Bath is beautiful whatever the weather, but it’s even more glorious during the summer months. Bath’s Georgian architecture comes into its own when the stone shimmers gold in the summer sun and the city’s leafy parks burst into colour.
From following ancient footsteps around The Roman Baths by flickering torchlight to spending balmy evenings dining alfresco, there are plenty of ways to enjoy long summer days in Bath. Book a stay in one of Bath's elegant townhouses, family-friendly farmhouses or city-centre hotels, and enjoy making summer memories as you explore this unique city.
Whether you’re looking to roam the great outdoors, embrace the festival spirit or enjoy a family fun day out in the sun, Bath is the ideal place for a summer staycation.
Bath is a green city, with plenty of pretty gardens to explore.
Take a stroll through Royal Victoria Park and you will come across the Botanical Gardens. Formed in 1887, winding walkways lead you past elegant trees, herbaceous borders, a rock garden and Roman Temple. Take a seat on one of the many benches dotted around and enjoy a little peace and quiet.
Head towards the River Avon to find the beautifully manicured Parade Gardens bordered by vibrant flower beds and with amazing views of Pulteney Bridge. Choose a deckchair to enjoy one of the regular summer concerts in the bandstand and treat yourself to a light lunch or cream tea from the charming café.
SouthGate Bath has been transformed into a secret garden for the summer months with wisteria walkways, wildflower planters and grassy mounds to relax on. Walk under the colourful floral arches and see how many wicker dragonflies and butterflies you can spot.
Situated behind The Holburne Museum at the end of Great Pulteney Street is Sydney Gardens, the oldest park in the city. Designed in the eighteenth century, Sydney Gardens has had many famous visitors over the years including Jane Austen, who lived directly opposite, and members of the Royal family. With access to the Kennet and Avon Canal, tennis courts and a children’s play area, there is plenty to do to keep all ages entertained during the summertime.
Set in a sweeping valley, Prior Park Landscape Garden offers magnificent views over the city, which act as the perfect backdrop to the stunning Palladian Bridge. Created by Bath entrepreneur and philanthropist Ralph Allen with advice from poet Alexander Pope and ‘England’s greatest gardener’ Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, Prior Park Landscape Garden is just a short distance from the city centre but you will feel like you're in the middle of the countryside.
For more captivating views of Bath’s skyline, head to Alexandra Park, a tranquil 11-acre park with mature trees and breathtaking panoramas of the city, surrounded by wooded vales and rolling hills. Whether it’s to take a stroll, walk the dog, enjoy a picnic or have family fun at the children’s playground, this leafy park offers something for everyone.
Step back 250 years;sumptuous townhouse museum with summertime views of the Royal Crescent
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Caribbean-style venue with beach games, street food and summer cocktails.
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Go beyond the guidebooks with Rabbie's award-winning mini-coach tours of the UK.
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Meet animals of all shapes and sizes, then adventure across the park's many attractions!
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Give the gift of a Champagne hot air balloon flight over Bath. Gift vouchers available.
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A magnificent listed Palladian mansion set in 500 acres of extensive parkland.
Read moreSavour sensational summer flavours in sun trapped gardens and soak up the buzz of the city. Boasting Bath’s biggest beer garden, The Boater’s weirside terrace is the place to be during the summer months, or escape the hustle and bustle at the Hare & Hounds, which is only a mile from town but feels like a world away in blissfully peaceful countryside with glorious views over Bath. The Locksbrook Inn is another popular summer spot; located on the canal with delicious pub grub and outside bar, it’s the kind of place you can easily while away a whole afternoon in the summer sunshine.
Green Park Station holds alfresco live music events throughout the summer. Enjoy the lively atmosphere under the vaulted ceiling of the covered station as you tuck into pizza with a pint or a prosecco for £10 at Bath Pizza Co.
Nothing says quintessential British summertime more than a traditional afternoon tea. For a sophisticated setting, enter the tranquil gardens of The Royal Crescent Hotel and choose from savoury and sweet options, or bring the whole family along and let the kids tuck into the children’s afternoon tea.
Take in the city’s stunning skyline over a refreshing glass of Pimm’s on the rooftop terrace of Hall & Woodhouse, and bring the evening to a close with a cocktail in Sub 13’s hidden garden.
A sizzling summer in the city calls for a vibrant programme of festivals and outdoor events.
Royal Victoria Park will once again be transformed into a Caribbean paradise this summer from 14th June–3rd August. The perfect way to spend a staycation, be transported to a tropical nirvana at Bath on the Beach, complete with hammocks, cabanas, palm trees and volleyball - sip on a cooling cocktail and enjoy Mexican street food at the Pura Vida Bar while you feel the sand in between your toes.
Tom Kerridge’s Pub in the Park returns to Royal Victoria Park from 21st–23rd June for three days of delicious food, chef demonstrations and live music. Hosted by MasterChef judge Monica Galetti, some of the UK's best pubs will be serving up their tasty dishes while likes of Basement Jaxx, Gabrielle and Will Young perform.
