Bath, a picturesque city in southwestern UK, is brimming with fun activities and historical allure, making it perfect for a romantic getaway. My husband, Rob, and I spent two months pet-sitting in this UNESCO World Heritage Site and loved every moment. Home to two universities and a vibrant tourism scene, there’s always something to do, including a variety of romantic activities for couples.
Bath’s history dates back to Roman times, known for its natural hot springs around which spas and temples were built. Today, it’s like a smaller version of Europe’s historical cities, enriched with Victorian and Georgian architecture on nearly every street. We hadn’t been back to the UK for a couple of years, and our time in Bath felt like a perfect blend of British life and a European city vacation.
Here are 15 romantic activities to consider during your visit to Bath:
1. River Cruise with Prosecco: Take a relaxing one-hour cruise on the Avon River, enjoying beautiful sights with a glass of Prosecco. It’s a fantastic way to see the city from a unique perspective.
2. Hike the Bath Skyline Trail: This 7.5-mile trail offers breathtaking views of Bath. For the best experience, hike Widcombe Hill in the early evening to catch a sunset and see hot air balloons.
3. Explore the City’s Historic Streets: Wander around Bath’s Georgian and Victorian architecture, either on your own or with a certified Blue Badge guided tour, hitting all the key spots like Pulteney Bridge and the Royal Crescent.
4. Visit the Roman Baths: Don’t miss the ancient Roman Baths. Opt for a 1.5-hour guided tour with skip-the-line entry to dive into history comfortably.
5. Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein: This immersive museum explores the life of the famous novelist. Walk through the mysterious horror basement together for a thrilling experience.
6. Dine at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant: Enjoy a romantic meal in this stunning, flower-filled space. Their famous hanging kebabs and unique cocktails make it a must-visit.
7. Visit the Jane Austen Centre: Learn about Austen’s life and the historical context of Bath during the Regency era. The center features costumed guides and period-recipe food.
8. Catch a Show at The Forum: As Bath’s oldest theater, The Forum hosts a variety of live entertainment. Pair it with drinks at nearby pubs like the Lamb & Lion for a full evening out.
9. Join a Ghost Walk: Discover the spooky side of Bath with tales of poltergeists and witches as you wander the beautifully lit buildings at night.
10. Relax at Thermae Bath Spa: Enjoy the rooftop pool’s mineral-rich waters and the stunning views of Bath. Packages for daytime and romantic twilight sessions are available.
11. Experience a Sound Bath at The Soul Spa: Lay back and relax to the soothing sounds of crystal bowls, melting away stress with your loved one during a guided meditation session.
12. Visit The Little Theatre: This charming 1930s cinema offers a cozy movie experience with a mix of new blockbusters and retro films.
13. Enjoy Cocktails at Tapas Revolution and Las Iguanas: Both spots offer great deals on drinks with a fun, vibrant atmosphere perfect for a romantic evening out.
14. Explore Bradford-on-Avon: This charming town just 8 miles from Bath offers quaint shops, cafes, and historic buildings suitable for a lovely afternoon trip.
15. Bridgerton Filming Locations Tour: Take a guided walking tour to see where Bridgerton was filmed and learn more about Bath’s role in the series.
Short Itineraries for Bath:
For a one-day visit: Start with the Roman Baths, followed by Bath Abbey and a walk through Georgian streets. Immerse in culture at Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein or the Jane Austen Centre, then relax at Thermae Bath Spa. Dinner at The Botanist is a wonderful way to end the day.
For a weekend: Include all the above, and add a river cruise, a ghost walk, and brunch at one of the charming cafes. Explore the Bath Skyline Trail for amazing views and visit Bradford-on-Avon if time allows.
For a week: Cover all major attractions and experiences, delve into Bath’s pub scene, take scenic hikes, and enjoy multiple spa sessions. Don’t forget to catch a show at The Forum or a movie at The Little Theatre.
When staying in Bath, consider accommodations in the city center for convenience or the quieter suburbs like Widcombe and Combe Down for a more relaxed vibe.
Bath offers a unique blend of history, culture, and romance, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway. Whether it’s soaking in historical sites, enjoying romantic dining, or relaxing in a thermal spa, Bath has something magical for every couple.
