bath tour free

The Mayor of Bath's Honorary Guides

Free walking tours of Bath

Our regular daily walks take place every day, except Christmas Day, for more information click here . Bookings do not need to be made for these walks - just turn up and go .

Groups of 10 or more people must book a Group Walk, please click here for more details.

Our Pulteney Estate walks take place every Tuesday and Thursday, starting at 11.00am, they will run until September 26th. For more details please click here . Bookings do not need to be made for these walks - just turn up and go

Learn more about Bath..

Bath is one of only two UNESCO World Heritage Cities in Europe. Come and find out why!

We exist to provide free historic walking tours for individuals and non-commercial groups to give people an understanding of how Bath has developed, its rich history and architecture, and why it has been awarded two inscriptions by UNESCO.

• We do not accept tips or gratuities
• Established in 1934
• Our badge is worn by Mayor’s Guides – please check – other “free” tours expect tips!

Free-City-Guides.com

Independent Advice for your city break

Free Walking Tours

Bath is one of just a few cities in the world to offer free official walking tours. They take place daily and last for around 2 hours. Each tour is different because they are personalised by the tour guide. You don’t need to book, just check out the tour times at the sign board outside the Roman Baths in Abbey Churchyard. We have to say that our guide was absolutely brilliant. He knew so much about the history of the place and explained it all in compelling way. The tours take in all the highlights of the centre of Bath. You can expect to visit Bath Abbey, the Circus, the Royal Crescent, the Assembly Rooms and many other historic buildings and sights. If you’d prefer a tour at a different time, there are plenty of paid-for Bath walking tours too, some of which include admission to attractions like the Roman Baths.

There’s quite a lot to see just in the Abbey Churchyard and around half an hour of our tour was spent here before we moved on. The best thing about the Mayor of Bath Honourary Guides who lead the tours is that they point out things you probably wouldn’t have noticed even though they’re right under your nose. For example the ancient doors of Bath Abbey (pictured above) have a story to tell in the carvings.

After this our tour visited most of the main sights in Bath stopping at cobbled and historic streets along the way. We strolled along the historic Gravel Walk which featured in Jane Austen’s ‘Persuasion’ and allows a view of the rear of some of the most impressive houses in Bath. The big highlight for us was the trip inside the Bath Assembly Rooms, which was part of the tour we were on. It’s worth pointing out that the tours do vary depending on which guide is leading them and access to the Assembly Rooms is not always possible.

Tours operate daily, starting at 10.30am and at 2pm although there is no afternoon tour on a Saturday.  From May to September addition tours operate on Tuesdays and Fridays at 7pm. No pre-booking is necessary for individuals, but groups of 12 or more should prebook at least 4 weeks in advance by calling the Mayor’s office (number below). The guides are volunteers and do not accept tips, although they definitely deserve them!

TOUR MEETING POINT & CONTACT

Tours meet at the signboard outside the Pump Room in Abbey Churchyard.  They are organised by the Mayor Of Bath’s office

Tel: +44 (0) 1225 477411 Fax: +44 (0) 1225 477408

MORE ON BATH WALKING TOURS

Bath Walking Tours – VisitBath.com Bath Hop on, Hop off, Bus Tour – An alternative tour of Bath Bath Guide Books  – Amazon.co.uk

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31 best free things to do in bath that you can’t miss [2024].

In the words of our girl Jane Austen, “Oh! Who can be ever tired of Bath?”.

She’s right; Bath is full of things to do, and even though people on a shoestring tend to write it off as being too expensive to visit, it doesn’t have to be.

Like, at all.

In fact, there are so many free things to do in Bath that you’ll probably struggle to fit all of them into a single weekend!

So from art galleries and museums to walking tours and fudge tasting, here are the 31 best free things to do in Bath.

1. The Royal Crescent

Address: Bath BA1 2LR

Let’s kick off this list of the best free things to do in Bath with one of the city’s most famous sights, shall we?

If you hadn’t already gathered by now, you CANNOT visit Bath without wandering down the Royal Crescent .

This iconic 500-metre-long architectural landmark is made up of thirty terraced houses and is 254 years old.

At the very least, you’ll want to pitch up for a picnic or coffee on the lush grass out front but if you are willing to splash the cash (or have a generous relative), you can stop by at The Royal Crescent Hotel for an afternoon tea at £39.50 per person.

On your way back you’ll pass The Circus, up next.

2. The Circus

Address: Bath BA1 2EU

Just a few streets from the Royal Crescent is The Circus .

The Circus is made up of 33 Georgian houses designed by John Wood the Elder in 1768 to mimic Stonehenge’s layout (it’s only two metres shorter in diameter!).

I mean, if you couldn’t tell from the photo above, it’s named the third prettiest street in the country for good reason!

As such, The Circus is fantastic for a quick Instagram snap, and it’s especially beautiful in the winter when the residents have their Christmas trees up.

They’ve got their bauble theme nailed down!

3. Bath Abbey

Address: Bath BA1 1LT

Phone number: 01225 422462

It’s worth visiting Bath just to see Bath Abbey , and that doesn’t even include its gift shop!

Built in the 7 th century and famous for its fan vaulting (read: pretty ceilings), Bath Abbey is a must-visit attraction.

Entry is free but the wardens do ask for a donation on the door.

As with all religious buildings, there are numerous services throughout the week so plan your visit accordingly.

The Abbey closes at 2 pm on a Sunday (5 pm every other day), so ensure you’re there early if you’re on a weekend jolly to Bath.

Be warned: there can be big queues too, so factor this into your timings.

4. Pulteney Bridge and Weir

Address: Bridge St, Bath BA2 4AT

It’s a bit dark, granted, but Pulteney Bridge is where they filmed Javert’s suicide in Les Misérables.

So if you’re a Les Mis fan, you can’t miss this stop.

If, however, you’re more interested in a magnificent weir with a Georgian bridge to match, Pulteney Bridge is your place.

A hotspot for tourists on weekends, it can be hard to get close enough for a proper look but it’s worth holding your place to take in the view of the weir.

To get a better view, head across the bridge towards The Paragon and follow the steps down to the viewing platform on the other side.

You’ll then be able to look up at the bridge and see Bath’s famous rugby pitch, The Rec , too.

5. Walk the Bath Skyline

Address: Bath BA2 6EN

The Bath Skyline walk is a six-mile round route that, quite frankly, feels like entering another world.

With immense views across the Historic City of Bath (it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site , duh) and miles of meadows, valleys and woodlands, it’s bliss.

Kick off the walk at Bathwick Hill at the entrance to Bathwick Fields and follow the National Trust signs from there onwards.

You’ll finish at the top of Bathwick Hill – factor in at least twenty minutes for photo opportunities. Honestly.

6. University of Bath

Address: Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY

Phone number: 01225 388388

If you’re at a loose end, it’s well worth travelling up to Claverton Down to visit the University of Bath which was built in 1971.

A hub for Team GB athletes in training, the Training Village is worth a nosey (you might just see a famous Olympian!) and the lake outside the University library is a gorgeous coffee spot.

Bath is the highest university in England, so once you’ve scaled the hill, a cheap panini from one of the sandwich stands is quite the reward.

Come on, you can break the ‘free’ rule for a panini, right?

7. Guildhall Market

Address: High Street, Bath BA1 4AW

Phone number: 01225 460808

Bath’s only indoor market, the Guildhall Market , is the city’s oldest shopping venue and is home to twenty very unique stalls.

From a sweet shop to leather goods to Skoobs’ famous bookstore, there are loads to browse.

Most vendors have been trading there for over thirty years and pets are very welcome.

8. Kennet and Avon Canal Path

Address: Kennet and Avon Canal Path, Avon BA2 6QU

The Kennet and Avon canal connects Bristol to Reading so of course, much of it runs through the heart of Bath.

With locks every few metres and narrowboats passing through every few minutes, you’ll kick yourself if you don’t cover off at least some of the canal path.

If you’re looking for a long walk along the canal, start at Pulteney Bridge and walk for twenty miles , finishing at the famous Caen Hill lock flight at Devizes.

On this route, you’ll pass the Avoncliff Aqueduct , Sydney Gardens and Dundas Wharf – all perfect stops for a brew and view.

If only the drinks were free, ey?

9. Little Solsbury Hill

Address: Solsbury Lane, Batheaston, Bath BA1 7JQ

Solsbury Hill looks pretty unassuming to the naked eye but the view once you reach the top is immeasurably beautiful… no wonder Peter Gabriel poured his heart out in his song Solsbury Hill !

The top of the hill is home to an Iron Age fort which used to be manned by ‘warrior farmers’.

Cool, huh? When I’m older I want to be a warrior farmer.

10. Sham Castle

Address: Golf Course Rd, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 6JG

Sham Castle is a castle-front that was erected by Ralph Allen in 1762 (to get a better of view of the city from his townhouse, obvs).

Not only is Sham Castle a super stop after scaling Claverton Down Road (it’s really steep!), but as Ralph hoped, the view is breathtaking too.

11. Bath Christmas Market

Address: Stall Street, Bath BA1 1QH

So this might only be one of the best free things to do in Bath at a certain time of the year, but it’s too good not to include, okay?

Each and every year, Bath’s magical Christmas Market pulls in thousands of people to the city; and rightly so as it’s so Christmassy it HURTS.

With hundreds of sprawling stalls (manned by truly lovely people), fairy lights everywhere and Glühwein on every corner, Bath Christmas Market is a must.

In my opinion, it’s as good if not better than many European Christmas market bigguns like Strasbourg and Brussels. There, I said it.

As so many people come flocking, it’s vital that you plan your visit before you arrive.

Your best bet is to park at Charlotte Street car park or Manvers Street car park or see here for other travel options.

12. Victoria Park

Address: Marlborough Ln, Bath BA1 2NQ

Just metres away from the Royal Crescent, Royal Victoria Park is a haven on a hot day with its botanical gardens and bandstand.

There’s a café, mini-golf course and the Great Dell Aerial Walkaway too so you can make an afternoon of it.

Additionally, an open-air ice rink opens in November each year, but you’ll need to book in advance.

13. The Holburne Museum

Address: Great Pulteney St, Bathwick, Bath BA2 4DB

Phone number: 01225 388569

Bath’s Holburne Museum is home to two floors of fine art displays and exhibitions, as well as embroidery, gems and portrait miniatures.

The museum itself is a Grade I listed building with a beautiful garden and it does a great job at tracing the history of Bath as an artistic and fashionable spa city.

And on the second floor, you can find the works of Sir Thomas William Holburne himself, who founded the museum in 1893.

It’s important to note that entry to the Holburne Museum is only free between 3 pm – 5 pm on a Wednesday and from 5 pm – 9 pm on the last Friday of the month.

Plan your trip wisely so you don’t miss out!

14. Milson Street

Address: Bath BA1 1DB

Milsom Street is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful streets in the city, so of course, it deserves its place on this list of the best free things to do in Bath.

Built in 1762 by Thomas Lightholder (that surname is a flex in itself), it’s now home to lots of luxe shops including Jolly’s (a special edition House of Fraser flagship built especially for the city of Bath), Milsom Place , which pulls together a whole array of quirky pop-up shops, and The Ivy , if you fancy a bougie lunch.

Admittedly, all of these places require you to part with some pennies but who said you can’t window shop, right?

15. Beazer Maze

Address: Spring Gardens Rd, Bathwick, Bath BA2 6PW

If you’ve got thirty minutes to kill, Beazer Maze makes a great stop as it’s just two minutes from Pulteney Bridge.

