Luxury: My pick has to be the The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel by YTL is a 5* property with guest access to massage, hot tub and fitness centre on-site.

When to Visit Bath?

The best time to visit Bath is definitely during the summer months in my opinion.

The better weather from June to August will definitely allow you to get out and explore the glorious parts and historic sights of this iconic city.

Christmas is also a lovely time to visit Bath when the markets and festive atmosphere are in full flow.

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So that’s my perfect Bath day trip itinerary – ideal for those on a budget!

Have you visited this fantastic English city?

What did you enjoy doing there and what are your top Bath budget tips?

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

6 thoughts on “ Perfect Day Trip Itinerary for Bath, UK ”

Bath seems like a great budget destination! How do you suggest exploring the city?

Definitely on foot is the best (and cheapest way) to get around Bath Agness. Getting there from Bristol or London – the 2 closest major cities – is very easy via train or bus 🙂

I really want to go to Bath as it looks so pretty and I’m always on the look out for affordable travel destinations! Great post and I love your photos!

Thanks so much Chloe – I can highly recommend bath, it’s a great UK spot and definitely VERY pretty!

I want to do Bath and Bristol in one day from London. I would only like to visit the Bath Cathedral and Roman Baths and in Bristol only the Arnos Vale Cemetery before heading back to London. How could I do it?

Hi Mithu, thanks for your questions. You can easily drive from London to all the destinations you mention in a day – this is very do-able. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to Bath, visit the Abbey and Roman Baths, and then take a train or bus to Bristol to visit Arnos Vale Cemetery. From Bristol, you can then easily take a train or bus back to London. Hope this helps and happy travels. Best wishes, Steph 🙂

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A weekend in Bath: 2-day Bath itinerary

Posted on Last updated: October 19, 2023

How to spend a weekend in Bath: Discover the best things to see, do, eat and drink in Bath in a two-day itinerary featuring this historic city’s Georgian architecture, thermal spas and literary links.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

With its famous golden-stone Georgian terraces, steaming spa waters, afternoon teas and Jane Austen links, you can’t say Bath isn’t on the UK tourist trail. Its quintessentially English charms pull in visitors from around the world and it has so many historic buildings that the entire city centre has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But although you might have to dodge a few tour groups, it’s more than worth it to explore one of England’s most beautiful historic cities. So here’s my two-day Bath itinerary to help you plan the perfect weekend in Bath, with what to see, where to eat, drink and stay.

How to spend a weekend in Bath

Friday evening

Check into your accommodation then start your weekend in Bath with a pre-dinner drink at the Canary Gin Bar on Queen Street. The bar is run by the Bath Distillery, who brought distilling back to the city after a 250-year absence. They’ve created a menu of ‘Gin’ Austen cocktails using their small-batch gins, as well as serving 230 other gins.

Then head to Green Park Brasserie & Bar on Green Park Road for dinner – a steakhouse and jazz bar located inside a former 1870s railway station booking hall. It’s a relaxed place, serving produce sourced from the adjacent Bath Farmers’ Market in dishes like steak, cider-glazed ribs and wood-fired pizza. There’s also live music on Saturday nights.

Saturday morning

For an insight into Bath’s history, start the day with a walking tour with the Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides . These two-hour tours are led by knowledgeable local guides who share their love of the city on a relaxed stroll through some of its highlights. Tours are free (with no need to tip) and leave from the courtyard by the Roman Baths at 10.30am.

Or you can take your own tour of Bath’s honey-stone highlights. Start at the Royal Crescent, one of Bath’s most famous landmarks. This curved terrace of Georgian townhouses arcs around a perfectly manicured lawn. The Royal Crescent was built in the 1770s and its buildings haven’t changed much since then, at least on the outside.

Most are private residences – when they’re not being used by film crews for period dramas like Bridgerton . But Number 1 Royal Crescent has been converted into a museum. Inside you can go back to the 18th century and see how wealthy Georgians lived, complete with authentic furniture, décor and fascinating details of their everyday lives.

