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Bath

Things To Do In Bath

Top 10 things to do in Bath

1. Thermae Bath Spa Experience

Immerse yourself in the United Kingdom's only natural thermal waters at Thermae Bath Spa. This luxurious experience offers visitors the chance to relax and rejuvenate in ancient waters that have been a source of wellbeing since Roman times. Set in a remarkable combination of historic and contemporary architecture, the spa facilities include the Minerva Bath, a series of aromatic steam rooms, and the stunning rooftop pool with breathtaking views over the city of Bath. The water is rich in minerals, providing a truly therapeutic experience. A visit to the spa can relieve stress, ease muscle tension, and improve overall wellbeing. With a variety of spa treatments available, from massages to facials, you can tailor your experience to your preferences. It's a must-do activity for those seeking relaxation and a touch of luxury during their stay in Bath.

2. Roman Baths and Museum Tour

Explore the ancient Roman Baths, one of the finest historic sites in Northern Europe, and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United Kingdom. The Roman Baths provide a fascinating insight into the daily life of the ancient Romans. Visitors can see the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple, the Roman Bath House, and find out how our ancestors bathed in these hot springs over 2000 years ago. With the help of an audioguide, available in multiple languages, you can learn about the history and significance of this ancient wonder. The museum holds various artifacts found in Bath, giving you a deeper understanding of Roman culture and technology. After touring the baths, visitors can also taste the mineral-rich waters that were once believed to have healing properties.

3. Bath Abbey Tower Tour

Climb the 212 steps to the top of the Bath Abbey Tower for spectacular views over the city of Bath and the surrounding countryside. An expert guide will take you on a journey to the roof of the Abbey, where you can see the ringing chamber, the clock face, and sit behind the Abbey’s ten bells. The tour also gives you the chance to stand on top of the Abbey's vaulted ceiling and view its significant architecture up close. You'll get a birds-eye view of the city, including a panorama that takes in the famous Roman Baths, the Thermae Bath Spa, and the naturally beautiful Avon valley. The tour is both educational and awe-inspiring, as it provides history, architecture, and the rare opportunity to see an English medieval town from an unparalleled vantage point.

4. Bath Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Get to know the charming city of Bath at your own pace with a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour. This convenient and comprehensive tour allows you to explore Bath's major landmarks and attractions, including the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge, the Circus, and Bath Abbey. With the flexibility to jump on and off the bus at any of the designated stops, you can visit the attractions that interest you most. Commentary is provided throughout the tour, giving insights into the history and cultural significance of the sights you're seeing. This is an ideal way for first-time visitors to orient themselves in the city and discover more about the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bath with ease and comfort.

5. Jane Austen Centre Visit

The Jane Austen Centre offers a snapshot of life during Regency times and explores how living in Bath influenced Jane Austen's writing. Visitors to the centre can enjoy a permanent exhibition which tells the story of Jane's Bath experience and the impact it had on her and her family. Dressed in period costumes, the friendly staff enhance the experience, providing insights into the highlights of Austen's time in the city. The exhibition is an engaging exploration of the author's life, work, and Bath society, featuring an exclusive film narrated by actress Amanda Root. The Centre also hosts live performances, talks, and annual festivals, making it a must-visit for literature lovers and fans of Austen's novels.

6. Prior Park Landscape Garden

Wander through the beautiful eighteenth-century landscape garden of Prior Park, located on a valley overlooking Bath. This peaceful and intimate garden was created by the entrepreneur Ralph Allen, with advice from the poet Alexander Pope and the landscape gardener Capability Brown. It's famous for one of only four Palladian bridges of its design in the world, and the garden sets a romantic scene with its sweeping views, tranquil lakes, and staggering woodland. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around the grounds, perhaps encountering the abundant wildlife that calls the garden home. While largely restored to its former glory, parts of the grounds are deliberately left wild to support biodiversity.

7. Fashion Museum Bath

Fashion enthusiasts should not miss the Fashion Museum Bath, located in the magnificent Assembly Rooms. It is home to a world-class collection of contemporary and historical dress. The museum's vast collection spans from the 16th century to the present day and includes over 100,000 objects. Among the highlights are pieces by famous designers such as Mary Quant, Christian Dior, and John Galliano. Visitors can see everything from grand historic gowns to cutting-edge fashion from this century. The exhibitions change regularly, ensuring there's always something new to see. A hands-on area allows visitors to try on corsets and crinolines, giving them a sense of the shape-shifting history of fashion.

8. Victoria Art Gallery

The Victoria Art Gallery boasts an impressive collection of art, ranging from British oil paintings from the 17th century to modern works. The gallery is located near Pulteney Bridge and offers two floors of exhibits. The permanent collection on the ground floor includes works by well-known artists such as Thomas Gainsborough, Walter Sickert, and J.M.W. Turner. The upper floor hosts temporary exhibitions that change regularly, offering a rich program of contemporary and historic art. The gallery also has a family-friendly approach, with drawing stations, puzzles, and interactive games that engage children and adults alike. Visiting the Victoria Art Gallery is a tranquil and enlightening experience, allowing visitors to explore the artistic heritage of Bath and beyond.

9. Bath City Farm

Bath City Farm is a much-loved community space where visitors can meet a variety of farm animals, enjoy stunning views over the city, and have a farm-to-table experience at the café. The farm aims to connect people with nature and farming life. Animals include sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, and more. For children, the farm offers an educational and fun day out, with opportunities to learn about animal care and sustainability. The surrounding land includes meadows, woodlands, and vegetable gardens, which visitors are free to explore. Regular events such as volunteer workdays, workshops, and animal petting sessions make each visit unique and engaging.

10. Bath Ghost Tours

Embark on a spooky adventure with the Bath Ghost Tours and discover the eerie history lurking in the city's shadows. Led by a professional guide, these evening tours take you through Bath's streets, recounting tales of spectres, scandals, and mysteries from Bath's past. The theatrical delivery and expert storytelling set the atmosphere for a chilling yet delightful journey into the supernatural. Participants will learn about the lives of notorious characters and visit infamous locations reputed to be haunted. It's an alternative way to experience Bath's rich history and is enjoyable for brave souls interested in the darker side of the city's heritage.

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Places to Visit in Bath

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Explore 8 Historical Places to Visit in Bath

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Explore 6 Museums to Visit in Bath

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