How to spend a Weekend in Bath: A unique 2-day itinerary
Blessed with Roman ruins, elegant Georgian architecture, and tiny cobbled streets, a weekend in Bath will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Jane Austen novel. Bath is so beautiful that it’s the only city in the UK to be a designated World Heritage Site in its entirety.
While you can still see the remnants of high society in Bath today, if you scratch beneath the surface, you’ll also find a folksy, laid back city. Bath brings together the best of both worlds. Browse designer boutiques or vintage shops, socialise in Georgian tea houses or hipster cafes, and enjoy champagne in the elegant Pump Room or a cocktail in a lively gin bar.
There is so much to see but luckily the centre is quite compact so you can fit a lot into a weekend trip to Bath. In this guide, I’m covering the very best things to do on a weekend in Bath, plus tips on where to eat, drink, and stay to help you make the most of your weekend away in Bath.
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IN THIS GUIDE
A local’s guide to spending a weekend in Bath
Planning a weekend in Bath: Useful Information
How to get to Bath
Bath is located in Somerset in the South West of England, 97 miles west of London and 11 miles southeast of Bristol. There are regular trains and buses from both directions, making Bath very accessible for a weekend getaway.
BY TRAIN
Bath Spa railway station is well connected to many cities in the UK. If you’re coming from London, take the train from London Paddington directly to Bath Spa train station. The train journey from London to Bath usually takes around 90 minutes.
I book all of my train tickets on The Train Line as it’s easy to compare train times, journey lengths and prices for trips like this. You can look into tickets and check if there are any planned engineering works on their website.
BY BUS
National Express also runs frequent coaches from London Victoria Coach Station and the fastest journey will get you there in just 2 hours 20 minutes.
BY AIR
For those of you visiting from abroad, you’ll probably fly into London and will land in either Heathrow or Gatwick Airport. You will then need to either hire a care or get to London Paddington Station to get the train to Bath Spa.
- If you arrive at Heathrow Airport, you can jump on the Heathrow Express which leaves every 15 minutes and goes directly to Paddington.
- Flying into Gatwick, you can get the Gatwick Express to London Victoria Station and then get the tube (underground) from Victoria to Paddington. The journey takes around 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can get the train from Gatwick Airport to London Paddington. It takes about an hour and you do have to change once but it normally works out cheaper than the Gatwick Express.
If you’re planning a weekend in Bath and you live in the UK, the closest airport to Bath is Bristol Airport which has daily flights from many UK destinations. Once you arrive, you can hop on a bus to Bath. Air Decker and National Express both run frequent buses from Bristol Airport to Bath city centre. It takes about 50 minutes and costs £15 per person.
BY CAR
Although most of the places on this 2-day Bath itinerary are within walking distance of one and other, driving does give you more flexibility to explore further afield. Bear in mind though that parking in Bath can be quite expensive. From London, it takes around 2 hours 30 minutes depending on traffic. If you love history, I highly recommend stopping at Stonehenge on route to see this ancient site.
If like me, you don’t have your own car, hiring a car can be a dreaded task. I personally use Auto Europe as it’s really easy to use. You can compare all the major companies in a grid format that shows the prices for different car sizes by provider. They also clearly show what is and isn’t included in the price. If you need any help, their 24/7 customer service is very good. Click below to check prices in your home currency.
How to get around Bath
The best way to see all of the sights on your weekend in Bath is on foot. Most of the attractions in the city centre and Pulteney Quarter are close together. Some spots on this 2-day Bath itinerary are further afield. You can use local buses if you don’t want to walk, or you could drive and park closer if that’s more convenient.
Another option is to book the Hop-on/ Hop-off bus. This is a great way to see all of the main sights without having to walk to each one. You still have lots of flexibility and get on and off wherever you like on the bus route. There is also audio commentary on board so you can learn more about the history of the city and the different iconic sights.
The best time to visit Bath
Bath is a popular destination. Tourists and Jane Austen fans come from all over the world to visit this beautiful city. In the summer, there are a lot of tour groups which can make the city especially crowded.
If possible, try to plan your weekend break in Bath in the off-season. February and March are both lovely times to visit Bath. I’d be lying if I said it was quiet during the off-season – Bath is busy all year round – but it is definitely quieter than the summer months! Going outside of the peak season will make your weekend in Bath much more enjoyable!
There are a lot of events and festivals throughout the year including the Jane Austen festival and Bath Comedy Festival. These events make the city a lot busier and accommodation more expensive. Unless you plan on attending the event, I would avoid booking your Bath city break during this time. You can check what’s happening in Bath on the Visit Bath website which has all the up to date information.
Winter is also a nice time to visit Bath to see the Christmas market and the festive decorations. If you plan to visit in winter, make sure you book accommodation months in advance as it fills up quickly.
