OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2021
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visitbath.co.uk
WELCOME TO BATH
Built for pleasure and relaxation, Bath has been a wellbeing destination since the Roman times. The waters are still a big draw, both at the ancient Roman Baths and the thoroughly modern Thermae Bath Spa. Bath’s visitor-friendly centre is overflowing with places to eat and drink, plus some of the finest independent shops in Britain, making it the ideal city break. Lose yourself in Bath’s remarkable museums and galleries, and enjoy festivals, theatre, music and sport. Bath’s stunning Georgian architecture is straight from a Jane Austen novel – highlights
include the iconic Royal Crescent and the majestic Circus. There’s plenty to see beyond the city, too, with stunning countryside to explore, as well as attractions including Stonehenge, Avebury and Longleat Safari Park. With so much to discover, you'll want to stay – choose from luxury hotels and grand Georgian guesthouses, or cosy country cottages and chic central apartments. Don’t wait for the weekend – there are great midweek breaks on offer, often with special rates. Please do ensure that you follow the latest guidance to keep you safe during your visit to Bath and North East Somerset. We recommend that you pre-book any experiences in advance of your stay and check availability ahead of travel.
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Cover Photo The Royal Crescent by Andy Fletcher/360image Photography and Red Forge Aerial. Andy is an award-winning commercial photographer and 360-degree virtual tour specialist. He produces interior, architectural and lifestyle photography. @360imagetours 3 60image photography.com
Find out more at visitbath.co.uk
Information published correct at time of going to press. Visit Bath accepts no liability for the information supplied by, or quality of product or service provided by, the individual businesses which appear in this publication. Proudly printed using green energy on 100% recyclable paper.
DISCOVER BATH Thermae Bath Spa
Prior Park Landscape Garden
Roman Baths
Take In the View
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Built from golden Bath stone, the city is internationally renowned for its stunning architectural landmarks.
part of a walking tour or official sightseeing bus tour, to learn more about how Bath is the only entire city in the UK that’s a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most iconic, the Royal Crescent, is a magnificent sweeping curve of 30 Grade I listed terraced houses and home to No.1 Royal Crescent museum, all built between 1767 and 1775 and just a five-minute walk from the equally grand Circus, three curved segments of Georgian townhouses. These masterpieces, along with Pulteney Bridge and Great Pulteney Street, can be discovered as
A visit to Bath wouldn’t be complete without uncovering the city’s spa heritage at the ancient Roman Baths and the modern Thermae Bath Spa. Learn about our ancestors’ historic bathing rituals at the Roman Baths, one of the best preserved Roman remains in the world, before immersing yourself in the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters during a relaxing session at Thermae Bath Spa.
Discover Bath
There are more museums in Bath in just one square mile than most larger cities can boast altogether. Find out about some of the city’s famous residents at the Jane Austen Centre and the Herschel Museum of Astronomy, and be inspired at the Victoria Art Gallery, Fashion Museum Bath and The Holburne Museum, all of which have extensive exhibition programmes.
Plan your visit at visitbath.co.uk
For a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the city, a Bath Abbey Tower Tour is worth the 212-step climb. Ascend the Gothic landmark, passing the bell chamber and clockface, and emerge on the roof for epic 360-degree views over Bath. You’ll also find wonderful views of the city at Alexandra Park and Prior Park Landscape Garden, and on the Bath Skyline Walk. Browse things to do at visitbath.co.uk/things-to-do
Discover Bath
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SOAK UP THE ATMOSPHERE There’s definitely something in the water here in Bath. A true centre of wellness and wellbeing in the UK, it’s one of the only places in Britain where you can bathe in natural hot springs.
Powered by the same mineral-rich thermal springs that soothed the Romans, the first to harness the city’s healing waters back in 43 A.D., Thermae Bath Spa has a twenty-first-century take on the spa experience. Take a dip in the rooftop pool to enjoy sensational 360-degree views of the city, made even more spectacular by the addition of atmospheric steam on a cold day.
Restful Retreats Soak in the thermal waters and book yourself a hot stone massage or aromatherapy treatment at the Spa Village at The Gainsborough Bath Spa, the only hotel with a naturally heated spa, or combine your visit with a luxurious stay at the elegant Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, The Bath Priory, Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa or Combe Grove, which, in addition to treatment rooms, has a gym and indoor and outdoor pools. All offer a restful retreat and first-class facilities.
Head to Neal’s Yard Therapy Rooms for an A-Z list of holistic therapies, or make for The Soul Spa, a tranquil sanctuary offering a range of therapies including meditation sessions, acupuncture, Reiki, Shiatsu and hypnotherapy. After relaxing, get the endorphins flowing at FLY Fitness, a boutique gym in the city centre, offering open gym sessions and classes, plus a welcoming café.
To learn more about the fascinating history of Bath’s spa culture, visit the Roman Baths. Still standing in the city centre, it gives a unique glimpse into how our ancestors liked to unwind, making the most of the steaming spring waters central to their vision of Aquae Sulis as a sanctuary of rest and relaxation.
Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/spas
The Gainsborough Bath Spa
Thermae Bath Spa
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Spa and Wellbeing
Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa
The Garden Spa by L'Occitane at The Bath Priory
Spa and Wellbeing
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Bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Bath’s natural thermal Spa, relax in the Wellness Suite and enjoy a choice of over 30 spa treatments & packages.
B AT H | B R I S TO L
Hom e of the
Open daily from 09.00 – 21.30 (pools & Wellness Suite close at 21.00)
WYLDE FLOWER DIAMOND
01225 33 1234 www.ThermaeBathSpa.com
®
LOVE BATH YOU’LL LOVE THESE T W O G R E AT N OV E L S F R O M B E S T S E L L I N G B AT H A U T H O R AVA I L A B L E N O W
Discover more than our unique jewellery… a warm welcome awaits you from our friendly, exper t staff; bespoke commissions and repairs are under taken in our in-store workshop; leave with something elegant, sophisticated or sculptural — beautifully gift-wrapped, all crafted by our UK award-winning designer jeweller team.
These popular fiction novels from bestselling Bath author Douglas Westcott are the perfect souvenir of your visit. Signed copies are available from bookshops across the city and online.
BATH 12 Northumberland Place Bath BA1 5AR T +44 (0) 1225 462826
ONLINE
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MOBILE
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I N - S TO R E
nicholaswylde.com
BRISTOL 6 The Mall Clifton Bristol BS8 4DR T +44 (0) 117 974 3582
To find out more – please visit:
douglaswestcott.com
Roman Baths Herschel Museum of Astronomy
The Holburne Museum
EXPAND YOUR MIND Discover the stories of the city and beyond at our museums and galleries. The city of Bath has been a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site for more than 30 years, due to its Roman remains, eighteenth-century architecture and town planning, historic social scene, hot springs and impressive landscape. Bath’s varied history can be explored through key moments in time, where the architecture and footprints of people’s daily lives remain, ready to be discovered.
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Museums and Galleries
The Roman Baths, one of the best preserved Roman remains in the world, is still welcoming visitors after 2,000 years. Stunning Georgian buildings line the city streets, once home to some of Bath’s most famous residents. Tread in the footsteps of Jane Austen at The Jane Austen Centre, where you’ll learn about her fascination with the city. The museum’s new neighbour, Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein, promises a fully immersive experience thanks to their interactive, multi-sensory spaces and exhibits.
Victoria Art Gallery
Astronomer and composer William Herschel discovered the planet Uranus from his garden, and his home is now the Herschel Museum of Astronomy. Step back in time into one of Bath's oldest houses – Sally Lunn's Historic Eating House – and experience the original kitchen used by the young baker herself. Go behind the scenes of a Georgian home at No.1 Royal Crescent and discover more about the city’s heritage at the Museum of Bath at Work, which includes a reconstructed Victorian soft drinks factory and bottling plant. Bath Postal Museum tells the story of the city’s unique role in the development of communications – this is where the first ever Penny Black stamp was sent from. As well as telling the stories of Bath through the ages, there are museums dedicated to collections
American Museum & Gardens
from far and wide. The Museum of East Asian Art has a vast collection of artefacts from China, Japan, Korea and South East Asia, while the American Museum & Gardens is home to the finest collection of Americana outside of the United States. Located below the Georgian Assembly Rooms, Fashion Museum Bath houses a world-class collection of historic dress, from Tudor gloves to cutting-edge couture, The Holburne Museum showcases an array of pieces from Renaissance treasures to Gainsborough masterpieces, and the Victoria Art Gallery offers free entry to their permanent collection, with a comprehensive programme of exhibitions throughout the year.
Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/museums
Museums and Galleries
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e li n on l g ia i n nt ok sse Bo e
Explore ancient chambers and sacred springs in the heart of Bath.
Bath Abbey Suggested donation £5 adult, £2.50 child
Green Tourism Award Abbey Churchyard, Bath, BA1 1LY +44 (0)1225 422462 visits@bathabbey.org bathabbey.org There is nowhere else quite like the Abbey. Magnificent stained glass windows, columns of honey-gold stone and some of the finest fan-vaulting in the world create a wonderful experience of light and space. But there is more to it than that – Bath Abbey is a church where people have prayed for centuries and continue to worship today, with a variety of services to join in on Sundays and throughout the week. Whether it’s to admire the architecture, to enjoy music in a beautiful setting or to join in prayer, come and experience the Abbey’s rich history and special atmosphere for yourself.
Open: Open daily. See website for up-to-date opening times.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House and Museum 4 North Parade Passage, Bath, BA1 1NX +44 (0)1225 461634 sallylunns.co.uk Bath’s oldest house is a must-visit. Immerse yourself in the city’s history and sample the world-famous Sally Lunn Bunn. Still baked every day to Sally Lunn’s original, secret recipe, this local delicacy is a light, airy, semi-sweet festival bread which comes alive when toasted and enhanced with sweet or savoury toppings. Follow in the footsteps of fellow travellers and even the Romans, who took refreshment on the site around 2,000 years ago. Three floors of historical décor provide the magical ambience to enjoy morning coffee, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea. Dinner by candlelight is served every evening and features traditional, local specialities as well as delicious homemade savoury pies.
awaiting sign off
The little bakery museum displays excavations as well as the original kitchen used in 1680 by Sally Lunn. With so much history packed in, this is the perfect place to get a taste of Bath’s past.
Book your slot online at: romanbaths.co.uk
Open: Kitchen Museum: Daily, 10am–6pm. Restaurant: Sunday– Thursday, 10am–9:30pm. Friday and Saturday, 10am–10pm. Please check website for seasonal opening hours.
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Fashion Museum Bath
VISIT
Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QH +44 (0)1225 477789 fashion_enquiries@bathnes.gov.uk fashionmuseum.co.uk The Fashion Museum Bath is one of the world’s great museum collections of historical and contemporary dress, showcasing fashions from the 1600s to the present day. The Museum’s headline exhibition A History of Fashion in 100 Objects shows how fashions have changed throughout the ages, whilst the annual Dress of the Year selection shines a spotlight on contemporary fashion. New for 2021 Shoephoria! showcases 200 pairs of boots and shoes, many drawn from the Museum’s world-class collection, alongside ‘star’ shoes borrowed for the exhibition. The Fashion Museum is due to reopen Spring 2021 and will have a number of measures in place to make your visit a safe and enjoyable one. Online booking essential.
Open: Closed 25th and 26th December. See website for up-to-date opening times.
Victoria Art Gallery Bridge Street, Bath, BA2 4AT +44 (0)1225 477233 | victoria_enquiries@bathnes.gov.uk victoriagal.org.uk
BRAND NEW FOR 2021
Victoria Art Gallery is home to Bath & North East Somerset Council’s outstanding art collection. The Grade II listed building houses over 1,500 decorative arts treasures. In its care are an original Tudor portrait of Henry VIII and works by Thomas Gainsborough, Thomas Barker, Walter Sickert, Paul Klee and Grayson Perry. The Gallery’s permanent collection is free to visit, and is complemented by a changing exhibition programme on the ground floor. Victoria Art Gallery is due to reopen Spring 2021 and will have a number of measures in place to make your visit a safe and enjoyable one. Online booking essential. Please check opening times and exhibition dates before visiting. Until 30th June 2021 Kurt Jackson Biodiversity 10th July–19th September 2021 An Unholy trinity: Lucian Freud, John Minton and Adrian Ryan 2nd October–20th November 2021 Bath Society of Artists 116th Annual Exhibition 27th November–26th February 2022 Myths and Monsters
Open: Closed 25th–26th December 2021 and 1st January 2022. See website for up-to-date opening times.
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Georgians at home Each room comes to life around you in this new and immersive experience Visit www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk to find out more and book your ticket
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The Roman Baths VisitEngland Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2020 – Silver VisitEngland International Tourism Award 2020 – Silver Abbey Churchyard, Bath, BA1 1LZ +44 (0)1225 477785 | romanbaths_bookings@bathnes.gov.uk romanbaths.co.uk Located in the heart of Bath the Roman Baths is one of the finest spas of the ancient world. It was here that Romans came to bathe and worship at the site of the natural thermal springs that still flow today. Visitors can explore the Roman Baths, walk on the original Roman pavements and see the ruins of the Temple of Sulis Minerva. The museum collection, located next to the bathing complex, includes a gilt bronze head of the Goddess Sulis Minerva, and other Roman artefacts. Complimentary audioguides bring the site to life, and are available in 12 languages. Costumed characters performing at the Great Bath show how Romans would have lived and worked. The Roman Baths has received the ‘We’re Good to Go’ accreditation and have a number of measures in place to make your visit a safe and enjoyable one. Online booking essential.
Herschel Museum of Astronomy The Jane Austen Centre 40 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT +44 (0)1225 443000 | contactus@janeausten.co.uk janeausten.co.uk Celebrating Bath’s most famous resident, The Jane Austen Centre offers a snapshot of life during Regency times and explores how living in this magnificent city affected Jane Austen’s life and writing. Regency character actors, costumes, film, superb gift shop and an authentic period atmosphere await you at this premier attraction. Gorgeous Afternoon Tea served upstairs at the Regency Tea Room.
Museums and Heritage Awards 2019 – Best Small Exhibition on a Budget | Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards 2019 – Gold Award for Best Attraction | Bath Business Awards 2019 – Best Tourism Business Runner-Up | Sandford Award for Education Programmes 19 New King Street, Bath, BA1 2BL +44 (0)1225 446865 | herschel@bptrust.org.uk herschelmuseum.org.uk Stand in the very spot where the planet Uranus was discovered, the home of William and Caroline Herschel. Find out about their musical talents and scientific discoveries that still influence us today. Check the website to find out more information and to book.
Open: Open daily. Closed 25th and 26th December 2021. See website for up-to-date opening times.
Open: Daily from 10am. See website for details.
The Holburne Museum
Old Theatre Royal and Masonic Museum
Great Pulteney Street, Bath, BA2 4DB +44 (0)1225 388569 | enquiries@holburne.org holburne.org
Bath Masonic Hall, Old Orchard Street, Bath, BA1 2QJ +44 (0)1225 462233 enquiries@oldtheatreroyal.com oldtheatreroyal.com
One of Bath’s great Georgian buildings, the Holburne is only ten minutes’ walk from the centre of town. Set within its own grounds – once enjoyed by Jane Austen – and more recently starring as the home of Lady Danbury in the Netflix series Bridgerton. Experience critically acclaimed exhibitions of historical and contemporary art; take part in a varied events programme; and discover renowned eighteenth-century portraits, portrait miniatures, Renaissance bronzes, ceramics, silver and embroidery. The Museum’s Garden Café, within a surprising modern extension, serves fresh seasonal lunches and delicious cakes. 2021 Highlights Canaletto: Painting Venice Precious and Rare: Islamic Metalwork from The Courtauld Nicholas Pope: Portraits of a Marriage Rossetti's Portraits Admission Charge Please see website for details.
Open: Monday–Saturday, 10am–5pm. Sunday and Bank Holidays, 11am–5pm. Closed 24th–26th December and 1st January.
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Open: Museum open for pre-booked visits, exclusive tours and star gazing events.
Discover a hidden gem and experience living history at Bath’s original Theatre Royal and Masonic Museum. Tours: Tuesday–Thursday, 11am and 2:30pm. Saturday, 2:30pm. Tours last approximately 90 minutes.