It’s a stone maze designed by labyrinthologist, Randoll Coate , in 1984 (one of the best maze designers in the world, apparently).

In the middle of the maze is a Roman mosaic of a pretty grumpy-looking guy, but you must stop to say hi.

If you don’t, he might curse you or something. Maybe.

16. Henrietta Park

Address: Henrietta Rd, Bathwick, Bath BA2 6LY

If you’re game for some greenery, Henrietta Park is a great place to head.

The seven-acre park boasts a rose-covered pergola, yards of colourful flower beds and a Sensory Garden for little ones.

The park is a five-minute walk from Pulteney Bridge and it’s open all year; however, the Memorial Garden of Remembrance (for George V no less!) is locked between dawn and dusk.

17. Bath City Farm

Address: Kelston View, Whiteway, Bath BA2 1NW

Phone number: 01225 481269

Putting the ‘baa’ in Bath, Bath City Farm is one of the best free things to do in Bath if you’re an animal lover.

With goats, pigs, sheep and chickens, Bath City Farm perfectly mish-mashes rural with the city.

There’s also a nature trail, a café, a garden shop (where they only sell local produce) and an outdoor amphitheatre.

Admission is free, but they do encourage donations. (I say, do it for the baby goats!)

The farm is closed to the public on Mondays and Sundays, and opening hours are 10 am – 4 pm.

18. Alexandra Park

Address: Bath BA2 4RE

You’re looking for ANOTHER panoramic view of Bath?!

Fine, Alexandra Park it is.

Alexandra Park sits atop Beechen Cliff so makes for a prime view of the city, including an up-close view of Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths .

To access the eleven-acre park you’ll need to climb quite a number of steps, so do consider this if mobility is an issue (or you’ve gone a little too hard on Bath’s famous fudge).

For more great views, you can head to one of the many rooftop bars in Bath – you’ll just have to pay for a drink for the privilege of a view!

19. Green Park Station

Address: Green Park Rd, Bath BA1 1JB

Phone number: 01225 787910

Green Park Station is a disused railway station in the heart of Bath that’s now filled to the brim (no seriously, it’s chocca) with market stalls.

There are spaces to shop, eat and work so whatever you’re looking for, you’re bound to find it at Green Park.

What’s more, loads of local traders are up for a chat, and all of the produce that’s sold there is sourced locally. Win, win!

20. Victoria Art Gallery

Phone number: 01225 477233

Bath’s Victoria Art Gallery is a treasure-trove for paintings, sculpture and art exhibitions.

If you want to visit one artsy place in Bath, I recommend that it’s this one.

The rooms in which the works are found are amazing in themselves but even better, each month the gallery curators hold a free after-hours tour where you can see behind the scenes.

Entry to the museum is free but exhibitions are paid for – regardless, you need to book a time slot before visiting.

The gallery is closed every Monday.

21. Bath Artisan Market

Address: Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HA

Phone number: 07825 684778

Bath’s Artisan Market takes place on the first Saturday of each month and what a dream it is.

Found on Queens Square, the Artisan Market calls itself “Bath’s biggest and friendliest market” and actually, they’re right.

There are rows and rows of local crafts, independent businesses, street food and occasionally live music which only adds to the atmosphere.

For me, a non-negotiable has to be the Bath Soft Cheese stall; it’s epic. Dairy Lea who?

22. Fudge tasting

I don’t think you’ll need much convincing on why fudge tasting is one of the best free things to do in Bath.

But in short, Bath knows what it’s doing when it comes to fudge.

I encourage you to pop into the following fudge shops: Fudge Kitchen , Roly’s Fudge and San Francisco Fudge .

Whether you’re buying or not, you’ll be offered tasters and you’d be silly to pass on them.

I can guarantee the sugar hit will be delectable, but I can’t guarantee that you won’t be tempted to splurge!

23. Join a walking tour

Address: Join the tour just outside the Roman Baths at the ‘Free Walking Tours Start Here’ sign

For a free walking tour of Bath, look no further than The Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides .

The walk takes around two hours and covers the rich history of the city, including stops at Abbey Churchyard, Queen Square, the Royal Crescent and the Circus.

Each tour is circa 2 miles/3km and includes a gradual incline of around 100 feet.

Tours take place every day of the year excluding Christmas Day at 10.30 am, and 2 pm Sunday to Friday, and 10.30 am on Saturdays.

You must book at least 24 hours before your tour kicks off.

24. Two Tunnels Greenway

Address: There’s no official address for tunnels. Head east along the Upper Bristol Road in the direction of the city, and then take the first right (Brassmill Lane BA1 3JE) then on to the river towpath. Lastly, following signs, cross the green steel footbridge over the river.

If you’ve got time on your hands and energy in the bank, a walk along the twelve-mile Two Tunnels route is one to consider.

A lot of the path is on an old disused railway line and the highlight is, of course, the twin tunnels that you can walk or cycle through.

The Combe Down tunnel is the longest walking tunnel in the UK at a modest 1,672 metres.

It has an interactive light and sound installation too, so it’s definitely one to tick off the bucket list.

Once you’ve headed out of the city, the Tucking Mill Viaduct will come into view, followed by the Dundas Aqueduct, Midford Castle and the Devonshire Tunnel Portal.

I recommend stopping for a pub lunch at the six-mile mark: The Cross Keys is a stellar choice (BA2 5RZ).

Lots of people choose to cycle this route, so if you want to hire a bike, head to the Green Park Bike Station .

25. Parade Gardens

Address: Grand Parade, Bath BA2 4DF

You can find the Parade Gardens  just a few metres down from Pulteney weir.

The Parade Gardens have a stunning view of both the river Avon and Bath Abbey so if you’re in need of a pit stop, take it here.

And the best bit is that throughout the summer you can hear bands playing at the bandstand .

26. Jane Austen’s Bath

If you’re a Jane Austen stan (don’t tell me I’m not down with the kids), you’ll know that Jane Austen spent much of her time in Bath and referenced the city in several of her books.

So that you can trace Austen’s steps around the city and see some of the places she lived, the kind people at Visit Bath have put together a free audio tour of ‘Jane’s Bath’ .

It takes around ninety minutes but feel free to pause if you want to stop for tea.

(Jane’s favourite tea was Lapsang Souchong, so if you really want to get into character, head to Green Rocket to taste it. I just can’t promise that it’ll be free!)

27. Bath Carnival

Address: Procession begins at The Forum, Avon, 1A Forum Buildings, Bath BA1 1UG

Each year, Bath comes alive with its annual Bath Carnival which describes itself as ‘Bath’s biggest free party’.

Thousands of people take to the streets in colourful outfits to celebrate the city and raise money for important community causes.

The sea of headdresses and huge skirts brings an electric Caribbean energy to the city – you can’t miss it!

As well as the carnival procession, there’s a whole roster of events including live music, stage performances, craft workshops and costume making sessions.

Be there! You won’t regret it.

28. Bath Street

Address: Bath BA1 1QN

You guessed it; Bath Street is where the famous Thermae Bath is found in Bath.

Situated at the Pump Room, the historic bath bubbles up from the ground reaching temperatures of 46°C, and although you can’t quite see it from Bath Street itself, the street alone is beautiful enough to make up for it.

The long-cobbled street is flanked by glittering Georgian pillars that just scream romance.

It promises a postcard-worthy photo, and it’s a great background for a selfie!

There’s a reason Bath is one of the best UK city breaks for couples , after all.

29. Bath Aqua Glass Shop

Address: 105-107 Walcot St, Bath BA1 5BW

Phone number: 01225 319606

If any shop is worth a peruse in Bath, it’s this one.

Bath Aqua Glass  is an independent glass company that does all of its glassblowing on-site, resulting in lots of unique pieces of jewellery and gifts for sale that’s fresh out of the studio.

Additionally, there are glassblowing demonstrations at 11.15 am and 2.15 pm Monday to Friday and at 2.15 pm on a Saturday.

Window shopping, quite literally.

30. St John’s Church

Address: South Parade, Bath BA2 4AF

Phone number: 01225 464471

Bath Abbey sets the standard high, but St John’s Church in the centre of Bath is almost as beautiful.

With stunning stained-glass windows and the highest spire in Bath (standing at 222 feet high), you really must pop by if you’re in the vicinity.

However, make sure to check on Mass and Confession times before rocking up.

31. Palladian Arch

Address: York Street, Bath BA1 1NQ

Last but by no means least on this list of the best free things to do in Bath, we have this beautiful Palladian arch.

Just beside the Roman Baths, you can find a stunning decorative arch that was once used to carry water to a new spa (this plan was masterminded by Major Charles Davis in 1889 but didn’t last long).

Nowadays, the arch is a gorgeous reminder of how they used to pump hot water around the city.

And maybe, more importantly, it makes a great shot to make your friends and family envious of your trip.

So there you have it: 31 amazing free things to do in Bath!

It’s safe to say that if you want to do Bath on a budget, it’s certainly possible.

But which of these free things to do in Bath are you going to try out first?

Please let me know in the comments below!

10 ways to enjoy Bath without splashing the cash

Nov 20, 2021 • 6 min read

The Pulteney Bridge in Palladian style crosses the River Avon in Bath © Valdis Skudre / Shutterstock

Beautiful, elegant, cultural Bath is famously expensive. Beloved by the Romans and a fashionable Georgian watering hole, these days it’s home to a smart contemporary spa. 

The city’s graceful, golden 18th century buildings frame an array of trendy boutiques, classy restaurants and gourmet shops. But while many bemoan Bath’s prices, there’s actually a wealth of free (and almost free) things to do which give you a richer slice of city life. Here’s an itinerary to see Bath on a budget.

Picnic beside a Bridgerton backdrop

As you join the crowds gazing at the gorgeous Georgian semi-circle of the Royal Crescent it may look familiar. These honey-coloured, four-story mansions feature in the Netflix blockbuster Bridgerton . Stroll along the length of the street then turn left. After a sweeping semi-circle of private lawns sits a vast swathe of grass. Here you can gaze back at the exquisite architecture and picnic with the locals – a  Bridgerton backdrop of your own and a meal with the best (and free) views in town.

Discover a secret garden 

Once you’ve seen No.1 Royal Crescent , look out for a pedestrian path on the right as you head back towards town. It turns left onto Gravel Walk to hug the back of walled gardens. With sunlight dappling dog walkers, and glimpses of fine buildings through the trees, it feels like this route is offering you privileged access into the real city behind those fine facades. 

Eventually a door set into the wall to your left leads to the tiny Georgian Garden , with its gravel walkways and heritage plants. Again there’s a behind-the-scenes feel - you’re in what would have been the private space of a very grand, Bridgerton-esque, building. 

Embark on an architectural amble

Bath’s other architectural show-stopper, The Circus , is a short stroll away. Completed in 1768, its three curving terraces of 33 mansions form an imposing circle. You’ve already seen the back of one of these grand villas – the Georgian Garden is tucked in just behind.

Bath’s unfurnished Assembly Rooms are nearby, all elaborate plaster moulding, huge oil paintings and vast chandeliers. This is where Bath’s fashionable society came to attend lavish balls in the 18th century. Bits of Bridgerton were filmed here and you get to wander around all this finery for free.

Walk (or cycle) an art-packed tunnel

You’re deep into the mile-long Combe Down cycling and walking tunnel that runs below suburban Bath. As you move through the gloom, strange glowing disks appear in alcoves in the sides. You’re about to trigger the sound and light installation Passage, by United Visual Artists and the composer Mira Calix . 

