The beautiful city of Bath has been a popular holiday destination since the days of the Roman Empire ⛲
Built entirely for pleasure and relaxation, the city is packed with historic art galleries, parks and spas to enjoy. In fact, Bath has even been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the great things about a Bath city break is that many of the city’s best attractions are free to enjoy. So, it’s the ideal place to visit if you’re on a budget.
Looking for interesting places to visit in Bath for free during your upcoming city break? To help you plan your next stay in this beautiful part of the UK, we’ve listed 30 free things to do in Bath.
1. Beaux Arts
12-13 York Street, Bath BA1 1NG
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Beaux Arts is the longest-established commercial gallery in Bath. Located in a Georgian-listed building, the gallery showcases works from 20th-century painters, sculptors and ceramists. The gallery holds eight exhibitions a year and showcases the best modern British works of art. Be prepared to be blown away when you visit Beaux Arts.
2. Visit the University
University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY
The hilltop University of Bath may not quite have the architectural significance of some of Bath’s Georgian buildings, but it’s still a stunning place to explore. The main university building and the campus are easily accessible and you can even visit the Sports Training Village – which is used by some of Team GB’s top Olympic athletes.
3. Bath Artisan Market
Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HA
If you’re in Bath on the first Saturday of the month, head to the Bath Artisan Market. Held in Queen Square and packed with a diverse collection of artisan producers and food makers, Bath Artisan Market’s friendly atmosphere makes for a lovely morning browsing the local vendors. With an array of charming handmade and artisan food stalls, explore this lovely Bath community and get to know the people behind the products.
4. Bath Aqua Glass
14 Cheap Street/15 Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1NA
Discover the unique, innovative and creative glasswork collection created by Bath Aqua Glass. Specialising in glass blowing, the Bath Aqua shop is full of quirky items, from gorgeous baubles and earrings to ornate paperweights. Both their shop and factory are open to the public, and you can watch the glass blowing for free! If you’d like to get involved yourself, they also run cheap activities and classes.
5. Emma Rose Art Works
The Art Studio, Knight’s Barn, Wellow, Bath BA2 8QE
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If you’re a lover of contemporary art, then the Emma Rose Art Works should be a must-visit during your Bath city break. Emma Rose’s original style melds Indian and French inks with acrylic paints to produce vivid pieces with a ‘fluidity and passion for life’. Feel free to pop into Emma’s working studio where you can pop in for a chat, watch her work and admire the semi-abstract art she produces. If you fancy, you can even purchase originals, prints, cushions or cards.
6. Guildhall Market
Guildhall Market, 33 High Street, Bath BA2 4AW
The Guildhall Market has served the people of Bath for 800 years. Today, it’s a thriving spot full of local traders who provide an upbeat and buzzing shopping atmosphere. If you’re looking for a souvenir of your holiday, the Guildhall Market is the best place to visit. Equally, Guildhall Market is the perfect spot to wander around, explore the local produce and try the odd sample or two!
7. Bath Antique and Flea Market
Green Park Road, Green Park Station, Bath BA1 1JB.
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The Bath Antique and Flea Market is one of the city’s hidden treasures, held on the last Sunday of every month. Stroll around the stalls and you’ll see a fantastic range of retro items and obscure oddities. The market contains around 12-15 stalls, and the traders are incredibly friendly and love to chat and share stories about the items sold. This historic market may even be the perfect spot to find a Bath city break souvenir.
8. Enjoy a game of Cricket at Bath Cricket Club
North Parade Bridge Road, Bath, BA2 4EX
Why not catch a game of Britain’s favourite sports during your Bath city break – cricket! Check out Bath Cricket Club for a relaxing afternoon in the sun as you enjoy a picnic or pint from the bar whilst enjoying a friendly game of cricket. Open for over 160 years, Bath Cricket Club’s main grounds are located in the city’s centre and offer tranquil views of the city’s architecture and stunning green cricket lawns.
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9. St John the Evangelist Church
South Parade, Bath BA2 4AF
The beautiful spire of St John the Evangelist Church can be seen from almost anywhere in Bath. Inside, nearly two dozen placards will tell you all about the church’s storied history. You’re more than welcome to stay for mass as well, with all mass times advertised on the St John the Evangelist Church website.