Museum of Bath at Work Julian Road, Bath, BA1 2RH +44 (0)1225 318348 | mobaw@hotmail.com bath-at-work.org.uk The museum showcases 2,000 years of Bath's working heritage – from Roman tourism to eighteenth-century building, Victorian engineering to modern high technology. Features a reconstructed Bath Stone mine, a nineteenth-century soft drinks factory, engineering works, an ironmonger's shop, a cabinet maker's workshop, a 1914 Horstmann car, an 1851 Bath chair displayed in an eighteenth-century real tennis court, and much more. Temporary exhibitions, café, shop, events, and a children's space. Free audioguides available.
Open: See website for details of opening hours.
WOOLVERTON GALLERY Woolverton, Bath, BA2 7RH +44 (0)7843 448956 info@bathartsales.com bathartsales.com A new contemporary art gallery opened on 1st June 2021, showcasing the work of 25 resident artists.
Open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday 9am–4pm and Saturdays 9am–5pm.
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BRIDGERTON IN BATH The city of Bath was given a boost when it was used as a filming location in Bridgerton, Netflix’s hit period drama series.
Bennett Street
The Holburne Museum
You are invited to the ball!
If you visited Bath during the summer of 2019, you may have wandered past horses and carriages, and actors in exquisite period costume.
Trim Street
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Filmed in Bath
©Netflix
The camera crews were courtesy of Bridgerton, a series released on Netflix worldwide on Christmas Day 2020, and which swiftly became the network's biggest show to ever have aired, reaching 82 million households in its first 28 days. Bath has a starring role in the series as much of the filming took place in the city. The golden, Georgian stone and grand buildings were
used as a backdrop, standing in for Regency London. Based on the bestselling books by Julia Quinn, produced by Shonda Rhimes (of Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal), and narrated Gossip Girl-style by none other than Dame Julie Andrews, Bridgerton features plenty of romance and scandal, as it follows characters navigating the social scene in the 1800s.
It serves as the perfect source of inspiration so you can start planning a trip, when fully safe to travel, to explore the locations in Bath used for filming. The Royal Crescent is Bath’s most iconic pieces of architecture, so it made sense that it was a prominent shoot spot in the series, along with its museum, No.1 Royal Crescent, which stood in for the Featherington family’s (not so) humble abode. Tucked away behind the Roman Baths, you’ll find The Abbey Deli (previously called Pickled Greens), on Abbey Green, a café which stood in for the Modiste – a dress shop key to the story.
With talk-of-the-town balls and debutante soirées a chance to see and be seen in the Bridgerton world, the Tea Room and Ball Room of the Assembly Rooms, and the Guildhall’s Banqueting Room, provided the perfect backdrops. Their glittering chandeliers complement the scenes full of glamorous costumes and hairstyles. At the end of Bath’s grandest thoroughfare, Great Pulteney Street, The Holburne Museum stood in for Lady Danbury’s mansion. Now home to a collection of fine and decorative
art, the building’s elegant façade and gardens made for the ideal Regency party pad. There is no shortage of historic Georgian streets in Bath, so the producers of Bridgerton were spoiled for choice. Bath Street, Trim Street and Beauford Square were all captured on camera as locations in the series, no doubt chosen for their elegance, transporting us back to the 1800s in every scene. Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/inspire-me
Beauford Square
Filmed in Bath
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SEEN ON SCREEN
SO THE STORY GOES… Jane Austen Festival
the story behind the world's most famous monster.
Jane Austen Festival
As a city exuding charm, visitors to Bath have been falling in love with, and taking inspiration from, its streets and sights for centuries.
The Duchess
Bath’s stunning Georgian architecture has often been used on-screen as a historical backdrop.
Multi-award-winning musical Les Misérables featured scenes shot around Pulteney Bridge, with period dramas Vanity Fair and The Duchess also using the city. On the small screen, you may have seen Bath in Poldark and Sherlock, and more recently in The Trial of Christine Keeler. The recent adaptation of Sanditon also used Dyrham Park and Iford Manor as prominent locations, the latter also featuring in The Secret Garden, released in cinemas in 2020.
McDonald and Dodds in 2021
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Filmed in Bath
While not an actual location, The Little Theatre Cinema – one of several cinemas in the city –
Jane Austen lived in Bath from 1801 to 1806, and set both Persuasion and Northanger Abbey here. Fans of the Regency writer can visit the Jane Austen Centre, which gives a fascinating overview into Iford Manor
was immortalised in stop motion classic, Fantastic Mr. Fox. ITV’s crime drama, McDonald and Dodds, returned to television in early 2021. Filmed in Bath, the murder mysteries are solved by the unlikely detective duo of DCI McDonald (Tala Gouveia) and DS Dodds (Jason Watkins).
Children's Literature Festival
Austen’s experiences in Bath, and immerse themselves in all things Austen at the Jane Austen Festival, held every September, featuring elegant masked balls, walking tours and talks. An 18-year-old Mary Shelley penned much of Frankenstein in Bath in 1816, from lodgings located where the Pump Room now stands. Discover more with a tour from Show of Strength, walking in Shelley’s footsteps. Alternatively, visit one of Bath's newest attractions – Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein. Expanding over four atmospheric floors, uncover
As well as exploring Bath’s literary heritage, you can discover twenty-first-century greats. The Bath Festival, being held throughout 2021, is a celebration of music and literature welcoming world-class writers for talks, signings and workshops. Bath Children’s Literature Festival, held in October, also attracts some of the biggest children’s authors and illustrators. Visit bathfestivals.org.uk for the most up-to-date information. The city is also home to Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution (BRLSI), who offer a programme of talks, discussions and exhibitions on science, the arts and current affairs. There are also plenty of bookshops to discover in the city's historic streets, often holding special events and book signings.
Literary Bath
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Milsom Place, Milsom Street & Broad Street, Bath, BA1 1BZ
Milsom Place, Milsom Street & Broad Street, Bath, BA1789040 1BZ | milsomplace.co.uk 01225 01225 789040 | milsomplace.co.uk
Milsom Place Milsom Street and Broad Street, Bath BA1 1BZ +44 (0)1225 789040 | info@milsomplace.co.uk milsomplace.co.uk
SouthGate Milsom Place, Milsom Street & Broad Street, Bath, BA1 1BZ 01225 789040 | milsomplace.co.uk
You'll find a sophisticated collection of shops and restaurants, with everything from fashion, accessories, luxury bedding and jewellery to flowers, candles and gifts.
Old Bond Street
BAGS OF STYLE
Bath’s show-stopping retail scene, set against a backdrop of Georgian grandeur, has made the city one of the most stylish destinations for 300 years, with a compact city centre brimming with independent stores and high-street brands. The central streets of Bath are packed with a variety of well-known brands. Stall Street and Union Street provide a lively route of shops through the length of the city. Adjacent to Bath Abbey is Bath Aqua Glass, offering beautiful hand-blown glassware and jewellery, and you’ll also find independent jeweller Jody Cory. Don’t miss The Corridor, resembling a Parisian arcade, or Bath Guildhall Market, the city’s oldest indoor market. Wander along Union Passage to find family-run The Silver Shop and pay a visit to award-winning jeweller Nicholas Wylde in Northumberland Place. In nearby Broad Street, you’ll find design-led independent department store Rossiters of Bath. Stroll down the street toward Pulteney Bridge and visit Icarus Jewellery, offering a great selection of handmade and unique silver designs.
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Shopping
Head to Kingsmead Square for a well-deserved shopping pit-stop, and discover a coffee connoisseur’s haven. You'll also find pre-loved designer clothing, shoes and accessories at Grace & Ted. Walcot Street and Artisan Quarter The London Road and Walcot areas have affectionately been known as Bath's Artisan Quarter since the 1960s. A collection of boutique shops have everything from vintage clothing to designer homeware, and from quirky artwork to delicious food. Independent homeware store Graham & Green offer unique and stylish interiors, and don’t miss the Saturday Flea Market, renowned for its unique selection of clothes, antiques and books.
Milsom Place is located at the heart of fashionable Milsom Street, set within a series of beautiful Georgian buildings, terraces and open courtyards, and is Bath's smartest shopping and dining destination.
From breakfast and coffee to lunch, afternoon tea, wine and dinner, there is a range of tempting places to eat and drink at Milsom Place.
Open: See website for up-to-date opening times.
