The 10 Best Historical & Heritage Tours in Bath, England

October 2, 2021 Veronika Gaddis

Known for its restorative wonders, Bath was once the home of Jane Austen. Sure, you could attempt to conjure up this elegant city by reading Pride and Prejudice in your tub, but as Bath has a lot more history than your bathroom (we assume, anyway) you'd be missing out. A stroll through Bath is like visiting an open-air museum, with roughly 5,000 buildings in the city drawing notice for their architectural merit. After your stroll, soak in the natural hot waters of the Thermae Bath Spa, once a favorite of the Celts and Romans.
Restaurants in Bath

1. BOMBING OF BATH - walking tour of the BAEDEKER RAIDS (1942)

Premier Inn Bath City Centre hotel, 4 James St W, Bath BA1 2BX, UK PAUL ELLIOTT
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

This tour is unusual describing specific events that took place in April 1942. The attack of Bath is not generally publicized and many current residents are substantially uninformed. If you are interested in a specific part of Bath's past then this tour uncovers many unknown locations and facts about Bath in World War 2, The MoD & RAF, then this will fascinate you. Some photos where available will bring the devastation to life. How & why this happened of these short 3 days, changed Bath forever.

Inclusions: All Fees and Taxes

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Reviewed By pouski

I spent a short time in Bath but was amazed by the wonderful buildings with that beautiful stone from the Bath area. Careful, however of the sea gulls which can be somewhat troublesome !

2. Bath and Stonehenge Private & Bespoke Day Trip From London

Richard's Tours
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5.0 based on 10 reviews

Two icons of Britain, and a must do on most people's itinerary. Treat yourself to your own private driver and guide for the day who will meet you direct at your Hotel and make sure you have ample time to fully enjoy your day. First stop Stonehenge the beautiful and mystical stone circle on Salisbury plain dating back to 3000 BC. Visit this magnificent world heritage site at your leisure with your own personal guide. Then it will be time to head to the beautiful city of Bath to stroll round the historic centre and see why this town has been special to generations of visitors going back to Roman times. You will have plenty of time to visit the famous sites of Bath at your own pace. • Discover the dramatic beauty of Stonehenge at your leisure • Visit the world famous Roman Baths and Britain's only Hot Springs • Take your time to stroll through the streets of Bath with your own guide • Your Own Schedule with Private Driver and Guide

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Driver/guide, Private tour, Transport by private vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks

Reviewed By 512divines

I'm really glad I booked with Richard's Tours and certainly wasn't dissapointed! I had other things on in the morning so with short notice, Richard responded to agree a meet in the afternoon and he was bang on time. He was presentable, amiable and down to earth. It was immediately obvious that he was very keen to share his well researched knowledge, which was reassuring given that having paid for a private tour, I was getting a lot more than an off the shelf group tour (from what others have described to me). Born a Londoner and more than familiar with the area, he regularly checked that the tour pace was comfortable to ensure I was happy with the 3 hour route. He was very helpful with fotos and encouraged questions and discussions on this still mysterious subject, which is pretty clear that he's personally interested in, so much so that in the short time, not only did I acquire a lot of knowledge, but he's actually perked my own interest in Jack The Ripper! Although some parts of the area are still dodgy, I felt completely at ease being with Richard, who increasingly came across as more of a friendly local rather than a tour guide, and despite the atrocious weather, the 3 hours passed well beyond my expectations given his abilities - so excellent value for money. In conclusion, I should add that I'm also from London, but Richard's Tours aren't just for tourists, so if you're short on time and want a knowledgeable host, then Richard Chambers is your man. I, for one, will be checking out his other tours!

3. Bath City Tour - 3 Hour Private Tour with a Local Guide

Bath Insider Tours
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5.0 based on 43 reviews

Get a great introduction to Bath on this 3 hour private walking tour of the city. You will see Bath's famous landmarks and learn about the city's past and present with a local guide who was born and grew up in the city. The tour includes a drive to a fantastic viewpoint over the city. There is an option to have either a morning or afternoon tour.