The Royal Crescent is one of many buildings made from the distinctive golden Bath Stone. Quarried out from the hills around the city, it’s a type of limestone that was first used by the Romans and later for churches, bridges and houses around Bath.

Another impressive Bath address is The Circus, with three sections of curved buildings forming a circle. And it’s just a few minutes walk from there to the Bath Assembly Rooms . These were the hub of the 18th-century social scene, with elegant rooms for tea drinking, cards and dancing. Today they’re open to the public when not in use for events.

Follow in the footsteps of Jane Austen, who attended balls at the Assembly Rooms when she lived in Bath in the early 1800s and featured them in her novels Northanger Abbey and Persuasion . You’ll also find the Jane Austen Centre on Gay Street a few minutes’ walk away, which tells the story of her life in Bath (and has lots of dressing up opportunities).

Then stop for lunch at Sally Lunns , the oldest house in Bath. It’s home to a Bath classic – the ‘Sally Lunn bun’. This kind of brioche is spread with butter or cream, made to a recipe allegedly brought to the country by a 17th-century French emigrant.

Saturday afternoon

After lunch, cross the Abbey Church Yard to Bath Abbey. The current abbey was built in 1499 but there’s been a church on the same site since the 8th century. Admire the west front, with carved stone angels climbing Jacob’s Ladder to heaven, then head inside to see the cathedral’s impressive fan-vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows.

Or take a guided tower tour and climb 212 spiral steps to the abbey roof for panoramic views over Bath and down to the Roman Baths below you. Tours take 45–60 minutes and also give you a behind-the-scenes view of the ceilings and bell tower.

Then head to Pulteney Bridge, passing the Parade Gardens, which was a popular spot for a promenade in Jane Austen’s day. The bridge was built in the 18th century for William Pulteney to connect Bath to the other side of the River Avon to help drive up land prices. He wanted his bridge to be eye-catching and elegant and certainly managed it.

Pulteney Bridge is one of only four bridges in the world with shops built into both sides, like Florence’s Ponte Vecchio – Les Misérables fans might also recognise it as the spot Javert jumped from in the 2012 film. Today it’s home to independent shops and cafés.

For a good view of Pulteney Bridge, take an open-top boat trip along the River Avon. The tour starts at Pulteney Weir below the bridge and takes around an hour (though trips don’t run if the river level is too high). You travel under Pulteney Bridge and out into the countryside as far as the pretty little village of Bathampton before returning to Bath.

Before dinner, call into Le Vignoble , an independent wine merchant and bar on Milson Street. Their wine selection changes every month, with 64 different wines to taste including small producers and unusual varieties, so it’s a good place to try something new.

Then head back towards the Royal Crescent for dinner at The Circus , an award-winning family-run restaurant in a Georgian building which serves modern European food using local and seasonal ingredients, like Wiltshire lamb, Devon scallops and Cornish fish.

Sunday morning

Start your Sunday with a late breakfast at the Green Bird Café near the Royal Crescent. It has won awards for Bath’s best breakfast, with tasty French toast with maple syrup and bacon, scrambled egg and chorizo hash or you can ‘build your own breakfast’.

Then go back in time at the Roman Baths , built on the site of Britain’s only natural hot springs which gave Bath its name. In 70 BC, the Romans built a bathing complex around the steaming waters, with hot and cold pools, steam rooms and an elaborate temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva – giving the town its Roman name Aquae Sulis.

Over a million litres of water heated to 46°C still flows into the baths every day, but don’t be tempted to take a dip. If the bright green colour doesn’t put you off, tales of bacteria and radioactive lead pipes might. Instead take a tour of the baths which includes the Sacred Spring of Sulis Minerva, the original foundations and open-air Great Bath.

