How to Spend a Weekend in Bath UK | 48 Hours in Bath
Bath is an incredible city in the southwest of England, and it is easy to spend an incredible weekend in Bath. It’s full of unique Georgian architecture, diverse and exciting places to eat and an excellent historic city centre.
Did you know that Bath city centre is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site city in the UK? It has held the status for over 30 years because of its breathtaking landscape, Roman remains and 18th-century architecture. We genuinely believe that it is a fantastic city break, and it has become even more popular since a lot of the filming for Bridgeton was done in Bath. You might recognise some of the houses of your favourite characters!
It’s a beautiful city in the UK and has a lot going on. But where do you start? We’ve put together a list of our favourite things to do in the historic city of Bath, which we’re excited to share with you today to spend an unforgettable weekend in this charming city! We also share some popular places to eat and drink and some of the lesser known places toof1.
How to get to Bath
Many people visit Bath on a day trip, and for some, that is possible. If you come from London the travel time on the train is roughly an hour and a half. Just remember to book your train ticket in advance and reserve a seat to have a comfortable journey.
A lot of people visit on tours that include Stonehenge too. Bath Spa Train Station is centrally located, and everywhere we mention on this list is walking distance for your weekend in Bath. There is also the option to get the coach, and it also drops you off centrally.
When is the Best Time to go to Bath?
There are many other events to participate in throughout the year, including festivals like the International Food Festival, the Music Festival, Bath Walking Festival, and Bath’s Film Festival. There are also parades and colourful costumes during Bath Carnival.
Alternatively, you can visit at Christmas for the beautiful Christmas markets. They are arguably some of the best markets in the UK, and the whole city is alive and welcoming. If you are after fewer tourists, avoid the school holidays and festivals. There are many things you can do inside for your 48 hours in Bath, so you do not necessarily need hotter weather.
Weekend in Bath Itinerary – 10 Bath Attractions
We have listed our top 10 attractions for 48 hours in Bath for this guide. We recommend that you pick and choose what you fancy getting up to and do them when it is most convenient. For example, if it’s raining- go to a museum. If the sun is shining – head on the skyline walk.
Royal Crescent
A visit to the 18th century 500m long Royal Crescent is a must-do for 48 hours in Bath. It is impossible to see the city without observing the thirty Georgian townhouses that form a half-moon shape.
It’s easy to access by walking from the city centre and is among the most popular places in Bath at no cost. It was constructed during the 1800s by John Wood, has been the home of many of Bath’s notable figures, and gives visitors breathtaking views of Bath’s centre.
You should also visit the Circus when you visit Bath, similar to the Royal Crescent. It was constructed to represent the moon and sun and is a beautiful illustration of Georgian architecture. It comprises three curved Grade I Listed townhouses, and when you look at it from above, you’ll notice a distinctive form.
Bath Abbey
Enjoying Bath Abbey and its Gothic architecture is, without doubt, one of the top experiences you can have in Bath. The present church was built during the 19th century.
However, three churches have existed since the year 675 AD. This signifies that their history dates back more than 1,300 years. You can walk up the 212 steps that lead to Bath Abbey’s Tower for stunning views of Bath city. However, this costs you a fee of £8 per person.
There is a suggested donation of £5 for adults or £2.50 for a child.
Roman Baths
The Roman Baths are among the best historical locations in Northern Europe.
The site was once one of the most revered thermal spas sacred to the ancient world because the inhabitants of Roman Britain visited the area to worship the god Sulis Minerva and bathe in the thermal waters. These springs were naturally formed and still supply hot water to this day.
Today, you can visit the Roman Baths complex and walk along the original Roman streets and visit the remains of the Temple of Sulis Minerva. Collections in the museum, situated near the bathing facility, consist of a gold-bronze head of the goddess Sulis Minerva and additional Roman artefacts.
We recommend buying tickets in advance, as although it is not the cheapest experience, we think it is worth doing on your weekend in Bath. It does sell out. You can buy tickets on the Roman Baths Website.
Walking Tour
If you’re looking to learn more about Bath’s rich past and architecture, there’s no better place to be than any of the walks offered by Bath’s Mayor. The tour starts in Bath Abbey’s churchyard and will take about two hours.
The tour will include a variety of beautiful sites, and you will be taught about their significance as you travel, along with the opportunity to ask questions. Amazingly, you can get this done in Bath at no cost. However, it is essential to book your space if you are in a group, and you can make reservations through the Bath Guides website.
Alternatively, you can install an app for your walking tour around the city. There are various choices, such as the Heritage Site tour or a Jane Austen tour. You can download additional information and listen to the Visit Bath Website.