Suddenly stringed instruments begin to play. As the music swirls, look ahead towards the other 19 alcoves with eerie gleaming circles. Each has a motion sensor and sparks music which creates a unique atmosphere, propelling you on your way.

Bathe on Bath’s wild side

Head to Warleigh Weir on a summer’s day along the Kennet & Avon Canal towpath . Here you'll join crowds of locals as they laugh, lounge on the grass and float in long, shallow pools that curve out from a 100m weir. As dragonflies buzz, birds flit and you gaze up at a wide blue sky from the water, you’ll see why Warleigh Weir has been a much-loved local swim spot for more than 100 years. 

The weir may not be as old as the city’s Roman Baths , or as warm as the geothermal pool at swish Thermae Bath Spa but its back-to-basics bathing helps you really tap into city and its people. It’s also much more memorable and – of course – it’s free (although the landowner appreciates donations at a coin box on your way in). 

Sip a pint in a proper music pub

The pints of real ale are poured, there’s a buzz of expectation in the air, the first chords of the guitar begin to play. It’s lively and loud and full of the love of music at Bath’s legendary Bell Inn . This historic, welcoming space has a real feeling that people enjoy coming together to have a good time – the pub is actually owned by some 500 of it’s customers who banded together to buy it. Catch the vibe in live music three to four times a week – and all for the price of a pint (or two).

Watch artisan glassblowers at work 

As you walk up Walcot St to the Bell, there was a counter-culture feel – a refreshing change after all that Georgian grandeur. You’re in the heart of Bath’s artisan quarter , surrounded by vintage clothes shops, designer homeware stores and cool cafes. 

Just up from the Bell you’ll probably spot an open doorway at the workshops of Bath Aqua Glass . A wave of heat flows from it, inside furnaces blaze, tools clank and artisans roll, blow and sculpt molten glass. It’s absorbing, rhythmical stuff, watching unformed blobs being transformed into gleaming works of art.

Take a – genuinely – free walking tour

Bath has endless narrow lanes and unexpected paths, which can be fantastic fun to explore. Sometimes though you want a guide who can really bring the place to life. But those guides cost money – right? Well, no. The Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides are completely free – they won’t even accept tips. 

Just book a tour, meet outside the Roman Baths, then let a supremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic guide lead you to both big and lesser-known sights, sharing the stories of the people who built the city, the characters who’ve lived in it and the scandals that have occurred.

Delight in buskers & history at Kingston Parade

At the end of a day sightseeing, stand at the side of towering Bath Abbey looking towards the colonnades and statues of the Roman Baths. The compact square of Kingston Parade will be full with people, conversations in many languages swirl as they head off to find a pub. A busker plays, the notes of her violin rising above the hubbub. 

There’s a regular rotation of players here (and throughout many of Bath’s key shopping streets) and the surrounding benches make a natural performance space. As you sit, people watching and enjoying these free, alfresco, mini concerts, you’re looking at buildings spanning more than two thousand years of the city’s history. Quite a show for whatever you choose to donate.

Walk to city views

Walk a mile or so from central Bath, taking just an hour to get to Bathwick Fields – a spot offering panoramic city views . As you look down on the city, you’ll see towers, spires and lines of graceful Georgian buildings. It’s a zoomed-out view of the sights you’ve seen up close. 

On the way you’ve wandered across photogenic Pulteney Bridge , past the art collection in the Georgian Holburne Museum (the home of Bridgerton’s Lady Danbury), past Sydney Gardens , where the people of Bath like to relax on sunny days, and beside the Bath Canal. It’s a walk that traces the route dandies and fashionable ladies strolled in the 18th century. And visitors still adore it today.

One last tip for budget-conscious travelers: stay in nearby Bristol (where accommodation is generally less pricey) and head in and out of Bath on the train. It takes around 15 minutes, costs £8.50 return and services run until around 11pm.

You might also like: How to get around in England    Top 9 road trips in England    Top 10 national parks in England  

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Take a free walking tour of Bath with a local

Bath, somerset.

Let the Mayor of Bath’s Honorary Guides show you the city of Bath with free daily walking tours.

Bath is a city bursting with Roman and Georgian heritage, and what better way to learn all about it than in the company of a knowledgeable, local guide. 

On the walking tours you’ll discover some of Bath's most celebrated landmarks, including the The Royal Crescent, The Circus and Pulteney Bridge, as well as streets of beautiful Georgian townhouses, charming cobbled alleyways and the city's abundance of parks and gardens.

Starting from outside the main entrance to the Pump Room in the Abbey Church Yard, the Mayor’s Honorary Guides offer free walking tours which last approximately two hours. The tours run daily throughout the year and are a great introduction to Bath’s fascinating past and impressive collection of Grade I listed buildings.

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• Find out more about the Mayor of Bath's Honorary Guides
• Find more tours and trails in Bath
• More information on Somerset

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• Website Contact Visit Bath

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Bath Walking Tours

Explore the magic by foot.

Expert guided tours of Bath, join us on a magical journey around this historic and enchanting city.

Call or  Whatsapp  + (44) 07955 482 637

Call or Whatsapp  + (44) 07955 482 637

Uncover the Timeless Beauty and History of Bath

Bath Walking Tours offers a unique way to experience the splendour of this historic city. Our meticulously crafted tours take you through the heart of Bath, revealing its rich heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. With our expert guides, you’ll explore famous landmarks and hidden gems, gaining a deeper appreciation for what makes Bath one of the most cherished cities in England.

Our guides are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about Bath’s history. They provide engaging and insightful commentary that brings the city’s past to life.

Engaging Experiences: Each tour is designed to be more than just a walk. You’ll experience Bath through stories, anecdotes, and fascinating facts that highlight the city’s unique character.

Historical Insights: Bath is a city with a rich tapestry of history, from its Roman origins to its Georgian grandeur. Our tours delve into these periods, providing a comprehensive understanding of how Bath has evolved over the centuries.

Diego Delso,  delso.photo , License  CC-BY-SA

Walk Through Bath’s Timeless Beauty with Expert Guides

Bath is home to some of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in the world. Our tours highlight these architectural treasures, explaining their historical significance and the stories behind their creation.

Historic Landmarks: From ancient Roman baths to grand Georgian crescents, our tours cover all the major landmarks that make Bath a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll learn about the significance of these sites and their roles in Bath’s history.

Cultural Highlights: Bath has a rich cultural heritage, with connections to famous literary figures, artists, and musicians. Our tours explore these cultural links, offering a deeper understanding of the city’s artistic and literary contributions.

From Cobblestones to Crescents: Discover Bath’s Secrets

Each of our tours uncovers bath’s timeless tales with every step.

Beautiful Historic Sites off the Beaten Path

Explore Bath’s hidden treasures with our walking tours, designed to showcase beautiful historic sites away from the crowded tourist paths. Our typical route spans various lengths and times, depending on your preferences. The default tour covers approximately 5 miles, taking around 3 hours of walking time plus 1.5 hours for lunch and sightseeing stops. Wander through stunning scenery and charming streets on quieter routes, providing an immersive experience of Bath’s unique heritage and architecture.

Flexible cancellation booking policy

Plus Tours in Other Destinations: In conjunction with VisitOxfordTours.com

Unique guided walking tours of Oxford and beyond

[email protected]

Special requests available for custom-made tours.

All the tours have the same meet point as follows:

Meet your guide outside main entrance to Bath abbey, next door to the Roman Baths, Bath Lane, BA1 1LT  Alternatively, please make known your preferred meeting point in Bath city centre, when you book the tour.

Notice: if the given start times offered don’t suit your schedule, please just contact us before you book, to request an alternative start time for your tour.

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(+44) 2079 657 523 or Whatsapp (+44) 07955 482 637

Send Us a Message

Contact us and start your Bath adventure. Join us for an unforgettable day of exploration and discovery, experiencing the Historic City of Bath in a way that is both exhilarating and enriching.

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There is no better way to get a feel for the layout of Bath and a huge wealth of interesting information about the city than the Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides Free Walking Tour. Leaving from the courtyard outside the Roman Baths every day of the year except Christmas Day, these two-hour tours are interesting, well-paced and a must-do for any visitor to Bath.

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This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our full disclosure policy here .

Founded in 1934, the  Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides   have been showing visitors around just about every day since – even during the period of the Second World War. By 1960 new volunteer guides started attending formal training sessions and local experts gave lectures on many subjects about the city.

By 1975 the frequency of the walks grew to twice daily and on every day of the year except Christmas day. As far as anyone can remember the walks have only been cancelled twice – in 1981 when the ground was too icy and dangerous to walk on, and in 1996 when hurricane-force winds blew through the city uprooting trees. These guides are committed!

Today there are about 65 guides who volunteer their time to lead the walks and give visitors a very interesting history lesson of Bath. The walks are totally free, as in the guides will not even accept tips, but don’t let that deter you lest you think that free doesn’t equate to well done. When they say ‘some of the best things in life are free’…these walks are one of those things.

READ MORE:  Weekend Guide to Bath: 48-Hour Itinerary

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FREE WALKING TOUR OF BATH

There are always a number of guides on duty, so don’t despair if a large crowd is gathered. Each guide will take a portion of the crowd and they each follow a different route around the city. This means that you don’t keep bumping into the other groups outside attractions. It also means that it is likely that your tour won’t be in the same order as we saw the highlights below.

Since the year 757 a church has stood on the site of the  Bath Abbey  and in 973 the first King of England, King Edgar was crowned here. Today the beautiful medieval Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, or commonly referred to as Bath Abbey, is a central landmark in the city of Bath. Its tall Gothic spires can be seen from much of the city and its exterior yellowish colour is from the Bath stone with which it was built.

Our guide also pointed out a couple of details like the statues of St Peter and St Paul, one of whom lost his head and shoulders, but they’ve since been restored. Another interesting detail is of the sculptures of the angels climbing to heaven on two stone ladders, although one angel is seen climbing back down representing a “descent through the vice of pride”.

Inside you’ll find seating for 1200 under the spectacular vaulted ceilings, and if you climb the 212 steps up to the top of the tower you’re rewarded with a great view of the city. 

ROMAN BATHS

Around the Roman Baths our guide started telling us more about how Bath came to be founded way back about 2,500 years ago when the hot springs were discovered and it became a place of worship to the Celtic god Sul. Originally called   Aquae Sulis , the town became known as Bath after the Romans moved in and created the firsts baths and temple buildings around the Sacred Spring in 76 A.D.

Water temperatures in the Sacred Spring reach 46° C (114°F) and it was here that the spirit of the goddess   Sulis Minerva   dwelt and was worshipped.  The local people also wrote curses about other people, for things like theft, on lead or pewter and threw these in to the Sacred Spring to the goddess for her intervention with the thieves.

READ MORE: Guide to Visiting The Roman Baths

BACK STREETS

Continuing through the cobblestone streets we made our way around to the   Thermae Bath Spa , just one of many spas in Bath over the centuries. This particular spa even has a pool, fed by the hot springs, up on the roof with great views of Bath.

Close to the baths, you’ll also find the St. John’s Hospital that was founded around 1174 and is among the oldest almshouses in England. The current building isn’t quite that old, being built in 1716. It was the “hospital of the baths” and provided shelter and care for the poor who had come to experience the healing properties of the baths. The courtyard is absolutely lovely, it was so serene and it is a pleasant spot to stop on a busy afternoon for a little rest from the crowds on the streets of Bath.

QUEEN SQUARE

From here we started making our way a little uphill along what was once the path of one of the city walls to   Queen Square . This square is surrounded by Georgian style houses and is said to be the “first element in the most important architecture sequence in Bath” which also includes the   Circus   and the   Royal Crescent .

It was about here that we were also given more insight into one of three important men in the history of Bath that we learned a lot about on our tour – John Wood the Elder. He was the architect behind Queen Square when he set out to restore Bath to its former glory in 1725. Queen Square was named in honour of Queen Caroline, the wife of George II, and was designed to look like a palace with wings and a forecourt for people to gather together. He knew that people of the high society enjoyed parading so as he further developed the city he provided wide streets with raised sidewalks. If ever you wanted to see and be seen, Bath was just the place to do it.

The obelisk in the centre of the square was erected by the second man we learned a lot about – Beau Nash . In 1738, when it was created in honour of Frederick, Prince of Wales, it stood in a circular pool climbing 70 feet (21 m) high. Unfortunately, a severe wind in 1815 shortened it. Other damages to the square came during WWII as part of the Bath Blitz when a 500 kg bomb landed on the east side of the Square and damaged most of the buildings. Although the buildings have been restored, there are still some signs of the bombings.  

READ MORE:  Looking for more great things to see and do when you visit Bath? Check out these 21 things to do in Bath !

The Circus , formerly known as the King’s Circus, was built between 1754 and 1768 and was our next stop along our walk. Another example of Georgian architecture, it is divided into three segments of townhouses of equal lengths. Each of the segments faces an entrance so no matter where a visitor enters from they always face one of the beautiful facades.

The Circus was designed by John Wood the Elder, but he didn’t live to see his design finished as he died only three months into construction. It is here that we were told more about the life of John Wood the Younger, as he was entrusted to take over the construction in his father’s absence.

The inspiration for the Circus came from the Colosseum in Rome but was built facing inward, instead of outward like the Colosseum. Three classical styles were used for the curved facades of each floor- Greek Doric, Roman, and Corinthian. Also included in the details are alternating triglyphs and 525 pictorial emblems that include serpents, nautical symbols and representations of the arts and sciences. And all along the top, the parapet is decorated with stone acorn finials.

THE ROYAL CRESCENT

From here we walked around to likely one of the most recognized buildings in all of Bath – the   Royal Crescent . Designed by both John Wood the Elder and his son, John Wood the Younger, it is considered an outstanding example of the architecture of the period. The crescent has remained almost unchanged since it was built between 1767 and 1775 as a long, semi-circular collection of 30 fine homes.

Today one of the houses is a hotel, another is a museum ( No 1 Royal Crescent ), the rest are still private homes, and the whole building has been used as a backdrop for many films and television programs set in the Georgian time period. No doubt you’ve seen it at some point, even if you didn’t realize that was the building in the background. You can take a tour of the museum which is decorated and furnished for the time period.

READ MORE: Guide to Visiting No 1 Royal Crescent

MILSOM PLACE AND PULTENEY BRIDGE

By this time it was getting on time to start making our way back down into the centre of Bath to wrap up the tour. We followed our guide along the busy shopping area of the Milsom Quarter and down   Milsom Place . There are oodles of great shops along this street but I was really more interested in looking up at the remnants of the signs that were painted directly on the buildings in days gone by.

Here we were shown the remnants of the original East Gate of the defensive city wall that was built around Bath. The first walls were built by the Romans and then the Anglo-Saxons constructed a fortification at Bath, using the existing city walls to help maintain the city as the centre of regional power. The original North and South Gates were both decorated with statues of kings but they were destroyed in 1755. Today only the East Gate remains along with a bit of the wall.

Our final stop found us back behind Bath Abbey alongside the river with a view of  Pulteney Bridge . Built to resemble the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, the Pulteney Bridge was built to cross the River Avon in the 18th century. It is one of only four bridges in the world to have shops built into its original design.

INFORMATION ABOUT THE FREE WALKING TOUR OF BATH

Information last updated December 2019

HOW TO GET THERE

The Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides Free Walking Tour of Bath starts outside the Roman Baths at  Abbey Churchyard Bath BA1 1QL .

The nearest station is Bath Spa (Great Western Mainline) which is less than 10-minutes walk away. You can catch a bus (3, D1 discover or D3 discover) from the bus station outside Bath Spa to Guidhall which is just 1-minutes walk from the starting point of the free walking tour.

Parking is available five-minutes walk away at Manvers Street Car Park . Parking is £1.60 per hour, with a minimum stay of two hours, up to £15 for 12 hours.

HELPFUL LINK:

• If you need an app that will navigate you around whether walking, driving or using public transport and even works offline then click for a guide about   how to use Here WeGo .

OPENING HOURS

The   tours   are offered Sunday to Friday at 1030 and 1400 pm, Saturday at 1030 am only and 1900 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays from May to September. They take about two hours and cover a distance of about two miles.

As all of the tour is outside, you may wish to avoid attending if the weather is bad. However the tours will go ahead, they don’t cancel unless the weather is anything below life-threatening!

HOW TO BUY TICKETS

There is no need to purchase tickets unless you are a group of 12 or more. Simply congregate at the start point of the tours in good time and the guides will split you into groups and start the tour.

For groups of 12 or more, you should book a tour four weeks in advance directly with the Mayor’s Guides . For groups of 12 or more, themed walks are available, group walks are generally not offered at the weekend.

ACCESSIBILITY

The walks take place on public streets and are therefore accessible. Guides will adjust the route to avoid steps when groups include wheelchair users. Please note, guides cannot assist with moving wheelchairs.

For additional accessibility details please see the bottom of the When & Where  page on their website.

IS THE FREE WALKING TOUR OF BATH WORTH DOING?

This walking tour provided an awesome overview of the   City of Bath , its historical buildings, and the stories of some of the people that helped shape its history and make it what it is today. We really encourage anyone who visits Bath to join one of the tours, you will definitely learn a lot more than what we were able to share today. This is really just the smallest tip of the iceberg of the fascinating tales you’ll hear from your guide.

It’s a really nice leisurely stroll through Bath. You could almost pretend you are one of the high society out “parading”.

ADD TO YOUR BATH ITINERARY

Bath is most famous for the Roman Baths that the town is named for; heated from a natural spring with purported healing properties. The entire city was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987 for its Roman remains and classic Georgian architecture. Visitors today can explore this compact elegant city and its many attractions.

• Experience how Bath’s residents would have lived in the late 18th Century with a visit to No 1 Royal Crescent .
• With its stone depiction of Jacob’s Ladder on the west front, Bath Abbey is one of the most famous and beautiful things to see in Bath.
• The reason Bath is called Bath, the well-preserved Roman Baths are a must-see for visitors. Explore the baths and take a taste of the spa water which contains 43 different minerals.
• For a modern take on a Roman Bath, visit the Thermae Baths with their open-air rooftop pool filled and heated with the natural spring water the Romans would have used.
• Walk across the much-photographed Pulteney Bridge , though you won’t know you are on a bridge, as it has shops on both sides across the whole width of the bridge!

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO BATH

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

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Lady’s Free Walking Tour in Bath

Today I want to share my free walking tour in Bath with you. This beautiful historic city in the UK is the perfect place to discover on foot. With its golden stone buildings, elegant crescents, Roman Baths, exciting shopping streets, and bucolic waterways, there’s a lot to see on a self-guided Bath walking tour. My route and map will show you the main highlights of the city and take you to some of the less-explored places locals love.

Free Walking Tour in Bath

From the eye-catching architecture of the Royal Crescent to the riverfront scenery on the Avon, Bath is one of the best cities in England .

Home to some of the most well-preserved ancient Roman remains in the world and an abundance of Jane Austen sites , the city is one of the most exciting places to visit in Britain .

But it’s not just about the history. Whether you want to browse the best shops in Bath or walk across the famous Pulteney Bridge, the city has something for everyone.

No matter if you’re here on a Bath day trip , a weekend trip to Bath , a tour , or a visit to Bath and the Cotswolds , you’ll be able to discover a lot in this part of Somerset.

I’ve visited Bath many times. Each trip has revealed more of the highlights and secret spaces. I’ve also taken many guided tours of Bath . They’ve shown me some of the best places in the city. If you’re interested, you can book one here .

I hope my free walking tour in Bath helps you enjoy getting to know the city as much as I have. It’s one of the most magical places to visit in the UK .

If you want more ideas, you can find lots of additional routes and maps in the popular book A-Z Bristol & Bath Hidden Walks: Discover 20 Routes In and Around the Cities . You can get it on Amazon here .

My free walking tour in Bath starts on Pulteney Bridge. It’s centrally located, so it’s easy to get to from the train station, bus stops, hotels (including my favorite hotel in the city ), and on foot from other places in town.

You can look around and do some shopping before you start your walk, or head off when you arrive (you’ll be back later in the tour, so you can always shop then).

Whatever you decide, start your self-guided walking tour of Bath by heading to the west side of the bridge and turning left to go down Grand Parade. You’ll take in the River Avon and its unique weir on your left and beautiful heritage buildings on your right.

Soon you’ll reach Parade Gardens, a riverside park in Bath. You can spend some time exploring it, or continue your walk by following Grand Parade along the green space until you reach Terrace Walk.

When you get to it, veer right and head down Terrace Walk, keeping right to get onto to North Parade. When you arrive at North Parade Passage, turn right to go down it.

This street is home to famous places like Sally Lunn’s, a tearoom and restaurant that’s housed in one of the oldest homes in Bath. It’s famous for its buns, so you can stop for one if you want to try this local specialty.

Whatever you decide, as you make your way down North Parade Passage don’t miss the beautiful North Parade Buildings on your left or the many good restaurants and shops around you.

When you reach the end of North Parade Passage, you’ll find yourself in Abbey Green. Featuring a large tree surrounded by pretty shops and cafes, it’s a great place to spend some time exploring. It was also a Bridgerton filming location.

When you’re done, continue your free walking tour in Bath by heading out of Abbey Green on Abbey Street. You’ll see the Roman Baths and get a great view of Bath Abbey as you reach York Street.

When you get there, veer right and walk into the square by the church. You can explore for a while and go inside the abbey if you want to, or continue your self-guided walk by turning left on Abbey Churchyard and going past the Roman Baths .

This famous site is worth seeing from the inside, and you can take a break from the walk to tour it if you want to.

You can also stop for a meal or snack next door at The Pump Room. It featured in Jane Austen novels like Persuasion and Northanger Abbey .

Even if you don’t want to eat, it’s worth taking a peek inside the famous Georgian building. It was the social heart of Bath for centuries, and you can taste the famous waters from the fountain inside.

When you’re done, you can continue down Abbey Churchyard and go under the beautiful colonnade to get to Stall Street. When you arrive, turn left and walk to Bath Street.

Turn right on Bath Street and admire the beautiful columns as you make your way to where it meets Hot Bath Street. When you get there, veer right to stay on Bath Street, then turn left along Chandos Buildings.

Walk through the narrow passage and admire the greenery as you make your way to Westgate Buildings. When you arrive, turn right and walk up the street, admiring the historic Bath Stone architecture on either side of you as you go.

When you reach the intersection with Westgate Street and Saw Close, keep straight to get onto the latter. You’ll see more columns and historic buildings here, and you’ll pass the Theatre Royal.

When you reach Barton Street, keep straight and make your way along it as you walk up to Queen Square. When you arrive, you can go into the green space and rest your legs, or walk along it and continue straight as it becomes Gay Street.

You’ll pass The Jane Austen Centre and Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein as you make your way up to The Circus. They’re right next to each other and you can stop to visit one or both if you want to.

