Looking for a pretty change of pace from the big city? Take a day trip to Bath from London! Bath makes for a fantastic destination whether you’re living in London or just here to visit. The city is easily accessible, but feels completely different. Here’s everything you need to know to plan a perfect day trip:
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Bath: Know before you go
✈️ Closest airport: Bristol (BRS)
💷 Currency: Great British Pound (£) is used throughout the UK.
🕰️ Time zone: The entire UK is in one time zone, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). From late March to late October, the whole country moves an hour forward to British Summer Time (BST).
🔌 Plugging in electronics: Electric sockets in the UK are unlike those in Europe or the US. If you are visiting from outside the UK, you will likely need this universal travel adaptor.
📱 Using your smartphone: If you want to use your phone data while visiting, the easiest and cheapest solution is to purchase an e-sim for your trip.
🚘 Car rentals: Americans can rent a car in the UK with a valid US driver’s license from any state. Driving in the UK is not for the faint of heart, and I recommend checking out my guide to driving in the UK before you set out!
🚊 Train booking: All major UK cities, and many other destinations in between, can be reached by train. Check train routes, ticket prices, and get your tickets directly through Trainline.
Why You Should Add a Bath Day Trip to Your London Itinerary
London is a fantastic city, but you shouldn’t devote your entire UK visit there. Bath is an easy visit that brings a completely different feel for your trip. Whether you want to experience life as the Romans did here, or take a Georgian-inspired promenade, Bath provides a postcard-perfect setting for your day out. Oh, and the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What To See and Experience on Your Day Trip to Bath
Whether this is your first visit to Bath, or you’re a regular visitor, there’s a good chance you can find something new to spark your interest. I’m starting with a broad view of available sights to help you pick out your favorites. For just the highlights, skip ahead to the One Day in Bath Itinerary.
Roman Baths
The most famous attraction in Bath is the beautifully preserved ancient Roman Baths. It’s crazy to think that people were flocking here for exercise and spa treatments over two thousand years ago!
A visit to the Roman Baths will walk you around the incredibly well preserved main bathing pool, into changing areas and treatment rooms, and through exercise spaces. Video projections help fill in the space between what you see today and what it would have been like in Roman times.
An excellent audio guide shares details and stories with you along the way. I particularly like that the audio guide includes commentary from author Bill Bryson. He applies his wit and humor to add another layer to your visit.
Aside from marveling at how much the Roman Baths may remind you of a modern leisure center or fancy gym, I highly recommend you keep an eye out for the curse tablets. These unique artifacts prove that humans have a very long history with seeking justice (and sometimes pettiness).
The Roman Baths are open daily for most of the year (closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day). Book tickets in advance as they do sometimes sell out. You’ll need to select a visit date and entry time for arrival. Booking for an early or late entry will give you the best chance for a less crowded experience.
Expect to spend one or two hours here, depending on how deep you dive into the audio guide. Don’t miss the fountain just before the exit where you can sample a drink of the spring water, believed since ancient times to be a true toast to your good health!
The Georgian Pump Room Restaurant
Less Roman in design, the Georgian Pump Room Restaurant is directly adjacent to the Roman Baths. This restaurant has been a high society spot since the 18th century, and has hosted the likes of Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. Today, the restaurant serves meals and afternoon tea as well as continuing the traditional offer to sample the spring water.
Book ahead to guarantee a table as it can get very busy at peak times.
Bath Abbey
The Bath Abbey looms next door to the Roman Baths. There has been a church on this location for over 1,000 years, so this is another sight that has influenced the local community through many ages.
The Abbey is very pretty from the outside, and is knock-your-socks-off stunning inside. The walls seem to climb forever while light streams in the many windows. Climb the 212 steps to Bath Abbey’s Tower to be rewarded with one of the loveliest views over the city and surrounding countryside.
There is no entry fee to visit the Bath Abbey, though a £5 donation is requested. Visiting the tower requires a tower tour booking that can be made at the Welcome Desk when you enter. Note that the tower tour does not allow children under five.
