Bath is known as one of the most beautiful cities in the UK – and for good reason. With its famous yellow-brick buildings and opulent Georgian architecture, Bath is a refreshing blend of cosmopolitan with a healthy dash of history. And it’s not just the Georgians who made Bath iconic: the Romans utilised the three natural hot springs for their bathhouse, one of the best preserved in the UK.
With such incredible scenery and an array of places to stop and refuel, it’s the perfect place to spend a day in the great outdoors. Here’s a few of the best ways to be out and about in the city.
Afternoon tea in the Royal Crescent gardens
The Royal Crescent is one of the most famous landmarks in Bath. Set in the centre of the iconic semicircle of Georgian houses, the stunning Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa is as decadent inside as its exterior suggests. The stunning gardens are lovingly maintained; limestone paths framed by rows of lavender lead you down to the Dower House restaurant, where smart waiters expertly carry cake stands adorned with mouth-watering afternoon teas. Sat outside on the well-manicured lawns is the best way to soak in the traditional grandeur as you indulge in a salivating selection of sweet and savoury morsels. Finger sandwiches and a tantalizing selection of cakes are freshly made daily, all washed down with your choice of tea – or something more fizzy, perhaps?
West Country Games
Of all of the Bath activities on offer, this one is truly unique. If you are looking for a more active get together with friends and family, look no further than West Country Games. Voted Bristol and Bath’s number 1 group activity in 2019, this outdoor experience promises a memorable day with lots of laughs along the way. Welly wanging, drunk pub skittles and Vicky Pollard handbags are just a few of the competitive crazy games you and your friends can look forward, And if Cardiff activities are more your vibe, try Welsh Games for a whacky Welsh-themed alternative.
Bath Skyline
A short walk from the city centre, the Bath skyline promises extraordinary views over Bath and beyond. The 6 mile stretch of meadows, woodland and secluded valleys are ever changing with the seasons and promise a unique experience throughout the year.
This rural sanctuary and the beauty of the city below has earned Bath and its iconic skyline World Heritage status. An absolute must for those who enjoy the great outdoors, this is the perfect stretch for an idyllic walk. To maximise your experience, the National Trust website provides directions of the walk with details of landmark locations such as Sham Castle and Prior Park balcony, to help you stay on track. And best of all it's completely free!
Ghost hunters disco walking tourÂ
Join the ghost hunters of Bath on a haunted tour set to music. You will follow the footsteps of those who walked many years before. A typical guided group tour will see you pass by the Phantom Monks of Bath Abbey before a stroll through Queen’s square, where sightings of the wandering bride (still wearing her white wedding dress) have been reported. Your tour will take an eerie turn down the corridors of the Royal Mineral Water Hospital, where the ghostly sound of nurses' heels have been heard clip clopping from beyond the grave.
Bridgerton walking tour experienceÂ
Wander in the footsteps of Nexflix’s favourite Duchess and Duke, on the Bridgerton Walking tour. Your blue badge certified guide will take you on a journey to multiple famous filming locations, from the adaptation of Julia Quinn’s best selling novel. The tour will immerse you in the societal life of the 1800’s. You will visit the homes of the Featherington’s and the Lady Danbury, before a visit to the modiste dressmaker and Gunter’s charming Tea shop. The tour will end at the Royal Crescent, filmed throughout series one and two. The splendour of this location makes it the perfect backdrop for your selfies!
So there you have it. Â Although Bath may be smaller it punches well above its weight to give Cardiff activities a really good run for their money!
