The Perfect One Day In Bath, England

After only one day in Bath, I found myself reminded of how much I loved the comfort of cities that feel like small towns. The peace you feel in a quiet, friendly atmosphere is truly unmatched by other types of destinations. 

Therefore, it is unsurprising that this UNESCO-listed city is one of the most alluring places in England, radiating incredible beauty and revealing timeless architecture whose history spans hundreds of years. Beginning with the Romans right up to the Georgian era, Bath is blessed with a thriving cultural scene and upholds its roots, ensuring it remains favoured by travellers for day trips and weekend getaways.

With panoramic views from the top of the abbey tower, beautiful streets packed with cute shops and the iconic baths to explore that give the city its name, you can have it all in a pretty package.

The wonder of this place is in fact, so great, that it has been the backdrop to some of Jane Austen’s most celebrated novels!

Travel and Accommodation In Bath 

The best way to get to Bath is by National Rail or the National Express Coach service from any major city such as London – or Bristol if you are flying into the country. In fact, I would recommend combining you trip to Bath with one to Bristol because they are only about 30 minutes a part and make for a great weekend getaway.

Accommodation here consists of a variety of independent, luxury and chain hotels located in the lovely buildings in and around the city centre. Some of the most popular places include:

• Hotel Indigo – Bath
• Abbey Hotel Bath A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
• The Kennard

Seven Beautiful Attractions And Experiences In Bath 

While there are so many treasures in the city, these are the attractions you should not miss if you only have one day to spare.

Roman Baths

If this is your first trip, do not miss the opportunity to explore the monument that is the entire reason why Bath exists as a city. Previously known as Aquae Sulis during Roman Britain, Bath is one of the most historic parts of England and the Roman Baths you see before you are one of the most well-preserved in world, despite dating back to 70AD as a grand socialising complex.

Unlike the baths of Budapest and hammams of Istanbul, you can’t take a dip in the thermal waters anymore, but a wander around the site is a great way to step back in time and appreciate why Bath is a World Heritage Site. 

Make sure to book your tickets in advance through the official site.

Pulteney Bridge 

The Pulteney Bridge which stretches over the River Avon is another one of the city’s most popular attractions. It is an 18^th-century structure and a work of art offering tranquil walks and great views at the heart of the city centre, and is probably the main feature of your Bath postcard.

Bath Abbey

Dominating the town centre and captivating hearts, this glorious piece of Gothic architecture is a marvel both from the inside and out. If you make the trip between Monday – Saturday, you will also have the opportunity to climb the abbey tower and be blessed with astonishing panoramic views. 

Royal Crescent and the Circus 

Only a 20 minute walk from the city centre, the Royal Crescent is a semi-circular terrace of 30 uniform Georgian townhouses that rise from the Avon Valley, and is one of the most picturesque and serene parts of the city. Head over for fantastic photography opportunities.

Prior Park 

Prior Park is a great green space with stunning manicured gardens and is a breath-taking escape from the streets. Taking a stroll through this park feels like a step back in time and the pictures and plaques scattered around help visualise what it must have been like filled with horse carriages and people dressed in beautiful Victorian garb.

Sally Lunn’s Bakery 

Sally Lunn’s Bakery has been making buns in Bath for hundreds of years and has become an institution for the city’s food scene. It is the perfect place to get a literal taste of the Bath’s history and traditions.

Thermae Spa

You don’t have to travel all the way to Budapest to enjoy the bliss of floating in a Roman Bath setting. The grand Thermae Spa is where history and contemporary elegance combine into the perfect place to end your one day in Bath. Relax and rejuvenate while looking out at the city and its hypnotising architectural views.

Prices are as follows: £38 on weekdays and £43 on weekends.

Average Cost For A Day Trip To Bath Per Person

Transport (train from London + local travel): £25

Accommodation: £0

Attractions: £60

Food and amenities: £30

Keep In Mind

The Roman Baths are incredibly popular no matter the time of year, so make sure to book your tickets in advance and choose the early morning or late-night slots to avoid the crowds.

Practical Information About Bath

Location: England, United Kingdom

National Languages: English 

Currency: Sterling Pound

Neighbouring Countries: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland