Bath, England: where it is located, what to see, and where to eat

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, Bath is a beautiful city located in the southeast of the English countryside. Although it is not among the most popular English destinations, Bath has recently been rediscovered and has begun to gain some fame among travel enthusiasts. In this English town, there is much to see, starting with the Roman Baths, the abbey, and the Georgian architecture, as well as the places that inspired the writer Jane Austen, who lived here with her family for several years.

Since Bath is a small city, it is advisable to visit via a day tour from London, perhaps in combination with the famous site of Stonehenge. Here's everything you need to know to plan a trip to Bath, England: where it is located, when to go, and what to see.

Bath is a city in the United Kingdom located in Somerset county, 12 miles from Bristol (36 min by car) and 115 miles from London (2 h 23 min by car). The city is situated on the banks of the River Avon and between the hills of the Cotswolds and Mendip Hills.

Bristol International Airport is the closest and is served by low-cost airlines with flights starting at €32.00 one way from Milan or Rome (flight duration between 2 and 3 hours depending on the departure city - Compare flights). However, the best alternative is likely to fly into one of the London Airports and then travel by train (the direct train takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes) or via one of the many day tours from the Capital with included transfers.

Bath is a city that is very easy to explore on foot; many of the main attractions are located in the central area, although the most convenient option to optimize your time is definitely the Hop-on Hop-off bus, which offers a panoramic tour of the main attractions while allowing you good flexibility to get off freely at places of greater interest to you.

Bath also has a bus service mainly operated by First Bus which is useful for reaching peripheral areas or visiting places like the Roman Baths. Tickets can be purchased directly on board or through the purchase of a day or weekly pass.

Finally, Bath has a train station that connects it to major cities nearby, so you might consider taking the train to reach some local destinations; however, in these cases, it is still preferable to opt for car rentals or ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft.

The Roman Baths in Bath are a fascinating historical attraction. This ancient site offers a valuable glimpse into the Roman past, with interactive exhibits and reconstructions that bring to life the grandeur of the baths of that era. Immersed in an evocative atmosphere, visitors can explore the original bathing chambers, admire the magnificent columns, and discover Roman architecture.

The Roman Baths of Bath are a treasure trove of history and culture, an unmissable place to understand the importance of the baths in the daily life of the ancient Romans. A visit here offers an unforgettable experience that will transport you back in time. Don't forget to book the priority entry tour, especially if you're on a day visit.

Thermae Bath Spa is a modern and luxurious spa facility. It offers a unique wellness and relaxation experience, allowing visitors to soak in the same thermal waters that made the ancient Roman baths famous. The spa features a stunning outdoor rooftop pool with 360-degree views of the city, providing a sensation of luxurious splendor and tranquility.

In addition to the thermal pool, the facility offers a full range of spa treatments, saunas, steam baths, and relaxation rooms. Thermae Bath Spa is a modern oasis of wellness that combines the history and beauty of Bath with luxury and therapeutic regeneration.

The The Holburne Museum is an artistic treasure located in a magnificent building in Bath. This charming art collection is a true paradise for lovers of beauty and culture. Inside, you can admire works of art ranging from paintings to sculptures, and including silverware and porcelain from the 17th and 18th centuries, maiolica, Italian bronzes, portrait miniatures, ancient books, and period furniture.

Each piece on display tells a story and reflects the importance of art in history and culture. The Holburne Museum is a place of inspiration and a refuge for those who wish to immerse themselves in the art and history of Bath.

The Bath Abbey is an impressive Gothic building that dominates the skyline of Bath. This magnificent abbey offers visitors a unique experience: climbing the 212 steps that lead to the top of the building and sitting behind the clock face. Once you reach the roof, you are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city and the beautiful surrounding countryside.

The imposing architecture of the abbey, with its spires and intricate details, enchants visitors as they explore the interiors adorned with magnificent stained glass and grand pillars. The Bath Abbey is a place of peace and beauty, an unmissable attraction for anyone visiting this charming city.

The Jane Austen Center is a fascinating museum dedicated to the celebrated English writer Jane Austen. Located in Bath, the center offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in Austen's life and works through interactive exhibits and costumed characters who tell the story of her time spent in Bath between 1801 and 1806.

You can explore period environments, discover the influences the city had on her works, and delve into daily life during the Regency era. With a blend of history, literature, and culture, the Jane Austen Center is an interesting place for both Austen enthusiasts and the curious!

The Walk Skyline of Bath is a charming six-mile trail that is just a short distance from the city center. Crossing lush meadows, secluded valleys, and ancient woods, this path offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Along the way, you can enjoy the beauty of nature, breathe in fresh air, and immerse yourself in a rejuvenating tranquility. With stunning landscapes and a combination of open and wooded terrain, the Walk Skyline of Bath is ideal for nature lovers and hikers eager to explore the beauty of the English landscape.

The Parade Gardens of Bath are an enchanting green space located on the banks of the River Avon. Spanning two and a half acres, this garden offers stunning views of the famous Pulteney Bridge and the surrounding weir. One of the highlights of this place is the picturesque colonnade, built in the early 20th century, from which you can take in breathtaking panoramas of the city and the river.

The Parade Gardens are the perfect place to relax, take a leisurely walk, or simply enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature in a picturesque and evocative setting.

Pulteney Bridge is an icon of Georgian architecture located in the city of Bath. This magnificent bridge is one of the most photographed locations and is known for its beauty and uniqueness; in addition to being an architectural wonder, it also offers a spectacular view of the River Avon.

There is another feature that makes Pulteney Bridge special: it hosts shops along its entire length on both sides (there are only 4 bridges in the world with this characteristic), making it an excellent place for shopping. Lastly, it is also possible to admire it from the water via a romantic boat tour with Prosecco.

This cozy museum hosts a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative art. The gallery offers an exciting and varied exhibition program, featuring works by local and international artists. In addition to its permanent collection, the gallery has two temporary exhibition spaces that change every two months, providing visitors with a new experience with each visit.

The Fashion Museum in Bath, located in the charming Assembly Rooms, is a must-visit destination for fashion lovers. With its eclectic collection of contemporary and historic garments, the museum offers a fascinating journey through centuries of style and fashion.

Admire elegant Georgian dresses and immerse yourself in the cutting-edge creations of top designers. Explore the trends, styles, and influences that have shaped fashion over time. With fascinating exhibitions and a refined atmosphere, the Fashion Museum in Bath is an enchanting place to discover the evolution of fashion and the art of dressing.

Start your day by visiting the famous Roman Baths, admiring the well-preserved architecture, and enjoying tea or coffee in the Pump Room. Then head toward the majestic Bath Abbey, exploring its Gothic architecture and enjoying a panoramic view from the tower. Next, stroll through the historic center, marveling at the Georgian architecture of the streets and squares like The Circus and The Royal Crescent, taking a break for a snack in a café or pub. Have lunch in a restaurant or café in central Bath, choosing from a variety of cuisines. Visit the Jane Austen Centre to learn about the life and works of the author, immersing yourself in Georgian times. If you're interested in fashion, explore the Bath Fashion Museum, appreciating a vast collection of historic clothing. End the day at Thermae Bath Spa, relaxing in the natural thermal waters and enjoying panoramic views from the rooftop pool.

Bristol International Airport is the closest and is served by low-cost airlines with flights starting at €32.00 one way from Milan or Rome. A hotel or B&B room in Bath costs on average €60.00, a price that can increase up to €117.00 during high season.

However, the best way to visit Bath is likely through a 1-day tour departing from London, even better if combined with a visit to Stonehenge!

Also recommended is the advance purchase of the priority entry tour to the Roman Baths to save time.