Inclusions: Private tour with local guide, Hotel pickup, Transport by private vehicle (to the viewpoint)

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By Shirley S

Without doubt one of the most informative tours I’ve had by a tour guide. To give context to the reason we went to Bath was my Mum was one of 5 children who lived in Bath in WW2. She was 6 years of age at the time and all her sisters and brother shared their experience of the Bath Blitz to our family and her grandchildren. As i was visiting my sister who lives down near Bath, and our cousin. This was a huge surprise for my Mam, as My sister had contacted Daniel to tell him of where she used to live. Daniel went to the trouble of taking us to where she lived, and had even contacted a neighbour who lived near my Mum and the gentleman kindly shared some pictures of the property before it was demolished due to the bombings. From beginning to end, the vast knowledge and information he shared with us was not a tour, it was an experience. His friendly approach and engaging manner made this a day for my Mum and myself and Cousin a day to remember. Nothing was too much trouble and his wit and vocal tone were perfect, you will never tire of listening to him and the history of this beautiful city. I was not sure what to expect from the day and as an avid shopper, even I was NOT interested in shopping with exception of The Fudge Kitchen as I had mentioned my colleagues had “hinted” that they love it. Daniel took us, to the shop and we were not disappointed! I am sure my colleagues will be disappointed as the fudge certainly won’t be travelling back to Durham as I will have eaten it before I go back. I’ve learned so much today and to see my Mums face and engagement with Daniel will be a day none of us will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a very special afternoon.

4. Stonehenge Private Tour - Half-Day Tour from Bath

Bath Insider Tours
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5.0 based on 20 reviews

Enjoy a private guided tour around one of Britain's most famous icons, Stonehenge. Fast-track pre-booked admission is included. This half-day tour gives you plenty of time to explore the ancient prehistoric monument and includes private transportation to and from Bath. You can choose either a morning or afternoon tour.

Inclusions: Private tour with local guide, Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Stonehenge entrance tickets

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By Shirley S

Without doubt one of the most informative tours I’ve had by a tour guide. To give context to the reason we went to Bath was my Mum was one of 5 children who lived in Bath in WW2. She was 6 years of age at the time and all her sisters and brother shared their experience of the Bath Blitz to our family and her grandchildren. As i was visiting my sister who lives down near Bath, and our cousin. This was a huge surprise for my Mam, as My sister had contacted Daniel to tell him of where she used to live. Daniel went to the trouble of taking us to where she lived, and had even contacted a neighbour who lived near my Mum and the gentleman kindly shared some pictures of the property before it was demolished due to the bombings. From beginning to end, the vast knowledge and information he shared with us was not a tour, it was an experience. His friendly approach and engaging manner made this a day for my Mum and myself and Cousin a day to remember. Nothing was too much trouble and his wit and vocal tone were perfect, you will never tire of listening to him and the history of this beautiful city. I was not sure what to expect from the day and as an avid shopper, even I was NOT interested in shopping with exception of The Fudge Kitchen as I had mentioned my colleagues had “hinted” that they love it. Daniel took us, to the shop and we were not disappointed! I am sure my colleagues will be disappointed as the fudge certainly won’t be travelling back to Durham as I will have eaten it before I go back. I’ve learned so much today and to see my Mums face and engagement with Daniel will be a day none of us will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a very special afternoon.

5. Small-Group 2-Hour Bridgerton Sights and Music Tour in Bath

The Ale House, 1 York St, Bath BA1 1NG, UK Bath Adventures
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

Promenade through the idyllic streets of Bath and see for yourself the places where all of your favourite scandals unfolded; including the Featherington family house, the Modiste Dress Shop, and Lady Danbury's mansion. Equipped with our over ear headphones, our local guide – and Bridgerton fan – will share with you the filming locations, behind-the-scenes gossip, and music from the show.

Inclusions: High quality overhead headphones - to be returned - live bluetooth audio to the guide

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6. BATH: 2-Hour Bath Walking Tour of Bridgerton Filming Locations

Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1, UK Bath Walking Tours
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

If you enjoyed Bridgerton you'll love this tour, visiting the main filming locations in Bath of the hugely popular Netflix series. Relive the scenes and get a further insight into the society and life of the aristocracy in the early 1800s. Bridgerton has been a worldwide hit and Bath was the major location for the filming of many of Bridgerton's outdoor scenes, and a few of the interiors too. Chosen by Netflix for it's stunning architecture, ambiences and period correct features. 70 scenes, in over 14 locations, were shot in Bath. Stops will include the exteriors of the homes of the overly ambitious Featheringtons and the cunning but likeable Lady Danbury, the Modiste dress makers. the quaint Gunter's Tea Shop, in reality a hairdressers and of course the world famous Royal Crescent. You'll find yourself digging deep into your Bridgerton knowledge in an attempt to link the real life locations to the scenes and events of the show. It can be a real tester!

