About

Royal Victoria Park is Bath's largest park, consisting of 23 hectares of green space lying on the western edge of the city centre, and is also home to the city's beautiful Botanical Gardens. 

History

The park was designed and built towards the end of the Georgian era and opened by Princess Victoria, then future queen, in 1830. Aged just 11 years old at the time, she was unfortunately never to return. 

During her visit, it is said that a resident of Bath made a disparaging comment on the thickness of her ankles. The observation was duly reported to the Princess, causing her to shun the city for the duration of her reign!

Despite this, the park still contains the Grade II*-listed Victoria Column and Gate at its eastern entrance on Royal Avenue, erected in 1837 to mark Princess Victoria's coming-of-age, just under a month before she became Queen. 

Things to Do at Royal Victoria Park

Just a short stroll from the city centre, Royal Victoria Park offers 57 acres of green parkland to wander, relax, and play in. Originally an arboretum, it is also home to the city's Botanic Gardens and the Great Dell Aerial Walkway. 

• Gather your friends for a fun game of tennis or a round on the 18-hole Victoria Falls mini golf course.
• Take the children to the park's expansive adventure playground. With climbing frames, zip lines and a skateboard area, it’s the perfect place to wear them out!
• Head to The Urban Garden on the eastern side of the park, a calm oasis where you can buy a range of stylish plants and gifts. They have a beautiful tropical glasshouse bursting with houseplants and also a kiosk selling delicious coffee, ice cream and cake. It's an ideal stop-off on the route from the Royal Crescent to the Botanical Gardens.
• Stop by the fabulous Treetop Cafe next door to the golf course, which serves a range of wholesome dishes.

In summer, the park is best enjoyed with a picnic, watching hot air balloons take to the skies. When the autumn months arrive, relish a brisk walk through the park to take in the seasonal colour, or go for a skating session when the annual open-air Bath on Ice ice rink arrives in November to get into the Christmas spirit. 

Accessibility 

Royal Victoria Park features a inclusive play unit designed for children using wheelchairs. The unit has two generous ramps, which enable children to access an exciting off-ground play platforms, without having to negotiate stairs or be lifted out of their wheelchairs or buggies.

FAQs

Is Royal Victoria Park free? Yes, all areas of the park are completely free to enter and open to the public, including the Botanical Gardens. There are no entry tickets required. 

Is parking available at Royal Victoria Park? Yes, on-street pay and display parking is available within the park. The first hour of parking in the on-street bays is free of charge, and the maximum stay is four hours. The closest public car park is Charlotte Street Car Park - please note that the hour of free parking does not apply here. 

What events are on at Royal Victoria Park? A range of events take place at Royal Victoria Park throughout the year, most notably Foodies Festival Bath. Take a look at our What's On page to see which events are coming up at the park. 

Are there sports facilities at Royal Victoria Park? Yes, Royal Victoria Park features tennis courts, bowling greens, an 18 hole mini golf course, and a skateboard park.