There’s also a museum of Roman artefacts like statues and carvings, as well as some of the 17,000 Roman coins which were thrown into the spring, and prayers or curses written on lead tablets which visitors threw in to ask for the goddess’ help.

Sunday afternoon

Then compare the Roman spa experience with the modern version at the Thermae Bath Spa . This huge spa building has taken historic buildings and transformed them with a modern glass and steel extension. There are two separate spa areas – the main New Royal Bath and the smaller circular Cross Bath, which you can hire for small groups.

The New Royal Bath is spread over three floors, with spring waters flowing into the ground floor Minerva thermal baths. There are circular glass steam rooms, a sauna and spa treatment rooms above, where you can book a relaxing massage, facial or body wrap.

But the Thermae Spa’s star attraction is the rooftop pool, where you can soak in mineral-rich steaming water with spectacular views across Bath’s skyline. Entry to the spa costs £43 for a two-hour session at weekends, and includes towel, robe and flip flop hire.

Then finish your weekend in Bath with afternoon tea at a city institution – the Pump Room . Located next to the Roman Baths, the Pump Room was built in 1776 for visitors coming to take the waters and, like the Assembly Rooms, it was at the heart of the city’s social scene for the fashionable 18th-century set, including Jane Austen and Charles Dickens.

Indulge in a traditional Champagne afternoon tea (with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options available) with sandwiches, scones and cakes served in opulent splendour under the chandeliers and accompanied by music from the Pump Room Trio.

And while you’re there, don’t forget to taste the spa waters from the King’s Fountain (free to Pump Room customers). With 43 different minerals it is reputed to be the cure for all sorts of ills, though lukewarm water with a metallic tang is definitely an acquired taste.

Map of things to do in Bath

The details

How to get to bath.

Bath Spa train station is around 1 hour 20 minutes by direct train * from London, and there are frequent rail services from around the UK to nearby Bristol Temple Meads station, where you can catch the train on to Bath, which only takes 12 minutes.

If you’re driving, Bath is 13 miles from Bristol or 115 miles (around 2.5 hours’ drive) from London. Overnight parking is available in the city centre at Charlotte Street (BA1 2NE), Avon Street (BA1 1UF) and Manvers Street (BA1 1JQ) car parks.

Bath’s roads are narrow and can get very busy, so if you want to avoid driving in the city you can use the Park and Rides on the edge of the city at Lansdown, Newbridge and Odd Down. Parking is free, you just pay for the bus in and out of the city.

The nearest airport is in Bristol, which is around 45 minutes’ drive from Bath. You can also catch the Bristol Airport Flyer bus from the airport to Bristol Temple Meads train station (25 minutes) and then catch the train from there on to Bath (12 minutes).

Getting around Bath

The centre of Bath is fairly compact with the main attractions all within walking distance – though beware that it’s pretty hilly so you will get a bit of a workout.

Where to stay in Bath

At the Royal Crescent Hotel *, two 18th-century Georgian townhouses have been merged together to create a five-star hotel and spa. It’s full of original features with period artworks, classical statues and chandeliers. There’s a luxurious spa with indoor pool, a restaurant, bar and an acre of landscaped gardens tucked away behind the hotel.

The Hotel Indigo * is another Georgian property, which stretches along the length of South Parade. Inside it mixes historic features with lots of quirky, colourful prints, fabrics and curios. The 166 rooms are more restfully designed, and range from stylish standard rooms to big two-room suites, and there’s also a restaurant and terrace bar.

Or if you’re on the budget, one of the city’s best deals is Bath University’s student residences . There’s a mix of double, twin and single rooms with en-suites in buildings ranging from Georgian terraces to modern residences. Availability is mainly in the Easter and summer holidays, with rooms available to book two–three months in advance.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Bath?*

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Deborah Kukal

Sunday 4th of February 2024

This has been the most helpful article I've read in preperation for our time in Bath - and I've read a lot! :) Thank you for the excellent ideas for both activities and resturants.