WHERE TO STAY IN BATH
Bath has plenty of luxury hotels, grand guesthouses and chic apartments to suit every budget. As you’ll be doing a lot of walking during your 2 days in Bath, I recommend choosing a more central hotel so that you’re close to the main sites. If you plan to drive to Bath, look for a hotel with parking so that you can leave your car there.
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APEX CITY OF BATH HOTEL
Just steps from the Roman Baths and Thermae Bath Spa, the Apex hotel is a contemporary and stylish hotel. If you’re looking for a bit of luxury then this is a great place to stay during your weekend away in Bath.
MACDONALD BATH SPA HOTEL
Located 10 minutes from the city centre, Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel is a luxury and stylish choice for a weekend break in Bath. The spa features a swimming pool, outdoor hot tub, and tranquil treatment rooms. When you’ve finished relaxing, head to the terrace for an inventive cocktail overlooking the gardens.
THE FRANCIS HOTEL BATH
The Francis Hotel Bath is a beautiful Grade 1 listed hotel made up of seven original 18th century townhouses on the south side of Queen Square. It’s a timelessly stylish hotel that will make you feel as if you’ve walked into a Jane Austen novel.
How to spend a weekend in Bath
I grew up near Bath so I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the city. This Bath weekend guide covers all of the main attractions as well as local gems that I’ve discovered over the years. I’ve included tips on what to do in the day and where to go in the evening, to help you make the most of your weekend in Bath.
Day 1
Bath Abbey
Start your weekend in Bath by visiting the impressive gothic Bath Abbey. With towering stained-glass windows, honey-gold stone columns, and an extraordinary fan-vaulted ceiling, Bath Abbey is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
The Abbey has been a place of worship for over 1,200 years but the existing building was constructed in the 12th and 16th centuries. You can walk around the Abbey and admire the delicate stone carvings but if you want to learn more about the Abbey, consider joining a tour. You’ll learn about the beautiful fan-vaulting, stained glass and key historical moments. If you’re up for climbing 212 steps, there are Tower tours which take you up to Bath Abbey’s tower where you can see the bells, learn about the age-old tradition, and soak in the panoramic views.
The Abbey is a working church so it is closed to the public at times due to services or special events. You can check opening times on their website.
A local’s tip: Romantic tower tour
If you’re planning a romantic weekend break in Bath and are looking for something special to do, book a private evening tower tour. It’s a truly unique experience and a lovely way to celebrate a special occasion. Tours include complimentary drinks so you can admire the magical views while sipping on a glass of champagne! Email towertours@bathabbey.org for more information.
Church Street
After spending some time at Bath Abbey, wander down Abbey Street and Church Street where you’ll find independent shops and some of Bath’s most renowned tea shops.
Sally Lunn’s is one of the most well-known tea rooms in Bath and visitors from all over the world flock to this famous café to try the Sally Lunn bun. It’s a delicious secret recipe so be prepared to queue! The Bath Bun is another of my favourite tea rooms and is definitely worth a try during your weekend in Bath.
Roman Baths
Bath is home to one of the world’s best preserved bathhouses which was built almost 2,000 years ago. The Roman Baths sit on top of the hot springs and were once the heart of the Roman town, Aquae Sulis.
The highlight for many visitors is the terrace which overlooks the centrepiece of the complex, the Great Bath. However, the site is a lot larger than people think and actually extends under the street level and runs underneath adjacent streets!
The Pump Room
Located next to the historic Roman Baths is the iconic Pump Room. The original structure was built in the 17th century so patients could access and drink the thermal waters. However, as the spa’s popularity grew, high society flocked to the city believing the water would cure their illnesses and relieve discomforts. The Pump Room was extended to accommodate the crowds and became a fashionable meeting place.
Today, the Pump Room is one of Bath’s most elegant dining venues. If you’re looking for somewhere special to eat during your weekend in Bath, I’d highly recommend booking a table in advance. It’s a lovely spot for a fancy lunch or indulgent afternoon tea. And if you want to, you can even try the hot spa water. It contains 43 minerals but be warned, it does have a rather unusual taste!
Jane Austen Centre
If you’re a Jane Austen fan then don’t miss the Jane Austen Centre where you can learn more about one of Bath’s most famous residents. The centre is set in a beautifully decorated Georgian townhouse and gives visitors a glimpse into what it was like to live in Regency times.
It’s a popular attraction so if you want to visit the Jane Austen Centre during your weekend in Bath, make sure you book your tickets in advance. You can purchase them directly from the Jane Austen Centre or from Get Your Guide. The great thing about buying them through Get Your Guide is that you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund. You can also reserve in advance and pay later.
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Bath Assembly Rooms
Continue to the Assembly Rooms, one of Bath’s most prestigious venues. If you’ve read Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey or Persuasion, you’ll know these rooms were the hub of the 18th century social scene and the venue for grand and lavish balls.
