If you’re planning a trip to the UK and you don’t visit Bath, you’re missing out on Roman baths, Jane Austen-level drama, and enough stunning architecture to crash your camera roll. Here are 27 things to do in Bath, England that’ll have you sipping tea like a local and saying “cheerio” to boredom.
1. Visit the Roman Baths (Because… Duh)
You can’t Google “things to do in Bath” without this topping the list. Walk through ancient steam rooms, pretend you’re in a toga, and sip the questionably warm mineral water at the end.
Tip: Go early or late to avoid crowds (and tourists blocking your selfies).
2. Snap a Pic at the Royal Crescent
It’s curved, it’s posh, it’s Instagram gold.
This sweeping Georgian crescent was built in the 18th century and remains one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in the UK. Stand in the grassy area below for the perfect photo—and take in the fact that people actually live there.
Tip: Pack a picnic and chill on the green. Bonus points if you do it in period costume.
3. Relax at Thermae Bath Spa
Modern spa meets ancient waters. You’re literally soaking in history—while also soaking in eucalyptus steam.
Inside you’ll find steam rooms, a wellness suite, and that famous rooftop pool. It uses the same natural spring water as the Roman Baths, but with more Instagram filters.
Tip: Book ahead. The rooftop pool is popular and no one likes queueing in a towel.
4. Walk the Pulteney Bridge Like You’re in a Movie
Because you probably are. It’s been in Les Misérables.
Pulteney Bridge is one of only a handful of historic bridges in the world with shops built into it. Walk across it, then loop under for a magical view of the weir (that’s the fancy waterfall-looking bit).
Tip: Grab a coffee from a local café and enjoy the view—both architectural and human.
5. Get Lost in Bath Abbey
A Gothic masterpiece where you can either pray or pretend you’re solving a historical mystery.
Bath Abbey is over 1,200 years old and still manages to impress. Pop in to admire the fan-vaulted ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows. Services and concerts are often open to visitors too.
Tip: Climb the tower. The views are unreal (your legs will remember it for days).
6. Say Hello to Jane Austen (Figuratively)
Visit the Jane Austen Centre and live your regency fantasy.
Even if you’ve never read Pride and Prejudice, you’ll enjoy learning how Bath inspired Austen’s sassiest characters. The staff are in costume, and yes, there’s a life-size statue for a selfie moment.
Tip: Try the costumes. You will look ridiculous, and you will love it.
7. Wander Around Prior Park Landscape Garden
Lakes, bridges, and fairytale vibes.
Designed in the 18th century by poet Alexander Pope (yes, really), these landscaped gardens feature a dreamy Palladian bridge and serene walks through nature.
Tip: Wear comfy shoes and bring snacks unless you enjoy paying £4 for a flapjack.
8. Get Cultured at The Holburne Museum
Art, history, and a building that looks like it was built by perfectionists.
The museum’s collection includes fine art, decorative objects, and regular exhibitions ranging from classic to contemporary. Plus, it’s free to enter!
9. Take a Boat Trip on the River Avon
Channel your inner Bridgerton while cruising past weeping willows.
You can choose from public cruises, paddleboarding, or hiring a rowing boat. It’s a great way to see Bath from a new angle—and give your legs a break.
Tip: Book a punting trip for max romance or chaos (depending on your rowing skills).
10. Shop ’Til You Drop on Milsom Street
High street, boutique, and bougie all in one.
From designer brands to independent shops, this street is the perfect blend of retail therapy and charming architecture.
11. Enjoy Afternoon Tea Like a Pro
Go classic at The Pump Room or quirky at Sweet Little Things.
Think tiers of cakes, tiny sandwiches, and enough tea to float the Titanic. It’s the British way to say, “I’m classy, but also hungry.”
Tip: Don’t eat lunch before. You’ll need the space (and stretchy pants).
12. Watch a Play at Theatre Royal Bath
Shakespeare, musicals, and the occasional celebrity cameo.
This historic theatre has hosted some big names and even bigger performances since 1805. Check what’s on while you’re in town.
Tip: Cheap tickets are usually available last-minute, if you like living on the edge.
13. Walk the Bath Skyline Trail
Views that’ll make your phone run out of storage.
This National Trust trail circles the city, offering hilltop views of Bath, hidden valleys, and charming countryside—all within walking distance.
