London to Bath Day Trip - Things to Do in Bath
Thermae bath at the Roman Baths in Bath, England
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Taking a London to Bath Day Trip
Taking a day trip to Bath is a great way to spend the day. There are plenty of things to do in Bath from the famous Roman Baths to the great shopping in Bath, this quaint city is a beautiful treat to explore. If you’re traveling from London you have plenty of options for a London to Bath day trip, which I will go over below.
I made the trip to Bath during my stay in London and was quite glad I did. Despite the city’s high concentration of older historic buildings, accessibility remains better than in many places, especially accessibility to the famous Roman Baths.
While many visitors may choose to spend a day or two in Bath, I was crunched for time and only got to make a half-day trip. Still, I was able to see a few of the historic sites and sample some of the great food and tea.
If you’re visiting Bath on a budget, rest assured there are plenty of cheap and free things to do in Bath.
Why Visit Bath, England?
The original well-being destination, Bath, and its waters have been a draw for tourists since Roman times. Visitors can tour the original ancient Roman Baths and enjoy the modern Thermae Bath Spa, home to the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain you can bathe in.
Not interested in a spa day? No problem, Bath is also famous for its Georgian architecture straight from a Jane Austen novel. It’s also the perfect location for shopping, relaxing, and eating at some of the most charming restaurants in Britain.
If that’s not enough reason to visit, consider the city of Bath was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
Shops in Bath
How Far is Bath From London?
The trip to Bath from London takes a little over 2 hours by car. Day trips to Bath from London by train take about an hour and twenty minutes. The London to Bath distance is 115 miles.
Live Music in Bath, England
Day Trip to Bath From London - Travel Options
You have several options when it comes to day trips to Bath and surrounding areas. Below I have outlined a few of the choices available.
Day trip to Bath From London by Train:
The London to Bath city train runs from London Paddington Station. A London to Bath day trip by train is quick and easy to do by yourself.
London to Bath Day Trip by Bus:
Buses run from London’s Victoria Coach Station.
If you’re comfortable providing your own transportation on a day trip from London to Bath, I recommend this wheelchair-accessible tour of Bath.
A day trip to Stonehenge and Bath from London:
The Stonehenge/ Bath tour from London is a great option. It’s the option I took for my trip. It made everything super simple and allowed me to see two major attractions in one day.
I recommend this Stonehenge and Bath tour from London with admission. The tour includes tickets to the Roman Baths and Stonehenge.
Stonehenge Windsor Castle and Bath From London:
Another popular tour option for London I recommend this to any royal-obsessed visitors, though I would be weary of tours offering to add any more than 2 destinations to one day trip. I’ve seen several including Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath. In my opinion, that’s just too much. You’ll end up rushing through these locations due to the lack of time and not enjoying your day.
If you’re still into visiting Bath from London and jamming in all the extras this is my pick for Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath day tours.
Private tours to Stonehenge and bath from London:
This a great, yet pricey, option if you want to have more personalized attention from your guide and avoid a crowded bus filled with strangers.
If you’re interested in Stonehenge and visiting Bath from London on a wheelchair-accessible private tour this is my recommendation.
Bath and Cotswolds tour:
Another great option for exploring two amazing locations in one day.
If you’re interested in Cotswolds and Bath tours this is my recommendation. If you want to do it yourself and spend some time in the Cotswolds, these are my recommendations for the best places to stay in The Cotswolds.
Now that you have all your options for day trips from London to Bath, let’s talk about what there is to do.
Walking around beautiful Bath, England
Things to Do In Bath England
Wondering what to do in Bath, England? I got you covered. A day in Bath is more than enough to see all the major sites. Though if you really want to relax and enjoy the city you may choose an overnight trip. But Bath in a day or a half day will give you plenty of local flavor. Below I’ve compiled a list of the must-see sites for visiting Bath, England. Group tours will cover many of these sites, but it’s also easy enough to get around on your own. With the help of this guide, you’ll be able to put together your own Bath itinerary.
River Avon
River Avon
Kicking off our list of things to see in Bath are the River Avon and the Pulteney Bridge. Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely picnic alongside the river or take one of the many boat tours, the river is a central feature of Bath, United Kingdom.
Pulteney Cruisers offers wheelchair-accessible boat tours on the River Avon.
2. Roman Baths
One of the most popular Bath attractions, the Roman baths are incredibly well-preserved thermae in the heart of the city. The Roman Baths are a must-see on your one-day trip to Bath. Your guided tour will let you off at the entrance to the Roman Baths so you can explore on your own or pick up an audio tour guide.
Between 60 and 70 AD a temple was constructed on the site, leading to the development of the small Roman settlement known as Aquae Sulis. These Roman baths were used for public bathing until the 5th century AD. A century later the area fell into ruin. In the Middle Ages, there was a movement to redevelop the area.
