Bath Day Trip Guide

Bath is one of the most picturesque cities I’ve ever been to and a perfect day trip from London. While you could easily spend all day simply wandering wistfully through the historic streets, there are plenty of ways to soak in even more of the magic of Bath.

Here are some of my favorite places in the city to add to your day trip itinerary.

Getting to Bath from London

Bath is a quick train journey from London, usually just over an hour. Trains leave throughout the day from Paddington station.

Bath Abbey Tour

If you’ve ever looked a historic building and wished you could explore every little corner and hidden passageway, the rooftop tour of Bath Abbey allows you to do just that. The tour guides give you a fascinating insight into the church’s history all while climbing winding staircases and weaving through stone pathways to reach the rooftop. You get spectacular panoramic views of the city and an up-close-and-personal look at the stunning architecture.

Topping and Company Bookshop

Topping’s has such a special place in my heart after falling in love with their Edinburgh location when I lived in Scotland. Their Bath store is just as magical with endless shelves of books, rolling ladders, and complimentary tea and coffee.

Sally Lunn’s

Beloved by Jane Austen herself, Sally Lunn’s has been serving their famous Bath Bunns since the 1680s. In the oldest house in the city, you can stop for tea and one of these brioche-like buns covered in cinnamon butter. The quaint dining room truly transports you back in time - I’d highly recommend making the first booking in the morning to enjoy the ambiance before hungry tourists fill in the tables throughout the day.

Good Day Cafe

For a slightly more modern bakery, the Good Day Cafe is an amazing spot for decadent treats. They have cookies and cakes in every flavor imaginable to enjoy in their adorable, bright cafe.

Persephone Books

If you’re interested in women’s writing, especially the stories that have been forgotten over time, Persephone Books is a must-visit. Peruse their iconic gray-covered books featuring works by female authors that have been rescued and published.

Royal Crescent

No visit to Bath is complete without seeing the beautiful Georgian architecture of the Royal Crescent. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into a Jane Austen novel, or a scene from Bridgerton.

Another recommendation (that I don’t have a photo of!) is the Boston Tea Party cafes for delicious brunch and lunch. As the name hilariously suggests, the menu is American & British-inspired.

If you’re looking for other day trip guides, check out my Cambridge blog here :)