Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage City and an excellent day trip option from London. Bath is a stunning and wonderfully preserved Georgian city with beautiful architecture and interesting history, dating back to the Roman empire. With the city’s Roman influence but obvious British culture, it’s easy to forget where you are and be transported to another place and time.
1. VISIT THE ROMAN BATHS
Buy your tickets online in advance and get there right before opening, plan to spend about two hours here. Although this is a very “touristy” attraction, it’s definitely something unique to Bath that you can’t miss! Weekend tickets are £23.00 and include an audio guide. Additionally, free guided tours are offered on the hour every hour from 10:00 am. The Roman Baths are most crowded in the afternoon from day trippers, specifically 11:00-3:00, so try to go as early or late as possible.
2. MAYOR OF BATH HONORARY WALKING TOUR
One really cool thing about Bath is that the city sponsors a FREE daily walking tour. Sunday to Friday at 10:30am and 2:00pm. Saturdays only at 10:30am. The starting point is right outside the Roman Baths. The guides are employed by the city, and do not except any tips whatsoever. (No. 1 Royal Crescent and the Circus is a must see in Bath and will be included in this walking tour, if you skip the walking tour be sure to check out separately).
3. VISIT BATH ABBEY
This stunning Abbey is located next to the Roman Baths and is free to visit.
FUN FACT: King Edgar was crowned here. The coronation set the precedent for rituals we see to this day with the Kings and Queens of England.
4. AFTERNOON TEA AT THE ROYAL CRESCENT
The quintessentially British custom of afternoon tea is definitely a big thing in Bath, as made evident by the many tea shops around the city. This historic hotel and spa is the perfect example of Georgian architecture and an iconic landmark of Bath dating from 1774. After you’ve finished your afternoon treats a visit to No. 1 Royal Crescent museum will give you an inside look to how the rich and famous lived back in the 1700’s. A
BONUS: For Bridgerton fans, see if you recognize the backdrop.
5. CROSS THE PULTENEY BRIDGE AND STROLL ALONG THE RIVER AVON
Cross the Pulteney Bridge and walk down the steps and along the river to get the best views of Bath. The bridge is similar to the Ponte Vecchio in Florence with shops and buildings along both sides.
Bonus for Jane Austen fans, you can visit the The Jane Austen Centre to learn more about the author who lived in Bath for five years. The staff are dressed in period costumes and characters from her novels.
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