The Roman Baths are now preserved in four main sections: the Roman Temple, the Roman Bath House, the Sacred Spring, and a museum. Visitors can tour the baths and museum but cannot enter the water. I was warned several times not to even touch the water, though I saw several tourists drink from the green, greasy, mess which I found to be a completely vomitous idea, and couldn’t help but wonder what kind of intestinal distress they suffered later that day. Bottom line, it’s not 1450. Look but don’t touch. If you’re really interested in the medicinal properties of the spa water, potable spa water is available for drinking in the Pump Room. There’s also a newly constructed Thermae Bath Spa located nearby. More on that later.
Roman Baths
I highly recommend visiting the Roman Baths. It’s very well preserved and makes for excellent photos.
If you’re curious about how the water ends up in this thermae bath, the water is sourced from rainfall on the nearby Mendip Hills. From there it percolates down through the many limestone aquifers. Geothermal energy then raises the water temperature to close to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Under pressure, the hot water rises along fissures in the limestone, until it bubbles up from the ground into the baths. Boom! An instant spa you need to see to believe.
The site is 90 percent accessible to wheelchair users. Honestly, I’m used to massive disappointment when visiting historic sites like this, so I was pleasantly surprised to see how much of the Roman Baths are accessible.
Visitors with hearing impairments can enjoy the site using the British Sign Language tour. Guests with visual impairments may use the fully descriptive audio tour and tactile models. The Roman Baths also provide information for visitors with autism and potential claustrophobia, see a guide for more information at check-in.
Statue at the Roman Baths Bath, England
I will note that on my group tour to Bath, (recommended above) our guide gave us free time to roam around the city after our trip to the Roman Baths. We were given a few tips on the best things to do in Bath, but there was no formal Bath walking tour. We had a few hours to explore the city see the key places and meet back at the bus. I really enjoyed this option since I like to explore on my own.
Roman Baths Location: Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1LZ, UK
Bath Abbey
3. Bath Abbey
Another highlight of any Bath day trip is a visit to Bath Abbey. Marvel at one of the largest examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture in the West Country. Bath Abbey is a former Benedictine monastery turned parish church of the Church of England. Founded in the 7th century the church has undergone several restorations but still stands today.
Inside the Abbey contains several war memorials for the local population as well as gorgeous stained glass windows, 2 organs, and a peal of ten bells.
Bath Abbey, except for the Tower Tours, is wheelchair-accessible. If needed, a wheelchair is available to borrow. You can reserve a wheelchair by emailing vergers@bathabbey.org.
Large print guides are available at the welcome desk for visitors with visual impairments.
Visitors with autism are encouraged to visit before 10.30 am and after 4.30 pm. when the Abbey is quietest.
Location: Bath BA1 1LT, UK
Bath Christmas Market
4. Bath Christmas Market
If you’re lucky enough to be taking your one-day trip to Bath during the holiday season, The Bath Christmas Market is an absolute must-visit. During this time the streets of Bath are adorned with over 170 twinkling chalets, attracting some of the best crafters in the South West and beyond. You can also grab some great food and drink.
The Bath Christmas Market runs from late November to early December. You can find more information on the Bath Christmas Market website.
5. Royal Victoria Park
Another option to include on your 1 day in Bath is a visit to Royal Victoria Park. This beautiful park was named after Princess Victoria, the future Queen of England, who came to Bath in 1830 for the park’s opening at just eleven years old. Unfortunately, she never came back. It seems during her visit a resident of Bath made a snarky comment about the thickness of her ankles. After the cankle dis, the Queen shunned the city for the remainder of her reign. Fortunately, the residents seemed a bit more welcoming and less ankle obsessed during my visit.
The park is located a short distance from the city center. It spans an impressive 57 acres and is home to beautiful botanic gardens and the Great Dell Aerial Walkway.
If you’re visiting with family, the park is a great place to spend some time. There’s an 18-hole mini golf course, an expansive adventure playground, tennis courts, zip lines, and a skate park. There’s also a kiosk selling ice cream, coffee, and cake. If you’re into nature, be sure to stop by the Royal Crescent Botanical Garden.
The park is accessible to wheelchair users.
.Location: Marlborough Ln, Bath BA1 2NQ, UK
6. Jane Austen Centre
The Jane Austen Centre celebrates Bath’s most famous resident. The center explores what it was like to live during regency times, embracing the fashion, food, and society that inspired Austen’s famous novels. The center also looks at how Bath served as inspiration for those novels.
The center itself is a classically decorated Georgian townhouse. Your visit includes a welcome talk from a knowledgeable staff member. Guests are then free to explore the exhibits at their own space. Guests are even able to play dress up and take photos with the center as a backdrop.
After you’ve finished your visit you can head upstairs to The Regency Tea Room for a spot of afternoon tea.