10. St Nicholas Church
Church Lane, Bathampton, Bath BA2 6TU
St Nicholas Church is a family-friendly church in Bathampton, just outside Bath’s city centre. This cosy church is well known for several interesting historic names that are buried in the cemetery, including Admiral Arthur Phillip, the first Governor of New South Wales and Walter Sickert, the famous painter 19th Century British painter.
11. See The Royal Crescent
Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LS
The iconic Royal Crescent features a set of thirty 18th-century Georgian terrace houses designed by architect John Wood. Not only will you get a wonderful view over the centre of Bath from The Royal Crescent, but the architecture on display is simply stunning, and the symmetry is breathtaking. Make sure to pack your camera when visiting!
12. Visit The Circus
The Circus, Bath BA1 2EW
If you enjoyed admiring the stunning 18th-century architecture of The Royal Crescent then you’ll love exploring The Circus. Designed to symbolise the sun and the moon, these glorious terrace buildings are another brilliant example of Georgian architecture. The locals in Bath argue over whether the architecture at The Circus or The Royal Crescent is better, so why not see for yourself?
13. Walk along the canal
Sydney Road, Bath BA2 6NT
The Kennet and Avon Canal runs right through the centre of Bath, so it’s easy to pick up the trail and go for a stroll. On your wander, you’ll walk past Sydney Gardens, Cleveland Tunnel and Cleveland House. The route is also lined with pubs if you want to stop for lunch or a cheeky drink.
14. Stroll down Milsom Street
41 Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1DN
Milsom Street is one of Bath’s most famous attractions. Once where Jane Austen roamed during her time as a resident in the city, Milson Street is a vibrant and lively area of Bath where beautiful architecture meets elegant shops and fine restaurants. These grand townhouses turned dining and retail establishments are often decorated with gorgeous outdoor displays throughout the year – Milson Street can’t be missed on your next Bath city break!
15. Enjoy a Walking Tour with the Mayor’s Honorary Guides
Stall St, Bath BA1 1LZ
Keen to see all of Bath’s main sights and learn more about the city’s history? Join a walking tour with the Mayor’s Honorary Guides. These walking tours run every day and they’re completely free – in fact, tips are actively refused! You’ll discover the Abbey Church Yard, Queen Square, Royal Crescent, The Circus and much more. The walk lasts around 2 hours and there are plenty of sights to keep everyone entertained.
16. Bath Skyline Walk
Bathwick Hill, Bath BA2 6EN
The Bath Skyline Walk shows this stunning city at its very best. Just travel a short distance from the city centre and you’ll be met with 6 miles of meadows, ancient woodland and secluded valleys. This relaxing circular walk lasts about 3-4 hours and offers unrivalled views of Bath from its elevated position.
17. Climb Little Solsbury Hill
Solsbury Ln, Batheaston, Bath BA1 7JQ
For one of the very best views in Bath, climb Little Solsbury Hill. Although the hill appears unassuming, be aware it is relatively quite steep. But, if you take your time, little legs can scale it without issue. Sitting on the site of an Iron Age fort, these ancient paths and hills are a beautiful sight to behold. As you admire the views, you’ll see why Peter Gabriel was inspired to write ‘Solsbury Hill’.
18. Two Tunnels Greenway
Newbridge Park and Ride, Bath BA1 3NB
If you’re searching for a family-friendly walk or bike ride in Bath, then the Two Tunnels Greenway is perfect. This flat, relaxed walk provides plenty of beautiful scenery with multiple street art-filled tunnels adding a novel twist to the route. The full route is 12.5 miles, but there are plenty of spots where you can loop back.
19. Head to Dundas Aqueduct
Brassknocker Hill, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7JD
The spectacular Dundas Aqueduct really does have to be seen to be believed. The aqueduct carries the Kennet & Avon Canal over the River Avon and is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. It’s a beautiful spot to take the family and a fabulous place for a walk or picnic. In the summer months, people like to take a dip or enjoy a canoe ride in the river below.