Returning to paint the town a rainbow of colours, Bath Carnival takes to the streets on 13th July. With exciting street processions of colourful costumes, dynamic dance and lively music, the city turns into one big party, embracing carnival culture from all corners of the globe. Sydney Gardens also plays host to a free Party in the Park, with music, workshops, kids’ activities and plenty of food and drink from day to night.
Balmy summer evenings are ideal for spending with a loved one.
Thermae Bath Spa’s Twilight Package makes for the ultimate date night. Soak in the Minerva Bath, stop for a light dinner in the Springs Restaurant and watch the sun go down from the rooftop pool. Or, on a bright summer’s day, hire out the Cross Bath for your own private oasis in the middle of the city.
Immerse yourself in history with a torchlit visit to the Roman Baths followed by dinner at The Roman Baths Kitchen. The Roman Baths takes on a magical atmosphere once the daylight fades, the crowds disappear and the flickering torches are lit. Walk around the Great Bath where people bathed nearly 2,000 years ago, explore the displays in the East Baths and see the ruins of the temple of Sulis Minerva. Afterwards, tuck into a delicious three-course dinner for two at The Roman Baths Kitchen.
Alternatively, you can visit both of Bath's famous spas with a Spas Ancient and Modern package, which includes entry into the Roman Baths, a delicious three-course lunch or Champagne afternoon tea in the grand setting of the Pump Room, and a two-hour spa session at Thermae Bath Spa.
For a breathtaking experience, book a balloon flight over Bath. Feel the exhilaration as you take to the skies and the serenity of soaring through the air whilst enjoying stunning aerial views of the city below.
Beat summer holiday boredom by taking a trip to one of Bath’s many marvellous museums. Meet costumed characters at The Roman Baths, dress up in Georgian finery at the Fashion Museum and get crafty at Victoria Art Gallery. At The American Museum and Gardens kids can embark on a trail, solving riddles and learning about American history, or have a taster of the true summer camp experience with indoor and outdoor activities for all ages every Wednesday in August.
Little ones can get creative for free at The Edge with artist educator Victoria Willmott on 6th and 20th July or throughout August, pop into No.1 Royal Crescent to make an elegant Georgian bonnet or bicorn hat to take home.
Just outside the city, Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park is the perfect all-weather family day out with animals, tractor rides, indoor and outdoor play areas and wildlife walks to keep kids entertained.
Artists venture beyond borders in this politically-focused exhibition.
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Join artist educator Victoria Willmott for a series of fun, informal creative activities.
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Jennifer Saunders stars as Madame Arcati in Noël Coward's legendary supernatural comedy.
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Beach volleyball, fun games, summer cocktails, fresh Mexican food and delicious ice cream.
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Rising star and comedy favourite brings his cheeky humour to Wiltshire Music Centre.
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Learn how to fuse and cut glass to create wonderful designs with artist Jo Eddleston.
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Learn more about a healthy plant-based, feel-good vegan diet, using the best ingredients.
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For those who enjoy a quieter museum visit, including a sensory station.
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Milsom Place's annual Festival of Flowers brings magical wildlife concepts to Bath.
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Outdoor cinema and live music, with hot food on the night.
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Drawing from the model: a three-hour afternoon workshop led by tutor Alex Roberts.
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Drawing from the model: a three-hour morning workshop led by tutor Alex Roberts.
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Swim, cycle and run through the beautiful Bowood Estate.
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Explore the hotel's gardens, listen to a jazz band and enjoy a tasty three-course lunch.
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Learn how to make a selection of fermented drinks with expert Lucie Cousins.
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This 90-minute session will focus on the basic techniques for perfect brush lettering.
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Drawing from the model: a three-hour morning workshop led by tutor Alex Roberts.
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Drawing from the model: a three-hour afternoon workshop led by tutor Alex Roberts.
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Discover the work of local sculptors at an exhibition with The Hidden Gardens of Bath.
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Design blooms that won't wilt using wire-edged ribbon and intricate beaded trims.
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Help raise valuable funds for cancer-beating research.
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Help raise valuable funds for cancer-beating research.
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Improve your outdoor practical photography amid the summer delights of Bowood.
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Learn the art of fermentation with expert Lucie Cousins.
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Fun and challenging 12 and 22-mile walks across Bath and the surrounding countryside.
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A vibrant procession transforms the streets with a colourful mix of carnival culture.
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Discover how to make fermented and plant-based milks, butter, yogurts and cheeses.
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Look to the stars and observe a partial lunar eclipse.
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A fun-filled session of play and active learning.
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Entertain the children with lots of exciting activities for all ages.
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Celebrate Australia with daily performances, an indoor beach and an end of the day Hooroo.
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Board the time-travelling train and meet your favourite sci-fi characters.
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Kids can climb the 154 steps, find out why they're pink, and make their own spiral.
