10 Best Things to Do in Bath: Places to Visit (2024 Edition)

Looking for the best things to do in Bath, England?

The ancient, picturesque, Roman city of Bath sits in the valley of the River Avon in Somerset, England.

Packed with historical monuments and architecture like Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, impressive scenery, countless museums and festivals, it’s one of the most iconic and visited cities in the country.

The history of Bath dates back thousands of years. Because of its unique location – being the only spot on the British Isles where natural hot springs bubble up to the surface, it was founded as a spa town by the Romans in 60 AD, then known as Aquae Sulis.

Traders and religious pilgrims used to bathe in the waters. Nowadays, tourists and spa lovers from all over the world flock to the city to seek out the natural healing properties of its waters.

Bath Attractions Map

Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage City with a population of less than 90,000, and the city welcomes over 4 million visitors every year. Being less than 100 miles west of London, its possible to make Bath part of a day trip from the capital, but spending a night or a weekend in Bath makes for a more flexible experience – giving you time to properly explore what this gorgeous city has to offer.

Here you’ll discover all sorts of fun and cool things to do in Bath, from unique spa experiences to shopping on an 18th Century bridge, there’s plenty of historical landmark sightseeing and stunning scenery, activities like mini golf, plus lots of festivals and events happening all year round.

10 Best Things to See and Do in Bath: Places to Visit

A complete day in Bath itinerary guide of all the best highlights of this iconic city, including top attractions and the best free things to do in Bath England.

#1. Visit the Iconic Roman Baths

The most famous landmark in the city and among the most popular things to do in Bath UK, is of course the Roman Baths.

A walking tour takes you around the Great Bath on the upper and lower levels and allows you to get immersed in its history and learn how important the baths were to our Roman ancestors and the city’s former residents, many centuries ago.

How old are the Roman Baths?

A temple was constructed at the site between 50-60 AD during the first few decades of Roman Britain. Designed for public bathing, the Roman baths were used until the end of Roman rule in Britain in the 5th Century CE. The area around the natural springs was redeveloped many times during the Early and Late Middle Ages, and reconstruction on the Roman Building was completed in 1897.

Opening times: 10am til 6pm every day (except 25th-26th Dec)
Admission: Adult – £21 (weekdays), £23 (weekends. Child – £13.50 (weekdays), £15.50 (weekends)
Book your Roman Baths tickets here:

#2. Climb to the Top of Bath Abbey

Another historic and important landmark in the heart of the city, the majestic Bath Abbey is among the most sought after things to do in Bath. Tracing its roots back to 757 AD, inside you’ll discover a wealth of decorated stained glass and floor stones as well as hundreds of wall memorials and vaulted ceilings.

Why not take the Bath Abbey Tower Tour to see an alternative, working side of this famous landmark. Navigating up 212 steps to the top, you’ll climb past the ringing chamber to the bell chamber and have the chance to sit behind the clock face. Once you reach the roof, you’ll be greeted with incredible views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Opening times: 9am til 5:30pm
Admission: Entry to the Abbey is free. Tower tours cost £8 per person.

#3. Visit the Fashion Museum

For fashion lovers and culture vultures – take a visit to Bath’s Fashion Museum, where you’ll learn the story of fashion over the last 300 years.

From the Georgian era to the present, there’s creations by Alexander McQueen and Tom Ford on exhibit. The Fashion Museum has audio guides in 12 languages. Be sure to check out the Assembly Rooms during your visit.

Opening times: 9am til 5pm
Admission: Adult – £9.50, Child – £7.25

#4. Explore the Shops on Pulteney Bridge

One of the best free things to do in Bath is take a stroll along the River Avon, leading you to stunning views of the 18th Century Pulteney Bridge – one of the most photographed landmarks in Bath.

A masterpiece of classic Georgian architecture, the bridge was commissioned by landowner William Pulteney in his efforts to create a “new town”, including land across the river.

A great place for shopping in Bath is along the top of the bridge where tiny stores including chic cafes, charming flower shops, and more are neatly lined. Why not stop by a prime spot overlooking the river whilst enjoying a cup of tea inside.

Opening times: Open 24 hours
Admission: Free

#5. Experience the World of Jane Austen

A visit to the Jane Austen Centre takes you into the life of Britain’s favorite author and Bath’s most famous resident.

Exhibitions and costumed characters tell the story of Austen’s time spent living here in Bath between 1801 and 1806, where she found inspiration for elements that would eventually be included in her most famous works: Sense and Sensibility, and Pride and Prejudice.

Opening times: 10am til 5pm
Admission: £12
Book your Jane Austen Centre pass here:

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#6. Drink the Mineral Hot Springs

The hot springs in Bath aren’t just for bathing ya know. It’s said that drinking the mineral-rich waters is a healthy remedy for numerous ailments.

Why not try some yourself at the elegant Georgian Pump Room Restaurant, where a glass of water from the spa fountain provides a unique accompaniment to a fine meal or an afternoon tea. The Pump Room is of the popular free things to do in Bath.

Opening times: 10am til 5:45pm
Admission: Free

➤ Did you know: Bath makes the perfect day trip from London? For more day trips from the capital, this Best day trips from London guide has you covered.