Visiting Bath Abbey can take as little as a few minutes to just walk through. Tower tours last 45-60 minutes.
Thermae Bath Spa
Were you disappointed you couldn’t go for a swim at the Roman Baths? Well, this is your next best thing. Relying on the local spring waters for some of its pools, Thermae Bath Spa provides a modern spa experience rooted in the same elements that have drawn people here for centuries.
Located in Bath town center, you can see Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths from the rooftop pool here. Aside from baths, you’ll also find saunas, ice chambers, and more. Book ahead if possible, though they sometimes have walk-in appointments available.
Pulteney Bridge
A short walk away from the town center will bring you to where Pulteney Bridge crosses the River Avon. If you’ve looked at any images of Bath, you’ve probably seen pictures of this bridge and the V-shaped set of Pulteney Weir’s small waterfalls. While certainly pretty, the Weir was actually part of a flood control design originally built in the late Middle Ages.
Pulteney Bridge is named for Frances Pulteney, the wife of a wealthy landowner who commissioned the bridge construction. Ever since its opening in 1770, the bridge has drawn people in with its romantic beauty.
Another interesting feature of the bridge is that it is fully lined with shops and restaurants. In fact, when you’re on the bridge, it’s easy to believe you’re walking a normal city street.
It’s fun to walk the bridge to peruse the shops and cafes, but your best picture-taking spots are downstream from the bridge on either riverbank. The Parade Gardens offer an excellent angle over the river toward Pulteney bridge, while the North Parade Bridge gives a great landscape shot with Pulteney Bridge in the distance.
Bath Buns and Sally Lunn Bunns
Bath is home to two competing sweet treats, both of which claim to have originated in the 1700s. While the history of both is dubious at best, trying out a Sally Lunn Bunn or a Bath Bun (or both!) is a necessary part of visiting the city. Both are delicious, but I have to admit a preference for the less sweet, more brioche-like Sally Lunn Bunn.
Secure your Sally Lunn Bun at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House. The building is one of the oldest houses in Bath, and feels like you’ve stepped into your favorite eccentric aunt’s home. Pop down to the basement while you’re here to see the old bakery and learn a bit about how the buns are baked.
Bath buns are served at several spots, including at the Georgian Pump Room. For a more casual experience, head to The Bath Bun Tea Shoppe. This traditional tea shop serves up tea and coffee with cakes, scones, and of course Bath Buns.
The Circus
Head north from the town center and you’ll soon come to this curious collection of curved townhouses. The Circus, originally called the King’s Circus, is a beautiful example of 18th century architecture with some eccentric touches.
The architect of the Circus studied Stonehenge and created the Circus in the same diameter. You’ll also find interesting embellishments on the stonework here, such as serpents and other symbolism associated with Druid history.
The Royal Crescent
From the Circus, it’s a short walk to another set of iconic Bath buildings. The Royal Crescent is a larger collection of curved front townhouses that form, you guessed it, a crescent shape. The green area in front of the Royal Crescent is a nice spot to stop and take in the view of these lovely buildings, and a good spot for photos as well.
Much of the Royal Crescent is private, though you can get a peek at what it would have been like to spend time in Bath during Georgian times at No. 1 Royal Crescent. You can also splash out for a stay at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa if you want to try on some historic luxury for yourself.
Jane Austen Centre
Literary fans shouldn’t miss a visit to the Jane Austen Centre. This highly interactive museum gives you the chance to try on Regency era clothes, taste Regency food, and write with a quill pen and ink. Of course, the main focus is on Jane Austen and you’ll learn about her life and work along the way.
The Centre also puts on a Jane Austen Festival each year. With 10 days of events and drawing over 3500 people, this festival is not half-hearted! More recently, the Centre has taken to hosting a Summer Ball in Bath’s historic ballrooms. Costumes and period dance moves are highly encouraged!
Bath Assembly Rooms
The Bath Assembly Rooms give a glimpse at Georgian life through rooms built to host balls and other society events of the time. They used to host the Fashion Museum, but are now in a transition process as they’ve come back under management by the National Trust. Check the website before going as opening times can be impacted by private events and renovation efforts. The full transformation is due to finish in 2026.
Fashion Museum
The Fashion Museum holds a remarkable collection of fashionable items through the years, from Shakespeare-era gloves to modern dress designs. Previously housed in the Bath Assembly Rooms, the Fashion Museum is in the process of moving to a new home in the Bath town centre. Check the website for current status and opportunities to visit.
Victoria Art Gallery
The Victoria Art Gallery displays paintings, sculpture, ceramics and more. Pieces in the collection date back as far as the 15th century. The main gallery is free to visit and rotating exhibits bring a wide range of art styles and forms to tempt you.
If you are visiting Bath with family, this is also a good stop to consider with kids. Family activities give children engaging tasks that let them dive into creating their own art, or take the role of an art spotter as they move through exhibits.
You will find the Victoria Art Gallery right next to Pulteney Bridge in yet another pretty historic building.
Skyline Walk
If you’re tired of city scenery, why not head out into the beautiful countryside around Bath? The National Trust maps out several walks that will take you on a 2-mile family friendly walk, a 6 mile circuit around Bath, or something in between. I really like the 3-mile Walk to the View – it does just what it promises and can be completed in 90 minutes.
Bath Botanical Gardens
For a more cultivated dose of nature, take a free stroll through the Bath Botanical Gardens. The pretty park features a replica Roman temple and Victorian plant collections along meandering paths and waterways. The gardens are a short stroll from the Royal Crescent and can be a nice step into the trees for a touring breather.
Top Tours and Guided Walks in Bath
Want to make sure you don’t miss anything on your day trip to Bath? Join a walking tour to guide your visit and share the stories behind this beautiful city. Here are a few suggestions to inspire you:
Bath Guided Walk with Blue Badge Guide – This 90-minute tour brings you to all of the major sights in Bath with a knowledgeable guide who will share the culture and history that have influenced the city. This tour is a great way to make sure you hit all the high points and enjoy some stories that bring the city to life.
The Bad of Bath Walking Tour – Go past Bath’s pretty veneer to hear tales of corruption, greed, and hidden sin. This 90 minute humorous tour hits all of the major sights and lets you in on secrets you won’t hear on other historic tours.
Bath Boat Trip and Walking Tour – Get a unique view of Bath with a tour that combines a boat trip on the River Avon with a walk through the city’s highlights. 25-minute boat tour and 50-minute walking tour.
Bridgerton Tour of Bath – Are you a fan of Bridgerton? This 2 hour tour will bring you to film locations and share the history that made Bath a natural setting for the tv show. Highlights include the exteriors for the homes of the Featheringtons and Lady Danbury, as well as the Modiste dressmakers.
How To Get to Bath from London
Bath is such a great day trip, in part, because of how easy it is to access from London. Trains run regularly, or you can opt to drive or visit as part of a guided tour.
Train
The train is the most popular way to reach Bath from London, and is what I recommend in the one day itinerary. Trains run between London Paddington and Bath Spa station about every half hour. The journey takes between 70 and 90 minutes and typically does not require any train changes along the way.
Book your train ticket in advance to secure the best pricing. The cheapest fares run £23 each way (£46 return). To find the best times and get the best price for your trip, head to Trainline. I use Trainline for all of my train tickets, whether it’s heading into London for the day or across the country.
Car
Driving to Bath is straightforward, but makes the most sense if you rent a car for a longer road trip. Otherwise, driving is often slower than the train and can land you in annoying traffic. Figuring out where to park in Bath can also be difficult. The city operates a clean air zone which charges drivers who enter the zone.
If you’re visiting for the day, consider using one of the three park and ride lots that have regular buses running into the city center. If you’re planning to stay overnight in Bath, check with your hotel for parking options.