New Bond Street
Milsom Street Featuring Jolly’s, the UK’s first department store which is now home to House of Fraser, along with independent boutique Portman Bath, Milsom Street is one of the finest streets for shopping in the city, boasting high-end fashion and beauty, luxury gift shops and contemporary interior stores. In the elegant corridors and courtyards of Milsom Place, you'll find a hidden oasis of boutiques and restaurants, including designer shoe shop Chanii B. At the bottom of Milsom Street, you’ll find New Bond Street, where you can pay a visit to luxury perfume shop Penhaligon’s. Upper City Just north of Milsom Street, George Street and Bartlett Street house a cluster of independent retailers. Unearth exquisite jewellery at Noha’s Art and sample authentic Mediterranean flavours at Café Lucca.
SouthGate Stepping off the train at Bath Spa Station you will immediately come across SouthGate – an ideal starting point for a shopping spree. Find your favourite big fashion brands, vibrant multinational cuisine, and boutique cinema Tivoli. On a sunny day, sit back and relax on the lazy lawn and enjoy a refreshing drink from the coffee hut, while Christmas shopping at SouthGate comes with a sprinkling of festive magic. Green Park Station Once Bath’s main railway station, Green Park Station holds some fantastic covered markets and a creative collection of independent traders. Shop for the best local and organic produce at the Saturday morning Bath Farmers’ Market and discover vintage glamour at the monthly Vintage and Antiques Market.
Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/shopping
Shopping
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The Silver Shop 25 Union Passage, Bath, BA1 1RD +44 (0)1225 464781 info@thesilvershopofbath.co.uk thesilvershopofbath.co.uk
Online ordering available - see website
Established in 1952 and entirely independent, The Silver Shop is one of Bath’s favourite shops. They stock Bath’s largest selection of silver jewellery and also have a wonderful range of gift ideas to choose from. The Silver Shop sells almost every type of silver jewellery you can imagine including charms, rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and bangles. With silver earrings ranging from £5.95 right up to necklaces at £595, there is something for every taste and budget. The selection of gifts includes Charlie Bears, clocks, silverware, bronzes, candles, frames and much more. The Silver Shop offers a unique and exciting choice of beautiful gifts to treat yourself to or to take back to loved ones. The shop is family-run and offers a warm welcome and an enjoyable shopping experience. The Silver Shop can be found less than a minute's walk from Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, in Union Passage.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House
Open: Monday–Saturday, 9:30am–5:30pm.
BON APPÉTIT Bath’s food and drink scene has gained the city a reputation as a delicious destination for a foodie break. Take your pick from pioneering Michelin-starred or AA Rosette-winning restaurants, welcoming gastropubs, cosy cafés, chilled out bars, thriving local producers and passionate artisans. Award-Winning Cuisine For fine dining, The Queensberry Hotel’s Michelinstarred Olive Tree Restaurant has a delicious, seasonal menu, with Lucknam Park's Restaurant Hywel Jones also offering sophisticated Michelinstarred dining. Dine on small plates and enjoy a vast selection of wines at Beckford Bottle Shop, which has been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand. Afternoon Tea Afternoon tea has long been a popular pastime in Bath, and the tradition is still very much alive in the city today. Experience the ultimate in Georgian refinement in the famous Pump Room, enjoy afternoon tea in an eclectic setting at the
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stylish No.15 Great Pulteney, or tuck into a classic afternoon tea in the gorgeous surrounds of Sweet Little Things. You'll find a wonderful selection of five-star options in the city, or you can step back in time at the Jane Austen Regency Tea Rooms. Comfort Food Those seeking a hearty feast won't be disappointed with the likes of The Garrick's Head and Green Park Brasserie, where modern British menus are in plentiful supply. Steak fans can indulge at The Firehouse Rotisserie and Hudson Steakhouse, or head to The Scallop Shell for tasty fish and chips. For those who love a Sunday roast, there are plenty of options in Bath, including the Hare & Hounds, The Huntsman and The Bath Brew House. Flavours from around the World Allow your taste buds to be transported across the globe by restaurants offering international cuisines. Enjoy French dishes at Chez Dominique, savour Asian flavours at Yum Yum Thai, Thai Balcony and Bandook, or try TurkishMediterranean cuisine at Cappadocia Restaurant.
Food and Drink
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The Dower House & Afternoon Tea Garden AA
From £37.50 per person
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, 16 Royal Crescent, Bath, BA1 2LS +44 (0)1225 823333 | info@royalcrescent.co.uk royalcrescent.co.uk During your trip to Bath, don’t miss your chance to experience the ultimate indulgence of afternoon tea at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. Enjoy one of four delicious afternoon teas, including a dedicated children’s tea. Tuck into a selection of delicious savouries, sandwiches cut to mouth-watering perfection, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry preserve, and a range of exquisite pastries and cakes.
Abbey Hotel Kitchen
Plant-Based With several restaurants specialising in tasty and inventive meat-free food, there are plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans. Sample deliciously adventurous plant-based plates at OAK Restaurant, or have a relaxed lunch at Chapel Arts Café, where they serve a weekly changing selection of mouth-watering dishes. A Tale of Two Buns Try some local specialities and take your taste buds back in time. Rich, round and brioche in style, the Sally Lunn bun, which you can enjoy at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House, was introduced to Bath in the 1600s. The Bath Bun, invented in the eighteenth century by Dr William Oliver, is available in differing interpretations around the city. Smaller than a Sally Lunn bun, Bath Buns contain fruit and a sugar lump, topped with currants and sugar crystals. Taste both and put history to the test. FOODIE FESTIVALS Bath has a busy calendar of foodie events, from farmers’ markets and chef demonstrations to wine tastings and food festivals. Bath's three-day culinary and musical feast Pub in the Park makes a return this summer, Great Bath Feast will be hosting demos, pop-ups and even a foodie trail! Be sure to plan a visit this September. Food Tours Eat your way around the city with Savouring Bath, who will take you from ancient pubs to artisanal
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Food and Drink
This most decadent of British traditions is complemented by a choice of teas from around the world, sourced exclusively for you. Add some sparkle to the occasion with a flute or flight of Taittinger Champagne or experience one of three other exceptional flights including gin, martini and rum.
Savouring Bath
cafés, from breweries to bakeries and farmers' markets, with tasting opportunities aplenty. Cook Up a Storm Pick up a new skill and improve your culinary abilities whilst in Bath by booking onto a course at one of the many top-quality cookery schools. Prepare meat-free menus at Demuths, the country’s leading vegetarian cookery school, learn to cook with Persian flavours at Simi’s Kitchen, bake bread at the award-winning Bertinet Kitchen Cookery School, try your hand at Vietnamese cooking at Noya’s Kitchen, hone your fishing, foraging and butchery skills at Vale House Kitchen, or master new techniques at Lucknam Park. Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/feast
Afternoon tea is served in the award-winning Dower House Restaurant, or, when the sun is shining, in the spectacular acre of glorious gardens. Afternoon tea from £37.50 per person. Children’s afternoon tea from £19.50.
Open: Daily, 1:30pm–6pm (last sitting 4:30pm). Booking essential.
The Garrick’s Head Pub and Dining Rooms 6-7 St John’s Place, Bath, BA1 1ET +44 (0)1225 318368 | welcome@garricksheadpub.com garricksheadpub.com
From £15–£25 for a three-course meal
The Garrick’s Head Pub and Dining Rooms is the former home of Beau Nash and is a grand building adjacent to the Theatre Royal Bath, where customers often rub shoulders with members of the theatrical cast. The menu is modern British in style and features pub classics prepared from the best and freshest regional produce, executed with skill and respect. Outside, the expansive terrace has all-day sunshine and is the perfect location to sit back, enjoy a refreshing drink and a delicious bite to eat, while watching the world bustle by.
Chez Dominique Good Food Guide 2020 Prices from £16 per person
Independently owned for 15 years, they serve Bath Chaps, a historic Georgian delicacy of cured and pressed pig’s cheek, and are also known for serving some of Bath’s best fish and chips.
15 Argyle Street, Bath, BA2 4BQ +44 (0)1225 463482 eat@chezdominique.co.uk chezdominique.co.uk
Fresh fish is delivered daily, direct from the Cornish coast. Their butcher supplies locally sourced meat from the farms surrounding Bath, and they collect our fruit and vegetables directly from the market as the sun rises over Bristol each morning.
A family-owned restaurant serving modern French and European cuisine and fine wines in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Offering a carefully selected set menu plus daily specials featuring delicious seasonal dishes.
The Garrick’s Head has a reputation for its well-kept locally brewed ales and ciders and has an impressive selection of craft brews. The wine and spirits lists are comprehensive, offering over 20 wines by the glass and an extensive range of gins, rums and single malt whiskeys.