There are four rooms – Tea Room, Ball Room, Card Room, and Great Octagon – which had a specific purpose as their names suggest. Today, the rooms are still used for functions and conferences but they’re also open to the public when they aren’t in use.
The Circus
Originally called the King’s Circus, the Circus is made up of three curved segments of Grade I listed townhouses, which together form a circle with three entrances.
It’s said that the architect, John Wood, admired the Druids who created many prehistoric stone circles. If you look closely at the stonework, you’ll notice lots of masonic symbols, such as serpents and acorns which appear in many of Wood’s architectural designs.
The Royal Crescent
Just along from the Circus, you’ll find another beautiful example of Wood’s work – the Royal Crescent. Built between 1767 and 1774, this row of terraced houses is laid out in a sweeping crescent and is a spectacular example of Georgian architecture.
It’s no surprise that the Crescent is a popular location for films and period dramas. It’s been featured in Jane Austen’s Persuasion, the 2008 film The Duchess featuring Keira Knightley, and most recently, in the Netflix TV series, Bridgerton.
Today, the Royal Crescent is home to the luxurious five-star hotel, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, the museum at No. 1 Royal Crescent, and private residences.
The view from the lawn is incredibly picturesque which makes it a great spot for a picnic during your weekend away in Bath. If it’s a sunny afternoon, pick up some food and prosecco from M&S and sit and soak in the view.
Victoria Park and Botanical Gardens
Another great picnic spot is the nearby Victoria Park. Originally an arboretum, the park is a beautiful green space that spans 57 acres and includes botanical gardens and an 18-hole mini golf course. It’s a lovely place to sit and relax after a busy day of sightseeing.
Thermae Bath Spa
A weekend away in Bath wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Thermae Bath Spa, home to the only natural hot springs in the UK that you can bathe in. They have a wide range of treatments and packages, including my personal favourite, The Twilight Package. If you just want to use the facilities then you can opt for the Thermae Welcome, a 2 hour spa session for £38 (Monday to Friday) which includes access to the rooftop pool.
A local’s tip: Cross Bath
If you’d like to enjoy a spa experience but can’t get tickets to Thermae Bath Spa or don’t want to splash out, Cross Bath is a great alternative. This open-air thermal bath is operated by Thermae Bath Spa but is in a separate building. It’s more intimate than Thermae Bath Spa but doesn’t have the extensive spa facilities so it’s cheaper (£30 per person). If you just want a simple spa session and no treatments it’s a great option.
DAY 2
Walcot Street
Start your day by exploring Walcot Street. Lined with independent stores, restaurants and galleries, this is Bath’s artisan quarter. It’s quite the contrast from the main shopping centre which is home to the big name stores and much more commercial.
Pulteney Bridge
Once you’ve finished browsing the shops, head to the photogenic Pulteney Bridge. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the city and is very unique in the fact that it’s one of only four bridges in the world with shops along both sides. If you’re feeling a bit peckish at this point, the Bridge Coffee Shop on the bridge serves delicious cakes and bakes, as well as savoury lunch treats.
Bathwick Meadow and Bath Skyline Walk
For a fabulous view of the city, walk up to Bathwick Meadow. It’s a short walk from the centre with a slight incline but you’ll be rewarded with a sweeping panorama of the city. If you have time then carry on along the Bath Skyline Walk. It’s a 6 mile route through woodlands and meadows but there are lots of footpaths for shorter routes.
Prior Park Landscape Garden
If you have time, continue to Prior Park where you’ll find a striking 18th century landscape garden and a beautiful Palladian Bridge which crosses a small lake. The park offers wonderful views over Bath so don’t forget your camera! The garden is now open but you need to book your tickets in advance through the National Trust.
Other fun things to do during a weekend in bath
There’s no shortage of great things to do during a weekend in Bath! From literary events and music festivals, to the annual Bath Comedy Festival in April and the Great Bath Feast in September, there’s something for everyone. Here are some more amazing things to do on your weekend break in Bath:
Book a Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Prosecco
Enjoy a completely different view of Bath (and a couple of glasses of Prosecco) on a sightseeing boat cruise. The tour takes you on a traditional 1960s river cruiser down the River Avon and is a really unique way to see the city. If you’re visiting in winter, the real coal fire on-board will keep you nice and toasty as you sip on your prosecco! This tour usually sells out quickly (probably because of the free glasses of prosecco!) so book your tickets in advance.
Join a Bridgerton Walking Tour
For all of you Bridgerton fans, you can now relive scenes from the show and visit all of the main filming locations on a 2-hour Bridgerton walking tour. Join a Blue Badge certified guide and visit the homes of the Featheringtons and Lady Danbury while learning more about high society during the Regency period. It’s a really fun tour and a great way to learn more about Bath’s history! It’s another popular activity so book your tickets in advance.