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Make a Georgian bonnet or bicorn hat to take away.
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A workshop focusing on earthenware clay modelling and decorating using coloured slip.
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Learn how to make fresh and seasonal Southern Indian Thali dishes.
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This class will celebrate the wonderful phenomenon of brunch!
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Family fun with garden and nature-based activities.
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The Legend of King Arthur features songs and magical storytelling to entertain all ages.
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Enjoy a Wonderland-themed bouncy castle, plenty of inflatable fun, crazy croquet and more.
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Bath Rugby Summer Residentials are designed to offer children an insight into pro-rugby.
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Children can make woodland animal masks and get creative with other craft activities.
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Fun weekend adventure bikepacking in Bath and the Cotswolds, with a night under the stars.
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Learn about ice cream and design your own sundae with Subzero this summer.
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Learn about the Tudors, make a Tudor Rose and enjoy sword and shield-themed crafts.
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Catch this Heartbreak Productions adaptation of Emily Brontë's famous Gothic tale.
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Garden tour and hands on experience with flowers from the farm.
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Enjoy Elizabeth Gaskell's classic tale of nineteenth-century family life.
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Activities include archery, combat displays, historical talks.
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A great fun, food and farming day out for all the family.
Read more Food and DrinkYou're spoilt for choice when it comes to scenic spots for a picnic in Bath, and no picnic is complete without a basket overflowing with tasty treats. Pick up provisions from one of Bath’s many independent delis or markets for a fabulous picnic feast. Make a Saturday morning trip to Bath Farmers’ Market at Green Park Station and fill your hamper with goodies.
Provisions packed, head to Royal Victoria Park for a picnic. Pick a shady spot beneath a tree, set down a rug on the grass or find a bench in the play area and let the kids run wild. In Alexandra Park, you can admire magnificent views over the city amongst mature trees or enjoy a spread in the sweeping valley of Prior Park Landscape Garden.
Closer to town you can treat yourself to a scoop or two of gelato from Swoon, and watch the world go by under the shade of an ancient tree in lively Kingsmead Square.
Summer is the perfect time to explore Bath’s leafy surroundings by foot or bike.
Explore on two wheels with one of Wild Swim Bike Run’s guided cycle tours. Whether you want to see the city’s historic side, get close to wildlife along the Kennet and Avon Canal or venture off-road into the countryside, rides are led by friendly, knowledgeable guides and are suitable for individuals or groups of all levels.
Experience the tranquillity of the Kennet and Avon Canal at a relaxed pace by hiring a Bath Narrowboat for the day. With each boat holding between six and ten people, enjoy a day out with family or friends and float past flower-strewn water meadows, stopping off at country pubs along the way.
For an outdoor activity with a difference, paddleboard along the River Avon with Original Wild. Experience that exhilarating feeling and enjoy a unique view of Pulteney Bridge from the water or try your hand at one of their other unforgettable experiences, including raft building, canoeing, kayaking, climbing and abseiling.
Skip the traffic and travel to Bath car-free this summer by taking the train; simply sit back and enjoy the countryside views as you arrive in Bath's green setting.
Bath Spa Station is situated within walking distance of all of the city's main attractions, and Bath's compact layout makes exploring on foot a breeze.
Great Western Railway serves the city and South West region with regular high-speed trains from London Paddington, taking just 90 minutes to deliver you to the heart of Bath.
Plan ahead and pick up one of their inexpensive advance fares for your summertime trip.
There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from in the city so you can find the perfect base for enjoying Summertime in Bath.
Conveniently located in the city centre and recently refurbished, YMCA Bath offers affordable, family-friendly accommodation. If you’d like flexibility to come and go as you please and cook for yourself, there are a variety of comfortable self-catered properties like Panda Sanctuaries’ stylish holiday homes, or enjoy family hospitality and the freshest of local food with a break at Fern Cottage, just 15 minutes from Bath and with plenty of space for little ones to run free.
If you’re feeling indulgent, book into Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa, a grand country house a short drive from Bath or, Grade II listed and set within 20 acres of private grounds, Bailbrook House has stunning views over the city and the surrounding countryside.
Love Bath, Feel-Good Bath, Bath. A Festival City, Remarkable Bath
Surrounded by the beautiful National Trust skyline, and with wonderful parks, formal gardens and allotments within the city centre, Bath is very much a green city. Here, Jon Wheatley of Stonebarn Nurseries gives us the scoop on six places to find fabulous flowers in Bath this summer...
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Summer is fast approaching and the days are getting longer. Spend a balmy summer day exploring Bath’s history and heritage, enjoy an ice cream in the parks and gardens, visit the Roman Baths by flickering torchlight and dine alfresco soaking up the evening sun. We’ve put together eight ...
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It’s set to be a sizzling summer here in Bath this year, with lots of brilliant festivals and events to look forward to.
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Looking for ways to entertain the kids this summer? Take a trip back to ancient times and explore the magical Roman Baths with the whole family...
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