The Circus is one of the most beautiful places in Bath. A historic ring of grand Georgian townhouses designed by architect John Wood, the Elder, it was built the mid-18th century.

Spend some time admiring the buildings here before exiting The Circus by taking a left on Brock Street. At the end of it you’ll find yourself in one of the most famous places in Bath: the Royal Crescent.

This stunning half-moon row of 30 terraced houses is situated on a green. Designed by John Wood, the Younger, it’s one of the best examples of Georgian architecture in the United Kingdom.

Take a while to walk around and admire the scene, then continue your free walking tour in Bath by retracing your steps down Brock Street until you reach Margaret’s Buildings, a pedestrianized lane.

Turn left on Margaret’s Buildings and soak up the colorful shops and cafes as you make your way to Catharine Place. This is a good spot to stop for a meal, snack, or drink if you need a break. I particularly like The Green Bird Cafe.

When you reach Catharine Place, keep straight to walk up it and admire the green space on your left. When you get to the end, turn right to walk down Rivers Street. There are more pretty historic houses here.

Follow Rivers Street until it reaches Brunswick Place. Turn right on Brunswick Place, admiring Christ Church in front of you. Make sure to look behind you to see the pretty intersection with Julian Road, too.

When you get to the next street, you have two options for continuing your free Bath walking tour. One is to turn left onto Belvedere, head up the hill, and turn right on Camden Crescent.

You’ll be rewarded with beautiful houses and views of the city from near where Camden Crescent meets St Stephen’s Road.

The other option is to turn right on Belmont and walk down the hill, then turn right on George Street (if you choose the first option, retrace your steps and follow the second option when you’re done).

Walk along George Street and admire the cafes, then turn left on Milsom Street.

Milsom Street is packed with shops. It’s easy to spend time popping in and out of them as you make your way down to Old Bond Street. There are more shops to browse when you get there, and they’ll lead you down to Upper Borough Walls.

Turn left on Upper Borough Walls and make your way along the street. You’ll see cute places like Good Day Cafe, which are great for tea and cake.

Turn right on Union Passage and follow the skinny alley to Northumberland Place. Turn left and browse your way down to High Street.

When you reach it, you’ll be across the road from the Bath Guildhall Market. If you want to, you can pop in and explore the stalls and cafes in this 19th-century covered market.

If not, continue your free walking tour in Bath by turning right and admiring the facade of the Guildhall and the view of Bath Abbey. When you reach The Corridor, turn right and walk through the shopping arcade until you get back to Union Passage.

When you do, turn left and walk down the skinny lane to Cheap Street. Turn left there, then veer slightly right to stay on it as it becomes Orange Grove. You’ll pass lots of restaurants as you go.

When you find yourself in front of Alkmaar Gardens (also called Orange Grove), take in the obelisk. It was designed by Beau Nash to commemorate the Prince of Orange’s visit to take the waters in Bath in 1734.

Continue your Bath walking tour by following Orange Grove out to Grand Parade and walking along it as it curves left to Pulteney Bridge. Designed by architect Robert Adam in the Palladian style in the late 18th century, the bridge has shops all along it.

When you arrive, cross Pulteney Bridge (and shop while you go if you want to). You can either end your free walking tour in Bath here, or continue it by going down Argyle Street.

If you choose the latter, you’ll pass shops and the Laura Place Fountain. Keep straight when the road becomes Great Pulteney Street, and make sure to take in the elegant Georgian buildings as you make your way down to The Holburne Museum.

You can visit the museum, which was the city’s first public art gallery (and Lady Danbury’s house in Bridgerton ), or continue your free walking tour in Bath by turning left down Sydney Place and entering Sydney Gardens where it meets Beckford Road.

This Grade II-listed green space is the oldest park in the city of Bath, and it’s the only remaining 18th-century pleasure garden in the UK.

You can explore the gardens for as long as you want to. It’s worth walking over to the Kennet and Avon Canal while you’re there. There are beautiful bridges and a towpath you can follow.

When you’re done, make your way back out of the park and retrace your steps down Great Pulteney Street and Argyle Street to get back to Pulteny Bridge. Your free walking tour in Bath ends where it began.

Bath Free Tour Details and Map

Time: 1.5 to 3 hours (depending on time in the markets, shops, and museums, and whether you do the optional parts of the walk)

Map of the first half of the walk: https://goo.gl/maps/LaNhxwPNhJnEQgbs8

Map of the second half of the walk: https://goo.gl/maps/eUVQeYZEFa5xVyhR8

Map of the optional last part of the walk: https://goo.gl/maps/9qQcxaUEtkHnM6kz7

Further afield: The Cotswolds , Wells, Wiltshire , Painswick

Best Free Walking Tour in Bath

I hope my self-guided walking tour in Bath has made you want to get out and discover this amazing place and its world-class sightseeing highlights. Bath is one of the best cities in the UK and there are a lot of great places to see here.

If you want more ideas, you can take a look at my blog post with all my city walks in the UK . It will show you fun routes you’ll enjoy in other parts of the country. Happy walking!

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Availability: Monday to Sunday – 11am & 2pm Duration: 2 hours Price: Free

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Moreover none of our tours will make you fall asleep! We hate dry, boring tours that don’t engage their audiences. History doesn’t need to be dull. It is full of exciting events and famous (often quirky) individuals so we see no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy every  minute of your tour!

All the best sites!

This tour covers all the  important sites for any visitor coming to Bath!  You will see the greatest examples of Georgian architecture in England and learn about the city’s Roman foundations.

It’s easy to see why this city is called “The Las Vegas of The Georgians”

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We cover all the sites you wouldn’t want to miss, but we also take you to the less “touristy” locations.

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Self Guided Bath Walking Tour (12 Places Not To Miss!)

The city of Bath in Somerset, England is renowned for its incredible Georgian architecture. Many tourist from all over the world flock to Bath to admire this truly unique city. Here is the perfect Bath walking tour if you want to see all of the top architectural sights on a short visit.

In this guide you will discover the top things to see in Bath and how you can explore them on a self-guided Bath walking tour. This post outlines directions for the walking tour and incudes historic information about the sites, plus additional optional stops.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Find out more  here .

Bath Walking Tour

Bath is a city that is renowned for its striking Georgian architecture. And if you visit the city, you don’t want to miss spotting some of the most incredible and inspiring buildings Bath has to offer. This self-guided Bath walking tour will take you through the city on foot so that you can see the best sights in a short space of time.

The tour will take you approximately 1 hour to complete, however, there are some additional, optional stops highlighted on the route if you want to fill a whole day in Bath. As you will be on your feet, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget your camera!

The tour starts in the centre of Bath in Abbey Churchyard (BA1 1LY). If you would like a great audio tour to narrate your route, Visit Bath have a wonderful free World Heritage Audio Tour that you can download to accompany your journey.

12 Unmissable Things To See In Bath

Here are the top 12 unmissable things to see in Bath. These are the sights you’ll be visiting on this Bath walking tour. So grab your audio guide and get ready to explore!

Roman Baths

• Thermae Bath Spa and Cross Bath

Queen’s Square

The king’s circus, the royal crescent.

• Assembly Rooms

The Paragon

Milsom street, pulteney bridge, great pulteney street, grand parade, bath walking tour: the sights.

If you’ve only got a few hours in Bath, here is a self guided Bath walking tour so you can see the main sights. The route includes some recommended bonus attractions if you have more time in the city. The walking tour will take you approximately 1 hour to complete.

To begin the tour, head to Abbey Churchyard (BA1 1LY).

Start your tour facing the ornate West front of the Abbey. The Abbey was the heart of the medieval city. In the late 9th century, King Alfred built medieval Bath over the original Roman city, so there is very little evidence of the Roman inhabitants today.

The Bath Abbey that you see today is a Tudor Abbey that was rebuilt in 1502. It was one of the last Abbey’s built in England before the dissolution of monasteries.

Services still take place in the Abbey today throughout the week. You can go inside the Abbey to admire the impressive stained glass windows and incredible vaulted ceilings. You can also take a tour up the tower to see Bath from above!

Before you move on to the next stop on the tour, be sure to glance over at The Pump Room . It was a popular place to be seen in the 1790s, and was where you came to take the natural spa waters for your health. You can still try a glass of spa water from the fountain today.

With your back to the Abbey, walk towards Stall Street then turn left. Follow the street until you reach the entrance to the Roman Baths on your left and the large UNESCO seal on the floor.

The Roman Baths in Bath is one of the finest thermal spas of the ancient world. It was built about 2000 years ago around England’s only hot springs. If you have time, you can enter the Baths and enjoy audio guides and interactive displays, following in the Roman’s footsteps.

Outside the Roman Baths you will see a brass UNESCO symbol on the floor. The city of Bath is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This is due to the creative genuis of the architecture in the city.

If you stand with your back to the Baths and look down Bath Street, you can see a good example of this. Almost all of the buildings in Bath are built using the yellow Bath stone, which was considered a prestigious building material and gives the city a cohesive look.

With your back to the Roman Baths, walk straight ahead down Bath Street, until you reach The Cross Bath at the end.

Thermae Bath Spa and The Cross Bath

The Cross Bath was a popular venue to swim in the healing hot waters during the 18th Century. Today, it stands across the road from its more modern counterpart, Thermae Bath Spa . This building was built between 1999-2003 and is an example of a modern building in the middle of the historic city.

Before you move on, take a look at the building behind the Cross Bath. This is St John’s Hospital and it is an early example of palladianism architecture in Bath. It was built by the architect John Wood the elder. He was the first architect to introduce the palladianism style to Bath and it defined the way the rest of the city would look.

With The Cross Bar on your left, stay with the curve of Bath Street. Pass by The Little Theatre and continue on to Westgate Street. Turn left on Westgate Street and follow the road as it becomes Saw Close, Barton Street and ultimately Gay Street. Turn left into Queen’s Square, a square park with an oblisk at the centre.

Queen’s Square was the first great development by John Wood in the city. It began in 1729 and was completed in 1736.

Queen’s Square was designed as four rows of terraced houses around a central square garden. The goal was to make a row of terraced houses look like a country house as a means of attracting the wealthy to stay in the city.

Optional stop: The Herschel Museum of Astronomy is located just a short walk from Queen’s Square. It is dedicated to the many achievements of brother and sister William and Caroline Herschel, who were celebrated astronomers and talented musicians. William discovered the planet Uranus in 1781. Find it at 19 New King Street, Bath BA1 2BL.

Leave Queen’s Square via the same way you entered. Continue to follow Gay Street uphill until you reach The Circus.

The King’s Circus or simply, The Circus, as it is known, is an impressive and imposing set of three crecent buildings built to create a central circle. It was a creation undertaken in 1754 by John Wood and completed by John Wood the younger after his father passed away.

The design of The Circus echoes the colosseum, with its three tiers. It is another example of the palladianism architecture design in Bath. However, The Circus is also inspired by ancient British architecture including druid stone circles such as Stonehenge, which is indicated by the acorns along the top of the buildings.

Exit The King’s Circus via Brock Street, one street to the left of where you entered. Follow Brock Street until you reach the Royal Crescent.

The Royal Crescent is possibly the most iconic building in Bath. This sprawling crescent-shaped building is fronted by a beautiful park. This sweeping building was designed and built by John Wood the younger between 1757 and 1765.

Although built by John Wood the younger, the concept was likely created by his father. The idea was to create a row of terraced houses that felt like a country house. Unlike The Circus, this building is far less enclosed and feels like a stately home with a sprawling lawn, rather than an inner city appartment.

