Blake Walsh

20 Free Things to Do in Bath

  • Published 2020/06/01

Bath is a very beautiful town with a rich history and a diverse range of architecture. As the name suggests it is named after the Roman-Baths. This place has a unique blend of Roman, Medieval, Tudor, Georgian and Victorian history. In 1987, UNESCO selected this city as a World Heritage Site. The exquisite architecture is what draws visitors in, however, the ambient atmosphere makes them stay. Simply wandering around the town is a great experience by itself. For literary lovers, the Famous author Jane Austen lived in Bath in the early 19th century.

Though the cost of living in Bath is higher than many cities in Somerset, you can still enjoy Bath without exceeding your budget. Baths offers many reasonably priced hotels, both in the city centre and on the outskirts. Additionally, as with most cities, there are so many budget-friendly cafes and pubs. The sights in Bath are enjoyed by both tourists and residents alike as if you are a Bath citizen you can get a Discovery Pass for free, that will give you free entry to many tourist attractions. For tourists, we have compiled a list of 20 free things to do in Bath.

Start from the Bath Visitors Information Center

The best place to start your budget trip is from the Visitors Information Center. The staff here are extremely friendly and will give you information and ideas on how to plan your trip. They also provide visitors with a free walking tour which takes place every day . They also provide you with the city map and acquaint you with many of the local places and best known places.

Royal Crescent

Royal Crescent

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Royal Crescent is a hundred and feet meter crescent-shaped building. This magnificent piece of architecture is one of the best examples of Georgian architecture found in the UK. Currently it is a hotel and spa, and some rooms are available for rent also. Many come to walk around the building and simply admire the honey-colored stone architecture.

360-degree view at The Circus

The Circus Bath

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The Circus is a circular building designed by John Wood. It is only a few minutes walk from the centre of the bath. This circular building is divided into three halves. There is a huge lawn and tree in the middle of Circus where you can relax and admire the unique architecture of this curved Georgian building. Like Royal Crescent this building is also converted into a hotel, where you can rent apartments.

Pray at Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey

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Bath Abbey is Bath’s parish church and it is also where the first king of England was crowned. Like many of the buildings in England, this church is also noted for its architecture. The interior however,is equally marvelled at, due to the tall ceiling, carved angel sculptures, and the beautiful paintings that depict the story of Jesus. All who come are encouraged to light a candle, meditate, and pray. Entrance to the church is free but if you wish to donate you are free to do so.

Relax in Holburne Museum and Sydney Garden

Holburne Museum and Sydney Garden

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Holburne Museum is Bath’s public art gallery, located in Sydney garden. This gallery houses several various art collections from an extensive range of different artists. The entry to the collection galleries of this museum is free on Wednesdays from 3 pm – 5 pm and on the last Friday of every month (except December) from 5 pm to 9 pm. For those who prefer to take a walk, you can explore and relax in the Sydney Garden, it is one of the oldest 18th-century gardens in town.

Watch the stunning views in The Bath Skyline

Bath Skyline

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This tour takes visitors to the other side of Bath and to a hilltop that offers the most spectacular views of Bath’s skyline. Almost a 3-mile walk from the City Centre, the tour gives visitors the opportunity to see the more rural areas of Bath. Along the way there are many sights to behold, including beautiful architecture, wildlife and greenery. In terms of views, this trip to the hillside will give tourists the perfect photo opportunities. The map of the trail can be easily downloaded from Baths official website, providing the opportunity for visitors to do the tour individually.

Bird’s-eye view at Sham Castle

Sham Castle

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Sham Castle is situated on top of a hill, overlooking Bath city center. The view from the top is breathtaking and provides visitors with the highest quality of photos. There is a lot of empty space available, and many tourists use this space to relax and enjoy the sunset. This is one of the places which can be reached in bath skyline trail.

Pulteney Bridge

Pulteney Bridge

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Pulteney Bridge is one of the most renowned bridges in Bath. It is built over River Avon and is a Palladian style bridge which has several features including a small dam. The most distinguishing feature of this bridge is that it has shops on both sides, offering a variety of different products and souvenirs. The sound of the water moving in the river, the chirping of the birds, with the view of this beautiful bridge, and the shops bustling with people will all contribute to Bath’s ambience.