Lucy Dodsworth

Wednesday 14th of February 2024

Thanks so much, hope you enjyo Bath!

Lynn Oliver

Monday 7th of September 2020

Thank you for this reminder of my wife and my weekend in Bath. We stayed at a lovely B&B a few hundred feet from the Abbey, Baths and shoppes... Three Abbey Green. Bath has a plethora of lovely B&Bs that are decidedly not 5-Star, but great. Also, the free guided walks are wonderful and the buskers in the plaza in front of the Baths and Abbey were a hoot. I pull out the photos of the unicyclist for a smile. Thanks for the reminder. I'd love to go back someday... another world from Florida where we live.

Monday 28th of September 2020

Bath is such a lovely place – so much history! Glad to bring back some good memories.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

Why Taking a Bath is Fantastic For Your Health

By Georgia Day

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A long, hot soak in the tub is a well established part of any good self-care routine, but it has more wellbeing clout than you might realize. “The mind and body are intrinsically linked, constantly exchanging information, and responding to one another as we move through the world,” explains Sarah St John, energy healer and founder of Grey Wolfe . “Our emotions affect our bodies, and our bodies affect our emotions. One way to face and release those negative energies from our bodies is with healing ritual baths.” Here’s why a long, hot soak may be just what the doctor ordered, and Vogue ’s pick of the best products to add to yours.

It can reduce stress and anxiety

Irregular fluctuations in circadian rhythm–the daily biological changes that affect our body and brain and tell us when it’s time to wake up and when to sleep–often occur in people suffering from depression and anxiety. Changes in these rhythms also mean changes in core body temperature. Bathing, as well as being a relaxing ritual in itself, is a great way to raise body temperature and in turn kick start the body’s circadian rhythm to get it back on a more regular footing. A study conducted by the University of Freiburg found this to be the case when they assessed 45 people with diagnosed depression. “Floating in the bath can also replicate the feeling of being in the womb, making you feel safe and comforted,” adds St John. If you’re constantly feeling in a state of stress, your cortisol levels are likely to be elevated. As well as causing disruptions to your sleep patterns, too much cortisol can negatively affect everything from skin and digestion to a dysregulated nervous system. “Most of us feel so relieved after emerging from a nice, long bath, because it naturally lowers our cortisol levels,” adds St John. “Cortisol is the so-called stress hormone, so when there’s less in our system, we feel more at ease.”

It increases feelings of happiness

In addition to lowering cortisol, a warm bath can calm the nervous system by encouraging the body to release neurotransmitters like serotonin, which contribute to feelings of contentment and wellbeing. “Your skin releases endorphins in response to the soothing warm water the same way that endorphins are released when you feel the sun on your skin,” adds St John. Bathing is also believed to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for helping you to feel calmer and more relaxed. One study even reported that two baths a week were enough to produce a moderate but persistent mood lift, a result that’s comparable to physical exercise.

It soothes inflammation

As well as a relaxing moment for your mind, a bath is a full-body heat treatment that can help with a number of physical ailments. A hot bath causes blood vessels to expand which increases blood flow to your muscles, helping them to relax, while the heat of the water is also important for increasing the flexibility of collagen fibers, which helps reduce stiffness that often comes after exercise and improves mobility. Boosted blood flow can also support better heart health as it reduces blood viscosity, which enables better movement around the body.

It can help you breathe easier

The impact of a warm bath isn’t limited to sore muscles or aching limbs, it can also improve lung function, so is a particularly good habit for asthmatics or anyone with a chronic lung disease to get into. An improvement in blood flow means that oxygen is able to flow more freely through the body, helping to improve lung capacity and helping us to breathe deeply and more easily. It can also be a great remedy for a cold. “The steam produced in a warm bath can lessen the icky symptoms you have when you catch a cold,” adds St John. “It frees up your nasal passages and helps clear the chest and sinuses.”

