Having lately spent the summer season pet-sitting on this historic metropolis, having fun with the vary of hikes and walks that have been accessible within the space, I’ve put collectively an inventory of the 15 finest walks in Bath, UK.
Bathtub sits in an exquisite a part of England and attracts numerous guests yearly. Guests come to Bathtub for its historical past and tradition – the town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in spite of everything!
Others come for the wonderful cafe, bar, and restaurant scene, and plenty of crowds flock to the town as a result of Bathtub provides the right mix of all of this stuff. Walks and hikes are definitely on the checklist of top things to do in Bath.
Bathtub is positioned within the south-west of England within the county of Somerset. Town, which is residence to two universities, additionally occurs to be nestled amongst some implausible countryside. Rolling hills, quaint villages, and the Avon River/Canal are inside straightforward attain by way of just a few leisurely Bathtub walks.
Greatest Hikes and Walks in Bathtub
I’ve loved mountaineering and strolling everywhere in the world. From the mountains of Southern California to the vineyards of Florence and Sienna; a number of my journeys are based mostly round exploring locations on foot. I like the totally different perspective of a city or metropolis you possibly can acquire by taking a stroll (or one thing extra strenuous), plus it’s nice train.
I’m additionally a fan of a strolling tour and wandering amongst the structure of a metropolis admiring its magnificence at a mild tempo. So, on this checklist, you’ll discover a good combination of hikes that pose a problem in addition to routes for individuals who are merely in search of some relaxed strolling in Bathtub.
1. Bathtub Deep Lock – Bathampton
Let’s start with what I contemplate to be the most effective walks in Bathtub. Utilizing Bath Deep Lock as a place to begin, we’re going to move alongside the gorgeous Avon Canal all the best way to the neighboring village of Bathampton.
This route sticks to the Canal the complete method however does at occasions require you to cross to the opposite facet as one pathway involves an finish. I liked admiring the numerous fairly narrowboats that moor up alongside the banks of the Canal, and watching because the boaters function the locks. Fairly them than me!
You’ll encounter ornate bridges, a historical pumphouse, a floating B&B, and hopefully loads of wildlife too. Proceed strolling east from Bathtub till you come to the George Inn – a beautiful conventional English nation pub with 2 large beer gardens and a courtyard simply steps from the Canal. It’s the right place to refuel for the journey again to Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bath Deep Lock – End – The George Inn at Bathampton
Size: 4.6 Miles (7.4km)
Length: 2 Hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Largely flat
2. Bathtub Skyline Stroll
For these in search of good mountaineering in Bathtub, look no additional than the Bath Skyline Walk. This encompasses a loop of the outer hills of the town and takes in some spectacular views and wonderful English countryside alongside the best way.
Start at Bath Spa Train Station, and stroll east out of the town you start a steep climb to achieve the loop. I’d advise you to observe the route clockwise, as throughout my earlier hike right here the signage had been eliminated within the anticlockwise course. This led to a couple mishaps and turnbacks because the path may be deceptive at occasions.
You’ll want to put on sturdy mountaineering boots as some components of the route can develop into fairly muddy. If there’s been extended, heavy rain, contemplate saving this hike for one more day. Usually, the route is well-maintained and straightforward to observe and it’s definitely worth the effort of the climb for the views. The Skyline Stroll is certainly one of my favourite mountaineering trails in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Bath Spa Station, Bath BA1 1SU, United Kingdom
Size: 7.5 miles (12.07km)
Length: 3-4 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 1,100 ft
3. Bathtub Spa – Sham Fort
The most effective easy hill walks close to Bathtub is the beautiful simple route as much as Sham Castle. I used to be out for a morning stroll and got here throughout what I believed have been some long-lost ruins, however it turned out to be Sham Fort. It’s what is called a folly, (primarily a bit of structure constructed purely for adornment), and isn’t actually a citadel in any respect.
The stroll to Sham Fort was very good, nevertheless, and also you’ll be handled to some implausible views of the town when you’re there. Starting once more from Bath Spa Station, stroll east out of the town alongside the canal till you attain Bathwick Hill. Climb the hill, turning left onto Cleveland Walk. Alongside this highway, you’ll meet footpaths that head all the best way as much as Sham Fort.
You possibly can be a part of the Bath Skyline Walk too and prolong this hike exponentially. Or just return alongside an identical route again to Bathtub Metropolis Middle. That is finest to finish on an exquisite clear day so you possibly can benefit from the pretty views.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bath Spa Train Station – End – Sham Castle
Size: 2.8 miles (4.51km)
Length: 1.5 – 2 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: 246 ft
4. Bathtub Spa – Bathtub Abbey – The Royal Crescent
I had fairly just a few members of the family and associates go to me throughout my keep in Bathtub and I bought fairly good at giving ‘the tour’ of the favored sights of the town. I’m completely happy to share with you this free strolling tour in Bathtub that takes in some actual architectural wonders.
Utilizing Bath Spa station as your start line, head north into the town heart, following the main high street. That is normally a busy thoroughfare and inside a couple of minutes you’ll come throughout the magnificent Bath Abbey and Roman Baths in your proper. You’ll want to spend loads of time having fun with this iconic a part of Bathtub’s historical past.
While you’re prepared proceed north, flip left once you attain George Road, after which instantly proper. It will then lead you on to the Circus – a surprising assortment of Georgian homes in-built a spherical. Simply steps from right here is certainly one of Bathtub’s most well-known landmarks; the equally gorgeous Royal Crescent.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bath Spa Train Station – End – The Royal Crescent
Size 2.4 miles (3.86km)
Length: 1 hour – 1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Largely flat
5. Bathtub – Bradford-on-Avon
In the event you’re feeling energetic, contemplate taking up the Bathtub to Bradford-on-Avon stroll. It takes in a number of the finest locations to hike within the space. You’ll go by fabulous English countryside, the Avon Canal, the Tucking Mill reservoir, and The Two Tunnels Greenway (one of many tunnels is over a mile long!).
That is usually thought of a difficult route and shouldn’t be undertaken with out prior planning and preparation. The reward on the finish is the fantastic city of Bradford-on-Avon with all of its quintessential English historic attraction and its many quaint cafes, retailers, and pubs.
It’s a protracted, powerful stroll and I wouldn’t advise trying to stroll there and again in someday. Regular buses and trains provide the choice to make it a one-way hike. The pub by the Bradford-on-Avon train station – The Three Horseshoes, is certainly one of my favorites within the city.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Bath Spa Station, Bath BA1 1SU, United Kingdom
Size 12 miles (19.2km)
Length: 5 hours
Kind of Path: Level to Level
Elevation Acquire: 1600 ft
6. Widcombe Hill
One among my common Bathtub treks was to climb Widcombe Hill. I stayed within the neighboring suburb of Widcombe for the whole thing of my keep in Bathtub and loved the train of mountaineering up the hill just a few occasions per week. The views of the town as you attain the highest are breathtaking.
The hill itself is fairly steep at occasions, and provides you with a great leg and butt burn! It appears to go on for some time too however it’s not too lengthy till you attain the Widcombe Hill Viewpoint. From Bathtub, it is a pretty quick, however pretty energetic, stroll with an ideal view to complete (I’ll be increasing on this stroll extra within the subsequent hike).
You’ll want to cease on the Ring O Bells in Widcombe for a rewarding post-hike pint. As featured within the 15 Best Pubs in Bath.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bath Spa Station – End – Widcombe Hill View Point
Size 1.4 miles (2.25km)
Length: 40 minutes – 1 hour
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: 492 ft
7. Monkton Combe
The most effective mountaineering trails close to Bathtub is a continuation of the earlier hike as much as and past the Widcombe Hill Viewpoint. Proceed just a little additional and also you’ll attain the tiny village of Monkton Combe, the place you possibly can relaxation your legs and revel in a rewarding beer on the Wheelwrights Arms.
As you attain the apex of Widcombe Hill, a public footpath on the precise hyperlinks you to a stretch of the Bath Skyline Walk. This cuts throughout lovely inexperienced fields and tree-lined walkways. On weekends you’ll be capable of seize a espresso en route from the Mole Hill Coffee – a horsebox turned cafe that was featured within the 15 Best Cafes and Coffee Shops in Bath 2023.
