Bath: Eat, Play & Stay
Just 1 hour and 15 minutes from London by train, Bath is where Georgian grandeur meets countryside calm. With a vibrant city center surrounded by Somerset’s green hills, this UNESCO-listed spa town is the perfect UK escape—equal parts historic charm, elevated dining, and fresh air freedom.
Getting Here
From London
- Train: Direct trains from London Paddington whisk you to Bath Spa in just over an hour. Its a comfortable, fast, and scenic journey
- Car: Driving from London takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes
From Bristol
- Train: Hop on at Bristol Temple Meads for an easy 11-minute journey to Bath Spa. It’s seamless and frequent.
- Car: The drive is about 35 minutes, though central parking can be tricky during peak hours.
From Elsewhere in the UK – Bath is well-serviced by rail via National Rail Enquiries.
Where to Stay
The Bath Priory – Set in a grand country house just outside the city centre, this Relais & Châteaux property boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant and a serene spa. It’s a tranquil retreat for food lovers and garden enthusiasts alike. Read more
No. 15 by GuestHouse, Bath – This boutique hotel is known for its playful design details, in-room pantries, and unexpected charm behind every Georgian doorway. It's ideal for creative travelers who love a touch of whimsy with their luxury. Read more
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa – A five-star sanctuary housed in one of Britain’s most iconic Georgian crescents, complete with a world-class spa and manicured gardens. This heritage hotel blends timeless elegance with modern wellness.
8 Holland Street Townhouse – A design lover’s dream, 8 Holland Street Townhouse blends mid-century flair with British charm in the heart of Bath. This intimate stay above a chic gallery and cafe is filled with collectible furniture, curated art, and thoughtful touches—perfect for a stylish weekend retreat.
The Pig – near Bath – Charming and rustic, this countryside hotel features a walled kitchen garden and a menu focused on hyper-local produce. It’s an idyllic escape for those who crave earthy luxury and slow living.
Unique and Luxurious Spas
No.15 by GuestHouse Spa – Beneath the whimsical interiors of this boutique hotel lies a jewel-box spa carved from Bath stone, offering bespoke massages, grounding rituals, and eco-conscious treatments. Its intimacy, creativity, and sensory approach make it a unique alternative to traditional spa experiences. Read more
The Spa & Bath House at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa – Tucked behind one of Bath’s most iconic Georgian facades, this five-star spa is a serene retreat with a heated relaxation pool, Himalayan salt-infused sauna, and holistic treatments by Elemental Herbology. It’s a refined and exclusive sanctuary where Georgian grandeur meets contemporary wellness.
Restaurants
From Michelin-starred dining to stylish cafes, Bath punches well above its weight when it comes to food.
Menu Gordon Jones – An avant-garde dining experience where no menu is ever the same. Chef Gordon Jones serves surprise tasting menus packed with bold flavors and playful presentations. Read more
Montagu’s Mews – Housed within the Royal Crescent Hotel, this refined restaurant celebrates classic British fare with a contemporary twist. Expect polished service and dishes that spotlight local producers.
Clayton’s Kitchen – A local favourite known for its seasonal Mediterranean-inspired menu and relaxed yet elegant vibe. It’s a go-to for reliably excellent fare in a charming townhouse setting.
Olive Tree – Bath’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, known for elegant British dishes made with local, seasonal ingredients. It offers fine dining without the fuss.
The Circus Restaurant – Set between the Royal Crescent and The Circus, this independent gem delivers refined British dishes in a Georgian townhouse. Loved for its warm hospitality and honest cooking.
Henry’s Restaurant – An intimate space where chef Henry Scott crafts creative tasting menus with global influences and local ingredients. Every visit feels like a personal invitation to his culinary journey.
The Scallop Shell - Award-winning fish and chips served with a seaside vibe—even though you’re in the middle of Bath. Expect sustainably sourced seafood and rustic charm.
Sotto Sotto – A romantic underground Italian restaurant beloved for its stone walls, warm atmosphere, and authentic dishes. It’s a date night staple for good reason.
La Terra – A chic neighbourhood spot with Mediterranean dishes, standout cocktails, and effortless charm. Great for a casual lunch or lingering dinner.
The Mint Room – Contemporary Indian cuisine meets fine dining, with artfully plated dishes and rooftop cocktails. It’s a modern twist on traditional flavours.
Thai Balcony – An elegant Thai restaurant with royal decor and a wide-ranging menu of bold, authentic flavors. Ideal for group dinners or a special occasion.
Noya’s Kitchen – A local favorite for soulful Vietnamese dishes served in a cozy, welcoming space. Don’t miss her legendary supper clubs.
The Chequers – Classic gastropub dishes elevated by seasonal ingredients and a charming Georgian setting. A great mix of tradition and flair.
The Pony Chew Valley – Just outside Bath, this countryside restaurant from chef Josh Eggleton highlights foraged, local produce in elevated pub fare. It’s worth the short drive for a taste of modern rustic dining.
Oak – A plant-forward restaurant that doesn’t compromise on creativity or flavor. Its ever-evolving seasonal menu is a favorite among vegetarians and omnivores alike.
