Brian Berkman suggests what to do in Bath if Bridgerton and Jane Austen aren’t on your list.
Fans of Jane Austen and the TV series Bridgerton already have Bath, just three hours by bus from London’s Victoria, in their sights and probably already know about The Gainsborough Spa in Bath’s plans to celebrate Austen’s 250-anniversary in October 2025.
While the bodice-ripping excitement of Bridgeton’s Colin and Penelope’s Bath carriage escapades may still be fresh in the minds of fans, Bath also offers much for those interested in neither Austen or Bridgerton. So follow my gujide on what to do in Bath.
The City of Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site based on its cultural significance for the global community. In 1987, it was UNESCO recognised for its Hot Springs, Roman archaeology, Georgian buildings and natural setting but also again, for a second time, in 2021 as one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe.
It was founded in the first century by the Romans who used the natural hot springs as a thermal spa. While in the Middle Ages, Bath was important for its wool production, it was in the 18th century Georgian period that Bath developed into an elegant spa city much like it is today.
Edgar, the first king of England, was crowned in Bath’s abbey in 973 and a visit to The Bath Abbey is recommended. The abbey floor was repaired in 2023 and historical artefacts, some of which have never been seen by the public, are now on display. These include Medieval carved stone fragments, historic silver, Anglo-Saxon crosses and a telling book of benefactors, the record of donations given after the Reformation are all available to view. If you are there on a Tuesday, Tuesday’s at One organ recital continues until October 29.
There are two important art exhibitions at Holburne House that run until the end of September 2024. Sam Cox, known as Mr Doodle! whose monochromatic spaghetti images have captivated the art world as well as the acclaimed artist, Henry Moore, who has a show of miniature statues all smaller than 30 centimetres. Both are a must-see.
While the algae-green-coloured waters in the Roman Baths are not considered safe to drink, there is a fountain inside this living museum from which to taste the healthful spring.
The archaeological ruins of the original Temple of Sulis Minerva are extremely well preserved and projected images over the ruins gives visitors a clear idea of what life was like during those times. Tours include multi-language audio guides. Allow yourself at least two hours to fully experience this.
The adults-only Thermae Bath Spa is very close by and fed by the original spring. What to do in Bath apart from Jane Austen? Plenty.
Tell me more about what to do in Bath
Please go to Visit Bath for information on the locations featured here in what to do in Bath and more about the city.
Where to eat in Bath
Opened this summer and named in honour of one of Bath’s biggest personalities, Beau Nash, Brasserie Beau is a delicious offering sandwiched between Hotel Indigo Bath and The Elder Restaurant. Owned by restaurateur Mike Robinson but located in and outside Hotel Indigo Bath, Brasserie Beau also has terrace seating.
Where to stay in Bath
Hotel Indigo Bath rooms and suites are themed based on Bath’s attributes: Literary Hideaway, Romance & Mischief, Garden and The Vault subterranean rooms are among them.
Hotel Indigo Bath was a refuge from long days walking and sightseeing. Extremely comfortable and glamorously appointed with roll-top Victorian baths, large showers with impressive high-pressure shower heads and beautifully tiled bathrooms.