Bath Skyline Walk
In recent years, one of the most popular routes is Bath Skyline Walk, a 10km path that boasts stunning views. It’s not far from the city centre, and you’ll see Roman settlements and an Iron Age hill fort whilst taking in a natural beauty.
It could take anywhere from 3-4 hours and is steep in some places. It is. However, one of the top activities to enjoy during the weekend in Bath shouldn’t be overlooked on your next visit, especially on a lovely day.
Jane Austen Centre
The Jane Austen Centre is in a gorgeous Georgian structure in the centre of Bath. The Jane Austen Centre offers an overview of life in Regency time and explores how life in Bath influenced Jane Austen and her writing. There are costumed guides that guide you to the Jane Austen Centre.
You can enjoy dressing up in costumes while sampling some Regency food, writing using a quill pen and ink, and capturing your photo with the world-famous Jane Austen waxwork. You can also visit the Assembly Rooms where Jane Austen attended balls when she lived in Bath!
Adult tickets cost £13.25, child tickets are £6.50, and you can book online on their website.
Thermae Bath Spa
The Thermae Bath Spa is an excellent option for your weekend in Bath if you are looking to relax and unwind. Two magnificent baths are fed by mineral-rich, naturally warm waters and a modern Wellness Suite. It is pretty difficult to book a spot because you have to book quite far in advance.
If this is not possible, more spaces are open on the day. We suggest getting there early to be sure you are not disappointed. On arrival, the reception will assign the available time slot (subject to the availability of space and capacities).
You can enjoy stunning views over Bath’s City of Bath and surrounding hills at night and during the daytime because of the impressive rooftop views. The air seats and bubbling jets enhance the naturally warm, mineral-rich water. We felt so lucky to see hot air balloons from the rooftop pool, making the experience even more magical.
You can find all the information you need to book and more on their website: Thermae Bath Spa.
Guildhall Market
If you have 48 hours in Bath, make sure you take a stroll through Guildhall Market, the city’s oldest indoor market. It’s fun to walk through and peruse the various vendors because the atmosphere is fantastic. 20 stalls are offering a wide range of products and services. The market is situated right next to the well-known Pulteney Bridge. It’s worth an afternoon stroll!
Holburne Museum
Named in honour of Sir William Holburne and opened at his request for Bath’s residents to view and admire his art collection, it includes The Holburne Museum. They have a wide range of collections and exhibits that focus on oil paintings, portraits and portraits, to mention only a few. It is Grade I Listed, too, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit for free in Bath. You might also recognise it from Bridgeton.
Pulteney Bridge
You must take a walk and take pictures of Pulteney Bridge on your weekend in Bath. It is one of four bridges globally that has retail shops on both sides, and it was built in 1773. This bridge was inspired by Ponte Vecchio in Florence, and it’s a short trip to visit if you’ve been there. It also offers excellent views of the weir that was built in 1603.
You can also walk along the River Avon and Kennet Canal to watch the boats on the river and to have a relaxing stroll.
Where to Stay in Bath
We would recommend staying centrally for your weekend in Bath. Most of the hotels are in the centre, and there is a range depending on your budget, from hostels to luxury hotels. We have friends that have stayed at the Z Hotel and loved it.
However, we stayed in a beautiful apartment in Dar Moulay Sultan, which we loved because it was centrally located, and the host was lovely and made us feel at home (not affiliate links, we just loved our stay).
Where to Eat on your Bath Weekend Break
The Pump Rooms:
If you are after an afternoon tea like no other, you can visit the Georgian Pump Room. Dickens and Austen once went there if it was good enough for them…
You will be able to have spa water and delicious food whilst listening to some soothing music. This is for the elegant wanting a traditional English experience.
Courtyard Cafe
Courtyard Cafe is near Bath Abbey in the historic Lilliput Court. It has been owned by an independent family for more than thirty years. The welcoming cafe is a favourite of residents and visitors and is very popular. The home-cooked food is hearty and the cakes delicious. We stopped for brunch, and we were not disappointed.
Yum Yum Thai Bath
Serving excellent Thai food in a light and relaxed atmosphere in one of our favourite squares in Bath – Kingsmead Square. They serve wines and coffee that are 100% organic and both veggie and meat dishes.
Sally Lunn’s – The Oldest Building in Bath
Sally Lunn’s is more than just a world-renowned tea house and eatery. Sally Lunn was a famous Huguenot baking expert in Georgian Bath who developed one of the first Bath Bunn, an authentic regional dish now famous worldwide.
Sally Lunn’s serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.
There you have it, our guide to a fabulous weekend in Bath. We hope you enjoy this city as much as we do, and if you want different things to do whilst you’re there, please read our guide to the Best Free Things to do in Bath.
Alternatively, if you are interested in other UK city breaks, please read our guides to:
Photo Credits: averagelieves.com