Bath visitor information

An Introduction to Bath

Bath is a city in Somerset in the south west of England, situated 97 miles west of London. The city was founded in the valley of the River Avon around naturally occurring hot springs where the Romans built baths and a temple, giving it the name Aquae Sulis. It became popular as a spa resort during the Georgian era, which led to a major expansion that left a heritage of exemplary Georgian architecture crafted from Bath Stone. There is much to see and do in this small, accessible city. The Roman Baths, the Abbey and the exquisite 18th century Pulteney Bridge are just a few of the city’s historic sites. The city centre also enjoys a vast array of shops, restaurants and pubs.

Activities of Interest in Bath

The Spa city of Bath is most famous for its Roman Baths, where visitors can see the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple, the Roman Bath House and the Museum holding finds from Roman Bath. The city itself is a museum of Georgian architecture, the most impressive example being the famous Royal Crescent, built between 1767 and 1775, an arc of thirty Grade I listed houses arranged around a great lawn. The magnificent 18th century Pulteney Bridge is one of only three bridges lined with shops in the world. The city centre has a wide range of boutique and high street shops, restaurants and bars and is easily accessible on foot.

Getting to Bath

By Road

Bath is located just 10 miles from junction 18 of the M4 motorway which runs direct from London and Heathrow. There are also excellent motorway links from the ornth and Devon and Cornwall via the M5 motorway, whilst Wales is just a short drive west on the M4.

By Rail

High speed trains operate to Bath from most major cities, taking an average of just 90 minutes from London Paddington and Waterloo. Bath Spa train station is located in the centre of Bath, just a short walk from Bath's shops and attractions. Bristol Temple Meads, just 15 minutes away by train, is also a major hub for travel to all other parts of the country.

By Bus / Coach

National Express provides good-value coach travel linking all major towns and cities in Europe. Frequent services run from London Victoria Coach Station, London Heathrow and London Gatwick to Bath.

By Air

Bristol International Airport, just 20 miles from Bath, is one of Britain's fastest growing airports, serving over 200 destinations worldwide.