Dining Times: Monday–Sunday, 12pm–9pm. Open: Monday–Thursday, 12pm–11pm. Friday and Saturday, 12pm–12am. Sunday, 12pm–10:30pm. Food served all day.
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BATH AFTER HOURS Bath’s evening scene has always been lively, with plenty to discover after-hours, but the coronavirus pandemic quietened its buzz. We’re confident that it will come to life once more, when travel resumes and we’re safely allowed to mix again.
Roman Baths by torchlight
Theatre Royal Bath
cocktails are the order of the day and DJs play late into the night. For a more intimate soiree, enjoy the comfortable and elegant atmosphere of No.15 Great Pulteney.
Canary Gin Bar
Whether you’re a music fan, keen theatregoer, or simply fancy a drink with close family and friends, Bath is bursting with ways to entertain after the sun has set. There are plenty of places in Bath to enjoy a tasty tipple, once bars and pubs reopen. Both Corkage and Beckford Bottle Shop serve up delicious food and drink, with small plates alongside handselected wines.
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Entertainment and Nightlife
A chic cocktail bar blending old and new, Circo Bar & Lounge serves a stunning array of drinks and has a designated rum bar, Canary Gin Bar's cocktails are made with their very own Bath Gin, and The Botanist’s cocktails are served in a majestically historic setting. For a wide range of wines available from self-service dispensers, head to Le Vignoble, or visit Sub 13, where delicious
Try local tipples and enjoy quiz nights and live music at Bath’s pubs. The Star Inn has plenty of real ales to choose from, whilst The Huntsman, one of Bath’s oldest pubs, has a good selection of local ciders. The Bath Brew House has its own onsite microbrewery, and sister pub The Cork offers party pods for karaoke or watching live sport. Head to Green Park Brasserie for tasty locally sourced food,
with free live jazz on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Hall & Woodhouse has a vintage vibe, and communityowned The Bell Inn on Walcot Street has a regular and varied programme of live music. If film, live music and theatre are your thing, Bath has an array of options. The quirky Little Theatre Cinema and boutique cinema Tivoli are perfect for movie mavens, and for laughout-loud entertainment, catch top comedians every Saturday at Komedia’s Krater Comedy Club. The friendly Chapel Arts Centre and The Mission Theatre both welcome a great selection of bands and artists, and for sparkling West End productions, make for the Theatre Royal Bath.
For after-hours wandering, book an evening tour of the city. Frankenstein in Bath's 90-minute tour traces Mary Shelley's footsteps as she wrote her gothic masterpiece, or hear some ghoulish tales with Ghost Walks of Bath. In the summer,
discover the Roman Baths by torchlight, and a Twilight Package at Thermae Bath Spa offers a unique experience throughout the year. Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/bath-at-night
No.15 Great Pulteney
Entertainment and Nightlife
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TAKE A TOUR With so much to uncover, booking onto a tour and having a guide to show you around is a sure-fire way to make your trip memorable…
Bath Regency Walking Tours
If it's an alternative view of the city you're after, book onto one of Laugh at Bath's irreverent walking tours. A lighthearted look at Bath’s colourful history, Laugh at Bath is ideal for groups, and you’ll be sure to leave on a high. For an adventure further afield, several tours use Bath as their base from which to explore the surrounding villages and countryside. Guided by expert, friendly and enthusiastic guides, Mad Max Tours offer a wide range of small-group, one-day
Bath Adventures
tours, taking you to Glastonbury, Wells, Cheddar and many other picturesque places.
monument and World Heritage Site close-up – an unforgettable tick off your bucket list.
Escape to idyllic, rural country life with a Lion Tours trip, which will take you to pretty Cotswold villages such as Castle Combe and Bibury.
The city offers a selection of private car tour operators, catering for a variation of needs. You can expect to have that exceptional personalised service with Bath Tourist Tours and Liberty Car Tours.
Both Mad Max Tours and Lion Tours, plus Scarper Tours, all provide excursions to the famous Stonehenge, letting you experience the iconic prehistoric
Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/tours
Bath Balloons Royal Victoria Park, Bath, BA1 2DS +44 (0)1225 466888 sales@balnet.co.uk bathballoons.co.uk
Bath City Sightseeing
Get to know the city with Sulis Guides and iTours International, who offer comprehensive tours of the city, whatever your interests. Going the extra mile in helping to plan all aspects of your tour, they’ll customise your itinerary, with multilingual guides giving a warm welcome no matter the language. Looking for a local? Then look no further than Bath Walking Tours or Bath Insider Tours; both can offer insiders tips during warm and welcoming tours of their home city.
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Tours and Sightseeing
From £110 per person
Bringing their passion for, and knowledge of, the city to each of their tours, the Mayor of Bath’s Honorary Guides lead free twohour walking tours every day, with no need to book – ideal for a spontaneous adventure! Take in all of the city sights – from the Royal Crescent to Pulteney Bridge – with Experience Bath. Offering tailored programmes depending on your interests, they also provide homestay accommodation. Alternatively, explore Bath on a City
Sightseeing open-top bus. Make yourself comfortable on one of their double-deckers and immerse yourself in their audio commentaries, available in multiple languages. See the sights from water-level with Bath Adventures’ river tours. Hop aboard their restored 1960s cruiser and float leisurely along the River Avon to Pulteney Weir – with a tea, coffee or glass of bubbly in hand – or incorporate dry land too with a combined walking and river tour.
Bath Balloons have been flying over Georgian Bath for over 40 years. Join them for a Champagne flight with panoramic views over the historic city and the surrounding countryside. A magical experience which will long be remembered.
Flying: March–October inclusive (big basket). Exclusive flights available all year. Departure times vary.
Bailey Balloons BEHTA Gold – Outstanding Achievement Award From £110 per person
Royal Victoria Park, Bath, BA1 2DS +44 (0)1225 302201 info@baileyballoons.co.uk baileyballoons.co.uk A well-established company with an excellent reputation offering Champagne balloon flights from the centre of Bath. Gift vouchers and flights are available at short notice. Flying: March–October. Office open all year. Last-minute spaces available.
Bath Open-Top Sightseeing TripAdvisor travellers choice award and VAQAS accredited 6 North Parade, Bath, BA1 1LF +44 (0)1225 330444 hq@bathbuscompany.com bathbuscompany.com Enjoy listening to informative, engaging and entertaining commentary in any of the ten languages on offer, or delivered by a live guide, as you pass through beautiful Bath. Two great routes are included, making it easy to hop on and off at any of Bath’s attractions.
Open: All year round except 25th and 26th December, and 1st January.
Tours and Sightseeing
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FESTIVAL FEVER The Great Bath Feast
What’s On in Bath
info@ilowhq.com greatbathfeast.co.uk
visitbath.co.uk/events
The Great Bath Feast, in association with The Bertinet Kitchen, kicks off with a weekend of celebrations on 24th–26th September, with chef demos, supper clubs and a buzzing market on Milsom Street that will showcase the very best locally sourced produce and artisan items from further afield. The Feast will then continue with a series of fringe events until 31st October.
Please do ensure that you follow the latest guidance to keep you safe during your visit to Bath and North East Somerset. We recommend that you pre-book any experiences in advance of your stay and check availability ahead of travel.
Valley Fest
Open: See website for more details.
Every year, Bath usually plays host to an exciting calendar of festivals and events.
to restrictions events are rescheduled throughout 2021, with The Bath Festival Finale Weekend now being held in August.
This year there may be lastminute changes, and some events may be postponed. Please check our website, visitbath.co.uk, or directly via event websites and social media channels, to stay updated with the latest details.
In July, Bath Carnival paints the town a colourful rainbow, Fantastic Food Festivals bring their gastronomic celebration to the Bath Recreation Ground, and you can enjoy Latin American rhythms and opera at Iford Arts, in an exquisite outdoor setting. In the Mendip Hills between Bath and Bristol, the family-friendly Valley Fest has a great line-up of music, entertainment and local food and drink.
