While taking the train between Bath and Bristol takes just 12 minutes, why not go the longer way round and hop aboard the popular X39 bus service?

You’ll discover a land of countryside walks, beautiful pub gardens, family-friendly attractions, and even a historic market town between the two cities – read on for our top picks on what to do along the route!

Where to catch the X39

You can catch the X39 from bay 12 or 13 at Bath Bus Station, based on Dorchester Street, just opposite the SouthGate shopping area. The service generally runs every 15-20 minutes from Monday-Saturday, and every 20-30 minutes on Sundays, but we’d advise checking the First Bus app and website for the latest timetables.

Image: X39 at Bath Bus Station - credit Geof Sheppard

The X39 runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, however the 39 route will replace it from the late evening through to the early hours of the morning – the only difference between the two routes is that the 39 runs through the town of Keynsham, taking roughly 10 minutes longer.

If you’re travelling to Bath by train, take a look at adding PlusBus to your train ticket, which allows you to enjoy unlimited travel on the X39 and many other buses in and around Bath from as little as £5.40. If not, First Bus, which operates the service, offers a wide range of ticket types and bundle packages to suit all travellers. Discover more in our guide to taking the bus in Bath, and on our transport offers page.

If you’re able to, we’d recommend getting a seat on the top deck, where you’ll enjoy the best views during your journey.

1. Unwind at Royal Victoria Park and Bath Botanical Gardens

Nestled just west of the city centre are the lush green expanses of Royal Victoria Park, immensely popular among Bathonians as a place to spend time relaxing, playing, eating, and drinking.

Image: Royal Victoria Park

Within its boundaries, you’ll also find the city’s Botanical Gardens, home to a beautiful variety of shrubs, plants, and trees, as well as a replica Roman temple and lake. Take your time wandering along the meandering paths, surrounded by the resident squirrels, birds, and butterflies.

Royal Victoria Park is accessible from the X39 route by alighting at the Comfortable Place or Park Lane stops.

2. Discover an Emperor’s former home

Tucked away in the heart of one of Bath’s most westernmost suburbs, Newbridge, is Fairfield House. This Italianate mansion was once home to the former Emperor of Ethiopia, His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I, during his years of exile from 1936-1941.

Image: Fairfield House 

Visit for one of the guided tours of the house available every Sunday, and learn about Selassie’s fight to free his country from fascism, as well as his life in Bath, followed by an optional (but highly recommended) authentic Caribbean lunch.

Fairfield House is accessible from the X39 route by alighting at the Old Newbridge Hill stop, then taking a 10-minute walk via Newbridge Hill and Partis Way.

3. Go for a pub crawl in Saltford

A few miles outside Bath, the X39 passes through Saltford. While it may look like a typical English village from the main road, Saltford is bordered to its east by the banks of the River Avon as it cuts through open Somerset countryside, making it a popular spot for walking, cycling, and sailing.

Image: The River Avon at Saltford - credit Max Rawlinson 

Saltford is also home to a handful of locally beloved pubs with spacious outdoor terraces, perfect for savouring a refreshing pint by the water on sunny days. Simply follow Beech Road then turn right down the High Street, and you’ll soon come across The Bird in Hand, followed by The Jolly Sailor just a 10-minute walk away down the scenic Mead Lane. Alternatively, disembark just south of the village and walk 5 minutes down The Shallows to find the soothing surroundings of the Riverside Inn.

Image: The River Avon at Swineford - credit Max Rawlinson 

If you fancy combining your pub crawl with a beautiful hike through the countryside, follow one of the many walking routes leading from Saltford to the villages of Swineford and Kelston on the opposite bank of the river, which are available on Outdooractive. The Bristol and Bath Railway Path also passes through the town, making it easy to go for a longer walk towards the nearby town of Bitton and enjoy a vintage train ride along the Avon Valley Railway. 

Saltford’s riverside areas are accessible from the X39 route by alighting at The Shallows or Tyning Road stops.

