If you’re planning your 2018 trips away, there are plenty of reasons to opt for a break in Bath. Whether you want to relax and rejuvenate, have a romantic stay, experience one of Bath’s fabulous festivals, or explore further afield, the only question will be when to visit…
1. Recharge, Rejuvenate and Renew
Bath has been a popular destination for relaxation and wellness for centuries, with people drawn to the city to take advantage of its thermal spa water since Roman times. The city’s spas are certainly still a draw, but there are many other ways to feel rejuvenated in Bath. Whether you enjoy a bracing country walk, cheering on Bath Rugby before tucking into a hearty roast, or are taking on the challenge of Veganuary, there is plenty for everyone to feel renewed and refreshed in Bath.
2. Experience Romantic Bath
Bath is one of the most romantic cities in the UK, and there’s no shortage of things to do with your loved one. Hire a rowboat and take to the waters, book a magical hot air balloon flight and take in the stunning aerial views over the city, or take a Bath Abbey Tower Tour for a more grounded view of the city’s beautiful skyline.
3. Discover Bath’s Fashionable Side
Long considered a city to see and be seen, there are plenty of ways to admire the stylish side of Bath. Explore the East Baths of the Roman Baths for a glimpse of the ancient baths at the height of their popularity, immerse yourself in eighteenth-century Bath with a visit to the Assembly Rooms, and wander around the Fashion Museum to see their fantastic exhibition, A History of Fashion in 100 Objects. Find something truly special at one of the city’s fantastic independent stores as a memento from your trip.
4. Jump In to The Bath Festival
This year marks the 70th anniversary of Bath Festivals. To commemorate, this year’s Bath Festival will be bigger and better than ever, with an incredible programme of events. Head to the city between Friday 11th and Sunday 27th May and enjoy fantastic acts including Robert Plant and the Sensational Space Shifters, Ben Folds, Paloma Faith, and Alison Moyet. Stay tuned for more announcements!
5. Enjoy Bath’s First Pub in the Park
From Friday 8th–Sunday 10th June, celebrity chef Tom Kerridge is bringing his popular Pub in the Park event to Royal Victoria Park. The much-anticipated event will be a three-day feast with a stellar lineup of world-class chefs, accompanied by great live music and lots of festival fun. Tickets are on sale from Friday 2nd February.
6. Explore Jane Austen’s Bath
Jane Austen knew Bath as a thriving spa city, popular with the fashionable set. There are plenty of ways to experience Jane Austen’s Bath, including the popular Jane Austen Festival, which will be returning to the city from Friday 14th–Sunday 23rd September. This year’s Festival will celebrate Austen’s novel Persuasion - much of which is set in Bath - 200 years after its publication.
7. Feast in Bath
If you're a real foodie, a visit to Bath is a must. With a fabulous food offering, the city offers places to eat and drink for all tastes and budgets. You'll find a satisfying mix of local and global, homemade specialities and cutting-edge cuisine, and plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans.
8. Relax on a Spa Break
Although we won’t be celebrating National Spa Week until October, Bath is the perfect place to go for a wellness retreat at any time of year. Enjoy a spa break at the luxurious Gainsborough Bath Spa or experience the all-new Spa 15 at No. 15 Great Pulteney. If you are keen to discover Bath’s spa history, book a Spas Ancient and Modern Package, where you will enjoy entry to the ancient Roman Baths, followed by a delicious three-course lunch, and finishing with a relaxing two-hour session at Thermae Bath Spa, for the ultimate spa experience.
9. Get Active
There are plenty of stunning walking routes around the city to help you reach your 10,000 steps a day. For those who prefer to travel on two wheels, Bike Bath returns to the city on Sunday 1st July, giving you the opportunity to cycle 25, 50 or 80 miles, taking in the best scenery of Bath and the surrounding countryside. And if you prefer to spectate, you can cheer on Bath Rugby or Bath City FC at one of their home games.
10. Explore Bath's Surrounding Countryside
One of the things that makes Bath so special is its close proximity to the countryside. You needn’t travel far to discover stunning canal routes, bracing walks with skyline views and beautiful woodland areas.
Head on Bath Skyline Walk to discover hidden valleys, tranquil beech woodlands and glorious views of Bath’s skyline.
Walk or cycle the Kennet and Avon Canal Path, Britain’s most popular long-distance waterside cycling route, which begins in Bath. If you’d like to make a day of it, you can cycle the ten-mile route to beautiful Bradford-on-Avon, where you’ll find a rare combination of river, canal and architecture of true character. Head to the historic Tithe Barn and take an amble down The Shambles.
Looking to plan your 2018 trip to Bath? Head to our accommodation pages to plan the perfect night’s sleep, and visit Great Western Railway for a convenient way to travel to Bath from the south and west of the UK.
