The ancient city of Bath is a timeless gem that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Nestled in the rolling Somerset countryside, Bath has enchanted visitors for centuries with its Roman origins, stunning Georgian architecture, and rejuvenating thermal waters.
Step back in time to Bridgerton-like scenes as you wander through Bath's charming cobblestone streets, where exquisite honey-coloured buildings evoke the elegance of the Georgian era. Marvel at the iconic Bath Abbey, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and explore the historic Roman Baths, where you can immerse yourself in the ancient world of public bathing and Roman engineering.
Bath's unique blend of heritage, wellness, and cultural vibrancy promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you enchanted and rejuvenated by this corner of the South West. Take a look at our beautiful collection of homes and apartments in Bath that will be perfect to make your base as you explore this eternally charming corner of the world.
Discover the Oliver’s Travels way, where style and character define every handpicked rental in Bath. Our destination experts curate unique homes in beautiful locations that are perfect for families and guaranteed to ‘wow’.
Once you book a holiday, the service doesn't stop there. Our Concierge Service means you'll be in good hands to arrange in-house chefs, fridge stocking, housekeeping, and so much more, to make your stay truly extraordinary.
Bath hosts a vibrant array of annual events and festivals that add to its cultural intrigue and offer unique experiences for visitors and locals alike. Bath International Music Festival celebrates diverse musical genres, this event features world-class performances in classical, jazz, folk, and contemporary music, taking place at various venues across the city.
Literature enthusiasts will delight at the Bath Literature Festival where many gather for engaging talks, book readings, and discussions with renowned authors, making it a haven for book lovers.
There’s even Bath’s own Fringe Festival. This eclectic festival showcases theatre, dance, music, and visual arts, often pushing boundaries and presenting cutting-edge performances. Or, if you’re visiting during the festive season, Bath Christmas Market is unmissable for a little pre-Christmas retail therapy. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with chalet-style stalls offering unique gifts, local crafts, and seasonal sweet treats.
Bath's food and drink scene is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation, offering a culinary journey that caters to diverse palates. The city boasts a vibrant array of eateries, from cosy tearooms and historic pubs to modern bistros and fine dining establishments. Local and seasonal ingredients take centre stage, contributing to the creation of flavorful dishes that reflect both English heritage and global influences.
Indulge in classic British fare like hearty pies, platters of locally sourced cheeses, and traditional afternoon teas served with scones and clotted cream, a staple of the South West of England. Bath's pubs are not only places to savour ales and ciders but also serve as cosy hubs for socialising.
The city's markets, such as the Bath Farmers Market, showcase artisanal products, fresh produce, and gourmet treats. Whether you're seeking a historic ambience or contemporary elegance, Bath's culinary scene promises a delectable adventure for every taste bud.
The Roman Baths and natural thermal spring water.
Discover Bath's timeless treasures by exploring the historic Roman Baths, an ancient thermal spa steeped in history. Immerse yourself in the exquisite Georgian architecture as you stroll along the iconic Pulteney Bridge and marvel at the stunning Bath Abbey.
Unwind at the Thermae Bath Spa, relishing modern relaxation in natural thermal waters. Delve into literary history at the Jane Austen Centre, honouring the renowned novelist's connection to the city. The Fashion Museum offers a sartorial journey through time. Don't miss the panoramic views from Alexandra Park or the enchanting stroll through Prior Park Landscape Garden.
Indulge in a diverse culinary scene, ranging from traditional afternoon tea to innovative dining experiences. With its blend of heritage, culture, and rejuvenation, Bath promises an unforgettable escape into history and modern delights.
Great for kids: Bath City Farm is a fun and educational experience where kids can interact with animals and learn about farming, or just a short drive from Bath, Longleat Safari Park offers an exciting day trip for families.
Explore the city's many museums and galleries, many of which offer free admission.
The enchantment of Bath extends beyond its city limits, unveiling a tapestry of picturesque towns and villages that beckon exploration. The market town of Frome, nestled in the Mendip Hills, offers a bohemian atmosphere, artisanal markets, and a creative spirit, or journey to Wells, ‘England's smallest city’, to marvel at its grand cathedral and medieval streets. Each of these neighbouring gems holds a unique charm, weaving a complementary narrative to Bath's own history and allure, inviting you to embark on a voyage through the heart of the English countryside.
Certainly not hidden for locals, but first-time visitors might miss it: Priory Park Landscape Garden is a picturesque garden tucked away on a hillside overlooking the city. It includes one of only four Palladian bridges in the world that spans across a serene lake, making for a very pretty and scenic spot to while away the afternoon.
Lacock is a quintessential English village frozen in time. Its well-preserved medieval architecture and lack of modern developments make it a popular filming location for period dramas and movies. Lacock Abbey is a former nunnery turned country house, now managed by the National Trust. Its picturesque grounds and cloisters have been featured in several films and TV shows, from Downton Abbey to Harry Potter.
Castle Combe is often referred to as one of England's prettiest villages. It boasts cobblestone streets, thatched cottages, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels like stepping into a storybook. The Castle Inn is a historic pub serving local food and drink, offering a cosy place to rest and enjoy the village ambience.
Bradford-on-Avon is a delightful market town with a rich history dating back to Roman times. Its picturesque setting along the River Avon and charming architecture make it a lovely place to explore. The Saxon Church of St. Laurence is one of the country's oldest churches featuring a Saxon preaching cross and intricate carvings.
With its proximity to the city of Bristol, Bath is easily reached by flights into Bristol airport, which is just 45 minutes away by car or an hour on public transport. Equally, London Heathrow airport is two hours away by car or public transport.
Getting to Bath by car is convenient as it allows you the flexibility to explore the surrounding countryside at your own pace. If you're coming from outside the city, there are several major routes leading to Bath, including the M4 motorway from London and the M5 from Birmingham and the North. Parking in Bath can be a bit challenging, however, especially in the city centre where spaces are limited.
Bath is well connected by public transport, making it an accessible destination without a car. The main train station in Bath is Bath Spa, which is served by frequent trains from major cities like London, Bristol, and Cardiff. The journey from London to Bath by train takes between 1.5 to 2 hours. Additionally, there are regular coach services that operate to and from Bath, connecting it to nearby towns and cities.
Taxis are available in Bath and can be useful for short trips or getting to specific destinations not easily accessible by other means. You can find taxis at designated taxi ranks throughout the city or can book one through various taxi companies.
Bath is a bike-friendly city with several cycling lanes and routes. Renting a bicycle or bringing your own is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings. There are bike-sharing schemes available, and some hotels and hostels might offer bike rentals as well.
Bath is a compact city with many attractions within walking distance of each other. The city's historic centre is pedestrian-friendly, and walking is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the city's beautiful architecture and picturesque streets. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as some of the cobbled streets can be uneven.