It can support immunity

An increase in body temperature is a vital tool in helping the body fight off infection. Recent studies have shown that just bathing for 20 to 30 minutes is enough to produce more infection-fighting white blood cells, which are a crucial part of the body’s immune defense. Adding natural germ-fighting essential oils can further boost your bath’s potency; eucalyptus, rosemary and peppermint are all anti-bacterial and will scent your water beautifully too. Vogue ’s picks to supercharge your soak

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Tips to have a relaxing spa day at home

Posted: February 22, 2024 | Last updated: February 22, 2024

If you have ever been to a spa, you'll know that they are a great way to relax, unwind, and forget about the stresses of everyday life. Unfortunately, spas can be a bit pricey to say the least, and not all of us have the luxury of time either to visit the spa on a regular basis.

Luckily, there are things you can do to recreate the spa experience for yourself. Check out this gallery for some tips on how to have a relaxing spa day at home .

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Draw a bath

The best place to start for a home spa day is the bathroom. Draw yourself a bath at just the right temperature for you, whether you like it piping hot or just warm.

While you’re filling the tub, dim the lights (or turn them off completely if necessary) and light some candles. Pour yourself a glass or cup of your favorite drink.

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Add salts and oils

While the tub is filling up, add some bath salts or essential oils. These will make your bath seem even more spa-like and give you the benefit of aromatherapy.

You don’t have to stop at salts and oils, either. If it’s bubble bath or even bath bombs you like, go for it. If you suffer with dry skin, consider bath milk, as this will moisturize your skin.

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Apply a mask

Spas will often offer you a choice between a seaweed or mud mask. Seaweed masks are difficult to do at home, but you can make a simple mud mask with cosmetic clay.

To make the mask, mix ½ a cup of clay with 2 tablespoons of water until you have a thick paste. Apply it while your bath is running, leave it for 10 minutes, and then rinse off.

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Another spa classic is, of course, a massage. While you may not be able to give yourself the level of massage that a professional can, you can definitely give it a go.

You may find that your back, neck, or shoulders are sore from the day’s activities. Knead them as needed with your fingers to relieve tension.

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After your clay mask, the pores of your skin will be open and ready to be exfoliated. Use a loofah or body scrub to exfoliate your skin all over.

Exfoliation is an important step to take if you want to achieve that silky smooth effect for your skin. Try to use circular motions to remove any dead skin cells.

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Apply lotion

Once you are out of the bath and have dried your skin, don’t forget to apply a moisturizing lotion. This will help to lock the moisture into your skin and keep it hydrated.

Once you have applied your body lotion, put on a bathrobe and stay it for a while until the lotion has been fully absorbed into your skin.

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Give yourself a facial

With the bath stage over, it is time to move onto your facial. The first step is exfoliation, which you can do by wetting your face and using a cloth or brush to scrub away the dead skin.

Try not to scrub too hard, as your skin is delicate and you don’t want to damage it. Facial scrubs also work well, so if you prefer to use those go ahead.

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Do a steam treatment

Steam treatments are great for opening pores so you can remove dirt. Start by filling a pot with water and heating it on the stove until you see it begin to steam.

Place a towel over the back of your head and bring your face close enough to the water that the steam reaches it. Stay there for two or three minutes while the steam works its magic.

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Apply a face mask

Just as with the skin on your body, a mask will work wonders for the skin on your face. Apply the mask, leave it to work for 15 minutes, and then rinse it off.

You can either buy a mask, or make one for yourself at home using ingredients such as honey and olive oil. There are plenty of recipes you can find online.

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The final stage of the facial is to apply a moisturizer. A moisturizer, whether store-bought or homemade, will lock in moisture and prevent dryness.

If you have very dry skin, you might consider using coconut oil, although this can cause pimples if you are prone to developing clogged pores.

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Give yourself a manicure

The first step to take in the manicure is to remove any existing or leftover nail polish. You need a clean slate to work with.