Inclusions: Blue Badge Tourist Guide

Exclusions: No attractions will be entered during the tour., No entry fees included in the price of the tour

Reviewed By AleLon

We had a fantastic experience with Bath Walking Tours. Our guide Andrew was personable, very knowledgeable and entertaining. We thoroughly enjoyed the private tour and all the weird and wonderful facts about history, architecture and local celebrities.

7. BATH: 90-Minute Post Lockdown Special Walking Tour

Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1, UK Bath Walking Tours
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5.0 based on 38 reviews

Following the period of lockdown due to Covid-19 we have take steps to provide socially distance walking tours of Bath in line with the UK government's guidelines. We have also been certified by Visit England. This tour is designed to give the many visitors to Bath a chance to enjoy the city in a safe and well managed environment. The tour will be limited to your group and be conducted by the UK's only qualified tourist guides. They are the internationally respected BLUE BADGE registered / fully insured / Institute of Tourist Guiding qualified guides. They will ensure you take away a complete understanding of Bath, including how it fits into the history and geography of the UK as a whole. It will be informative, interesting and of course entertaining! Group Size: Maximum of 5

Inclusions: Licensed tour guide

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Reviewed By AleLon

We had a fantastic experience with Bath Walking Tours. Our guide Andrew was personable, very knowledgeable and entertaining. We thoroughly enjoyed the private tour and all the weird and wonderful facts about history, architecture and local celebrities.

8. Bad of Bath fun Walking Tour of Bath

Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1, UK The Bad of Bath
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5.0 based on 47 reviews

Explore the other side of Georgian Bath in this fun and humorous walking tour taking in all the famous sites. Discover Bath's corrupt side, a city described by Methodist preacher John Wesley as one of the most sinful and depraved places in the country. You will hear tales of a city full of gamblers, thieves, opportunists, rogues and ladies of the night.

Inclusions: Tour Guide

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Reviewed By coffeejules

We came about the sign for this whilst walking around the town of Bath. There were four of us two adults and two 18 year olds - we all loved it. very interesting and lucky for us there was no one else on the tour - so it was a practically a private tour - will recommend to all friends. Learnt loads and so interesting. A must for all visitors to Bath.

9. BATH: Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tourist Guide (90 Minutes)

Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1, UK Bath Walking Tours
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4.9 based on 314 reviews

This is a fantastic opportunity to be introduced to the World Heritage City of Bath by the UK's only qualified tourist guides. They are the internationally respected Blue Badge registered / fully insured / Institute of Tourist Guiding qualified guides. They will ensure you take away a full understanding of Bath, and show you the must-see highlights. The walking tour will be informative, interesting, entertaining, and historically correct!

Inclusions: Blue Badge Tourist Guide

Exclusions: Gimmicks!

Reviewed By sammW68JA

Great walk. Weather was perfect and the guide Fred even better :) Gave a whole new perspective to the city. Definitely recommend.

10. Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath from London

Kingdom Private Tours
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4.8 based on 75 reviews

Your expert guide will collect you at 830am to 845am for this 10 to 12 hour tour and take you to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and the City of Bath. There can be no better way to explore the Queens favourite home and the UK's most famous stone age monument and walk and explore the beautiful and romantic Roman City of Bath and it's 2000 year old Roman Bath House! We know how to skip the long lines at each venue to ensure you make the best use of the time we have together. By having your own vehicle all day we can also stop whenever you need for breaks or to just grab that stunning countryside photo you spot! You will enjoy free 4G WIFI to use all day inside the vehicle. You will be provided with free water to enjoy inside the vehicle. You will even get to stop at a secret place along the way to ensure you really do get that WOW factor! Your guide will know all the history of each venue and the best places to stop to eat/drink, shop and get that perfect photo and will even take them for you

Inclusions: Bottled water, Driver/guide, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private tour, Transport by private vehicle with working air-conditioning and heating with passenger sliding doors, Vehicle will seat 6 to 8 clients depending on your group size we use Ford, Mercedes, Kia and Hyundai, Fuel surcharge

Exclusions: Tickets £23.50 Windsor £19 Stonehenge £20.70 for Roman Baths less for Family, Kids, Student, Senior., Lunch, Gratuities, We do not use coaches for tours we use 7 to 9 seater minivans

Reviewed By Dori R

What a fabulous day we had with Douglas. He showed us all the sights advertised and then some. We had a great lunch at the Plough Inn and still had time to visit the Roman Villa, Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, Broadway Tower, Burford and the back roads of the Cotswold. Best time ever.

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