Tour
There are many tours that will pack your day with numerous sights, including Bath. Many of these make me tired just thinking about them. Carefully look at tour plans so you understand how long you’ll spend sat on a bus compared to visiting each location.
The one tour type I recommend when heading to Bath is a package to visit both Stonehenge and Bath. Stonehenge needs a car or driving tour to reach, and it won’t take a huge part of your day. If you just want to see the Roman Baths or hit the city highlights, then a tour to both of these locations can make efficient use of your time.
Stonehenge and Bath Full-Day Tour – Coach (bus) pick up in London, with visits to Stonehenge and Bath. Option to book a Roman Baths entry for your time in Bath.
One Day in Bath Itinerary
Morning in Bath
- Arrive at Bath Spa train station and walk to the Roman Baths with your pre-booked entry ticket. The walk from the train station takes less than 10 minutes, but give yourself 15-20 minutes to make it there from the station without rushing.
- After visiting the Roman Baths, walk to Bath Abbey and wander through the gorgeous interior.
- Walk to Pulteney Bridge. Stop at a cafe near here if you’re ready for lunch.
- After crossing Pulteney Bridge, walk down the riverside and admire the views along your way before crossing back over on North Parade Bridge.
Afternoon in Bath
- Head back into town to Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House. Stop here for lunch if you haven’t eaten yet. Consider a cream tea at the Bath Bun if you’re ready for a sweet break instead.
- Visit the Jane Austen Centre and learn more about the author’s life and Bath’s history. Swap this with a different museum or walking tour to match your interests if you prefer.
- Walk through the Circus and along the Royal Crescent.
Evening in Bath
- Depending on your train time, head back to Bath Spa train station.
- If you have time, head to Green Park Brasserie for dinner. This restaurant serves a British menu in a former 1870s railway station booking hall. The food is delicious and they often have live music on the weekend.
Bath Itinerary Map
Click “View Larger Map” to see all the details
Extending Your Day Trip to Bath
Need more time to experience Bath? Staying over in Bath lets you see the city after the day trippers leave in the evening and before they arrive in the morning.
Where to Stay in Bath
Hampton by Hilton Bath City
This is where I stayed on my last weekend trip to Bath. This is one of the more American-style hotels I’ve stayed at in England – clean rooms with air conditioning and a good breakfast in the lobby each morning. It’s an easy walk from here to the city center and all of the tourist sights. We found the queen room with a rollaway bed for my daughter to be spacious and comfy.
Hotel Indigo
Great location near the River Avon and only a 5-minute walk from Bath Abbey. This hotel consistently gets great reviews and has a variety of room sizes. Option to include breakfast in your room rate.
Find the best hotel for your dates with Booking.com
What Else to See Near Bath
Bath is a great jumping off point for taking a road trip into the Cotswolds or walking north on the Cotswold Way. If you want to drive from Bath, compare prices on rental cars from here as they may be cheaper than starting from London. You can also pick up a car from Heathrow airport if you plan to end your trip there to fly out.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss my step-by-step guide to renting a car in the UK!
Either the day before or the day after visiting Bath, you can take the train to Windsor. Windsor Castle is easy to reach from London by train and the surrounding town makes for a lovely wander. Since it’s in the same general direction as Bath you can spend the night in either Bath or Windsor before heading back to London.
FAQs
Is spending a day in Bath worth the trip?
Bath has plenty to keep you busy on a day trip. The Roman Baths are the big draw in Bath, but the city has so much more to offer.
How often do trains run between London and Bath?
Trains usually run about every 30 minutes. Check Trainline for tickets and timetables.
How much do train tickets cost from London to Bath?
Tickets start from £23 each way if you book ahead. Last minute tickets can cost significantly more.
How long should I spend in Bath?
Spend at least two hours and up to two days exploring Bath. A couple of hours is enough to visit just the Roman Baths or take a walking tour. After two days you will have thoroughly explored the city.