Try to use a nail polish remover without acetone if possible, since acetone is very drying. You should be able to find this reasonably easily in stores.

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Soak your fingers

Once you have removed your nail polish, prepare a bowl of warm water and soak your fingers in it for five minutes with your nails completely submerged.

This will help to soften the nails, which will make them easier to trim and shape. Avoid using any soaps or oils in the soaking water, as this will only leave residue.

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Trim and file

After the five minutes have passed, take your hands out of the water and pat them dry. Use your nail clippers or scissors to trim and shape your nails.

The recommended shape for fingernails is a crescent, so aim for that. Use a file to smooth out any rough spots and even out your nails.

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Push back the cuticle

Using a cuticle pusher or orange stick, gently push back the cuticles on your nails until they are no longer visible.

Be careful not to tear or remove your cuticles, since you need them to prevent your fingers from infection. A professional might be able to remove them safely, but it’s not recommended DIY.

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Apply polish

In the final step, apply nail polish. The best manicures involve three stages of polish: base coat, color coat, and top coat. For maximum coverage, apply more than one color coat.

Start by painting each nail on either side and then fill in the middle. Make sure you leave them to dry between coats, so as to prevent smudging.

Sources: (WikiHow)

See also: Soakin' stars: Celebs who love baths

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• HISTORY & CULTURE

We swapped baths for showers—but which one is better for you?

For most of human history, we bathed—while socializing, relaxing, even partying. Showers are efficient, but are they better?

For the average American, the day isn’t complete without a shower. More than 60 percent of U.S. adults reported showering at least once a day, for an average of 8.2 minutes each time, according to a 2021 public poll .

As indispensable as they are today, showers are a fairly new addition to human civilization. For most of recorded human history, dating back to roughly 3,000 B.C. , evidence suggests that communal baths played a central role in daily life. From the ancient Greek baths to the Japanese onsen, people of all social classes would gather at the bathhouse to exercise, bathe, and socialize.  

Today, people largely enjoy solo showers rather than social bathing, prioritizing efficiency over communing and relaxation. But as deeply ingrained as showering may seem, the practice is not necessarily preferable from a health perspective. Experts reflect on the evolution of bathing culture and what has been gained, and lost, in the process.

Thousands of years of bathing

As a central part of life, bathing practices throughout history have reflected changing ideals around personal care and health.  

In ancient times, particularly within the Roman Empire, bathing was almost entirely a public affair. Only the wealthiest few had their own private baths, while everyone else participated in the ritual of communal bathing, which often took place in sprawling bath complexes and included massages, libraries, and even food and drink.  

“There’s lots of artistic illustrations showing parties and things going on in the baths and people having dinner in the bath,” says Virgina Smith, a historian and author of Clean: A History of Personal Hygiene and Purity .  

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For the ancient Greeks, bathing was often a ritualistic self-purification before religious rites or welcoming guests, according to Katherine Ashenburg, author of The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History . Traditional Japanese-style bathhouses were used for both therapeutic and religious purposes, and later as social gathering places. Russian banyas and Turkish hammams were also historically important hubs of social and religious activity.

“Bathing was not always connected in people’s minds with cleanliness,” Ashenburg says. “Sometimes getting in water was thought to be, not just doing nothing for you in terms of becoming clean, but was actually dangerous to your health.”

During the Black Death, for instance, public baths closed because Medieval Europeans believed that opening the pores with hot water would allow the plague to enter through the skin.

Though this thinking was incorrect, there were hygiene concerns in public baths, according to James Hamblin, a physician and lecturer at Yale University and author of Clean: The New Science of Skin and the Beauty of Doing Less . “Some accounts of ancient bath houses…described layers of slime across the surface of the water,” he says. “If anything, you were exposing yourself to pathogens.”  