Walk the Kennet and Avon Canal

Kennet and Avon Canal

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Kennet and Avon Canal is an 87-mile long canal running in Bath. This is one of the best places if you want to spend a day out by water. There is a lot of space alongside the canal to walk and cycle, as well as a picnic area. There are several boats and canoes situated in the canal that can be rented varying on availability.

Admire the paintings in Victoria Art Gallery

Victoria Art Gallery Bath

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Victoria Art gallery is a public museum in Bath. Entry to the permanent paintings on the first floor is free. It has many wonderful paintings and a decent collection of glasses, as well as detailed information about each painting. They also have a free audio guide for those who desire extra insight. There is also a different exhibition situated on the ground floor however a small fee is charged upon entry.

Pay your respect at Church of St. Nicholas

Church of St. Nicholas is located in the village of Bathampton in between River Avon and the Kennet. It is an old Anglican Church built in the 13th century as well as the burial site of several figures including: Captain Arthur Philip, First governor of New South Wales, and Walter Sicket, a famous painter. An insightful display of history can be found in this church, making this a place of great historical importance. This church, as well as its surrounding grounds are well-maintained and a pleasure to visit.

Get to know the trends in Bath University

Bath University

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Bath University is one of the best universities in the world with top-class amenities. Universities are the best place to understand the culture, tradition, and style of a place. Bath is no exception as it houses students from diverse backgrounds, all over the world. The campus grounds are beautiful making it the perfect place for visitors to walk and gain an insight into just how inclusive bath is as a city.

Kids Day Out at Bath City Farm

Bath City Farm

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Entry to Bath City Farm is absolutely free. They have many farm animals like chicken, goats, pigs, etc. The farm is a great destination for a family day out as it is very well set up with kids play area and cafés. The farm takes pride in giving back to the Bath community as they often organize workshops for people suffering from mental- illness, diabetes, disabilities, etc. You can check the schedule on their official website if you wish to participate in them.

Relish in Henrietta Park

Henrietta Park

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Henrietta Park is the best park to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without any cost. It is a short walk from the city center. It has a very calm and peaceful environment with many trees, a small pool, and a fountain. Visitors can walk in the 7-acre park, take a picnic, and relax. It is also a great photo destination, offering scenic views of the park and surrounding areas.

Cycling in Bath Cycle Path

Bath Cycle Path

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Many tourists decide to hire bicycles and take on the two major cycling routes of Bath. Both the roads are filled with spectacular scenic views and beautiful buildings. One route is through the canal and the other is from North to South. It is one of the most cost-efficient ways to explore the city and all it has to offer.

Breathtaking view at Little Solsbury Hill

Little Solsbury Hill

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Little Solsbury Hill is a limestone grassland hill with a breathtaking view from the hilltop. It is located above the River Avon with a view of Bath city center. Some come here to take photos and others come to simply take a leisurely walk and clear their heads.

Alexandra Park

Alexandra Park

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Alexandra Park is a local park in Bath, located on top of the Beechen Cliff. It is a huge green landscape with some of the finest city views. Several travel options are available, you can drive to the park or take the 150 steps walk. This park also has a playground, place for a picnic, and loya if greenery. Many come and relax under the shade of the trees or benches and watch over the busy city.

Window shopping at Milsom Street

Milsom Street

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Milsom Street is the place to shop in Bath. This street has various shops, from top designer stores, department stores like Hobbs and Chanii B, House of Fraser and many more.

Visit The Bath Soft Cheese Co

The Bath Soft Cheese Co is an organic cheese shop with a farm and an outlet. It has won many awards including the 2014 World Champion. Bath Blue Cheese Farm is quaint and quirky, but still has many animals and a separate play area for kids with a café nearby. It is a perfect spot for a family day out. Tours are also available for a small fee of £12, visitors are given a step by step on the process of cheese making, and are gifted with several different samples.

Go sample testing at Bath Ales

Bath pubs

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For those visitors who have a passion for exquisite food and drink, look no further than Bath Ales Brewery. Visitors are able to take a tour of the brewery itself, as well as the taproom and shop. Guests are also given the opportunity to sample the various range of fresh beers. The location of Bath Ales is ideal, as they also have pubs, restaurants, and shops nearby,

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