This building was designed for the wealthy who would visit for ‘the season‘. They would normally stay for a couple of months each year and could rent an entire house or a series of rooms.

Optional stop: No. 1 Royal Crescent has been restored to reflect what a Georgian house would have looked like during 1776-1796. You can book a ticket to take a glimpse inside and get a taste of how Bath’s wealthy visitors lived.

From Royal Crescent, return back down Brock Street, then take the far exit from The Circus, Bennett Street. Shortly after you leave The Circus, enter the pedestrian square on the right to find the Assembly Rooms.

Optional stop: As you exit The Circus on Bennett Street, you will pass the Museum of East Asian Art . It is the only museum in the UK dedicated to the art and culture of East and South East Asia. Their impressive collection consists of nearly 2,000 sets of objects.

The Assembly Rooms

As the city expanded, Bath required new assembly rooms. The Assembly Rooms were a place for social entertainment such as dancing and live performances. They were originally built by John Wood the younger, but were bombed during the second world war so have experienced significant restoration.

Optional stop: Inside the Assembly Rooms you will find the Fashion Museum . It features a world-class collection of contemporary and historic dress. Discover the evolution of fashion through the ages in these beautiful displays.

Return onto Bennett Street and follow it to the end where you turn left onto Lansdown Road. Cross the road and take Guinea Lane on your right, then turn right again onto The Paragon.

Optional stop : You can add a slight detour to your route to visit the Museum of Bath at Work . This museum tells the story of Bath’s working class at the centre of industry. It includes displays on Victorian ironmongers and engineering works, a soft drinks factory and even the story of mining that famous Bath stone.

The Paragon is an imposing row of 21 Georgian town houses built between 1768-1775. This road was one of the key entrance and exits into Bath, and it really sets the scene for visitors when they arrive in the city.

One building that really stands out on The Paragon is The Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel. It is one of the few buildings in Bath in the gothic revival style. The Countess of Huntingdon was a Methodist who built the chapel as a means of eradicating sin from the city she felt had become far to decadant.

Optional stop: Inside The Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel you will find the Museum of Bath Architecture . This museum delves into the history of Bath’s Architecture from the Romans, right through to modern structure and explores how they have been designed to complement each other.

Continue to follow the Paragon as it curves to the right, and cross the road onto George Street. Here, take the first left onto Milsom Street.

Shopping was a popular Georgian pastime. Laid out in 1761, Milsom Street was a key commercial area of the Georgian city, giving the wealthy visitors an opportunity to enjoy some retail therapy. Shoppers could pick up their essentials from milliners, drapers, and dressmakers, or visit a library of portrait artist.

Follow Milsom Street to the end and continue on as it becomes New Bond Street and curves to the left. When you reach Northgate Street turn right, then take the first left onto Bridge Street to reach Pulteney Bridge.

Optional stop: Victoria Art Gallery is a free public gallery that houses Bath and North East Somerset’s collection of paintings, sculpture and decorative arts. It houses over 1500 objects of art including a collection of oil paintings from British artists dating from 1700 onwards. It is located on Bridge Street (BA2 4AT).

There are very few buildings in Bath that were designed by architects who didn’t hail from the city. Pulteney Bridge is one of them though! It was designed by architect Robert Adam and is one of the very few bridges of its type in the country.

Pulteney Bridge is a rare example of a bridge with shops along either side. If you were stood on the bridge, it would be easy to think you were just on any regular street! Across the bridge is the new expansion to the city and the start of the neoclassicist architecture that began to develop in Bath.

Cross Pulteney Bridge, continue straight down Argyle Street and continue straight ahead at Laura Place to find yourself on Great Pulteney Street.

Optional stop: as you cross Pulteney Street, take the stairs down on the right-hand side. It will bring you out into the recreation ground. It is another great green space in the city to unwind and it gives you another beautiful view of Pulteney Bridge.

Great Pulteney Street is a wide street that was designed for promenading. These buildings reflect the newer style of architecture in the city; they are cleaner with fewer columns or decorations. However, they also mark the end of inner city development in Bath.

As the years went on, people were now wanting to live in Bath, rather than just visit. And residents wanted detached or semi-detached properties with gardens, rather than terraced houses.

Great Pulteney street was designed by Robert Adam as a set of streets for new area town, however it was built by Bath architect Thomas Baldwin. It was complemented by Sydney Gardens at the far end, a pleasure garden for daytime walking and evening entertainment such as fireworks.

Optional stop: you cannot help but spot Holburne Museum as you walk down Great Pulteney Street. This grand building sits at the far end of the street at the entrance to Sydney Gardens. It is home to the personal collection of Sir William Holburne, Bath resident and avid collector of silver, paintings, glass, porceline, furniture and more. As you pass, you can pop in and admire the grand collection in person.

Retrace your steps back down Great Pulteney Street, across Pulteney Bridge and take the first left onto Grand Parade, alongside the river.

This final stop on the tour is an opportunity to admire the landscape surrounding Bath. As the middle classes grew in Bath, they wanted to have detached and semi-detached houses and their own land. This saw the townhouse terraced buildings die out, to be replaced by urban villas on the hillsides surrounding Bath.

Bath is one of the few UNESCO World Heritage Sites to incorporate the whole city. The main reason for this is due to the unique way that Bath seamlessly incorporates the surrounding landscape.

Bath Walking Tour: Know Before You Go

When you visit Bath and take this Bath walking tour, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. Here are my top tips for visiting Bath:

• Wear comfortable shoes! There is a lot of walking and Bath is a hilly city so you’ll spend a lot of time walking up and down hills. I learned the hard way and left with some pretty impressive blisters!
• Car parking in the city is expensive and gets busy. If you are travelling by car, arrive early to avoid disappointment. We parked in Avon Street Car Park (BA1 1UF) which was only a short walk from the city centre.
• When you end the tour on Grand Parade, follow it along the river and past the park to discover Dr Gelato . This impressive ice cream store has a great range of classic and experimental flavours. Make sure to try out their charcoal cone!

For more Bath inspiration for planning your trip, check out these resources:

Guided Tours of Bath

If you want to see even more of Bath following your self-guided tour, a guided tour from a local expert is a fantastic way to learn the hidden secrets of a city!

Bath has a wonderful selection of guided tours for you to try. Each one will show you a different aspect of the city – whether it is the dark, haunted back street or a fascinating stroll through the history of Bath.

Here are the best guided tours of Bath for you to enjoy:

• City Walking Tour with Optional Roman Baths Entry
• 1.5-Hour Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tourist Guide
• Bath Guided Ghost Tour
• City Sightseeing Bath: Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Short Orientation Walking Tour
• Ghost Hunters Silent Disco Guided Tour
• The Bad of Bath Walking Tour

Where To Stay In Bath

If you want to spend more than one day exploring the city, here are some great accommodation options for your stay.

Things To Do Near Bath

If you are planning an extended visit to the area, here are some of the other things to do near Bath to get the most out of your visit:

• Beckford’s Tower : is an impressive gold topped tower just outside of Bath. It offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Cotswolds villages: Bath sits on the edge of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This region is made up of beautiful countryside and quaint villages that have a storybook feel. Read this guide to discover the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds .
• Castle Combe: when it comes to pretty Cotswold villages, Castle Combe takes the crown. In fact, Castle Combe is often described as the prettiest town in England! Read this guide to discover the perfect way to spend a day in Castle Combe.
• Malmesbury: this pretty market town in Wiltshire is your quintessential English country town. Complete with historic market cross, grand Abbey and sprawling gardens, it is well worth a visit to admire Malmesbury’s charm. Read this guide to discover the top things to do in Malmesbury.
• Dyrham Park: this stunning country house set in ancient deer park is a beautiful place for a gentle stroll. Dyrham Park is maintained by the National Trust and is just a short drive from Bath.

So if you are visiting Bath, be sure to bookmark this page or pin it using the pin below so you can visit these top sights on your trip!

Have you visited Bath? I’d love to hear about your visit! Let’s connect on  Instagram  and send me a DM and tell me what you loved most about this fascinating city!

Until our next adventure,

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Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.

70 thoughts on “Self Guided Bath Walking Tour (12 Places Not To Miss!)”

I loved my trip to Bath two years ago, it’s such a magical city to walk around on foot. This is a fantastic guide that hits up all of the main attractions!

I’m so glad you like the guide! It is an incredible city and you definitely see the best of it on foot!

This post has brought back so many wonderful memories. Bath was one of my first solo travel trips when I decided I really needed to see more of my home country. I definitely should go back!

Bath is such a great city for a first solo trip! There’s definitely a lot to see and do there, I think you could easily fill multiple trips to Bath and still not see it all!

I’ve been to Bath before but missed a lot of great things to see. This guide is so detailed. I’ve saved it to refer back to when I get to visit again. Thank you so much!

There is so much to see in Bath, I think it definitely takes more than one trip to take it all in! I’m already dreaming of going back to see more of the city! I hope you’re able to visit again soon!

We are adding so many spots to the UK driving trip we want to plan. This self guided walk through Bath sure will give us a great look at the beautiful Georgian architecture. At the speed we go taking pics, we would probably need to plan more than one hour for sure. We would certainly want to see the inside of the Royal Crescent to see how the wealthy lived. Probably good to stay in Bath and do some day trips from there.

Haha I know what you mean about taking pictures! I faff for ages taking photos! i think we were speedier than usual because we met my brother while we were there and he didn’t have the patience to hang around while I took hundreds of photos! Bath is definitely a great place to stay while exploring the area. It’s really close to the Cotswolds, Stonehenge, Oxford and plenty of other great places to see. A UK driving trip sounds wonderful! I hope you have an amazing time!

I have been to Bath, but I missed many of these places so need to go back for sure! Thanks for this useful list, well done! 🙂

What a great excuse to go back! There is definitely a lot to see in Bath, I think it takes more than one trip to really take it all in. I’m already dreaming of going back for another visit. I hope you get back there someday soon!

What a great and comprehensive tour! Looks like a beautiful spot to explore 🙂

I’m so glad you like the tour! Bath is such an interesting city and the architecture is stunning!

I loved Bath so much! Whilst the entry fee to the Roman Bath is rather expensive, there are so many amazing spots to visit for free which is amazing! I’ve never tried a walking tour though that’s one thing I should try next time i visit a new place. I also totally missed that ice cream place, so that’s another reason to return 🙂

I was gutted because unfortunately the Roman Baths were closed when we visited due to Covid restrictions so that’s my excuse to go back! And for the ice cream…the charcoal cone was surprisingly delicious!

Bath is so beautiful. I didn’t get a chance to do many of these things especially the spots outside of bath. Thanks for the tips 🙂

It’s such a beautiful city! I could have spent much longer there! There is definitely a lot more than I managed to see! The surrounding area is so beautiful too, it’s hard to pick what to see when you’re so spoiled for choice!

This is so detailed!! Thank you so much. With this article I’d definitely be happy to do a self-guides tour 👏🏽

Thanks Elyse! I’m so glad you like it! I hope you get an opportunity to take a self-guided Bath walking tour soon!

I visited Bath a couple years ago but haven’t been able to go since – but with this post, I’m sure I’ll find a whole bunch of new things to see and do!!

Bath is a beautiful city isn’t it? There’s so much to see and do…I’m itching to go back too!

I visited Bath for 1 day only so I indeed missed most of these! I will pin your post for my next visit, thank you so much!

There is so much to see in Bath isn’t there! I’d love to go back too so I can see more of the city! Thanks for reading!