While you attain Combe Down, cross the primary avenue and take Shaft Road. This small avenue results in a set of descending stairs that land you in Monkton Combe. The views from the stone steps are gorgeous, however you should definitely gasoline up earlier than trying the return journey, they’re fairly steep! The Wheelwrights Arms is then only a quick stroll to your left.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bath Spa Train Station – End – Wheelwrights Arms Country Inn & Pub
Size: 6 miles (9.66km)
Length: 2.5 – 3 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: 550 ft
8. Avon Canal Stroll – West
The attractive Avon River and Canal are an actual point of interest of Bathtub Metropolis Middle. You’ll come throughout ornate bridges and the flowing water many occasions simply strolling across the metropolis. The Kennet and Avon Canal stretches 87 miles from Bristol within the west of England to Reading, west of London.
Public footpaths path the 87-mile journey, which makes a canal stroll an easy-to-follow and pleasant endeavor. Merely choose up the water behind Bath Spa Station and head west retaining the river in your left always. It will lead you to a pleasant pub cease – The Locksbrook Inn – in round 45 minutes.
You too can prolong this Bathtub river stroll all the best way to Bristol for those who’re so inclined! However I’d counsel simply persevering with for one more 10-Quarter-hour till you attain The Boathouse Pub. It’s one other nice cease by the water for a last refreshment earlier than heading again to Bathtub alongside the identical route.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bath Spa Train Station – End – The Boathouse Pub
Size 5.2 miles (8.37km)
Length: 2 – 2.5 Hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Largely flat
9. Metropolis Strolling Tour
There are a variety of nice strolling excursions in Bathtub. Educated Blue Badge tour guides will make sure you see all the vital structure, monuments, and culturally vital components of the town. You possibly can put your map of Bathtub away and decide to be proven the best way by somebody who is aware of all of it inside out.
My dad and mom got here for a go to and took a guided tour (I feel they doubted the standard of my free guided tour…) they usually liked it! The choice they went for even included entry to the Roman Baths, in order that they bought to tick off one other main landmark on the identical morning.
Excursions are in style in Bathtub, particularly throughout weekends and the summer season holidays. I’d advise reserving properly prematurely. Click here to study extra about Bathtub strolling excursions and to guide your’s forward of time.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin and end at Bath Abbey
Size: 1.5 – 2 miles (3 – 3.5km)
Length: 1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Largely flat
10. Bridgerton Tour
For fanatics of the hit TV sequence “Bridgerton,” I’ve bought excellent news for you. Many scenes from the present have been shot in Bath and there’s a walking tour tailor-made only for followers of the present. Why spend ages trying to establish the enduring filming areas by yourself? As an alternative, be a part of a educated information on a complete journey via key websites.
Through the 90-minute tour, you’ll stroll by the outside of Woman Danbury’s residence and go to the Nationwide Belief property the place quite a few ballroom scenes have been captured. Alongside the best way, immerse your self in fascinating behind-the-scenes insights concerning the present, shared by your educated information.
This strolling tour of Bathtub is an effective way to see one other facet of the town. And for those who liked the present, even higher. Click here to guide your Bridgerton strolling tour at present.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Start and finish at York St, Bath BA1 1NH, UK
Size: Approx. 2 miles (3.22km)
Length: 1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: Largely flat
11. Newton St. Loe Round
A route I sadly didn’t get the possibility to do, however one which was definitely on my radar, was the Newton St Loe Circular. I’ve heard it’s the most effective household walks close to Bathtub. The simple-to-moderate path is in style with canine walkers, joggers, and hikers of all ages and talents.
Located only a quick drive from central Bathtub, the route takes in a few lakes, woodland trails, and even a small castle. The paths are thought of good and easy-going, however a number of the opinions lead me to consider that on moist days they will develop into very muddy. So, for those who’re planning on taking this one on and don’t fancy the mud, maybe await a dry day.
