What to do and see in Bath, England: The Best City Tours

October 4, 2021 Franklyn Hardiman

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. 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.

2. Afternoon Bath City Tour - Private tour from Bristol with a local guide

Bath Insider Tours
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

The charming UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath is located a short distance from Bristol and is highly recommended as a place to visit. This tour of Bath will give you a great introduction to the city and has the benefits of being a private tour with private transportation to take you to and from Bath. You will have the added benefit of being taken on the tour by a guide who was born and raised in Bath giving you an insider's perspective on the city. • Private walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath • Be shown around Bath by a local guide who was born and grew up in the city • Private round-trip transportation from Bristol to Bath

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

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.

3. Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Tour from Bath

Bath Insider Tours
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5.0 based on 8 reviews

Get a great introduction to Bath on this private walking tour with a local guide who was born and grew up in Bath and then in the afternoon visit a small falconry in a charming village on the outskirts of the city where you will have the unique opportunity to fly a hawk in the surrounding countryside.

Inclusions: Private tour with local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle, Private walking tour, Private hawk flying experience

Exclusions: Lunch, 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 and Bath City Tour - Private tour from Bath

Bath Insider Tours
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Private tour with private transportation exploring one of Britain's most famous monuments - Stonehenge and the beautiful city of Bath. • Explore the famous site of Stonehenge with your private guide • Your guide will share interesting stories on Stonehenge, how it was built and the latest archaeological discoveries • Your private walking tour of Bath will give you a great introduction to the city • You will be shown around Bath by a guide who was born and grew up in Bath • Throughout the day enjoy the benefits of a local private guide and private transportation • All admissions included This tour picks-up and drops-off at locations In Bath – ideal for visitors staying in Bath or visiting Bath for the day.

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

Exclusions: Lunch and refreshments are not included.

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 80 minute Bath Walking Tour and Avon River Cruise

Broad Quay, Bath BA2, UK River Adventures
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4.6 based on 56 reviews

Get a unique perspective of this World Heritage city from the river and on foot. This 80-minute small-group tour combines a boat trip with a walking tour of central Bath and will give you an overview of the city's rich history and attractions without the boring bits. The savvy guides will not leave you in the past, with an insiders view on what is hot in Bath today, so you can make the most of your visit. Ideal for visitors who want to maximise their time in Bath and families with Children.

Inclusions: Live commentary onboard, Sightseeing river cruise

Exclusions: Drinks, available to purchase on the river trip, Entrance fees. Given the short nature of this tour there will not be any internal visits. These can be explored later in your own time., Hotel pickup and drop-off, Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), There are no toilets on the boat trip.

Reviewed By rachelhW9102RL

We had a fantastic trip & our two small children absolutely loved their first experience on the river. The staff were friendly, full of interesting facts & extremely welcoming. The boat felt safe, comfortable & clean. We can’t wait to go back again, thank you so much!

6. Roman Baths and Bath City Walking Tour

Bath Abbey, Bath BA1 1LT, UK Footprints Tours Bath
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4.5 based on 46 reviews

An enjoyable 2-hour tour that takes in the best of Bath's ancient Roman heritage, as well as its splendid Georgian architecture and its vibrant modern culture. Your knowledgeable local guides will show you the very best of Bath both past and present, and will give you the inside story on this fascinating city. They will even lead the group inside the Roman Baths to explore the artifacts left in Bath by Britain's Roman conquerors almost 2,000 years ago.

Inclusions: Professional guide

Exclusions: Gratuities, Bath entrance if option not selected, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By 894rays

Sarah Aldridge gave out tour around the Historic Bath myself and Lorraine would like to say a personal Thank you for being enthusiastic articulate, and just having amazing knowledge about not just the buildings but the people that lived and breathed within the walls of Bath itself and those that got thrown over it , if you have never done a walking tour I would highly recommend it within the price we got the entry to the baths also , Again Thank you we are Still talking about it a few days later !!!!

7. Welcome to Bath Short Walking Tour

Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA, UK River Adventures
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4.5 based on 20 reviews

This is a welcome tour designed to give you an overview of Bath's rich history, orientate you around this World Heritage City, whilst offering some recommendations to get you started and make the most of your visit. A short tour, just 50 minutes, ideal for families, those who are short on time and first time visitors. The savvy guides will not leave you in the past, offering an insiders view on what is hot in Bath today.

Inclusions: Tour Guide

Exclusions: Entrance fees, given the short nature of this tour there will not been any internal visits. These can be explored later in your own time.

Reviewed By rachelhW9102RL

We had a fantastic trip & our two small children absolutely loved their first experience on the river. The staff were friendly, full of interesting facts & extremely welcoming. The boat felt safe, comfortable & clean. We can’t wait to go back again, thank you so much!

8. City Sightseeing Bath Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing Bath
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4.2 based on 201 reviews

Explore the beautifully historic Bath on a 24 hour unlimited hop-on hop-off bus tour. With access to 37 stops across 2 routes, you'll discover all aspects of Bath, with the City Route focusing on the history and architecture of the town centre, and the Skyline Route traversing the natural beauty in the surrounding hills. On your hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour, you'll see the key sights at your own pace, including the Roman Baths, the High Street, The Royal Crescent, Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Prior Park and much more! Learn all about the incredible Roman influence on this ancient city from the double decker bus's audio tour commentary, provided in 10 languages. And experience 360 degree views of the green scenery from the open-top deck.

Inclusions: 24 hour hop-on hop-off bus pass, On-board audio commentary provided in 10 languages + free headphones, Booklet with discount coupons , Vouchers valid for 12 months

Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop off, Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By nicolah778

Well worth a visit. Pre book your tickets for the Roman Baths is a must. Then use the Red bus tours to see everything else a delightful day

9. Bath Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

Prince Of Wales Monument, 273 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HH, UK Prince Of Wales Monument, 273 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HH, UK
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2.0 based on 1 reviews

Get to know the city through the eyes of a passionate local. With no set itinerary, you can customize the tour or leave it up to the local for an insightful introduction to the city. Make travel about the people you meet not just the places you see.

Inclusions: Local guide "Lokafyer", Customized private walking tour

Exclusions: Personal expenses, Tips and gratuities (optional), Optional activity costs, Food and drinks, Transportation to/from attractions (It’s a walking tour, car transportation isn’t included)

10. Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Trip from Bristol

Bath Insider Tours

Get a great introduction to the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath on this private tour with a local guide who was born and grew up in Bath. In the afternoon visit a small falconry to have the unique experience of flying a hawk in the countryside. Bath is located 14 miles from Bristol, the tour includes private transportation to and from Bristol.

Inclusions: Private tour with local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle, Private walking tour, Private hawk flying experience

Exclusions: Lunch, 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.

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