Bath is the perfect destination for short breaks, and there are plenty of things to do to fill a three-day stay. Take a look at this handy itinerary to make sure that you make the most of your visit and don’t miss a thing. And don’t forget to pop into Bath Visitor Information Centre whilst you’re here, for some friendly, local advice.
Day One
You’ll want to quickly familiarise yourself with the city, and one of the easiest ways to do this is to take a trip on The Sightseeing Tour Bus! The fully guided tour will show you all the sights of the city and provide you with fascinating historical information.
If you prefer to get around on foot then take a self-guided walking tour or join a group and see Bath’s world famous historic sites including Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, The Circus, The Royal Crescent and Assembly Rooms. For futher guidance, you can download our audio walking tour.
Now that you’ve walked up an appetite, why not experience the Georgian splendour of the Pump Room for a tasty lunch? With its glittering chandeliers and Corinthian columns, it really is an experience not to be missed. Don’t forget to try the spa water too - it contains 43 minerals, but is a bit of an acquired taste!
After all that sightseeing how about some downtime? You’ll want to dip your toe into Bath’s spa culture at Thermae Bath Spa. This is the only day spa in the UK where you can bathe in natural thermal waters. The open-air rooftop pool offers a unique experience with magnificent views over Bath.
Top tip! Take the fuss out of planning and combine attractions by booking a Spas Ancient and Modern package.
With the night still young, head for a pre-dinner cocktail at Circo before dining at Clayton’s Kitchen. The menu is created by Michelin starred chef Rob Clayton, so you’re guaranteed to have a good meal. And for the vegetarians amongst us, look no further than Acorn Vegetarian Kitchen for innovative plant-based cuisine and gluten free options.
Day Two
Did you know that Bath is home to more museums than many cities twice its size? No trip to the city is complete without discovering its ancient history at the Roman Baths, perhaps the most famous of Bath’s attractions. These ruins are some of the most impressive Roman remains in the world, and the Great Bath still flows with thermal water today.
If you’re starting to feel peckish and ready for a light brunch, try grabbing a delicious Sally Lunn bun from one of the oldest houses in the city. Or if you are looking for a healthy snack, visit the fully organic and vegetarian deli at Harvest Natural Foods in Bath’s Artisan Quarter.
Fully fed and watered, you’re ready to delve into more of Bath’s history and culture. Begin your afternoon at the free-to-enter Victoria Art Gallery or Holburne Museum. Fans of Jane Austen will also want to explore the Jane Austen Centre, or further unpick Bath’s Georgian past at No.1 Royal Crescent. If none of these take your fancy, you’ll find plenty more museums to choose from.
Next, it’s time for a bit of retail therapy, and you'll find many well-known high street and designer brands in Bath. Don’t miss a pleasant stroll along Milsom Street where you can gaze upon the beautiful window displays in Bath’s top boutiques. Or walk along Walcot Street to London Road for special and unique independent stores that can only be found in Bath.
Spend your evening enjoying the performing arts. There are many live entertainment venues in Bath, so if a night of comedy is what you fancy, don’t miss Komedia. Get your live music fix at Chapel Arts or watch the latest plays and pantomimes at the historic Theatre Royal Bath or The Mission Theatre.
Day Three
For a relaxing breakfast in classic Parisian style you can’t get much better than Café Rouge located in the heart of Milsom Street. Or, if your short on time, grab a coffee and croissant from The Bertinet Bakery.
Although there are plenty of things to do in Bath’s city centre, if you’re travelling by car, you won’t want to miss exploring the surrounding villages, towns and countryside before heading home from your short break. Visit the incredible Bishop’s Palace in nearby Wells, the smallest city in England, or marvel at Neolithic Stonehenge, only an hour away from Bath. With so many attractions just a short drive from the city, take a look at our Beyond Bath section to find an ideal stop off on your journey home.
If you're visiting by train, you can still enjoy a feel of the countryside right here in the city. Head for the Bath Skyline Walk, and along the way, pop into Prior Park Landscape Garden for stunning views of the cityscape.
By Claire Styles