Unfortunately, since the center is a historic Georgian townhouse, it does not have an elevator. The second floor is therefore not wheelchair accessible. The main entrance has a ramp to assist visitors but several areas within the center, like the welcome area, the tea room, and the restrooms remain inaccessible because of stairs.
Location: 40 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2NT, UK
7. Prior Park Landscape Garden
This stunning 18th-century landscape garden definitely deserves a place on any what to see in Bath list. The park features one of only four Palladian bridges in the world. The historic dams at Prior park were constructed in the mid-1700s and recently refurbished. Visitors can now enjoy this stunning bridge, beautiful lakes, and winding paths.
The garden frequently features activities for families and The Tea Shed offers refreshments on weekends and school holidays.
If you’re in the mood for a good stroll, the Garden is close to the Bath Skyline Walk, a six-mile circular path passing through meadows, woodlands, Roman settlements, and an Iron Age fort.
Accessible bathrooms are available near the visitor’s reception area. There is plenty of seating in the park to take in the incredible views. Unfortunately, some of the paths are steep and not wheelchair accessible. The Palladian bridge also contains steps making it inaccessible to wheelchair users.
Location: Ralph Allen Dr, Bath BA2 5AH, UK
8. Thermae Bath Spa
If you’re looking to relax, there’s no better place that the Thermae Bath Spa. One of the top places to visit in Bath, the Thermae Bath Spa offers guests the opportunity to bathe in Bath’s mineral-rich waters just as the Romans and Celts did thousands of years ago.
The thermal bath is located on the grounds of the historic spas in Bath and blends the old historic charm with a new contemporary design. Guests can enjoy a two-hour spa session including a bath in the natural mineral waters, a visit to a multi-sensory wellness suite, and use of the open-air rooftop pool.
It is highly recommended that reservations be made well in advance as spots fill up quickly. The reservations team can be reached at +44 (0)1225 331234.
The Thermae Bath Spa is wheelchair accessible with elevators, and ramps. Electric wheelchairs are not permitted poolside or in the Wellness Suite. However, poolside wheelchairs are available for guests at these facilities. Changing rooms are accessible as are bathrooms. Spa therapy beds can be lowered to assist guests.
Location: The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath St, Bath BA1 1SJ, UK
9. No. 1 Royal Crescent
The No. 1 Royal Crescent is a museum that ranks as one of the most popular Bath tourist attractions. The museum allows visitors to see what life was like in Georgian Bath during the late 1700s. If you’re a history buff it is not to be missed.
Constructed between 1767 and 1774, the Royal Crescent was the first house built in the Crescent. The building was once a luxury hotel for the many aristocrats who came to visit Bath and partake in its famous waters. Visitors can see the exquisitely decorated rooms, dining area, and withdrawing room which is set for a formal tea.
Below the main area of the building are servants’ quarters, coal holes, a kitchen, and a scullery, showcasing what life was like for those tasked with serving the rich and powerful.
Since the museum is a historic building accessibility is admittedly not great. However, there are two routes through the museum, one of which offers step-free access. The step-free route offers access to the main ground floor and basement floor via an elevator. Guests are able to view a large portion of the museum but will miss some of the bedroom areas, the withdrawing room, and the kitchen. A virtual iPad tour of these spaces is available at the ticket desk. Restrooms are wheelchair-accessible.
For guests with visual impairments, large print guides are available at the ticket desk.
Visitors with hearing impairments are able to borrow an iPad BSL tour from the ticket desk. Tour transcripts are also available. The museum is also equipped with a hearing loop system.
Location: 1 Royal Cres, Bath BA1 2LR, UK
10. Sally Lunn’s Battle of the Buns
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House offers up the best buns in Bath and beyond. As the story goes, French refugee, Sally Lunn, arrived in Bath in 1680 and established her now-famous bakery. On the main level, guests can indulge in this famous Bath treat during the day or enjoy some fine English food in the evenings. The downstairs kitchen area contains a small museum.
I only learned of these famous buns after my trip to Bath and regrettably didn’t get to try them for myself, but I hear they are not to be missed.
The main floor is wheelchair accessible, however, the museum is down a flight of stone steps in a historic building making it inaccessible to wheelchair users.
Location: 4 North Parade Passage, Bath BA1 1NX, UK
11. Enjoy Some Fish and Chips
I popped into The Ale House in Bath to try some delicious fish and chips, and I was not disappointed. If you’re looking for a good lunch spot, I highly recommend it. They even offer vegan and gluten-free menu options.
Location: 1 York Street, Bath BA1 ING England
Pulteney Bridge named for William Johnstone Pulteney
Hope You Enjoy Your London to Bath Day Trip
As you can see there are plenty of things to do in Bath, England. This quaint city on the banks of the River Avon offers a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of London.
Have you been to Bath, England? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments.
Happy travels!
