Having not too long ago spent the summer time pet-sitting on this historic metropolis, having fun with the vary of hikes and walks that had been accessible within the space, I’ve put collectively a listing of the 15 finest walks in Bath, UK.
Bathtub sits in a lovely a part of England and attracts a lot of 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 lots of crowds flock to the town as a result of Bathtub provides the proper mix of all of these items. Walks and hikes are actually on the checklist of top things to do in Bath.
Bathtub is situated within the south-west of England within the county of Somerset. The town, which is house to two universities, additionally occurs to be nestled amongst some improbable countryside. Rolling hills, quaint villages, and the Avon River/Canal are inside simple attain by way of a couple of leisurely Bathtub walks.
Finest Hikes and Walks in Bathtub
I’ve loved mountaineering and strolling all around the world. From the mountains of Southern California to the vineyards of Florence and Sienna; a whole lot of my journeys are based mostly round exploring locations on foot. I really like the totally different perspective of a city or metropolis you’ll be able to 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 searching for some relaxed strolling in Bathtub.
1. Bathtub Deep Lock – Bathampton
Let’s start with what I take into account to be probably the greatest 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 your complete means however does at occasions require you to cross to the opposite aspect as one pathway involves an finish. I beloved admiring the various fairly narrowboats that moor up alongside the banks of the Canal, and watching because the boaters function the locks. Relatively 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 proper place to refuel for the journey again to Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bath Deep Lock – End – The George Inn at Bathampton
Size: 4.6 Miles (7.4km)
Period: 2 Hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
2. Bathtub Skyline Stroll
For these searching for 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 superb 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 succeed in 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 path. This led to some mishaps and turnbacks because the path may be deceptive at occasions.
You should definitely put on sturdy mountaineering boots as some components of the route can grow to be fairly muddy. If there’s been extended, heavy rain, take into account saving this hike for an additional day. Usually, the route is well-maintained and simple to observe and it’s definitely worth the effort of the climb for the views. The Skyline Stroll is one in all my favourite mountaineering trails in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Bath Spa Station, Bath BA1 1SU, United Kingdom
Size: 7.5 miles (12.07km)
Period: 3-4 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 1,100 ft
3. Bathtub Spa – Sham Citadel
The most effective easy hill walks close to Bathtub is the gorgeous simple route as much as Sham Castle. I used to be out for a morning stroll and got here throughout what I assumed had been some long-lost ruins, but it surely turned out to be Sham Citadel. It’s what is called a folly, (primarily a chunk of structure constructed purely for adornment), and isn’t in reality a fort in any respect.
The stroll to Sham Citadel was very good, nevertheless, and also you’ll be handled to some improbable 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 street, you’ll meet footpaths that head all the best way as much as Sham Citadel.
You may be part of the Bath Skyline Walk too and lengthen this hike exponentially. Or just return alongside an identical route again to Bathtub Metropolis Heart. That is finest to finish on a lovely clear day so you’ll be able to benefit from the pretty views.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bath Spa Train Station – End – Sham Castle
Size: 2.8 miles (4.51km)
Period: 1.5 – 2 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 246 ft
4. Bathtub Spa – Bathtub Abbey – The Royal Crescent
I had fairly a couple of members of the family and buddies go to me throughout my keep in Bathtub and I acquired 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 place to begin, head north into the town heart, following the main high street. That is often a busy thoroughfare and inside a couple of minutes you’ll come throughout the magnificent Bath Abbey and Roman Baths in your proper. You should definitely spend loads of time having fun with this iconic a part of Bathtub’s historical past.
Whenever you’re prepared proceed north, flip left once you attain George Avenue, after which instantly proper. It will then lead you on to the Circus – a surprising assortment of Georgian homes inbuilt a spherical. Simply steps from right here is one in all Bathtub’s most well-known landmarks; the equally gorgeous Royal Crescent.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bath Spa Train Station – End – The Royal Crescent
Size 2.4 miles (3.86km)
Period: 1 hour – 1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
5. Bathtub – Bradford-on-Avon
For those who’re feeling energetic, take into account taking up the Bathtub to Bradford-on-Avon stroll. It takes in among the finest locations to hike within the space. You’ll cross 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 typically thought-about a difficult route and shouldn’t be undertaken with out prior planning and preparation. The reward on the finish is the great city of Bradford-on-Avon with all of its quintessential English historic appeal and its many quaint cafes, retailers, and pubs.
It’s an extended, robust 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 one in all my favorites within the city.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Bath Spa Station, Bath BA1 1SU, United Kingdom
Size 12 miles (19.2km)
Period: 5 hours
Kind of Path: Level to Level
Elevation Achieve: 1600 ft
6. Widcombe Hill
One in every of my common Bathtub treks was to climb Widcombe Hill. I stayed within the neighboring suburb of Widcombe for everything of my keep in Bathtub and loved the train of mountaineering up the hill a couple of occasions every 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 very good leg and butt burn! It appears to go on for some time too but it surely’s not too lengthy till you attain the Widcombe Hill Viewpoint. From Bathtub, it is a pretty quick, however pretty energetic, stroll with a fantastic view to complete (I’ll be increasing on this stroll extra within the subsequent hike).
