title: "24 Hours in Bath: Top Things to Do, See & Eat in This Historic City

Welcome to the 24 Hours In series, where I explore cities around the world and give you the best itinerary for a quick yet enriching visit. Whether you're planning a whirlwind trip or just want to explore a new destination in a day, this guide will highlight one paid activity, one free activity, and some of the best spots to eat and stay.

This time, we’re heading to Bath, one of the most historic and picturesque cities in the UK. Famous for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture, Bath offers a blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure. So, let's dive right into how you can make the most of 24 hours in this stunning city.

First Impressions of Bath

As we arrived in Bath, we were greeted by its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Bath, the largest city in Somerset, England, was named after the Roman-built baths that have been preserved here since the 1st century AD. In 1987, Bath was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s not hard to see why.

With so much to see and do, from canal boat tours to Royal Crescent walks, and exploring the Thermae Bath Spa, it can be hard to decide where to begin. But don't worry—we’ve got you covered!

First Stop: Lunch in Bath

Upon arriving, we were absolutely starving. We made our way to one of the local eateries, and I have to say, Bath does not disappoint when it comes to food. Whether you're craving a quick bite or something more gourmet, the city has something for everyone.

We stopped for lunch at a cozy little café that served delicious local dishes. I had the best sausage and mash, and honestly, it was the perfect meal to kick off our day of exploration. Bath is known for its farm-to-table philosophy, with many restaurants sourcing ingredients from nearby farms.

Accommodation in Bath

After lunch, we headed to our hotel, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of magical. The whole place looked like it was straight out of Bridgerton—elegant, classy, and full of Georgian charm. The Royal Crescent Hotel is a standout option if you're looking for a luxurious stay. The hotel is ideally located, right in the heart of the city, and within walking distance of most major attractions.

The rooms were a dream. A cozy bed, a free mini-bar (complete with fizzy drinks!), and even complimentary access to the hotel's spa facilities. The best part? The spa is located in the basement and offers access to natural hot springs—a true highlight of Bath.

Paid Activity: Exploring the Roman Baths

No trip to Bath is complete without a visit to the Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman sites in the world. Entry is a paid activity, but it's well worth it. As you walk through the site, you'll get a glimpse of how the Romans lived, bathed, and socialized nearly 2,000 years ago.

The baths were originally constructed around 70 AD and have since been incredibly well-preserved. From the ancient changing rooms to the actual bathhouse itself, everything feels like a step back in time. You can even taste the spa water (though fair warning, it doesn’t taste great!).

The Roman Baths also offer an audio guide that provides fascinating details about each area, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Free Activity: Strolling Through Victoria Art Gallery

After the Roman Baths, we opted for a slower-paced activity and visited the Victoria Art Gallery. This free museum is home to a wonderful collection of fine art, spanning from the 17th century to contemporary works.

Even if you’re not an art lover, the gallery is worth a visit. The building itself is beautiful, and it provides a quiet, reflective space in the middle of a bustling city. Plus, it’s conveniently located near other attractions like the Pulteney Bridge.

While wandering around Bath, you can also appreciate its incredible architecture for free. The city is filled with beautiful streets, hidden alleyways, and historic landmarks. Just walking through the Royal Crescent or down Great Pulteney Street feels like stepping into a movie.

Bath’s Iconic Pulteney Bridge

Speaking of Pulteney Bridge, this architectural gem is one of only four bridges in the world to have shops built into it. Walking across it offers picturesque views of the River Avon, and you can stop at one of the many quaint cafés to enjoy a coffee with a view.

This bridge is steeped in history and adds to the overall romantic ambiance of the city. It’s perfect for photos, and we spent some time here simply soaking in the scenery.

A Walk to the Royal Crescent

Next up, we walked towards the Royal Crescent, one of Bath’s most iconic landmarks. This sweeping row of 30 terraced houses forms a perfect arc and is considered one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in the UK.

We couldn’t resist stopping at No. 1 Royal Crescent, a museum that gives you a look inside a Georgian-era home. The rooms have been perfectly restored to reflect life during that time, and each space tells a story of how people lived, worked, and socialized in the 18th century.

Afternoon Delight: A Visit to Sally Lunn’s

Of course, no visit to Bath would be complete without stopping at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House, home to the famous Sally Lunn bun. This spot claims to be the oldest house in Bath, dating back to 1482. The bun is somewhat of a local legend—it’s a light, airy bread roll served with cinnamon butter.

While Sally Lunn’s tends to get busy, we found that going straight to the bakery section (instead of dining in) was the fastest way to snag one of these delicious treats.

Dinner at Champor Champor

For dinner, we chose Champor Champor, an upscale restaurant known for its excellent service and mouth-watering food. I was particularly impressed by the seafood, including some of the best prawn balls I’ve ever had.

After dinner, we enjoyed a leisurely evening walk around the city, taking in the beautiful lights reflecting off the water. There’s something magical about Bath at night—it feels almost otherworldly with its lamplight streets and centuries-old buildings.

Morning Spa Experience

The next morning, we couldn’t resist one last trip to the spa before checking out. Bath is famous for its natural hot springs, and our hotel spa didn’t disappoint. We enjoyed the mineral-rich waters, steam rooms, and even a Georgian-style hot chocolate. The Thermae Bath Spa is also a must if you're visiting the city, offering rooftop pools with panoramic views of Bath.

Farewell to Bath

Before leaving Bath, we grabbed a quick breakfast at Wild Café, a local spot that serves seasonal, locally sourced dishes. I highly recommend the pancakes—they were fluffy and delicious! After breakfast, we took one last stroll around the Parade Gardens and stopped at a couple of local shops to pick up some souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and abundance of activities, Bath is the perfect city for a 24-hour getaway. Even though we packed a lot into one day, I still felt like there was so much more to explore. From the Roman Baths to the Royal Crescent, every corner of Bath is steeped in history and charm.

So, if you're short on time but want a full, immersive experience, Bath should be high on your travel list. Whether you're into history, art, or just want to relax in natural hot springs, this city has something for everyone.

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