A new era of bathing

Large-scale communal bathing would eventually die out around the turn of the 20th century in the West. One major driver was the emergence of germ theory of disease , “when bathing became strongly associated with cleanliness,” Hamblin says.  

Starting in the mid 1800s, cities in the U.K. began to build public baths and washhouses mainly for the poor. A similar phenomenon would soon play out in the U.S., most notably in New York City where plumbing was still fairly inaccessible and immigrant populations boomed. With the development of the so-called “rain bath” —an early shower that was first used for European military and industry workers—came a new vision of public health and mass hygiene.  

Gone were the days of long, luxurious, communal baths. Because of its space, water, fuel, and cost-efficiency, the rain bath became the preferred bathing setup. As people began to get plumbing inside their homes, personal bathtubs and showers grew increasingly common and, eventually, became the norm.  

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Naomi Adiv, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Toronto Mississauga, largely attributes this shift to the “rise of industrial capitalism” in America. “The idea that you would go, you know, hang out at the bath for the afternoon is not in keeping with worker productivity.”  

Public bathhouses do still exist around the world, including in Turkey, Russia, and Japan. But our daily cleaning rituals have largely been relegated to individual baths and shower stalls—and not necessarily for the better.

“We’ve lost a social aspect of [bathing], and for many people a feeling of enjoyment,” Hamblin says.

Which is better, showering or bathing?

From a sanitation perspective, there’s little research about whether showering or bathing is preferred. Given a clean water source, both are effective for personal hygiene, says Kelly Reynolds, professor of Community, Environment and Policy at the University of Arizona, and “really seems to be a matter of personal choice.”  

To those worried about soaking in unsanitary water, Amy Huang, a dermatologist at the Medical Offices of Manhattan says “unless you’re extremely dirty…there shouldn’t be any concerns.”

Much like the gut microbiome, the skin biome contains thousands of species of microbes that live on and support skin health, Hamblin says. Both bathing and showers can temporarily strip this biome or damage our skin if the water is too hot, if too much soap is used, and if scrubbing is too vigorous.

“The ideal regimen is basically a gentle soap…no fragrance, no dyes, and ideally non-sudsing,” says Huang. You don’t even need to scrub everywhere—focus on the armpits, the genitals, the feet, and the scalp if you’re washing your hair, she adds. Katrina Abuabara, associate professor of dermatology at UCSF, adds that “using loofahs and washcloths can damage the skin barrier, and washing with one’s hands is sufficient.”

For people with eczema or other skin conditions, for instance, baths can be an effective part of their treatment regimen. “Because you’re sitting in the bath for longer than you do in the shower, you’re making the skin softer so that when you apply medicine…your skin absorbs it better,” Huang says.  

Taking a warm bath can also act as a physical and mental boost, according to Justine Grosso , a mind-body psychologist in New York and North Carolina. Immersion bathing, more so than showering , “has been shown to lift mood in people with depression, improve sleep for people with insomnia, and have positive effects on the cardiovascular system,” she says.

How exactly warm bathing affects the body is still being researched. “There is some evidence that it works through vasodilatation , in which blood vessels widen allowing more oxygen and nutrients to the periphery of the body,” Grosso adds.

“It’s about the heat,” says Ashley Mason, a clinical psychologist at UCSF’s Osher Center for Integrative Health. Preliminary studies suggest that immersing oneself in saunas , steam rooms, hot tubs, and hot showers or baths at least once a day could be beneficial.  

Overall, when it comes to cleaning ourselves, Hamblin says, less is more. The personal hygiene industry has “medicalized” a practice that has very little to do with disease prevention, he says. Without discounting the necessity of soap in public health, he blames modern marketing for manipulating consumers into distorted beliefs about the importance of a daily ritual using expensive products.  

From a medical standpoint, communal bathing was never a means to better health, Hamblin adds. But “in terms of connectedness socially, of relaxing you psychologically, I don't doubt that it had some effect.”

