Bath is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. It has its own river and canal, a popular university, a cute bridge, the roman baths, the royal park and crescent, and more.
It is also well located and connected, taking only 1.5 hours from London by train. It is also close to Bristol and Cardiff, and it’s quite convenient as a base to visit any village in The Costwolds.
But the best way to enjoy the city is by following these 3 steps:
1. Take the boat cruise
The first step is to take the boat departing Pulteney Weir towards the village of Bathampton. Ideally, you will come back by foot, so better to take a single ticket.
Pulteney Cruisers has been operating this cruise for over 50 years. Their boats each seat 80 people and have a cafe and toilet. The trip passes under the historic Pulteney Bridge and out into the beautiful Avon valley. It cost only £6 for a single. See the full timetable here.
There are several stops along the way, including one next to the popular The Bathwick Boatman, one of the best restaurants in Bath. However; I would recommend getting off at The Bathampton Mill pub.
2. Have a pint break
After enjoying the abundance of wildlife on the river including swans, herons, kingfishers and otters, it’s time to take a pint break at The Bathampton Mill pub.
It offers a great outdoor seating area, Mediterranean cuisine and amazing views of the river. It’s a cosy traditional British gastropub, which includes a few beers on tap and a log fire for winter.
This is the time and the place where you recharge energies for the last step, which includes a 45-minute walk.
3. Walk back along the canal
After some recharging beverages and food, it’s time to go back to the city centre. But only by walking around 45 minutes on The Kennet and Avon Canal.
This is a peaceful trail with beautiful views of the Georgian canal, where you can enjoy pretty locks, cute barges, delightful little cottages and attractive parks and gardens.
Visit the Canal River Trust website for more information about the canal and its trails, including a detailed map and some audio tales.
Map
Travel tips and recommendations
- The Roman Baths are probably the most popular attraction. However; it’s mostly about historical value. I clarify this because plenty of people have asked me if there are actually thermal baths of some sort.
- If you are looking for a local Bohemian pub, with live music, a garden with bar games, WiFi and a launderette, owned and run by locals, the best choice is The Bell Inn.
- We stayed at Lyncombe Apartment. It was very convenient and worked well for us, although there is a slightly hilly road to get there. Other recommended accommodation options are: