Tourists guide to the historic Roman city of Bath

Bath city guide and sightseeing

SummaryBath is one of the finest architectural jewels in England’s crown. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this glorious city exudes history, romance and elegance. The newly re-opened Thermae Bath Spa - as the only place in the country nourished by natural hot springs - has also helped to rekindle interest in the city.
Meanwhile, upmarket hotels and sophisticated restaurants offer all the trappings for a luxury weekend break. Set amid rolling Somerset countryside, Bath is also the gateway to unspoilt scenery and a haven for walkers and cyclists.
Getting there/getting around BathBath is less than a two-hour drive from London and can be accessed via Junction 18 off the M4. Its train connections are also excellent and the station is a five minute walk from the city centre. Bristol Airport is 22 miles away and is the nearest airport.
Walking around the city is the best way to explore and to appreciate its architecture. There are numerous themed guided tours of the city - from ghost walks and pub crawls to literary trails and historical hikes.
Sightseeing in BathDiscover why the Romans settled in the area over 2000 years ago by visiting the Roman Baths, a beautifully preserved temple and bathing complex still fed by naturally hot waters. In the adjoining Pump Room, you can even sample a cup of warm spa water.
If you want to indulge, spend a day at the Thermal Bath Spa, where you can slide into mineral-rich warm waters from a choice of four bathing pools. There’s also a roof top pool, spa treatments or a blast in the steam rooms. If you prefer more luxury spa packages, visit the Royal Crescent Hotel, the Bath Spa Hotel or Bath Priory Hotel.
Not to be missed is the sweeping elegant curve of the Royal Crescent featuring superbly restored Georgian residences and a luxury spa hotel overlooking the glorious expanse of Royal Victoria Park. Pulteney Bridge, crossing the river Avon, is equally enchanting.
Bath family attractions, day trips and shopping experiences
Family attractions in BathSmall children may wish to pay a visit to the Paddington and Friends shop in Abbey Street dedicated to the Peruvian bear.
On the outskirts of Bath lies Avon Valley Country Park with a Pets corner, picnic area, free boating, fishing and a junior assault course. A riverside trail provides information about local birds, wildlife and plants.
Longleat House and Safari Park is also a great day out for the family and can be reached en-route to Salisbury.Farleigh Hungerford Castle is an impressive looking building set in the pretty valley of the River Frome. Visitors can take a peek into a chapel and crypt and there is a summer programme of military re-enactments, music and drama.
Day trips around BathBath is surrounding by rolling green countryside and picturesque villages. Make time to explore – either on walks, bike roads or on a canal boat. Bath Narrowboats specialises in day trips along the Kennet and Avon Canal. Themed cruises and hot air balloon trips can also be arranged.
The strange, mythical 5000-year-old stone circle at Stonehenge is an easy day trip. You should also visit Avebury which features Britain’s largest stone circle, plus huge man-made Solsbury Hill.
Chew Valley Lake is just 14km from the city. A haven for bird watchers, it boasts natural trails, picnic areas and a delightful tea shop.
Shopping in BathThanks to the city’s legacy as former centre for cabinet making, Bath today is renowned for its antique shops. Boutiques and speciality gift stores selling everything from art to chocolate and jewellery are other strong points.
The main shopping streets include Milsom and Walcot Streets. Shires Yard is a wonderful way to splurge out and contains upmarket jewellery stores and an art gallery.
Bath nightlife, restaurants, bars and clubs
Eating out in BathTraditional tea shops and pubs rub shoulders with high quality eateries to provide an eclectic choice for diners. Some of the top spots to eat include the Seafood Café famed for its oysters, Firehouse Rotisserie which serves up Californian cuisine, Hole in the Wall for British fare and the award-winning Priory Hotel restaurant.
Bath is renowned for its soft cheese which visitors can buy from speciality stores. Also check out the Fish Market on Green Street, the Guildhall Market and the Farmers Market for local produce. Sally Lunn’s Tea Rooms are also something of an institution but can get crowded in summer.
Nightlife in BathVenture into one of the city’s traditional pubs, such as The Catherine Wheel, a former coaching inn with high ceiling, fireplaces and stone walls, or the Coeur de Lion.
Bath is dotted with popular nightspots such as Cadillacs, Babylon, The Blue Rooms or the Fez Club. The city also boasts live music venues, comedy shows, theatre and numerous festivals during the year.

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