You’ll additionally be capable of take a slight detour and go to the Newton Farm Shop and Cafe which is just some minutes stroll into the village of Newton St Loe at first (or finish) of your stroll. It’s a cute place for a espresso, a light-weight snack, lunch, or to select up some domestically produced groceries and goodies.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Workshop Lane, Newton St Loe
Size 2.2 miles (3.5km)
Length: 50 minutes – 1 hour
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 200 ft
12. Keltson Round Path
I completely loved the Kelston Circular hike, it provides a number of the finest mountaineering in Bathtub. The picturesque path winds across the hills that encompass the village of Kelston and the fantastic Bathtub countryside. The gorgeous views of the Avon Valley and the meandering River Avon make this certainly one of my favourite Bathtub mountaineering routes.
With a distance of round 7 miles, the climb is difficult at occasions and would swimsuit hikers of reasonable expertise ranges. The terrain provides a mix of rolling hills, regular accents, and rewarding viewpoints. Parking is obtainable on the Swineford Picnic Site, the place you’ll additionally discover the trailhead.
However the very welcoming Swan Inn at Swineford served as my start line. I fueled up with a tasty lunch right here earlier than embarking on the journey. This hike is a superb technique to escape the town, breathe within the contemporary countryside air, and immerse your self within the pure magnificence that surrounds Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Park up and begin at the Swineford Picnic Site
Size 7 miles (11.1km)
Length: 3 – 4 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 1,155 ft
13. Bizare Bathtub Comedy Stroll
If, like me, you get pleasure from some unusual tales blended in with some laughs, you’ll get an actual kick from the Bizare Bath Comedy Walk. My husband and I signed up for this guided tour as we needed to listen to a number of the extra quirky tales of the town we have been staying in.
It was much less of a historical past tour and extra of a bit of avenue theater. Our information was actually comical and primarily used varied areas as backdrops for telling tales. It was a very totally different vibe to the historic guided stroll my dad and mom booked and showcased some different components of the town.
It’s an effective way to get your steps in for the day while strolling round Bathtub, seeing some prime sights, and listening to some actually attention-grabbing and humorous tales. I’d extremely suggest it. Click here to study extra about this Bathtub stroll.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Start and finish at The Huntsmans Inn, Terrace Walk Bath BA1 1LJ
Size Approx. 2 miles (3.22km)
Length: 1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: Largely flat
14. Royal Victoria Park
Right here’s a creation of my very own, and one other free strolling tour of Bathtub. Royal Victoria Park is an exquisite landscaped inexperienced space that includes botanical gardens, a cafe, and quite a few ponds and monuments. The park loop is a straightforward stroll and takes in some wonderful Bathtub surroundings and sights.
Located steps from the Royal Crescent, use the Victoria Park Bandstand as your start line and head in both course across the park. You’ll want to tick off the Colossal Head of Jupiter, The Great Dell, and the Temple of Minerva in your method. In the event you’re fortunate, and select to walk round on a pleasant night, it’s possible you’ll even see hot-air balloons launching from the park.
It’s a well-liked strolling space simply exterior of the primary hub and is among the finest locations for canine walks close to Bathtub Middle.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Start at finish at the Victoria Park Bandstand
Size: 1.3 miles (2.09 km)
Length: 25 – half-hour
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: Largely flat
15. Bathtub Ramblers
In the event you’re in search of strolling teams in Bathtub, the Ramblers could also be simply what you’re after. A great pal beneficial them to me and though I used to be finally unable to prepare a hike with them, I used to be very enthusiastic about their membership. In the event you’re on the town for some time, they’re a worthwhile walker’s useful resource.
The Ramblers promote the enjoyment of strolling within the native countryside with usually scheduled group walks and hikes across the lovely Bathtub countryside. Non-members are all the time welcome, and for those who attend three walks you’ll be invited to develop into a fully-fledged member.
For that reason, and for his or her efforts within the preservation of the native atmosphere, I’ve made them my last alternative for walks round Bathtub entry. On prime of the 14 glorious walks listed beforehand, the Bathtub Ramblers will open up a plethora of information and insights into much more of the perfect walks in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
Web site: ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/ramblers-groups/bath-group
The place to Keep in Bathtub
These are just a few of the perfect neighborhoods and areas in and round Bathtub:
Bathtub Metropolis Middle
Staying within the coronary heart of the town means you’ll have handy proximity to lots of Bathtub’s points of interest. An array of lodge selections can be found, catering to a variety of budgets. So, whether or not you’re in search of a cost-effective weekend keep or a extra luxurious spa break escape, you’ll discover it in Bathtub Metropolis Middle.
