Bath provides an ideal base for exploring the best of the West Country, and with so much on offer in the surrounding countryside there are plenty of reasons to add a few extra nights to your stay and experience Bath and beyond.
Where to Stay?
Choose Bath city centre as a base for exploring its beautiful surrounding or beat the hustle and bustle of the city and sleep in amongst the rolling hills and stunning countryside.
There is a vast range of accommodation to choose from, located just beyond Bath. For grand country retreats, try the five-star Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa, or four-star Homewood Park Hotel and Spa, Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort or Tracy Park Golf and Country Hotel. Cosy hotels such as THE PIG-near Bath offer idyllic country escapes, while Woolley Grange Hotel offers a touch of luxury for families.
Day One
Morning and Afternoon
For a fun packed day out head to Longleat, the UK’s original safari park set within 900 acres of landscaped grounds.
If you’re looking for adventure, Cheddar Gorge & Caves provides an exciting day out for all ages with Britain’s highest inland limestone cliffs and stunning caves below for exploring. There are a host of adventure activities on offer, suitable for all abilities, including rock climbing, freefall, caving and escape rooms.
Evening
After a fun-filled day out, visit one of the many local towns and villages such as Frome, a historic town with quaint cobbled streets. There are delicious restaurants and lively pubs and bars, or for some evening entertainment check out the Cheese and Grain, a leading venue for live music with over 500 events per year.
Day Two
Morning
Spend the morning exploring Haynes International Motor Museum at Sparkford and see the UK’s largest collection of cars from around the globe, some dating back to the 1800s. Motor enthusiasts can visit Castle Combe Circuit and take to the tracks with an action-packed driving experience, or even spend a full day during racing season to catch all the action.
For something slightly more sedate, Avon Valley Railway in Bitton, a heritage steam railway, offers classic steam train experiences, or you can hire bikes from Webbs Cycle Shop – just across the road – to explore the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, a 13-mile multi-use cycle path connecting the two cities.
Afternoon
Head over to the picturesque town of Bradford-on-Avon and walk in the footsteps of the Romans, Saxons, Normans, Georgians and Victorians, before enjoying an award-winning afternoon tea or lunch in one of the cosy tea rooms.
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring one of the many surrounding National Trust properties and grounds such as the impressive Courts Garden, Lacock Abbey or Dyrham Park.
Day Three
Morning
Take a step back in time at one of the South West’s finest stately homes, Corsham Court, or marvel at striking gardens and an impressive manor house at Iford Manor and the Peto Garden. Or, to head even further back in time, spend the morning exploring The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens in Wells, home to the Bishop of Bath for over 800 years and steeped in medieval history.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon in Wells and explore the earliest English Cathedral, Wells Cathedral, Gothic in style and a truly impressive landmark in England’s smallest city. Or, head out further afield and visit the medieval city of Salisbury with the architecturally stunning Salisbury Cathedral.
No Car? No Problem!
Adventuring further afield without a car isn't an issue – several tours use Bath as their base from which to explore the surrounding villages and countryside. Guided by expert and friendly guides, Mad Max Tours offer a wide range of small-group, one-day tours, taking you to Glastonbury, Wells, Cheddar and many other picturesque places. And escape to idyllic, rural country life on a Lion Tours trip, which will take you to pretty Cotswold villages such as Castle Combe and Bibury.
Both of the above, plus Scarper Tours, all provide excursions to the famous Stonehenge, letting you experience the iconic prehistoric monument and World Heritage Site close-up – an unforgettable tick off your bucket list.
For a tour with a difference, head on an adventure with Around and About Bath. Experience authentic England and discover hidden gems on an immersive and intimate tour which takes you off the beaten track to discover untouched England.