Bath looks like an awesome spot to visit! I’d love to check out some of these spots one day. Thanks for sharing!

Bath is such a beautiful city! I’d love to go back because many of the museums weren’t open when we visited due to the restictions. It would be nice to spend more time admiring the city, but it was lovely to walk around and take in all of the beautiful architecture! I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon!

It’s been so long since I visited Bath. I was a kid and probably not the best age to appreciate how truly beautiful a city it is. I’d love to go back now and explore and this is such a helpful guide to see all the major sites and everything that makes the city unique

I think I visited Bath as a kid once but I have no memory of it at all. It is definitely a city that we appreciate more as adults! I hope you get a chance to go back and see the sites!

I always thought Bath, was just the name of the hot springs there. I didn’t realize it was the name of the whole town! I also didn’t realize it was so close to the Cotswalds. We visited that area back in 2016, but went straight from the Cotswalds to Oxford. I would love to go back and tour this UNESCO site!

Ooh you will have been super close to Bath if you went from the Cotswolds to Oxford! It is a really beautiful city and well worth a visit. What a great excuse to come back and visit! I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon!

I love the idea of a walking tour… great opportunity to get your steps in!

Yes! You’ll definitely hit your daily step goal with this one! It’s such a walkable city and it is the best way to see the beautiful architecture!

I am really looking forward to visiting Bath someday and this post will be so helpful in planning our trip. Thanks!

I hope you get an opportunity to visit someday soon, Bath is such a beautiful city!

All I can think of is pride and prejudice! Lol thanks for sharing!!! This is a great walking guide!!

Haha! There are several Jane Austen tours in Bath too if you want a true Pride & Prejudice experience! I’m so glad you like the guide, thanks for reading!

I’ve heard so many good things about Bath! I’ll definitely reference this when I visit one day!

It’s a beautiful city, I definitely recommend visiting when you’re in the area! I really want to go back and spend more time there! I hope you have a wonderful visit when you go!

I appreciate your walking tour guides, so detailed with historical snippets included. A couple of photographs are particularly eye-catching: the one of The Pump Room with Bath Abbey in the background, and the second one of Pulteney Bridge. Awesome!

I’m so glad you like the walking tour! I always find the history of places fascinating and a tour was definitely the best way to take it all in! It’s such a picturesque city, the photos don’t even do it justice!

Thank you! I have been meaning to visit Bath for a long time and now I have a great list to start. I just love the historical origins of the city, can’t wait to explore it 🙂

Bath was on my list forever too before I finally managed to get there! I’d love to go back and spend more time there as we only had about half a day in the end. It was fascinating learning about the history of the city and its architecture. I hope you get a chance to visit soon!

I haven’t been to Bath, England yet but I *love* self-guided walking tours. I pinned this for later – thanks!

Ah I hope you get to Bath soon! It’s a beautiful city and well worth exploring. Thanks for reading!

When my husband & I travel we love walking everywhere. And I think we’d love to do this self-guided walking tour of Bath! That architecture is transporting!

Ah I love walking around destinations too…it is definitely the best way to see them and you often stumble on little gems you would otherwise miss! Bath definitely has some incredible architecture, I’ve visited plenty of pretty UK cities but none of them are like Bath!

I’m crazy for UNESCO World Heritage sites and your article makes it easy to see why Bath is one! Even back in the 1700’s there were some brilliant tourism minds developing this destination. I can’t wait to petsit my way back to Europe because Bath has now moved a few notches higher on my Bucket List. Thanks for the inspiration!

You always know you’re in for a treat with a UNESCO World Heritage site, don’t you! I love visiting them too and Bath is definitely worth exploring! If you end up pet sitting your way over to England I’ve got two fur-babies who would love to spend some time with you I’m sure!

I absolutely adore Bath! When I went I’m pretty sure I just aimlessly walked around but I no doubt missed some places.. wish I had this guide back then to have made sure I saw all the wonderful buildings and highlights of such a pretty place..

It’s such a beautiful city, isn’t it? Unfortunately, we only had about half a day in Bath so a walking tour was a great way to see the main sights in a short space of time. It was so interesting uncovering the history of these incredible buildings!

I actually much prefer doing a walking tour on my own rather than with a guide! Thanks for the comprehensive (and easy to follow!) post! I’ll def be using this whenever I get over the pond!

I completely agree! I love an audio tour as, between tracks, I can move at my own pace, pause to take photos and just do my own thing! It feels a lot less pressured than a group tour! I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon!

Can’t believe I missed walking along the Paragon when I was there! The abbey was also surrounded by scaffolding when I visited which was a shame. You definitely cover all of the main attractions in Bath!

The Paragon is definitely a little out on a limb in the city but it is well worth looping around that way to see it! What a shame you couldn’t admire the Abbey! It still had plenty of scaffolding on it, but luckily it was all around the side and back from the main entrance this time. What a good excuse to come back and see it properly though!

Bath looks so beautiful and I adore all of the points of interest you’ve included. Super helpful how you’ve shared the optional stops as well!

Bath is such a stunning city and I’m so glad you like the guide! I really want to go back and visit the optional stops and many attractions were closed during our visit due to Covid restrictions. The walking tour was a great way to see the main sights though in a short visit! It was a wonderful little ‘taster session’ for what Bath has to offer!

Bath always reminds me of Pride & Prejudice (the movie and the book!). Would love to visit someday!

There is a Jane Austen audio tour of the town too if you love Pride and Prejudice! Unfortunately we didn’t get time to try that one out but hopefully on our next visit! I hope you get a chance to try it out too!

Wooow. The architecture here is beautiful! The paragon was my favorite spot.

I hope to visit the UK soon! Definitely adding this city to my list!

Bath is such a beautiful city and the architecture is stunning. I hope you’re able to visit soon to see it in person!

I’m headed to England for a three-week workation this fall. I definitely want to visit Bath so this top 12 list and walking tour guide is perfect!

Ooh I hope you have a wonderful time while visiting England! Bath is such a beautiful city to visit, I hope you get the opportunity to soak up all these sights!

Bath really is such a beautiful town and for a walking tour! I’ve been to Bath but didn’t get the chance to see as many of these points of interest. I only saw the Roman Baths and Thermae Spa. I need to go back and spend more time here!

There is so much to see in Bath, isn’t there? I’m keen to go back as it was a bit of a whirlwind tour for us too and there are many other things we still want to see. Thanks to the lockdown regulations at the time we didn’t get the chance to visit inside the Roman Baths and I was gutted! I’m hoping to get back there again soon to see even more!

I have been to Bath so many times and yet have missed some of these every time! Will definitely be saving for when I go back.

There is so much to see in Bath, isn’t there? I’m keen to go back and explore even more of the city – there’s a lot that we didn’t get the chance to see the first time around!

Bath is definitely on my bucket list! What a beautiful destination, wow! 🙂

Bath is such a beautiful city, isn’t it? The architecture is spectacular!

I wish I had seen this a couple of weeks ago when we found ourselves exploring this area after one of girls got Covid and all of us were denied boarding for our cruise. We spent a day in Bath and had to do a lot of last minute research to find things to do.

Oh no! How disappointing you weren’t able to board your cruise! Although I think there are worse places to be stuck than Bath! It is such a beautiful city! I’m keen to go back soon and explore more of it!

Bath is one of my absolute favourite towns in England! Thanks for sharing such a detailed guide – this walking tour covers so much! Would love to go back and try out the route soon 🙂

Bath is such a beautiful place, isn’t it? I love the architecture! I’m eager to go back and explore even more! Thanks for reading!

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6 Best Tours In Bath In 2024

• Written By Amy Watkins

Stuffed full of history and the star of many a TV show, Bath is a small city with a lot to discover. Although it’s a simple city to explore on foot, or on your own,  taking an organised tour can give you a whole other perspective on the history, culture, and sights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

From free city explorations to special themed tours, Bath has something for everyone. If traditional sightseeing tours are not your jam, try a treasure hunt as a way to get around town and find hidden gems. Festivals are another fun way to experience the city, find out the best time to visit Bath to plan your trip.

Tours all tend to take in Bath’s famous architecture from the Roman Baths and the Abbey to The Circus and the Royal Crescent, but their content differs in tone and delivery, so it’s worth finding one that speaks to your interests. 

Whether you fancy a chuckle while you delve into Bath’s bizarre history, or you want to discover Jane Austen’s most-loved locations, you can find your new favourite from our round-up of the best tours in Bath.

Table of Contents

1. Free City Tours

Who doesn’t love a freebie? We’ve got lots of suggestions for free things to do in Bath but one of our top recommendations is taking a totally free tour with the very knowledgeable Mayor’s Guides .

This organisation of dedicated volunteers has been taking tourists around the city since the 1930s and now the walking tours run at 10.30am and 2pm Sunday to Friday, 10.30am on Saturdays and and on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6pm (May-August). Meet them by the sign outside of the Pump Rooms/Roman Baths (look out for the Mayor’s Guides badges). 

If you’re visiting in the summer try the Pulteney Estate Walks to uncover Great Pulteney Street, Sydney Gardens, and the Kennet & Avon Canal. They run on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11am between May and September (also leaving from the Pump Rooms). 

Tourists (and locals) who like exploring at their own pace can download Visit Bath’s free self-guided audio World Heritage Site Walking Tour , which covers all the major sights with a sprinkling of historical context.

2. Themed Tours

Bath can sometimes take itself a little bit seriously, so inject some humour into your history and try a comedy-themed walking tour. Laugh at Bath’s private and group tours take an entertaining approach to telling the city’s stories with hilarious historical facts, colourful local characters, and a light-hearted look at the main sights with guide Jamie.

Running at a time to suit the group, the tours can be customised based around what you all want to do, rather than just following the same itinerary every time. 

Bizarre Bath is a well-established comedy walk that has been entertaining visitors for many years, with a 90-minute show that starts from the Huntsman Inn at 8pm every night except Mondays during the season (April-November). 

Feeling brave? Take a hauntingly horrific Bath Ghost Tour to discover the gruesome history of horrible things in the city and visit haunted locations. If that’s a little too scary, try a silent disco ghost tour for a more upbeat approach (or just a silent disco tour with zero ghosts). 

3. Boat & Bus Tours

Give your feet a break and hop on a riverboat to enjoy the sights along the River Avon from Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey to the city’s ornate bridges, or upgrade and enjoy a prosecco cruise along the river! 

Bath Open Top Bus Tours are an iconic sight around the city, hop on and off the red double-decker buses to see all the attractions and listen to a narration of the city’s secrets. 

4. Two-Wheeled Tours

If you’d rather whizz around Bath on a bike (or e-scooter) there are tours to take you, but the city is surrounded by hills so get ready for a work out! Just like the name suggests, Bath Cycle Tours runs two-wheeled trips that take in urban and countryside routes on a half-day tour that includes the Victorian tunnels outside Bath.

Need a bit of help? Opt for a private electric bike tour for a hand with those hills.

 If scooting around is more your style, pick up one of the ubiquitous red Voi scooters from around town and take a self-guided tour of the sights. 

5. Food & Drink Tours

Eat your way around Bath with a food or drink themed tour! Bath is surrounded by beautiful countryside that gives us plenty of local produce and you can discover this on one of Savouring Bath’s foodie tours.

Choose from standout cuisine on the Food Heroes tour, sweet treats on the Guilty Pleasures itinerary, or taste the best of Bath on the Local Flavours food tour. If you’re a fan of fromage, try the Cheese Tour of Bath to get your dairy fix.

Thirsty? Try a gin distillery or brewery tour to wet your whistle while you learn more.