Right here’s a great hotel I discovered, it’s conveniently near the train station too.
Widcombe
Widcombe boasts its personal bustling excessive avenue, full with an enthralling assortment of retailers, cafes, and pubs, making it a great start line for a weekend journey in Bathtub. An additional advantage is that a number of vacationers are likely to overlook this quaint Bathtub suburb. It lies simply past the train station, a couple of minutes stroll in the other way from the town heart.
Right here, you possibly can uncover a choice of pleasant flats, all inside straightforward attain of the town’s heart. Check out this apartment option – it’s superbly completed, has non-public parking, and is good for every day walks into Bathtub.
Coombe Down
Resorts and flats inside Bathtub’s metropolis heart can include a hefty price ticket, making the thought of searching for lodging within the outskirts a sensible and budget-friendly different. The charming village of Combe Down, positioned simply 3 miles away, is a superb alternative because it supplies convenient bus connections to the town heart.
My circle of relatives opted for this association throughout their keep and made an enormous saving. For instance, this holiday home is a good choice and incorporates a totally outfitted kitchen and a backyard space so you possibly can profit from your keep.
Mountaineering in Bathtub: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on mountaineering round Bathtub, England:
The most well-liked hike in Bathtub is the Bath Skyline Walk. The round strolling path provides gorgeous views of the town and its surrounding countryside. It’s a favourite amongst each locals and guests for its mixture of pure magnificence and ranging terrain. It supplies a chance to flee into the countryside whereas nonetheless having fun with the town’s proximity.
Of the numerous leisurely and straightforward walks round Bathtub, a hike alongside the Avon Canal might be the best. The largely flat terrain stays alongside the canal for miles in every course. Effectively-maintained paths and common entry factors imply the route may be as lengthy or quick as you’d like.
The Bath Skyline Walk is probably the most lovely path in Bathtub. It provides superb panoramic views of the town, permitting you the chance to benefit from the scenic countryside, rolling hills, and many pure wonders.
Trekking Bathtub isn’t inherently harmful, however as with every hike you should definitely take primary precautions. Put on acceptable footwear and clothes, plan forward, and put together for inclement or antagonistic climate. Pack water and meals for those who’re trying a sizeable hike. Know your route and have good steerage choices with you similar to maps, a telephone, and so on.
Completely. Strolling in Bathtub UK is an effective way to discover the cultural and historic sights of the town. The largely pedestrianized metropolis heart permits the general public to discover with out concern for automobiles or site visitors. There are additionally many nice hikes and walks simply exterior of the town.
Sure, you definitely can. A number of the finest treks in Bathtub are positioned alongside the Avon River and Canal. Stretching all the best way from Bristol within the west to Studying 87 miles away, the Avon has large swathes of footpaths that permit for some lovely walks and hikes alongside its banks.
The Bath Skyline Walk is among the hottest Bathtub trails and is taken into account to be of reasonable issue. In full, at 7.5 miles and 1,100 ft incline, there are some fairly sharp accents and lengthy stretches of strolling. The terrain can generally be just a little muddy too, however the views are completely definitely worth the effort.
The Bath Skyline Walk is 7.5 miles lengthy and achieves an altitude of 1,100 ft – it ought to take skilled hikers round 3 hours to finish in its entirety.
The Bath Skyline Walk may be muddy in locations however is maybe the most effective summer season walks in Bathtub. Planning to undertake it in hotter months may even give hikers a greater probability of a transparent day and even higher views. Predominantly, the route is well-maintained and walkable always of the yr.
In Closing
Bathtub is a good place to go to for those who get pleasure from strolling or mountaineering. I liked having so many nice potentialities at my disposal throughout my time within the metropolis.
So, if it’s strolling in Bathtub Metropolis Middle, whole day hikes round Bathtub and the encompassing lovely countryside that can problem even probably the most seasoned of hikers, or possibly one thing in-between you’re in search of, you’re certain to search out it in Bathtub.
Joyful trekking!