Wilks – Innovative tasting menus with a focus on local sourcing and modern French technique. Intimate and refined, it’s a hidden gem.
Upstairs at Landrace – An upstairs dining room with wood-fired seasonal plates and a strong natural wine list. Small but mighty—book early.
Robun – Stylish Japanese-inspired dishes with robata-grilled meats, sushi, and craft cocktails. It’s sleek, fun, and perfect for a night out.
Cafe Lucca – A light-filled café inside a lifestyle boutique, perfect for coffee, cakes, and light lunches with a design-forward touch. It’s where locals linger.
Green Bird Café – A neighborhood café with generous brunches, fresh pastries, and friendly service. Think of it as your weekend ritual spot.
Jaq at The Provenist – A stylish deli-café known for its artful breakfasts and beautifully plated dishes. Come for the food, stay for the aesthetic.
WatchHouse – A London-born coffee concept with sleek interiors and serious beans. A favorite for remote work sessions or a refined caffeine fix.
The Walcot – Equal parts restaurant and cocktail lounge with live music and eclectic interiors. A place where dinner can easily turn into drinks and dancing.
Wine and Cocktails
Beckford Bottle Shop – This chic wine bar-meets-bistro pairs small plates with a curated bottle list in a cozy, candlelit setting. Perfect for casual evenings that still feel special.
The Bath Distillery Gin Bar – Home to Bath Gin, this relaxed bar serves creative gin cocktails in a cozy, heritage-filled setting. Try their house pours or take a bottle home.
The Dark Horse – A sultry underground cocktail bar known for seasonal ingredients, impeccable mixology, and candlelit ambiance. Regularly ranked among the UK’s best.
Vino Vino – A stylish wine bar offering a global wine list and elevated sharing plates. Great for pre-dinner drinks or a low-key evening.
Square Piano Bar – Live piano sets and vintage cocktails set the tone in this moody, elegant bar. A nod to old-school glamour in the heart of Bath.
Bread and Jam – Casual, creative, and perfect for a quiet glass of wine or a laid-back cocktail. It’s the kind of place you’ll wish was your local.
Corkage Restaurant and Wine Bar – A hybrid restaurant and wine bar focusing on natural wines and thoughtful small plates. A neighborhood spot with a wine nerd’s heart.
The Other Room – A hidden bar tucked behind Martini Bar, known for its moody lighting and perfectly balanced classics. Blink and you’ll miss it.
The Bar at No. 15 - The Bar at No. 15 crafts both classic and unexpected cocktails using top local spirits, syrups, and bitters—while its curated list of beers, wines, and soft drinks celebrates the rich flavors of Britain’s highlands, lowlands, and everywhere in between.
Iconic Landmarks and Historic Sites
The Roman Baths – One of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world, this ancient spa complex offers a glimpse into Bath’s 2,000-year-old wellness legacy. Wander through steaming pools and temple ruins in the shadow of Bath Abbey.
Bath Abbey – Soaring Gothic architecture and fan-vaulted ceilings make this the spiritual heart of Bath. Climb the tower for panoramic views or attend an evensong for a soul-stirring experience.
Pulteney Bridge – One of only four bridges in the world lined with shops on both sides, Pulteney Bridge is a Georgian architectural marvel. Stop mid-crossing for a photo overlooking the cascading weir below.
Georgian Architectural Highlights
The Royal Crescent – This world-famous arc of 30 Georgian townhouses is an icon of British architecture. Stand on the lawn and take in its symmetry, then explore the museum at No. 1 for a glimpse into 18th-century life.
The Circus – A perfect circle of Georgian townhouses designed by John Wood the Elder, inspired by Roman amphitheatres. Walk the full loop and admire the artistry in each carved keystone.
Lansdown Crescent – Smaller but no less stunning than its famous cousin, the Royal Crescent, Lansdown offers sweeping views across Bath’s rooftops. The short climb up is rewarded with a peaceful, grand setting.
Charming Streets and Artisan Corners
Margaret’s Buildings – This cobbled pedestrian street tucked between the Circus and Royal Crescent is lined with independent boutiques, interior design shops, and cozy cafés. It’s Bath’s best-kept secret for stylish, small-scale shopping.
Walcot Street Steps – These centuries-old stone steps connect the upper town to Walcot Street, Bath’s artisan quarter. Atmospheric and historic, they’re perfect for photo moments on your way to indie shops and galleries.
Gardens and Panoramic Walks
Prior Park Gardens – Designed by the landscape gardener of Stourhead and home to a rare Palladian bridge, this National Trust site offers dramatic views back toward the city. It’s also a Bridgerton filming location for fans of Regency drama.
Botanical Gardens, Royal Victoria Park – Tucked within Royal Victoria Park, these quiet gardens are home to rare trees, themed plantings, and ornate sculptures. It’s a perfect place for a picnic or morning stroll just outside the bustle.
Alexandra Park – High above the city on Beechen Cliff, this local favorite rewards the hike with one of the best views over Bath. Head up on a weekend and grab a coffee and pastry from The Choux Box at the top.
Skyline Walk – A 6-mile loop through woodlands, hidden valleys, and wildflower meadows offering sweeping views of the city from above. It’s a countryside escape just minutes from the city centre.