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U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is on a five-day visit to China

Devan Schwartz

Leila Fadel

NPR's Leila Fadel talks to Mary Lovely, senior fellow with the Peterson Institute for International Economics, about Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen's visit to China.

LEILA FADEL, HOST:

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is finishing a trip to China, where she's managed to become a favorite on Chinese social media. Posts with the secretary masterfully using chopsticks have been viewed millions of times there. But has the secretary's popularity online translated to success for the actual purpose of her trip, trade talks? For more on Yellen's visit and relations between the world's two largest economies, we're joined by Mary Lovely. She's a senior fellow with the Peterson Institute for International Economics. Good morning, Mary.

MARY LOVELY: Good morning.

FADEL: Thanks for being on the program. So there are a lot of competing U.S. and Chinese interests over goods like electric vehicles, solar panels, as well as national security concerns related to the economy. So I want to start with listening to what Yellen said to the Chinese premier, Li Qiang, yesterday.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

JANET YELLEN: I believe that, over the past year, we've put our bilateral relationship on a more stable footing.

FADEL: Mary, does that strike you as true, and does Yellen's trip further destabilize the relationship?

LOVELY: Well, that's an interesting question. I believe it is true that the U.S. and China talking at the highest levels of government is extremely important to not just stabilizing the relationship, but trying to reduce conflict, so I think it's important. It doesn't mean that many problems have been solved. It's an attempt by both sides to begin to solve some problems, I think. And has her trip destabilized it? No, I don't see that it has.

FADEL: Were there any breakthroughs with this trip?

LOVELY: Well, I think the mission is - was not so much to have a breakthrough as to warn the Chinese. It seems as though the Biden administration is teeing up more trade restrictions against China. And in particular, we're talking about so-called new energy products - EVs, solar panels, batteries. And there might have been some attempt to, you know, negotiate with the Chinese to get them to restrain, in some way, their exports, but it doesn't seem like anything like that has happened. So it can be seen as an attempt by the administration to avoid tariffs and settle this in a different way.

FADEL: Now, Yellen went to China with a big message, which is that China is overproducing and flooding the market with cheap products, as the administration puts it, and that hurts local production here. How was that message received on her trip?

LOVELY: Well, China has admitted that it has a problem with overcapacity, certainly in the past on steel and cement. And more recently, it was discussed at the work program last December. So at the highest levels of the Chinese Communist Party, they have admitted that there are - overcapacity.

I think where the Chinese and the U.S. most clearly disagree is in electric vehicles. China has become a strong exporter of those vehicles, as is - Europe. The U.S. is far behind, exporting about a tenth of what China and the United - and Europe export each month. But these EVs are, in some sense, a threat to the future. So as the Biden administration and the United States in general has invested in transitioning its auto sector toward EVs, it's important that those, you know, green shoots have a chance to take off.

And there's a fear that Chinese companies lack the basic profit-based motive of when they build too much, inventory builds up, they pull back production. Instead, as we've seen in other industries in the past, China keeps pumping out more product.

FADEL: Really quickly, before I let you go, Yellen's making this visit right before a presidential election, meaning they - China might not be see - dealing with the same man soon or could be dealing with the same man. Does that affect her trip?

LOVELY: Yes, I think it does. I think the Chinese don't really know, if they cut a deal, if it will hold. President Trump has certainly argued for much more draconian restrictions against China.

FADEL: That's Mary Lovely, a senior fellow with the Peterson Institute for International Economics. Thank you so much.

LOVELY: You're welcome.

Copyright © 2024 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

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2024 nfl mock draft: qbs go 1-2-3, dak prescott to broncos in new two-round projections, lions full mock draft: let's make some trades edition, lions 2024 draft: a cornerback for every round, espn declares lions the landing spot for darius robinson in 2024 nfl draft, lions president rod wood proclaims new jerseys will be 'one of the great' nfl uniforms, lions held a pre-draft visit with ohio state dl michael hall.

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