Kicking off the festival season this year is the eclectic Bath Fringe Festival. We would usually find the multi-arts Bath Festival in May; due
Book online at himm.co.uk Minutes from the A303. Postcode BA22 7LH
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138 x 97.5mm Bath Visitor Guide ad.indd 1
Bath Carnival
25/02/2021 13:57
Autumn brings the annual Jane Austen Festival, featuring elegant masked balls, walking tours and talks, and Bathscape Walking Festival also hosts a programme of inspiring free walks around the city and surrounding countryside. Bath
Children’s Literature Festival – the largest dedicated children’s literature festival with an array of talks and activities for kids and teens. The return of foodie favourite, The Great Bath Feast will find your taste-buds tingling, Bath will also host its very own Bath Reggae Festival, all taking place in September. Discover rising cinematic stars at FilmBath in November, and, if you’re a classical music fan, enjoy performances from world-renowned artists at Bath Mozartfest. Christmas will arrive in Bath with the 20th anniversary of the award-winning Bath Christmas Market – look out for lots of special festive surprises, to celebrate! Book tickets to festivals and events in Bath at bathboxoffice.org.uk
Events
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SPORTS AND OUTDOORS Bath Rugby Club
Wild Swim Bike Run
Bathscape Walking Festival
There are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors – exploring the city and countryside – and embrace Bath’s sporting heritage by cheering on local teams when we’re able to show our support in person. The River Avon hugs the south side of the city and the Kennet and Avon Canal meanders to the north-east, so it is easy to relish the riverside. Take to the water on a boat trip with
Kennet and Avon Canal
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Outdoors and Active
River Adventures or Pulteney Cruisers, or stick to dry land with a wildlife-spotting walk or a leisurely bike ride with Wild Swim Bike Run or Bath By Bike. Feeling adventurous? Book a stand-up paddleboarding session with Original Wild or take to the skies on a hot air balloon trip. Both Bath Balloons and Bailey Balloons offer picture-perfect panoramic views via their range of bookable flights. Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/outdoors
A Breath of Fresh Air There are plenty of walking trails in Bath’s countryside. Head for the hills to the south of the city on the Bath Skyline Walk and prepare for stunning views, or make for the Cotswold Way, accessed on the north-western side of Bath, in Weston Village. The annual Bath Walking Festival usually runs a packed programme of free guided walks, letting you explore the local countryside. Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/walking
Founded in 1865, Bath Rugby Club is one of the oldest in existence. The club plays in the English Premiership, with home matches taking place in the heart of the city, at Bath Recreation Ground. It’s this central location that makes going to a match a truly special experience. When restrictions ease and it’s safe to do so once again, delight in the buzz of blue, black and white with wonderful city views as a backdrop.
Bath Racecourse
R acing Ahead When safe to do so again, experience the thrill of race day at one of the country’s top small racing venues, Bath Racecourse. Look out for the latest fixtures, letting you relish the atmosphere with
a drink in hand, and cheer on your horse as it thunders down the home straight. The venue also hosts special events throughout the year, so look out for the latest information.
Also in the city centre, Bath Cricket Club is a leading community club which, in normal years, hosts around 90 senior and 80 youth matches each season, which can be watched with a stunning background view of Bath Abbey. From one ball sport to another, Twerton Park is the much-loved home of Bath City Football Club, a community-owned club since 2017, and also home ground for Bristol City Women's FC. Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/spectator-sports
Family Fun Day at Bath Racecourse
Spectator Sports
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RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP You don’t have to travel far from Bath to find yourself in historic market towns, picturesque villages and tranquil riverside spots.
on the first Saturday of each month, and don’t miss the annual Midsomer Norton Illuminated Carnival, every November.
Keynsham, Saltford and the Avon Valley Located between Bristol and Bath, and with its own railway station, Keynsham is a thriving town centre with plenty of places to eat and drink and some standout independent shops. Keynsham Memorial Park is a popular outdoor area, hosting several events each summer.
Chew Valley On the south side of the Mendip Hills you’ll find Chew Valley, an area of unspoiled scenic Somerset countryside with rolling hills, meadows and a lake with a wildlife centre and café, where you can also sail a dinghy or enjoy fly-fishing. The main hub is Chew Magna, home to the music and food festival, Valley Fest.
Along the River Avon, Saltford has a family-run marina and pretty riverside pubs, with the Bristol to Bath Railway Path for walkers and cyclists passing through. Close by, you can explore a beautifully restored Victorian railway station at Avon Valley Railway or visit Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park, both popular family days out. Look out for riverside heritage walks in the area, too.
Frome
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Exploring our Towns and Villages
Bathampton A pretty riverside village, both the River Avon and the Kennet and Avon Canal pass through Bathampton. The east end of St Nicholas Church is known as the Australia Chapel, in honour of Rear Admiral Philip, the founder of New South Wales, who is buried nearby. Sham Castle, a Grade II listed screen wall folly, stands at the most western part of Bathampton Down. Midsomer Norton The principal market town of the Somer Valley, Midsomer Norton boomed as a coal mining town in the eighteenth century. Enjoy a fun-filled family-friendly day out at the heritage Somerset and Dorset Railway, shop at the monthly farmers’ market, held
Kelston The small, rural village of Kelston is well-known amongst local walkers thanks to the intersection of several public footpaths, including Kelston Roundhill Walk, which lies just off the Cotswold Way. It is also home to the Bath Soft Cheese Company with its lovely café and pre-bookable tours. R adstock Nine miles south-west of Bath, Radstock is well-connected when it comes to cycling, with two routes available – the local Greenway, and a section of the national cycle network, running from Bath through the town. Walkers won’t be disappointed either, with routes such as the seven-and-a-half mile circular Miners and Black
Radstock
Mountain trails to choose from. The Radstock Museum has a range of fascinating exhibits giving insight into Somerset life since the nineteenth century. Frome Just 30 minutes south of Bath lies the charming market town of Frome, recently highlighted as one of the best places to live in Britain by The Times. Packed to the rafters with independent shops and boasting two theatres, a heritage museum, a monthly independent market, a summer festival of art and music, and popular music and events venue Cheese & Grain, which has welcomed the likes of Foo Fighters and Fatboy Slim, Frome is a welcoming and vibrant place to visit.
Wells Cathedral
The Mendips The Mendips are full of fascinating towns and a small city, several of which can be easily reached from Bath by public transport or on an organised tour. Highlights include Cheddar Gorge, home to the famous caves and Cheddar cheese, which is still made in the gorge and aged in the caves. While Glastonbury Festival is world-renowned, the town is also well known for its myths and legends. Glastonbury Abbey is reputed to be the burial place of the legendary King Arthur and his queen Guinevere and is regarded as the site of the earliest church in Britain.
The medieval city of Wells is home to stunning architecture, including the thirteenth-century Wells Cathedral and the moated Bishop's Palace. The smallest city in England, Wells has also been featured on film, most notably in Hot Fuzz. Its neighbour Shepton Mallet is home to the Mulberry Factory Shop, situated adjacent to the luxury designer outlet village Kilver Court. You’ll also find one of Britain’s oldest prisons, where you can stay overnight or go on a tour, and the Bath and West Showground, which plays host to an array of events.
Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/beyond-bath
Exploring our Towns and Villages
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Avon Valley R ailway Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD +44 (0)117 932 5538 info@avonvalleyrailway.org avonvalleyrailway.org Ride on a steam or diesel train on a trip along the Avon Valley and enjoy breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea in the café. Open: Station and café open daily. Steam and diesel trains running weekends April–September (plus Wednesdays in school holidays). Visit the website for details.
Corsham
Castle Combe Circuit
Town Hall, High Street, Corsham, SN13 0EZ +44 (0)1249 702130 | towncouncil@corsham.gov.uk corsham.gov.uk/visit
TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2019
Just 20 minutes from Bath is the historic town of Corsham. Here you’ll find stately Corsham Court, 350-year-old Almshouses, the Pound Arts Centre and peacocks roaming the streets. You’ll also find great independent shops, award-winning restaurants, and you’ll be able to walk in the footsteps of Ross Poldark, as the BBC One hit drama was filmed here.
Open: See website of separate venues mentioned for individual opening times.
Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 7EY +44 (0)1249 782417 info@castlecombecircuit.co.uk castlecombecircuit.co.uk Race, Watch, Experience The West Country’s home of motorsport, which has welcomed fans of racing, car shows and events for over 70 years. Spectacular racing, modern facilities and stunning scenery, with easy access to anyone in the South-West and beyond. Open: Dependent on event times.
eBoA halfPage BathVisitorGuide.indd 1
Br adford-on-Avon Eight miles south-east of Bath and just 13 minutes by train, Bradford-on-Avon is bursting with historic buildings, including St Laurence’s Church, thought to be one of the most complete Saxon buildings still in existence.