Tip: It’s a 6-mile loop, so come prepared with good footwear and some snacks!
14. Tour the Fashion Museum (While You Still Can)
Regency corsets? 70s jumpsuits? Yes, please.
The museum is moving soon, so catch it before the change! It showcases centuries of fashion from the extravagant to the… questionable.
Tip: Temporary exhibitions change often, so check what’s on before visiting.
15. Try the Famous Sally Lunn Bun
It’s part bread, part cake, part mystery.
Served in the oldest house in Bath (circa 1482!), the Sally Lunn bun is a local legend. Don’t ask what it is—just eat it.
Tip: Go sweet or savoury—but not both. Trust me on this.
16. Go on a Ghost Tour
Nothing like spooky tales in cobbled alleys to test your bladder control.
From haunted pubs to Roman spirits, these nighttime walking tours are equal parts history and hair-raising.
Tip: Bring a torch or befriend someone taller than you.
17. Visit Bath Christmas Market (Seasonal, But Worth It)
Twinkly lights, mulled wine, and all the festive cheer.
With over 150 chalets set against Bath’s stunning backdrop, it’s like stepping into a snow globe.
Tip: Go midweek if you don’t want to elbow your way to the hot chocolate stand.
18. Explore No. 1 Royal Crescent
Step into a Georgian home and judge their wallpaper choices.
This museum recreates a Georgian house exactly as it would have looked in the 1700s. Spoiler: they were really into tassels.
Tip: Don’t skip the audio guide—it’s oddly addictive.
19. Have a Pint at a Pub Older Than Your Country
Bath has pubs from the 1600s. That’s older than Instagram.
Try The Saracen’s Head or The Crystal Palace for historic vibes and quality beer.
Tip: Try local ales. Bonus if you remember the name after three of them.
20. Browse Green Park Station Market
Street food, vintage clothes, and the occasional banjo.
Formerly a train station, it’s now a buzzing market with artisan stalls and indie sellers galore.
Tip: Saturdays are best for food stalls. Come hungry, leave happy.
21. Cycle the Two Tunnels Greenway
A former railway turned magical bike trail.
At over a mile long, Combe Down Tunnel is the longest cycle and walking tunnel in the UK—and yes, it’s lit with mood lighting and ambient music.
Tip: Rent a bike in town. It’s mostly flat, so your thighs won’t revolt.
22. Visit Beckford’s Tower
Built by an eccentric who liked height and solitude—relatable.
Climb to the top for sweeping views of Bath and learn about the man who collected weird stuff and wrote even weirder books.
Tip: The spiral stairs are no joke. Consider it leg day.
23. Chill at Parade Gardens
Beautiful park + river views = nap time.
This well-kept garden is right by the Abbey and perfect for lazy afternoon lounging or eating that Sally Lunn bun you swore you’d save.
Tip: Small entry fee, but worth it for the peace and quiet.
24. Eat Your Bodyweight in Cheese at The Fine Cheese Co.
No regrets, just cheddar.
This cheese shop is legendary, with more dairy than you thought legally possible. Stock up for a train snack or a hotel room picnic.
Tip: Ask staff for samples—they’re cheese nerds (the best kind).
25. Try a Gin Flight at Canary Gin Bar
Because one gin is never enough.
They serve their own brand (Bath Gin) and know their way around a cocktail shaker.
Tip: Book ahead, especially on weekends.
26. Take a Free Mayor’s Guide Walking Tour
History, charm, and very enthusiastic volunteers.
These tours are free, full of facts, and run by people who genuinely love Bath—and know where all the good toilets are.
Tip: Tip your guide—they work for smiles and applause.
27. End the Day at Alexandra Park Viewpoint
Wrap up your Bath adventure with panoramic views and a smug feeling of contentment.
A short but steep climb brings you to a park with benches, peace, and a cracking view of the entire city. Perfect for reflecting on all the tea and history you just consumed.
Tip: It’s a steep walk, but worth every huff and puff.
Final Thoughts: So Many Things to Do in Bath, So Little Time
Whether you’re into ancient history, scenic strolls, or food that’s way too fancy for a takeaway box, Bath’s got something for everyone. Bookmark this list of things to do in Bath and thank us later—probably while sipping tea and wearing something tweed.
After some more inspiration for things to do in the area, here are 50 things to do in the Cotswolds.