4. Go shopping for artisan treats at the Flourish Foodhall

Perhaps you’re staying in self-catering accommodation and looking for some dinner ingredients, or are tempted to bring a taste of the South West home with you? Whatever your reason, Flourish Foodhall is a must-visit on your X39 adventure. Set on the site of a former working farm just west of Saltford, the award-winning shop features an on-site butcher and cheese counter, both selling a delicious selection of products from local producers.

Image: Flourish Foodhall

If you’re feeling peckish after your shopping session, you’re in luck; there’s a grab and go bagel bar operated by Bath institution Taylor’s Bagels, a deli counter stocked with delectable in-house creations, and a patisserie overflowing with irresistible sweet treats. Alternatively, opt for a sit-down meal in the on-site kitchen, where you’ll find a menu of dishes crafted using the freshest, carefully-sourced ingredients.

Flourish Foodhall is accessible from the X39 route by alighting at the Copse Road stop.

5. Go for a fun family day out at Avon Valley Adventure Park

The X39 also serves Avon Valley Adventure Park, which sits on the outskirts of Keynsham. Set in 90 acres of greenery, the park features plenty to keep children of all ages entertained for hours, from fully equipped indoor and outdoor play areas to a variety of themed rides and adorable resident farm animals!

Image: Avon Valley Adventure Park

As if that wasn’t enough, the park also hosts special school holiday events throughout the year, so keep an eye on their website and social media channels for the latest updates. Outside of school holidays, the park only opens to the public on selected weekends, so please check before you visit.

Avon Valley Adventure Park is accessible from the X39 route by alighting at the Pixash Lane stop, then crossing over and turning right down Pixash Lane itself. Follow the road to its end, where you’ll see the park entrance directly ahead of you. 

6. Explore Keynsham

This bustling market town sits exactly halfway between Bath and Bristol, and is home to a thriving high street packed with independent cafes, bars and eateries. While the X39 route doesn’t serve the town centre itself, it’s easy to hop off just before and walk in via the town’s eastern end.

On the way, take a detour along the winding paths of Memorial Park, complete with a duck pond, skatepark, kids’ play areas, and much more. The park also plays host to a range of events throughout the year, most notably the popular Keynsham Music Festival every summer.

Image: Lock Keeper

Extend your walk by exiting the park to the north, then take a right turn down Station Road towards the town’s quieter northern suburbs, where you’ll find fabulous eateries including the B-Block restaurant in the Chocolate Quarter, and the characterful Grade-II listed Lock Keeper pub nestled on the banks of the River Avon, opposite the town’s marina.

Alternatively, head out to the west of Memorial Park and hit the High Street. Here, you’ll find even more fabulous eateries to choose from, including Tandoori Garden, The Bumblebee Wok, Deli@Keynsham, and Laviano’s Italian, among many others. If it’s coffee and cake or a pint that you’re after, you’ll also find plenty of charming cafes, pubs, and bars.

Keep an eye out for the popular Keynsham Farmers’ Market, which takes place on Market Walk from 9am-1pm on the second Saturday of every month. Expect even more foodie goodies, alongside goods from other talented local makers. 

Keynsham is accessible from the X39 route by alighting at the Ellsbridge House stop, then following the road towards the roundabout, passing around it on the left-hand side to continue following the Bath Road, then turning right at the mini roundabout onto Bath Hill.

7. Visit Bristol

Stay aboard the X39 until the end of its route to discover the historic port city of Bristol, Bath’s neighbour to the north.

Renowned for its picturesque Harbourside and vibrant street art culture, Bristol is also awash with acclaimed family-friendly attractions and home to a year-round programme of iconic events, making it the perfect destination for a day trip during your Bath break. Start planning your trip over on the Visit Bristol website.

Image: Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol 

Bristol city centre is accessible from the X39 route by alighting at either the Redcliffe Way (R4), Queen Square, Christmas Steps, or Bristol Bus Station stops. 

Read more: 

• A guide to taking the bus in Bath
• Travelling around Bath