Tuck into hearty pub classics at The Lock Inn or enjoy fresh, local produce and a relaxing night’s stay at stylish boutique hotel Timbrell’s Yard.
Timbrells Yard
Bradford-on-Avon
Timbrells Yard
Bradford on Avon really is the perfect place to
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With so much to discover in the surrounding countryside, Bath provides an ideal base to explore the best of the West Country. Plan to stay another day and experience the mustsees of Bath and beyond.
The town has pretty streets, with plenty of independent shops and places to eat, and look out for the popular markets.
Bradford on Avon In the perfect setting of the dramatic Avon valley in Wiltshire, Bradford on Avon is on the edge of the Cotswolds and only a few miles or a short train ride from the World Heritage City of Bath. You could spend the day getting lost on the meandering footpaths of Tory with picturesque views over the town; enjoy a boat trip along the Kennet and Avon canal; hire a mountain bike or canoe; or follow the Bradford on Avon Walkers Wheel Map and explore by foot. If you fancy a more leisurely experience in Bradford on Avon, the town is a haven of independent retailers and award winning restaurants, cafés, and pubs.
EXPLORE MORE
explore ! To find out more visit www.bradfordonavon.co.uk 05/02/2021 16:21
Lacock Abbey
Bradford-on-Avon is a great location for outdoor activities, with boat hire available at Bradford-on-Avon Wharf and bike hire on offer from Towpath Trail Bike Hire. Close by, Iford Manor Gardens is home to stunning landscapes and award-winning gardens. Once you’ve explored the gardens, enjoy Iford Manor looseleaf teas and Iford Cider from the Housekeeper’s Tearoom. Lacock With its central grid of four streets, Lacock today looks much like it did 200 years ago.
Iford Manor Gardens
Home to Lacock Abbey and the Fox Talbot Museum, it is often used as a film location including appearances in Downton Abbey and Harry Potter. Corsham Sitting on the south-eastern edge of the Cotswolds, Corsham is a historic market town with plenty to discover. Just eight miles from Bath and surrounded by rolling countryside, a stroll along the high street takes in the mellow Georgian stone buildings, such as the seventeenth-century Flemish Cottages. You’ll also be walking in the footsteps of Poldark himself, as the hit BBC television drama was filmed here (doubling as a bustling eighteenth-century Truro). Visit the independent shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs, all of which give the town a welcoming, community feel, take a look at Corsham Court, a magnificent stately home dating from 1582 and home to resident peacocks, and pop into The Pound, the town’s music, theatre and arts centre.
Beyond Bath
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Cotswolds Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds cover 787 square miles, including Bath. There are several market towns including Tetbury, Stroud and Cirencester, but the area is most associated with beautiful quintessentially English villages, loved for their old-world charm and honeycoloured stone buildings. Of these, Castle Combe has been described as the prettiest village in England, but also has a racing circuit nearby, where motor fans can watch Championship and Challenge events. Chippenham 14 miles east of Bath, Chippenham is a lively Wiltshire market town mixing historical architecture with modern living. Catch theatre, comedy, music and exhibitions at the Neeld Community and Arts Centre, or look back in time at Chippenham Museum, which tells the story of the town from its prehistoric origins to the present day. Get some fresh air at John Coles Park, Chippenham’s beautiful green space complete with a summer concert-hosting bandstand, children’s splash pad and tennis courts, and the awardwinning Stanley Park Sports Ground is Chippenham’s dedicated sporting venue, one of Wiltshire’s largest and boasting state-of-the-art sports facilities. Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/beyond-bath
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Clifton Suspension Bridge
Bristol Just 12 miles from Bath, and only 12 minutes by train, Bristol is the largest city in the South West, and is renowned for its street art, extensive food and drink scene, cultural offering, and independent and collaborative spirit. Also connected along the waterways of the River Avon, Bristol’s harbourside is now home to historic ships, including Brunel’s SS Great Britain, as well as museums, galleries, restaurants and numerous bars.
Bristol Harbour
The city boasts a number of family attractions, including We The Curious and Bristol Aquarium. Boat trips are available around the harbour and out into the Avon Gorge, under the Clifton Suspension Bridge, another of Brunel’s stunning creations. Clifton Village is on one side of the bridge, where tours are available, and a Visitor Centre is situated on the North Somerset side. Also in Clifton, you’ll find Bristol Zoo Gardens and the University of Bristol Botanic Gardens. To the north of the central city, there are several excellent places to visit including Aerospace Bristol – birthplace of Concorde – Wild Place Project, and eco inlandsurfing lake The Wave.
Beyond Bath
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COMING UP IN BATH IN 2021… 2021 is an exciting year for Bath, with brand-new attractions, openings and exhibitions to explore.
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Explore the path less travelled through England’s Historic Cities.
Opening in early summer, Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein is sure to be a spine-tingling experience. The English Romantic novelist wrote the majority of her timelessly spooky classic in 1816 while living in lodgings situated in Abbey Churchyard, where the Pump Room is now located. This new attraction, on Gay Street, will be a scarily atmospheric, multisensory and fully immersive experience, unearthing the author’s tragic and complex life, and the story of Frankenstein, by way of themed areas and an escape room.
SOAKE
From full-throttle fun to full-colour history, food and drink to forts and castles, take your pick from five wondrous routes exploring 16 of our most surprising historic cities. Simply hop on and off the train, creating your own original journey through England’s Historic Cities.
Book your next adventure here: englandoriginals.com 42
Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein
A brand-new World Heritage Centre will open in late summer next to the iconic Roman Baths. Filled with imaginative interpretation of Bath’s history, the Centre will look at the attributes which make the city a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and show visitors why it is so special. A new learning area, with cutting-edge facilities and stimulating spaces, set among Roman remains, will also open later in the year. The Footprint Project – completing this year – will preserve the historic Bath Abbey and open it up in new ways to be enjoyed by future generations, including worshippers and visitors alike. It will reimagine the space to create multi-purpose, flexible areas for all, a new Discovery Centre, and a learning space which will inspire and tell the story of the Abbey. New exhibitions in 2021 include Shoephoria! at Fashion Museum Bath, which features highlights from the museum’s 3,000-pair collection to demonstrate the evolution of shoe design over the last 300 years (some of the oldest pairs from Her Majesty Queen Mary to more modern
Canaletto: Painting Venice
World Heritage Centre
examples by Vivienne Westwood and Jimmy Choo will be on show); Canaletto: Painting Venice at The Holburne Museum, showcasing a collection of 24 paintings of Venice by the Italian artist, which are normally on display at Woburn Abbey; and Kurt Jackson: Biodiversity followed by An Unholy Trinity: Lucian Freud, John Minton and Adrian Ryan at Victoria Art Gallery. Finally, The Jane Austen Festival and Bath Christmas Market both celebrate 20 years in 2021, so look out for lots of exciting surprises at these events!
New for 2021
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WHICH WAY NEXT? Be Curious. Be Responsible.
THREE DAYS IN BATH With so much to see and do, you’ll want to spend more than a day in the city… Day One After arriving, find your bearings and soak up the sights with a bus or walking tour of the city. For lunch, take a step back in time and sample one of the city's most famous delicacies at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House. Explore the city’s museums and galleries in the afternoon, before relaxing in the steaming rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa in the evening.
Day Two Muster some morning energy and climb the 212 steps of Bath Abbey to enjoy breathtaking city views, before discovering the ancient Roman Baths. Make like the Georgians and lunch in the grand Pump Room. Head to the Royal Crescent and pay a visit to No.1 Royal Crescent, before making for the Theatre Royal Bath to catch a play, concert, or West End show.
Day Three On your final day, how about exploring Bath’s surrounding villages, towns and countryside? Jump on a train from Bath Spa Station and head to Frome, which has a bustling creative community, Bradford-on-Avon for its riverside setting, or Chippenham to check out its museum and arts centre. Alternatively, sit back and relax on a group tour.
Discover Bath on the Great West Way®
Begin your next adventure at GreatWestWay.co.uk
Made for the curious traveller, you can explore Bath as part of your Great West Way experience. Get off the beaten track with 500 miles of navigable routes – explore by bike, walk the landscapes, relax on waterways, get behind the wheel or take advantage of GWR’s Great West Way® Discoverer pass, offering unlimited train and bus travel along the route. Find out more at GreatWestWay.co.uk Bradford-on-Avon
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Three Days in Bath
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BE OUR GUEST To make the most of your trip to Bath, book a stay and take advantage of the city’s fantastic accommodation. There are options to suit all tastes and budgets, from cosy bed and breakfasts and grand guesthouses overflowing with personal touches, to five-star hotels praised for their supreme comfort and style.