20. Crack the Beazer Garden Maze
Beazer Garden Maze, Spring Gardens Road, Bathwick, Bath BA2 6PW
The maze in Beazer Gardens is a great place to spend an hour or so with your little adventurers. This small garden labyrinth has been designed to reflect Bath’s history and kids love discovering the twisting and turning routes.
21. Pulteney Weir and Bridge
Pulteney Weir, Bridge St, Bath BA2 4AT
The Pulteney Weir dates all the way back to 1603 and remains one of the prettiest spots in the city. It’s a great place to stop and take some photos and you’re also only just downstream from the iconic Pulteney Bridge, which is well worth a visit. On a sunny day, it even feels like you’re in Venice or Florence!
22. Sham Castle
Golf Course Rd, Bath BA2 6JG
Sham Castle, as its name suggests, is a fake castle that was first built in 1762 to look like real medieval ruins. Using stones from local quarries, Sham Castle was designed and constructed to improve the view from a wealthy postmaster’s estate. Now, it’s a fun and novel place to head for a photo opportunity.
23. Henrietta Park
Henrietta Road, Bath BA2 6LY
Henrietta Park is a little slice of heaven in the centre of Bath. It’s off the usual tourist trail, which means it’s often a quiet, hidden spot. Families with young children love Henrietta Park for its stunning plants and historic trees, providing plenty of shade. There are even tree maps dotted around that will teach your little ones all about the specimen trees and planted flowers.
24. Sydney Gardens
Sydney Place, Bathwick, Bath BA2 4DB
The Sydney Gardens are one of Bath’s most tranquil spots. Here, you can sit by the canal and feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Families love having picnics here and events throughout the summer months.
25. Royal Victoria Park
Marlborough Lane, Bath BA1 2NQ
Royal Victoria Park sits just below the Royal Crescent, so it’s the perfect place to stop for a picnic as you soak up the views. While a great place to relax, the Royal Victoria Park is also packed with fun things for families to enjoy. There’s a boating pond, golf course, botanical garden and plenty of history to discover. Don’t leave before you’ve found the Temple of Minerva.
26. Alexandra Park
Shakespeare Ave, Bath BA2 4RQ
Alexandra Park was acquired by the city of Bath back in 1896. Since its public opening in 1902, it has been a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. Sat on a hilltop, the park provides mesmerising views. Alexandra Park is a great place for a stroll and a picnic. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the informational signs that will teach you all about Bath’s history and heritage.
27. Visit Bath City Farm
Kelston View, Whiteway, Bath BA2 1NW
The Bath City Farm sits on 37 acres of parkland on the outskirts of the city. It’s a great place to explore, see the animals and admire the views. Admission here is free, however, donations are encouraged. If you have a couple of pounds to spend, you can buy a bag of feed from the shop or visit the café to feed the resident goats.
28. Visit the Holburne Museum
Great Pulteney St, Bathwick, Bath BA2 4DB
Calling all art enthusiasts! If you’re in Bath and looking for a treasure trove of artistic delights, look no further than the Holburne Museum. This grand building in Sydney Gardens is home to a stunning collection of fine and decorative art, from Renaissance wonders to Gainsborough masterpieces. While there’s an admission fee, entry is completely free every Wednesday from 3pm onwards. So pop by for a dose of artistic inspiration – it’s a delightful way to spend a Wednesday afternoon!
29. Bath Carnival
Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4BU
The Bath Carnival is a fun and joyous event that the whole family will fall in love with. Every year, the people of Bath take to the streets and celebrate the city they love. Expect to encounter lots of art, dancing and music.
30. Bath Christmas Market
2 Terrace Walk, Bath BA1 1LN
The Bath Christmas Market is one of the city’s biggest annual highlights. Every December, chalets fill the streets of Bath with local stallholders arriving to sell their wares. The market is the perfect place to grab a tasty hot chocolate, a mug of mulled wine or some Christmas treats. Prepare to be swept up in the festive joy at Bath Christmas Market.
Whether you want to learn more about Roman culture, are interested in admiring some of Britain’s most beautiful pieces of architecture or enjoy some incredibly scenic walks, Bath is a fantastic place for a UK city break. If you’re thinking of visiting Britain’s finest well-being destination this year, then take a look at our fantastic range of hotels in Bath before you book your trip.