#7. Soak in the Hot Springs of Thermae Bath Spa

Who says you can’t enjoy the hot springs at Bath anymore? While the Roman Baths are out of bounds, you can still enjoy the same natural hot springs further up the road, at Thermae Bath Spa.

A one-of-a-kind experience, this modern new complex brings the iconic spa into the 21st Century, offering wonderful treatments, bathing spaces for relaxing, and a spectacular roof-top pool with panoramic views of the city.

Opening times: 10am til 8pm
Admission: £35 for 2-hour session (Mon-Fri), £40 (Sat-Sun). Includes towel, robe and slippers. Additional hour costs £10
Book your guided tour of Thermae Bath Spa here:

#8. Visit The Royal Crescent

As well as one of Bath’s most iconic landmarks, The Royal Crescent is one of the most famous streets in England. This curved row of 30 uniform Georgian townhouses was constructed in the 1770s, and looks exactly as it did when it was first built 250 years ago.

Though most of the townhouses on the Royal Crescent are private homes, Number 1 Royal Crescent is now a museum, furnished with authentic decorations and period furniture and showing how Bath’s most fashionable Georgians lived during the 18th Century.

Opening times: Open 24 hours
Admission: Free

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#9. Countless Festivals and Events

Bath is packed with countless events that fill the calendar year – from carnival and comedy to food and drink, theatre, music and literature, there’s plenty of exciting events and festivals taking place throughout the city.

The flagship festival is Bath Festival – a multi-arts celebration of all things music and literature. Featuring over 120 events spread across ten days, the lineup includes rock, classical, and world music, culminating in the Fantastic Finale Weekend.

Here’s a complete list of events and festivals happening in Bath over the calendar year.

#10. Experience Bath Christmas Market

Looking for things to do in Bath in December? Look no further than the Bath Christmas market, considered one of the best Christmas markets in England. The squares and streets surrounding the Abbey become an enormous holiday festival packed with festive vibes.

Bath’s Christmas market is a wonderland featuring over 150 wooden chalets, most of them from the local area, meaning you’ll find uniquely handmade, artisan festive gifts and tasty seasonal treats, and of course steaming glasses of mulled wine.

As well as market stalls and food, there is musical entertainment in the streets and at the Abbey, and there’s also ice skating in Royal Victoria Park, amongst other festive activities around the town. Learn more about Bath Christmas Market on their official website.

Top 10 Cheap Eats and Budget Cafes in Bath

Check out the interactive map below to see the 10 best budget restaurants (red markers) and cafes (blue markers) in Bath:

What to Do in Bath When It’s Raining

Looking for activities in Bath when the weather is wet? Try these indoor options to stay dry:

➡️ Roman Baths – Explore the historic bath complexes and museum on a guided tour.

➡️ Bath Abbey – Take in the impressive Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.

➡️ Fashion Museum – View changing exhibits of historical costumes and fashion.

➡️ Jane Austen Centre – Learn about the author’s time in Bath at this museum.

➡️ Thermae Bath Spa – soak in the indoor mineral pools and thermal baths.

➡️ Bath Assembly Rooms – Step back in time in this 18th century ballroom and tearoom.

➡️ Building of Bath Museum – Exhibits explaining Bath’s architectural history.

➡️ The Egg – Arts venue with comedy, theatre, music and film screenings.

➡️ Holbourne Museum – Browse one of Britain’s best ceramics collections.

➡️ SouthGate – Large indoor shopping center with high street stores, restaurants, and cinema.

Things to Do in Bath for Free

Looking to experience Bath on a budget? The following activities and attractions in Bath won’t cost you a penny:

✅ Take a walking tour through the city center to see the Georgian architecture

✅ Soak in the views of the River Avon and Pulteney Bridge from the park

✅ Explore the lush botanical gardens at Henrietta Park

✅ See the Roman Baths from the street or visit the museum at night for free

✅ Admire the facade of the Royal Crescent and Circus

✅ Visit the Victoria Art Gallery which has free entry

✅ Stroll through Sydney Gardens and discover historic relics

✅ Watch street performers and musicians around town

✅ See the grand Holburne Museum from the outside

✅ Relax in the expansive green space of Royal Victoria Park

✅ Listen to the tower bells ring at Bath Abbey

✅ Sample free tasters at the Bath food markets

With so many free attractions, you can experience Bath’s charm and beauty on any budget!

Other Things to See & Do in Bath:

General Information about Bath

• Area: 29km squared
• Weather: lowest: 2C (winter), highest: 22C (summer)
• Population: 101,106
• Founded: 1st Century AD
• International Airport: Bristol Airport (BRS)
• Famous Residents: William Pitt (The Younger), John Cleese, Nicholas Cage, Ricky Gervais

When to visit Bath

Bath is bursting with exciting things to do throughout the year, regardless of the weather. In the spring the gardens are in full bloom and city parks are full, while the summer brings warmer temperatures and plenty of outdoor events and activities.

In May there is the 9-day Bath Festival, a celebration of books and music, plus the Bath Fringe Festival. The popular Jane Austen Festival in mid-September yearly, while throughout the fall and the festive season, the city is packed with food and drink festivals to keep you lively, busy and bursting full!

Bath FAQs:

Here are some commonly-asked questions about Bath:

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