Visit the Bath Farmers’ Market
Discover and sample an array of local sweet and savoury treats. The market runs every Saturday morning at Green Park station and sells freshly based pies, organic meats, fruit and vegetables.
Join a food tour
Book a food tour with Savouring Bath and sample produce from Bath’s artisan food and drink producers. All of the tours are led by local guides who are very knowledgeable about the local food scene. From breweries to bakeries, this is a great thing to do on a weekend in Bath if you’re foodie!
Meet the ghosts of Bath
For those of you who like ghost stories, there are lots of haunted locations around the city. Guided Ghost Tours are the best way to discover Bath’s famous haunts and lean about the ghosts of medieval monks and witches. The interactive tours take you to hidden alleyways and famous locations like Bath Abbey, Queens Square and Victoria Park.
A local’s tip
If you aren’t scared of heights and want to see Bath from an unbeatable vantage point, book a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon flight! It takes off from Royal Victoria Park and soars over the city’s iconic landmarks, including Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge. It’s an amazing experience and you even get a glass of champagne when you land! Check prices >
Where to eat and DRINK in Bath
Restaurants
Sotto Sotto
For a special evening meal try Sotto Sotto. It’s a romantic little restaurant serving fresh, authentic Italian dishes and is located in a candlelit stone cellar.
Yak Yeti Yak
This family run restaurant is Bath’s only Nepalese restaurant. Their authentic dishes are made from local ingredients along with unique Nepalese herbs and spices imported from Nepal. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and serves a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes.
Giggling Squid
This Thai restaurant offers some familiar favourites but also serves experimental dishes. The floral interior creates an elegant dining environment which is complimented by the warm hospitality.
Bars
Circo Bar & Lounge
This chic cocktail bar blends the old and new in an intimate and friendly atmosphere. If you’re looking for some decadent cocktails during your girls’ weekend away in Bath, this is the spot.
Canary Gin Bar
Wander down the cute cobbled Queen Street and you’ll find one of Bath’s best gin bars. Serving over 200 gins, Canary Gin Bar has a long list of inventive cocktails and is often packed at weekends. They also offer cocktail-making classes where you’ll have the chance to get behind the bar!
Walcot House
Set in an old bakery, Walcot House is an upmarket bar and live music venue. The main room hosts swing, jazz and Latin musicians before becoming a dance floor later in the evening. There’s also a second room and bar for DJs which plays disco, soul and R&B.
The Bath Brew House
The Bath Brew House has a gorgeous garden which is the perfect spot to enjoy some local and international craft beers on a sunny day. The microbrewery runs tours everyday and there is often live music, comedy shows and pub quizzes.
IS 2 DAYS IN BATH ENOUGH?
Two days in Bath is plenty of time to see the main sights. However, there are so many lovely things to do nearby so you might want to add on an extra day and make it a long weekend in Bath instead!
If you have an extra day or two, consider booking a tour to explore the local area:
- Stonehenge, Avebury and the Cotswolds Guided Tour: This full-day tour starts early in the morning with a trip to the world-famous Stonehenge. It continues on to the nearby Avebury Stone Circle, a lesser-known English gem. You’ll also visit Lacock Abbey where you can see some beautiful Tudar-era buildings, before finishing at one of my favourite villages in the Cotswolds – Castle Combe. This is a great way to see some stunning places in the South West during your Bath city break. Admission to Stonehenge is not included in the tour price. Check prices >
- Cotswolds Guided Tour: If you’re not too worried about seeing Stonehenge and would rather explore more of the Cotswolds, this is a really good tour to join. The local drivers are very knowledgeable and have a great sense of humour! You’ll see some of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds, including Castle Combe, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bibury, Malmesbury Abbey and Bourton-on-the-Water. I grew up this area so I might be biased but it really is a gorgeous part of the UK to explore! Check prices >
Final thoughts on a weekend in Bath
With its honey-coloured buildings and tiny cobbled lanes, Bath really is one of the prettiest cities in the UK. From Roman ruins and quintessential tea rooms to the fabulous Thermae Bath Spa, there is an endless number of things to do on a trip to Bath. I hope this guide gives you some fun and unique ideas for your weekend away in Bath.
Where next?
The UK is home to so many beautiful and interesting places. Here are a few more suggestions to inspire your next trip, whether that’s a weekend away or a day out.
- 5 Ideas for a Girls Getaway
- A Weekend in Edinburgh
- Everything You Need to Know to Hike the Seven Sisters
If you have any questions, please let me know in the comments below and I’ll be happy to answer them.
Love from Steph
SAVE FOR LATER
Thanks for this insights. However, the hotels suggested are out of my budget. Do you have links to cheaper hotels to stay for a weekend that you can suggest as well?
Hi Vic! I use Booking.com to find hotels. You can pop in your dates and then set your budget range in the filters!