SELFCATERING If you are looking for more space, to come and go as you please, and a homely experience, then book into one of Bath’s self-catering properties.
GUESTHOUSES AND BED AND BREAKFASTS When it comes to finding the right guesthouse or bed and breakfast in Bath, there are plenty of properties to choose from, all offering friendly accommodation with a delicious breakfast to set you up for the day.
If you want to be in the thick of the action, you’ll find a great range of places to stay in and around the city centre, including chic boutique accommodation, self-catering apartments and high-end hotels with their very own onsite spas, ideal for some rest and relaxation after a busy day of sightseeing or shopping. For home-from-home stays, take your pick from centrally located self-catering properties and smart serviced apartments, or combine the best of both worlds – city and rural – by staying close by. You won’t have to travel far to find enticing out-of-town accommodation for your stay. Outside the city centre, there are beautiful hotels with scenic views of the surrounding countryside, welcoming bed and breakfasts serving fresh, local food, and traditional guesthouses with roaring fires.
Hope Place
Browse self-catering accommodation at visitbath.co.uk/self-catering
The Bird, Bath
Harington’s Hotel
New Leaf Farm
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From £75–£300 per room per night
8-10 Queen Street, Bath, BA1 1HE +44 (0)1225 461728 post@haringtonshotel.co.uk haringtonshotel.co.uk
Short breaks from £210
A privately-owned, 13-bedroom boutique hotel, located in the historic centre of Bath. Amazing breakfasts and an outdoor hot tub. Reserved off-site parking.
Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/stay
New Leaf Farm offer a selection of large and small cottages just two miles from Bath city centre. New Leaf Farm has a glorious countryside setting and is within easy walking distance of beautiful Bath.
Top Tip For the best rates, book a midweek stay in the city.
Leigh Park Hotel
Limpley Stoke Hotel
Dream Stays Bath
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From £75 per room per night
Leigh Road West, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 2RA +44 (0)1225 864885 info@leighparkhotel.co.uk leighparkhotel.co.uk A traditional Georgian country house hotel set in five acres of grounds with its own walled garden and Vineyard, only a short distance from Bath.
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Where to Stay
From £75 per room per night
Limpley Stoke, Bath, BA2 7FZ +44 (0)1225 723333 info@limpleystokehotel.co.uk limpleystokehotel.co.uk A traditional Georgian country house hotel set within three acres of private gardens on the outskirts of Bath, offering stunning views.
Timbrell’s Yard
Mill Lane, Bathampton, BA2 6TS +44 (0)1225 424333 info@newleaffarm.co.uk newleaffarm.co.uk
From £80-£600 per room per night
8-10 Queen Street, Bath, BA1 1HE +44 (0)1225 461728 post@dreamstaysbath.co.uk dreamstaysbath.co.uk A selection of nine luxury apartments in prime city-centre locations, offering one- to fourbedroom apartments and a true individual service. Parking options are available.
SummerHouse
Browse guesthouses and bed and breakfasts at visitbath.co.uk/guesthouses Where to Stay
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GETTING TO BATH RIV
By Bus There are several bus operators that provide regular services in and around Bath. First Bus operates from the main Bath bus station in Dorchester Street, adjacent to Bath Spa railway station. For further information visit firstgroup.com/bath.
JUL By Park and Ride IAN ROA D Three Park and Ride services No.1 Royal operate seven days a week in Crescent Bath, with buses every ten-to-15 minutes into the city. Parking is free and tickets are purchased onboard. Find more information on fares and timetables at firstgroup.com/bathparkandride.
By Coach National Express provides good-value coach travel, linking all major towns and cities in the UK. Frequent services to Bath run from London Victoria Coach Station, London Heathrow and Chippenham. For further information visit nationalexpress.com.
By Car Bath is located just ten miles from Junction 18 of the M4, the motorway that runs directly from London and Heathrow Airport. There are also excellent motorway links from Devon, Cornwall and the North via the M5, whilst Wales is a short drive west on the M4.
By Air Just 19 miles from Bath, Bristol Airport offers direct scheduled flights from 122 locations across 30 countries, including 17 capital cities. Bath Bus Company operates a service between Bath and the airport every 30 minutes. For further information visit bristolairport.co.uk.
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By Tr ain There are regular direct trains to Bath from destinations including London Paddington, Cardiff and Portsmouth. Bristol Temple Meads, just 12 minutes away, is a major hub for travel from other parts of the country. For further information visit gwr.com.
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CITY CENTRE MAP
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT The Bath BID Welcome Ambassadors are the friendly faces of Bath, offering a warm welcome to the city. Look out for them as you wander around; they will be dressed in bright blue Welcome to Bath jackets. If you have a question or are looking for advice or recommendations, the team will be happy to help. You can also find practical information, event listings, and updates and recommendations from the Welcome Ambassadors, on the Welcome to Bath website. welcometobath.co.uk
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Transport and Travel
Visitor Information Centre Train Station
Park and Ride
Point of Interest
Bus Station
Car Parking
Pedestrians Only
Coach Pick-Up Point
Taxi Rank
One-Way Street
Public Toilet
Transport and Travel
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REGIONAL MAP 20
Malmesbury
16
M5
Badminton
17 Cribbs Causeway
Chipping Sodbury
Bristol Parkway
A38
B4040
1
18
A429 To London
A46
19
M4
17
18
M32
Castle Combe
A4
2 ay ew cl
A420
Marshfield
Wick Ashton Court Estate
Bristol
C ot swo ld
River Avon
Long Ashton
Bitton
Th
A4
Corsham A46
A4 St Catherine
A39
Pensford
B3130
River Stanton Chew Drew
Stanton Wick
Chew Stoke
Newton St Loe
Odd Down Farmborough
Chew Valley Lake
Clutton
A368 West Harptree
B3115
Hallatrow
High Littleton
B3114 East Harptree
Ston Easton
Mendip Hills
B3110
Wellow
A366
Freshford Peto Garden Iford Manor
Hinton Charterhouse
A37
A367
Faulkland
Farleigh Wood Rode
A361
A363
Brokerswood Country Park and Railway
B3139
Rudge
Westbury
Stratton on the Fosse Binegar
Frome
A350
A3098
B3139
A36 A37
Wells
A371
Shepton Mallet
A362 B3092
A361
Train Station
Mainline Train Station
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Visitor Information Centre Transport and Travel
Park and Ride
“I’m going to Bath to soak it all in”
Frome Community Hospital
Mells
Holcombe
A350
B3109
A366
Radstock
A367
A39
Priddy
Trowbridge
Farleigh Hungerford Norton St Philip
A362
Chewton Mendip
B3135
Trowbridge Community Hospital
Trowle Common
Midsomer Norton
To Cheddar Gorge & Caves
Holt
Winsley
A36
Shoscombe
Farrington Gurney
Melksham Broughton Gifford
Bradfordon-Avon
Monkton Combe
Dunkerton
Peasedown St John
Paulton
Hinton Blewett
Shaw Atworth
Limpley Stoke
Combe Hay Timsbury
Temple Cloud Cameley
South Stoke
A367
Priston
A365
Monkton Farleigh
A363
Bath
A368
B3114 Blagdon Lake
Bathford Bathampton A36 University of Bath
United Hospital
Bath Spa University
Box
A4 Kingsdown
Corston
Compton Dando Chew Magna
Batheaston
Newbridge Bath Royal
B3116
Bristol Airport
Lansdown
Kelston
Saltford
To Chippenham
Colerne
e
A431
Keynsham
A37
Biddestone
Cold Ashton
y Wa
Woolley Whitchurch
A420
A420
ay
Cy
ew
3
Dyrham
cl
Bristol Royal Infirmary
Cy
19
Cotswold Hills
A359
Longleat House & Safari Park
Warminster
To Stonehenge and Avebury
Whether you’re going for lunch at Sally Lunn’s, exploring the Royal Crescent or taking a dip in Thermae Bath Spa. Let’s Get There Together
Park & ride
Hospital
Visit www.firstbus.co.uk/bath
DISCOVER BATH WITH GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY
Book your travel to Bath Spa at GWR.com, on our App, or at a station.