You should definitely 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 Data
Location: Begin – Bath Spa Station – End – Widcombe Hill View Point
Size 1.4 miles (2.25km)
Period: 40 minutes – 1 hour
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 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 a bit of additional and also you’ll attain the tiny village of Monkton Combe, the place you’ll be able to relaxation your legs and luxuriate in a rewarding beer on the Wheelwrights Arms.
As you attain the apex of Widcombe Hill, a public footpath on the proper 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.
Whenever 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 be sure you gas 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 Data
Location: Begin – Bath Spa Train Station – End – Wheelwrights Arms Country Inn & Pub
Size: 6 miles (9.66km)
Period: 2.5 – 3 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 550 ft
8. Avon Canal Stroll – West
The attractive Avon River and Canal are an actual focus of Bathtub Metropolis Heart. 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 holding the river in your left always. It will lead you to a pleasant pub cease – The Locksbrook Inn – in round 45 minutes.
You may as well lengthen this Bathtub river stroll all the best way to Bristol when you’re so inclined! However I’d counsel simply persevering with for an additional 10-Quarter-hour till you attain The Boathouse Pub. It’s one other nice cease by the water for a ultimate refreshment earlier than heading again to Bathtub alongside the identical route.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bath Spa Train Station – End – The Boathouse Pub
Size 5.2 miles (8.37km)
Period: 2 – 2.5 Hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 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 necessary structure, monuments, and culturally vital components of the town. You may 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 mother and father got here for a go to and took a guided tour (I believe they doubted the standard of my free guided tour…) and so they beloved it! The choice they went for even included entry to the Roman Baths, in order that they acquired to tick off one other main landmark on the identical morning.
Excursions are well-liked in Bathtub, particularly throughout weekends and the summer time holidays. I’d advise reserving effectively upfront. Click here to study extra about Bathtub strolling excursions and to e book your’s forward of time.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin and end at Bath Abbey
Size: 1.5 – 2 miles (3 – 3.5km)
Period: 1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
10. Bridgerton Tour
For lovers of the hit TV sequence “Bridgerton,” I’ve acquired excellent news for you. Many scenes from the present had been shot in Bath and there’s a walking tour tailor-made only for followers of the present. Why spend ages trying to determine the enduring filming areas by yourself? As an alternative, be part of a educated information on a complete journey by means of key websites.
Throughout the 90-minute tour, you’ll stroll by the outside of Girl Danbury’s residence and go to the Nationwide Belief property the place quite a few ballroom scenes had 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 a good way to see one other aspect of the town. And when you beloved the present, even higher. Click here to e book your Bridgerton strolling tour in the present day.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Start and finish at York St, Bath BA1 1NH, UK
Size: Approx. 2 miles (3.22km)
Period: 1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
11. Newton St. Loe Round
A route I sadly didn’t get the possibility to do, however one which was actually on my radar, was the Newton St Loe Circular. I’ve heard it’s probably the greatest household walks close to Bathtub. The straightforward-to-moderate path is well-liked with canine walkers, joggers, and hikers of all ages and skills.
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-about good and easy-going, however among the evaluations lead me to imagine that on moist days they will grow to be very muddy. So, when you’re planning on taking this one on and don’t fancy the mud, maybe watch for a dry day.
You’ll additionally be capable of take a slight detour and go to the Newton Farm Shop and Cafe which is only a few minutes stroll into the village of Newton St Loe at the beginning (or finish) of your stroll. It’s a cute place for a espresso, a lightweight snack, lunch, or to choose up some regionally produced groceries and goodies.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Workshop Lane, Newton St Loe
Size 2.2 miles (3.5km)
Period: 50 minutes – 1 hour
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 200 ft
12. Keltson Round Path
I totally loved the Kelston Circular hike, it provides among the finest mountaineering in Bathtub. The picturesque path winds across the hills that encompass the village of Kelston and the great Bathtub countryside. The gorgeous views of the Avon Valley and the meandering River Avon make this one in all my favourite Bathtub mountaineering routes.
With a distance of round 7 miles, the climb is difficult at occasions and would go well with hikers of average expertise ranges. The terrain provides a mix of rolling hills, regular accents, and rewarding viewpoints. Parking is out there on the Swineford Picnic Site, the place you’ll additionally discover the trailhead.
However the very welcoming Swan Inn at Swineford served as my place to begin. I fueled up with a tasty lunch right here earlier than embarking on the journey. This hike is a superb solution to escape the town, breathe within the contemporary countryside air, and immerse your self within the pure magnificence that surrounds Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Park up and begin at the Swineford Picnic Site
Size 7 miles (11.1km)
Period: 3 – 4 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 1,155 ft
13. Bizare Bathtub Comedy Stroll
If, like me, you take pleasure in 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 wished to listen to among the extra quirky tales of the town we had been staying in.
It was much less of a historical past tour and extra of a chunk 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 mother and father booked and showcased some different components of the town.