6. Cultural Tours

Snap happy visitors can take a photo tour with photographer and historian Simon Christie who runs Photo Tours in Bath , and can take you on a private exploration of the city’s sights while giving you plenty of time to take photos (with tips and tricks for the best angles). 

Bath’s main attractions offer informative tours that give you more context about their importance, check out the Abbey tours (climb 212 steps if you’re up for it), and gallery tours of exhibitions at the Victoria Art Gallery. 

Bath has a starring role in many books and films and there are tours dedicated to discovering the places you’ve read about (and watched). Literary lovers can follow the Footsteps of Jane Austen with another free audio tour that highlights historic sights and contains excerpts from Austen’s novels that mention places in Bath.

Jane Austen Tours take visitors to Bath and further afield to bring her books alive on group tours. 

Bridgerton fans can take a self-guided tour of film locations but to get all the extra gossip and info, take a tour with Fred Mawer, a Bath-based travel journalist who is also a Blue Badge qualified tour guide. Fred also runs city walking tours and beyond Bath adventures that can be tailored to your interests.

Amy is an award-winning travel writer born and bred in Bath. She has written for national newspapers and magazines from the Guardian and Mail on Sunday to Conde Nast Traveller and Good Housekeeping. Now she’s helping travellers explore Bath, one story at a time.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Bath Tours

15 Best Bath Tours

Named after its famous Roman-era baths that have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites since the ‘80s, the town of Bath is one of England’s premier historic and recreation destinations.

With just shy of 90,000 residents, it’s small by big-city standards, but it’s located on a particularly beautiful stretch of the River Avon only about 100 miles west of London.

In addition to baths, the town features an abundance of traditional and contemporary eateries, as well as museums, galleries, and a number of fairs and festivals that are held annually.

Below are 15 of the best tours of Bath and the surrounding area.

1. Roman Baths and City Walking Tour

Bath Abbey is one of the area’s premier Roman-era attractions, and it features some of the country’s most impressive gothic architecture.

On this two-hour tour, guests and their guide will set out on foot to explore the baths and abbey while learning about the Romans’ cultural and historical traditions.

Tours also include brief stops at the Royal Crescent, several prominent homes built in the Georgian style, and Pulteney Bridge, which made a cameo appearance in a famous filming of Les Miserables.

Tours are available with morning and afternoon start times to accommodate those with different schedules.

2. City Boat Trip and Walking Tour

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site city, Bath draws tourists from all over the world.

This 80-minute tour allows guests to see the city from land and water while benefiting from their guide’s unique insights into what makes it such a special place.

Tours meet at a convenient location in central Bath, after which participants depart on a scenic river cruise followed by a leisurely walk through town.

Highlights include St. John’s Church, Half Penny Bridge, Bath Abbey, and Paradise Gardens.

For those who’ve just arrived, this tour would be a great way to see lots of attractions quickly and familiarize yourself with the town’s layout.

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3. City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

For do-it-yourselfers and those who prefer not to commit to lengthy traditional tours, hop-on-hop-off tickets are both fun and economical alternatives.

One ticket gives guests access to two distinct bus routes, each of which offers a full list of attractions to explore.

Tickets are valid for 24 hours from the time of purchase, which means eager sightseers have an entire day to make the most efficient use of their time.

City Tour attractions include the Roman Baths and the historic Abbey that was the coronation site for the country’s first king.

Skyline Tour highlights include the Terrace Walk, Manvers Street, and the Holburne Museum.

4. Small-Group Tour to Stonehenge and Bath with an Oxford Professor

Tours that offer guests access to more than one of the county’s premier sites are great value for savvy travelers.

This small-group combo package has the distinction of being led by an Oxford professor and includes tours of both Stonehenge and Bath.

The Bath portion of the tour includes Pulteney Bridge, the Circus, and the Abbey, where guests will learn about each attraction’s significance and have time for questions and photos.

Then the group will make their way to Stonehenge, where they’ll enjoy skip-the-line tickets to one of the world’s most alluring and mysterious sites.

Tours include everything except meals and tips.

5. 25-Minute Boat Trip to Pulteney Bridge

From the comfort of a restored ‘60s river cruiser, guests and their guide will take to the water to see one of Bath’s most iconic attractions.

During the warm summer months, guests can bask in the sun on the deck as their skipper points out key sights on the way to historic Pulteney Bridge.

Tours wind their way past several canals that link to nearby cities. It’s common to see a variety of birds as well as North Parade Bridge, St. John’s Church, and Bath Abbey.

If the weather isn’t cooperating, participants can retreat indoors and relax with a coffee, beer, or glass of wine.

6. 1 ½-Hour Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tourist Guide

Stretching your legs and exploring the historic city of Bath couldn’t be easier for those who take advantage of this 90-minute walking tour.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town of Bath is chock-full of significant attractions that are best explored with an official Blue Badge guide.

Tours include premier sites like the Royal Crescent, Circus, Queen Square, and the majestic Abbey. At each stop, guests will benefit from their guide’s unique local perspectives and insights.

Guests typically discover things that those on larger tours tend to miss, so don’t be shy about asking for suggestions for things to see and do later on.

7. Jane Austen Center Ticket

Though it’s not so well-known outside literary circles, author Jane Austen is Bath’s most famous deceased resident.

Her works have been favorites for generations, and there’s a museum in Bath that’s dedicated to preserving and promoting her legacy.

Guided tours of the Jane Austen Center are offered every 30 minutes; they’re given by enthusiastic local docents decked-out in Georgian garb, which makes for a truly memorable experience.

While on-site, guests will have the option of having their photo taken with a Jane Austen wax figure, sampling period food, or relaxing with a drink in the Regency Tea Room.

8. Short Orientation Walking Tour

Apparently, most visitors to Bath have pretty tight schedules, because short tours are more prominent than they are elsewhere.

For those who bore easily and value free time, that means lots of opportunities to see prominent attractions without dedicating big chunks of time to traditional tours.

This 50-minute walking tour focuses on Bath’s city center and is a great option for those with kids who’ve got short attention spans.

Plan on seeing the Roman baths, the Abbey, and Queen Square, and learning about what makes each so unique and significant.

Tours begin at the Quay Waterside and require a moderate amount of leisurely walking.

9. Canapés and Prosecco Boat Cruise

There may be no better way to spend a relaxing hour while in Bath than by relaxing on a laid-back river cruise while noshing delectable finger foods and enjoying a glass of Prosecco.

Tours are available in the morning and afternoon to accommodate those with varying schedules. They take guests past some of the city’s premier attractions, like the 17th century Bath Abbey, St. John’s Church, and Halfpenny Bridge.

Depending on the prevailing weather conditions, participants will have the option of both in and outdoor seating areas, and tours begin and end in a convenient location along the Quay.

10. The Cotswold

Though many visitors spend most of their time within Bath’s city limits, getting out into the countryside is a great way to see things from a different perspective.

The English countryside is characterized by rolling hills, quaint villages, and obscure historic attractions that are well worth checking out.

This full day excursion focuses on discovering the Cotswolds. As such, guests aren’t likely to run into buses full of camera-wielding tourists at every turn.

11. Ghost Hunters Silent Disco Guided Tour

Rumor has it that more than four decades ago, a young ghost hunter descended on Bath in an attempt to prove once and for all that the historic town harbored spirits from the past.

Sadly, his work was inconclusive, primarily because he met a mysterious and untimely death.

For those interested in picking up where he left off and listening to the music that was pumping through his Walkman’s headphones at the time of his death, this ghost hunters silent disco tour would be a great fit.

Tours are unique, fun, and eerie, and are open to groups of between 10 and 28 participants.

12. Cotswold Discovery Tour from Bath

Featuring historic villages, impressive castles, and one of the country’s most picturesque Abbeys, the Cotswolds are the perfect day-trip destination for those looking to get out of town for a few hours.

Tours begin and end at a convenient central location in Bath and include stops at attractions like Castle Combe, Bourton-on-the-Water, the tomb of King Athelstan, and the quaint market town of Malmesbury.

From their local guide, guests will learn about the region’s history, culture, and economy. They’ll visit a few filming locations for popular movies like War Horse and Dr. Dolittle, which was filmed in the area in the ‘60s.

13. Stonehenge Private Half Day Tour from Bath

Stonehenge is arguably England’s most unique archaeological site, and it’s just a short drive for day-trippers staying in Bath.

According to those in the know, the site dates back more than 5,000 years. Though it’s been studied for centuries, it’s still full of fascinating mysteries and unsolved riddles.

Along with their private guide, tour participants will learn about the world-famous landmark, get close enough to take stunning pictures, and maybe formulate their own theories as to why it was built in the first place.

The return trip winds its way through the impressive Salisbury Plain before ending back in central Bath.

14. Lunchtime Cruise to Riverside Pub

Scenic cruises along the beautiful River Avon are popular vacation activities for visitors to Bath.

This lunchtime cruise makes its way past many of the town’s most iconic attractions, including the junctions of Avon and Kennet canals, St. John’s Church, Bath Abbey, and Pulteney Bridge.

Along the way, the skipper will describe each attraction, while guests relax in comfy chairs with refreshing beverages.

When the boat has docked at Locksbrook Inn, guests will enjoy stunning riverside views from the comfort of their reserved tables.

Each guest also gets a complimentary drink to sip while they’re deciding what they’ll have for lunch.

15. Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge Day Tour from Bath

The small city of wells is home to one of the region’s most impressive cathedrals that dates back to the 13th century.

On this value-packed combo tour, guests will delve into the past while enjoying a number of prominent human-made, natural, and culinary centerpieces of the English countryside.

After Wells, guests will drive to the town that’s the birthplace of Cheddar cheese.

According to locals, it’s the world’s most popular variety. Guests will visit the last remaining cheese making facility in the area.

Before the drive back to Bath, the group will stop at Cheddar Gorge, which is consistently ranked as one of Britain’s most iconic natural attractions.

15 Best Bath Tours:

• Roman Baths and City Walking Tour
• City Boat Trip and Walking Tour
• City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
• Small-Group Tour to Stonehenge and Bath with an Oxford Professor
• 25-Minute Boat Trip to Pulteney Bridge
• 1 ½-Hour Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tourist Guide
• Jane Austen Center Ticket
• Short Orientation Walking Tour
• Canapés and Prosecco Boat Cruise
• The Cotswold
• Ghost Hunters Silent Disco Guided Tour
• Cotswold Discovery Tour from Bath
• Stonehenge Private Half Day Tour from Bath
• Lunchtime Cruise to Riverside Pub
• Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge Day Tour from Bath

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Historic Downtown Bath Walking Tour

May 17, 2022 @ 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm, event navigation.

• « Movie Discussion Group, Documentaries: Grey Gardens (1976)
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Take an immersive, interactive walking tour of Bath’s downtown with Meg Barker of Embark Maine Tours and trace the history of the last 400+ years in the places where it happened. Learn about prominent people and significant events (as well as hidden gems) central to Bath’s uniquely American story. Walk away with a renewed appreciation for Bath’s historic past and vibrant present. Tour will last approximately 60 minutes and cover ¾ of a mile.  Meet in front of the Patten Free Library.

Meg Barker is a Bath resident, a life long educator, the current librarian at Fisher Mitchell, and passionate about Bath history. A veteran manager of education programs at the Library of Congress and C-SPAN, last year Meg launched Embark Maine Tours, offering walking tours of Bath’s downtown as well as the historic Washington Street neighborhood. Learn more at  embarkmainetours.com.

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