BEST THINGS TO DO IN BATH FOR DESIGN LOVERS — WHERE TO SHOP, EAT AND STAY
Looking for the best things to do in Bath? Whether you’re planning a weekend in Bath, searching for the best shops in Bath, or looking for the best restaurants and places to stay, this is my personal Bath guide.
So this is my Bath guide: the places I actually go to and genuinely love recommending.
Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. Best known for its thermal waters, Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, Jane Austen connections and, more recently, Bridgerton filming locations, it has a character unlike anywhere else.
Just 1 hour 20 minutes from London and sitting on the edge of the Cotswolds, Bath is consistently ranked as one of the best UK city breaks — and for good reason.
What makes Bath special is its scale. It’s small enough to walk almost everywhere, yet packed with excellent restaurants, beautiful independent shops, antique dealers, galleries and cultural landmarks. Set in a valley and surrounded by countryside, you’re never far from a gorgeous view.
Bath has always been a pleasure city. The Romans came for its thermal waters — not to work, but to relax. Later, the Georgians came to see and be seen, and that energy still lingers today.
This guide covers the best things to do in Bath, where to shop, where to eat, where to stay, and my favourite antique and vintage spots.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN BATH
The Roman Baths
One of the most famous attractions in Bath, and rightly so.
Go as early as possible if you can. You’ll get the best view of the pool and, if you’re lucky, catch the mist rising off the water, which feels pretty magical.
Summer late openings are also worth booking for a completely different atmosphere.
Bath Abbey Tower Tour
Worth every step.
You’ll get incredible views across Bath, plus a fascinating look behind the clock mechanism — a lovely reminder of how daily life in the city was once regulated.
The Crescents
Bath is famous for its crescents, but there’s more than just the Royal Crescent.
My favourite is Lansdown Crescent, where you’ll often spot sheep grazing nearby. From there, walk through Somerset Place, then continue down to Cavendish Crescent, which feels quieter and more residential but just as beautiful.
The Royal Crescent is, of course, the most iconic. Nearby Margaret’s Buildings is also one of the best shopping streets in Bath.
Pulteney Bridge and Great Pulteney Street
Classic Bath. My tip: take the steps to the right of the bridge (just past the florist) down to the river for one of the best views of the weir.
Then continue to the end of Great Pulteney Street to visit the Holburne Museum.
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN BATH
Prior Park and Bathwick Meadows
For wider views across the city, head to Bathwick Meadows or Prior Park.
Prior Park is home to the famous Palladian Bridge and is one of the most romantic spots in Bath.
Bathwick Meadows is perfect for a picnic.
Victoria Park
One of Bath’s best green spaces.
If you catch the hot air balloons lifting off across the city at sunset, it’s unforgettable. The Botanical Gardens are lovely year-round.
Bath Boating Station
A seasonal favourite. You can hire punts and rowing boats here — we actually did this on our wedding day.
Lady Lena Boat Cruise
If the weather allows, this is such a relaxing way to spend a couple of hours. A beautiful private boat cruise along the Kennet and Avon Canal — slow, peaceful and very special.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM BATH
Iford Manor
Just outside Bath and absolutely worth the trip. Romantic gardens combining formality with nature, all set against magnificent valley views. The cloisters feel almost Italian — dreamy gardens, beautiful architecture and glorious scenery.
The Newt
Not in Bath, but near Bruton and well worth combining with a visit. One of the most beautiful destinations in the UK. My husband calls it curated countryside. The spa is dreamy. There is too much to explore in a day so if its a quick visit, have a plan!
WHERE TO STAY IN BATH
No.15 by GuestHouse
Playful, stylish and very Bath.
8 Holland Street
Beautiful interiors and an excellent design-led stay.
The Pig (near Bath)
Technically outside Bath, but worth it.
Garden Suite (Airbnb)
Run by my friend Lizzy of Pink Walls.
Hidden (Airbnb)
Run by Natty, founder of Hidden Store.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN BATH
Beckford Canteen + Beckford Bottle Shop
A Bath favourite.
Walcot House
Great atmosphere and food. Open Mondays - not much is in Bath.
Castle Farm
Worth the drive or taxi — I promise.
We had our wedding reception here.
Solina Pasta
A great walk-in option.
Oak
Excellent veggie option.
Landrace Bakery + Landrace Upstairs
The best coffee and cinnamon buns in Bath, in my opinion.
BEST SHOPS IN BATH FOR INTERIORS, ANTIQUES, VINTAGE AND ART
Bath is one of the best cities in the UK for interiors lovers, antique hunters and vintage collectors.
If you’re looking for the best shops in Bath for interiors, antiques, vintage furniture, homeware or art, these are the places I’d prioritise. From independent design stores and antique centres to galleries and vintage specialists, Bath has an unusually strong shopping scene for a city of its size.
These are my favourite interior, vintage and antique shops in Bath:
-
Hue + Holasz (studio visits by appointment) — curated vintage art for modern homes
If you’re specifically looking for vintage art in Bath, antique paintings, or one-of-a-kind pieces for your home, I’d especially recommend visiting Hue + Holasz, Bartlett Street Antique Centre and Bath’s monthly vintage markets.
BEST ANTIQUE MARKETS AND VINTAGE FAIRS NEAR BATH
Bath is also well placed for antique markets, flea markets and vintage fairs, making it an excellent base for anyone interested in antiques and vintage shopping.
Shepton Flea
One of my favourite places for sourcing vintage art, decorative objects and unexpected gems.
Check timings online, as dates vary and IACF also run fleas here too.
Walcot Antique and Flea Market
Held every Saturday.
A great little spot for browsing antiques, collectibles and vintage pieces in Bath. It's small so you can see it fairly quickly.
Bath Vintage and Antiques Market
Held at Green Park Station on the fourth Sunday of every month.
If you’re visiting Bath and love antiques or vintage shopping, this is well worth timing your trip around. A covered market so great on rainy days.
BEST SPAS IN AND AROUND BATH
The Royal Crescent Hotel
Classic Bath luxury. The afternoon tea in the garden is delicious.
Cross Bath
A private open-air thermal bath. I hired this for my hen party and it was so much fun.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I hope this Bath guide is useful if you’re planning a visit.
And if you’re in Bath and love vintage art, you’re always welcome to visit the Hue studio. We offer studio visits by appointment.
I’d love to welcome you.
BATH FAQ
Is Bath worth visiting?
Yes — Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, known for Roman history, Georgian architecture, excellent shopping and great food.
Is Bath walkable?
Very. One of the best things about Bath is that most major attractions, shops and restaurants are within walking distance.
What is Bath famous for?
Bath is famous for the Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, Jane Austen, Bridgerton filming locations and thermal spa culture.
Where can I shop for antiques in Bath?
Bartlett Street Antique Centre, Walcot Antique Market and Bath Vintage & Antiques Market are great places to start.