It’s a good way to get your steps in for the day while strolling round Bathtub, seeing some high sights, and listening to some actually fascinating and humorous tales. I’d extremely suggest it. Click here to study extra about this Bathtub stroll.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Start and finish at The Huntsmans Inn, Terrace Walk Bath BA1 1LJ
Size Approx. 2 miles (3.22km)
Period: 1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 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 a lovely landscaped inexperienced space that includes botanical gardens, a cafe, and quite a few ponds and monuments. The park loop is a simple stroll and takes in some superb Bathtub surroundings and sights.
Located steps from the Royal Crescent, use the Victoria Park Bandstand as your place to begin and head in both path across the park. You should definitely tick off the Colossal Head of Jupiter, The Great Dell, and the Temple of Minerva in your means. For those who’re fortunate, and select to walk round on a pleasant night, you might even see hot-air balloons launching from the park.
It’s a well-liked strolling space simply outdoors of the primary hub and is without doubt one of the finest locations for canine walks close to Bathtub Heart.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Start at finish at the Victoria Park Bandstand
Size: 1.3 miles (2.09 km)
Period: 25 – half-hour
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
15. Bathtub Ramblers
For those who’re searching for strolling teams in Bathtub, the Ramblers could also be simply what you’re after. A great buddy really helpful them to me and though I used to be in the end unable to arrange a hike with them, I used to be very fascinated by their membership. For those who’re on the town for some time, they’re a helpful walker’s useful resource.
The Ramblers promote the enjoyment of strolling within the native countryside with often scheduled group walks and hikes across the lovely Bathtub countryside. Non-members are all the time welcome, and when you attend three walks you’ll be invited to grow to be a fully-fledged member.
For that reason, and for his or her efforts within the preservation of the native setting, I’ve made them my ultimate alternative for walks round Bathtub entry. On high of the 14 wonderful walks listed beforehand, the Bathtub Ramblers will open up a plethora of data and insights into much more of the very best walks in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Data
Web site: ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/ramblers-groups/bath-group
The place to Keep in Bathtub
These are a couple of of the very best neighborhoods and areas in and round Bathtub:
Bathtub Metropolis Heart
Staying within the coronary heart of the town means you’ll have handy proximity to a lot of Bathtub’s sights. An array of lodge decisions can be found, catering to a variety of budgets. So, whether or not you’re searching for a cheap weekend keep or a extra luxurious spa break escape, you’ll discover it in Bathtub Metropolis Heart.
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 outlets, cafes, and pubs, making it a perfect place to begin for a weekend journey in Bathtub. An additional benefit is that a whole lot of vacationers are inclined to overlook this quaint Bathtub suburb. It lies simply past the train station, a couple of minutes stroll in the wrong way from the town heart.
Right here, you’ll be able to uncover a number of pleasant residences, all inside simple attain of the town’s heart. Check out this apartment option – it’s fantastically completed, has non-public parking, and is good for day by day walks into Bathtub.
Coombe Down
Lodges and residences inside Bathtub’s metropolis heart can include a hefty price ticket, making the thought of looking for lodging within the outskirts a sensible and budget-friendly different. The charming village of Combe Down, situated simply 3 miles away, is a superb alternative because it supplies convenient bus connections to the town heart.
My family opted for this association throughout their keep and made an enormous saving. For instance, this holiday home is a good possibility and includes a totally outfitted kitchen and a backyard space so you’ll be able to benefit from your keep.
Mountain climbing in Bathtub: FAQs
Listed here 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 various leisurely and simple walks round Bathtub, a hike alongside the Avon Canal might be the simplest. The principally flat terrain stays alongside the canal for miles in every path. Properly-maintained paths and common entry factors imply the route may be as lengthy or quick as you’d like.
The Bath Skyline Walk is essentially the most lovely path in Bathtub. It provides wonderful 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 be sure you take primary precautions. Put on applicable footwear and clothes, plan forward, and put together for inclement or adversarial climate. Pack water and meals when you’re trying a sizeable hike. Know your route and have good steerage choices with you akin to maps, a telephone, and so forth.
Completely. Strolling in Bathtub UK is a good 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 outdoors of the town.
Sure, you actually can. A number of the finest treks in Bathtub are situated alongside the Avon River and Canal. Stretching all the best way from Bristol within the west to Studying 87 miles away, the Avon has big swathes of footpaths that permit for some lovely walks and hikes alongside its banks.
The Bath Skyline Walk is without doubt one of the hottest Bathtub trails and is taken into account to be of average issue. In full, at 7.5 miles and 1,100 ft incline, there are some moderately sharp accents and lengthy stretches of strolling. The terrain can typically be a bit of 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 probably probably the greatest summer time walks in Bathtub. Planning to undertake it in hotter months will 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 12 months.
In Closing
Bathtub is a good place to go to when you take pleasure in strolling or mountaineering. I beloved having so many nice prospects at my disposal throughout my time within the metropolis.
So, if it’s strolling in Bathtub Metropolis Heart, whole day hikes round Bathtub and the encircling lovely countryside that can problem even essentially the most seasoned of hikers, or possibly one thing in-between you’re searching for, you’re positive to seek out it in Bathtub.
Blissful trekking!
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