Having lately spent the summer season pet-sitting on this historic metropolis, having fun with the vary of hikes and walks that have been accessible within the space, I’ve put collectively a listing of the 15 greatest walks in Bathtub, UK.
Bathtub sits in an attractive a part of England and attracts numerous guests yearly. Guests come to Bathtub for its historical past and tradition – the town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, in any case!
Others come for the superb cafe, bar, and restaurant scene, and lots of crowds flock to the town as a result of Bathtub provides the right mix of all of these items. Walks and hikes are definitely on the record of high issues to do in Bathtub.
Bathtub is positioned within the south-west of England within the county of Somerset. The town, which is residence to 2 universities, additionally occurs to be nestled amongst some incredible countryside. Rolling hills, quaint villages, and the Avon River/Canal are inside straightforward attain by way of just a few leisurely Bathtub walks.
Greatest Hikes and Walks in Bathtub
I’ve loved climbing and strolling all around the world. From the mountains of Southern California to the vineyards of Florence and Sienna; numerous my journeys are based mostly round exploring locations on foot. I really like the completely different perspective of a city or metropolis you’ll be able to achieve by taking a stroll (or one thing extra strenuous), plus it’s nice train.
I’m additionally keen on a strolling tour and wandering amongst the structure of a metropolis admiring its magnificence at a delicate tempo. So, on this record, you’ll discover a good combination of hikes that pose a problem in addition to routes for many who are merely searching for some relaxed strolling in Bathtub.
1. Bathtub Deep Lock – Bathampton
Let’s start with what I contemplate to be top-of-the-line walks in Bathtub. Utilizing Bathtub Deep Lock as a place to begin, we’re going to move alongside the attractive Avon Canal all the best way to the neighboring village of Bathampton.
This route sticks to the Canal the whole method however does at instances require you to cross to the opposite aspect as one pathway involves an finish. I beloved admiring the various fairly narrowboats that moor up alongside the banks of the Canal, and watching because the boaters function the locks. Slightly them than me!
You’ll encounter ornate bridges, a historic pumphouse, a floating B&B, and hopefully loads of wildlife too. Proceed strolling east from Bathtub till you come to the George Inn – a beautiful conventional English nation pub with 2 huge beer gardens and a courtyard simply steps from the Canal. It’s the right place to refuel for the journey again to Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bathtub Deep Lock – End – The George Inn at Bathampton
Size: 4.6 Miles (7.4km)
Period: 2 Hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Principally flat
2. Bathtub Skyline Stroll
For these searching for good climbing in Bathtub, look no additional than the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. This encompasses a loop of the outer hills of the town and takes in some spectacular views and superb English countryside alongside the best way.
Start at Bathtub Spa Prepare Station, and stroll east out of the town you start a steep climb to succeed in the loop. I’d advise you to comply with the route clockwise, as throughout my earlier hike right here the signage had been eliminated within the anticlockwise course. This led to some mishaps and turnbacks because the path may be deceptive at instances.
Remember to put on sturdy climbing boots as some elements of the route can change into fairly muddy. If there’s been extended, heavy rain, contemplate saving this hike for one more day. Typically, the route is well-maintained and simple to comply with and it’s definitely worth the effort of the climb for the views. The Skyline Stroll is one in all my favourite climbing trails in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Bathtub Spa Station, Bathtub BA1 1SU, United Kingdom
Size: 7.5 miles (12.07km)
Period: 3-4 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 1,100 ft
3. Bathtub Spa – Sham Fortress
Top-of-the-line easy hill walks close to Bathtub is the beautiful simple route as much as Sham Fortress. I used to be out for a morning stroll and got here throughout what I believed have been some long-lost ruins, however it turned out to be Sham Fortress. It’s what is called a folly, (primarily a bit of structure constructed purely for adornment), and isn’t in reality a fortress in any respect.
The stroll to Sham Fortress was very good, nonetheless, and also you’ll be handled to some incredible views of the town when you’re there. Starting once more from Bathtub Spa Station, stroll east out of the town alongside the canal till you attain Bathwick Hill. Climb the hill, turning left onto Cleveland Stroll. Alongside this street, you’ll meet footpaths that head all the best way as much as Sham Fortress.
You may be a part of the Bathtub Skyline Stroll too and prolong this hike exponentially. Or just return alongside an analogous route again to Bathtub Metropolis Heart. That is greatest to finish on an attractive clear day so you’ll be able to benefit from the beautiful views.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Prepare Station – End – Sham Fortress
Size: 2.8 miles (4.51km)
Period: 1.5 – 2 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: 246 ft
4. Bathtub Spa – Bathtub Abbey – The Royal Crescent
I had fairly just a few members of the family and pals go to me throughout my keep in Bathtub and I obtained fairly good at giving ‘the tour’ of the favored sights of the town. I’m completely happy to share with you this free strolling tour in Bathtub that takes in some actual architectural wonders.
Utilizing Bathtub Spa station as your start line, head north into the town heart, following the primary excessive road. That is normally a busy thoroughfare and inside a couple of minutes you’ll come throughout the magnificent Bathtub Abbey and Roman Baths in your proper. Remember to spend loads of time having fun with this iconic a part of Bathtub’s historical past.
If you’re prepared proceed north, flip left whenever you attain George Road, after which instantly proper. This can then lead you on to the Circus – a surprising assortment of Georgian homes in-built a spherical. Simply steps from right here is one in all Bathtub’s most well-known landmarks; the equally beautiful Royal Crescent.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Prepare Station – End – The Royal Crescent
Size 2.4 miles (3.86km)
Period: 1 hour – 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Principally flat
5. Bathtub – Bradford-on-Avon
In the event you’re feeling energetic, contemplate taking over the Bathtub to Bradford-on-Avon stroll. It takes in a few of the greatest locations to hike within the space. You’ll move by fabulous English countryside, the Avon Canal, the Tucking Mill reservoir, and The Two Tunnels Greenway (one of many tunnels is over a mile lengthy!).
That is usually thought-about a difficult route and shouldn’t be undertaken with out prior planning and preparation. The reward on the finish is the great city of Bradford-on-Avon with all of its quintessential English historic appeal and its many quaint cafes, outlets, and pubs.
It’s an extended, powerful stroll and I wouldn’t advise trying to stroll there and again in at some point. Common buses and trains provide the choice to make it a one-way hike. The pub by the Bradford-on-Avon prepare station – The Three Horseshoes, is one in all my favorites within the city.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Bathtub Spa Station, Bathtub BA1 1SU, United Kingdom
Size 12 miles (19.2km)
Period: 5 hours
Sort of Path: Level to Level
Elevation Acquire: 1600 ft
6. Widcombe Hill
One in all my common Bathtub treks was to climb Widcombe Hill. I stayed within the neighboring suburb of Widcombe for the whole lot of my keep in Bathtub and loved the train of climbing up the hill just a few instances per week. The views of the town as you attain the highest are breathtaking.
The hill itself is fairly steep at instances, and offers you an excellent leg and butt burn! It appears to go on for some time too however it’s not too lengthy till you attain the Widcombe Hill Viewpoint. From Bathtub, it is a pretty brief, however pretty energetic, stroll with an amazing view to complete (I’ll be increasing on this stroll extra within the subsequent hike).
Remember to cease on the Ring O Bells in Widcombe for a rewarding post-hike pint. As featured within the 15 Greatest Pubs in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Station – End – Widcombe Hill View Level
Size 1.4 miles (2.25km)
Period: 40 minutes – 1 hour
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: 492 ft
7. Monkton Combe
Top-of-the-line climbing trails close to Bathtub is a continuation of the earlier hike as much as and past the Widcombe Hill Viewpoint. Proceed somewhat additional and also you’ll attain the tiny village of Monkton Combe, the place you’ll be able to relaxation your legs and luxuriate in a rewarding beer on the Wheelwrights Arms.
As you attain the apex of Widcombe Hill, a public footpath on the correct hyperlinks you to a stretch of the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. This cuts throughout stunning inexperienced fields and tree-lined walkways. On weekends you’ll be capable of seize a espresso en route from the Mole Hill Espresso – a horsebox turned cafe that was featured within the 15 Greatest Cafes and Espresso Outlets in Bathtub 2023.
If you attain Combe Down, cross the primary road and take Shaft Highway. This small road results in a set of descending stairs that land you in Monkton Combe. The views from the stone steps are beautiful, however you should definitely gas up earlier than trying the return journey, they’re fairly steep! The Wheelwrights Arms is then only a brief stroll to your left.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Prepare Station – End – Wheelwrights Arms Nation Inn & Pub
Size: 6 miles (9.66km)
Period: 2.5 – 3 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: 550 ft
8. Avon Canal Stroll – West
The attractive Avon River and Canal are an actual focus of Bathtub Metropolis Heart. You’ll come throughout ornate bridges and the flowing water many instances simply strolling across the metropolis. The Kennet and Avon Canal stretches 87 miles from Bristol within the west of England to Studying, west of London.
Public footpaths path the 87-mile journey, which makes a canal stroll an easy-to-follow and pleasant endeavor. Merely decide up the water behind Bathtub Spa Station and head west conserving the river in your left always. This can lead you to a pleasant pub cease – The Locksbrook Inn – in round 45 minutes.
You can even prolong this Bathtub river stroll all the best way to Bristol if you happen to’re so inclined! However I’d recommend simply persevering with for one more 10-Quarter-hour till you attain The Boathouse Pub. It’s one other nice cease by the water for a closing refreshment earlier than heading again to Bathtub alongside the identical route.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Prepare Station – End – The Boathouse Pub
Size 5.2 miles (8.37km)
Period: 2 – 2.5 Hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Principally flat
9. Metropolis Strolling Tour
There are a selection of nice strolling excursions in Bathtub. Educated Blue Badge tour guides will make sure you see the entire essential structure, monuments, and culturally vital elements of the town. You may put your map of Bathtub away and choose to be proven the best way by somebody who is aware of all of it inside out.
My mother and father got here for a go to and took a guided tour (I feel they doubted the standard of my free guided tour…) they usually beloved it! The choice they went for even included entry to the Roman Baths, in order that they obtained to tick off one other main landmark on the identical morning.
Excursions are widespread in Bathtub, particularly throughout weekends and the summer season holidays. I’d advise reserving nicely prematurely. Click on right here to be taught extra about Bathtub strolling excursions and to guide your’s forward of time.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin and end at Bathtub Abbey
Size: 1.5 – 2 miles (3 – 3.5km)
Period: 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Principally flat
10. Bridgerton Tour
For fans of the hit TV collection “Bridgerton,” I’ve obtained excellent news for you. Many scenes from the present have been shot in Bathtub and there’s a strolling tour tailor-made only for followers of the present. Why spend ages trying to determine the enduring filming areas by yourself? As a substitute, be a part of a educated information on a complete journey via key websites.
In the course of the 90-minute tour, you’ll stroll by the outside of Girl Danbury’s residence and go to the Nationwide Belief property the place quite a few ballroom scenes have been captured. Alongside the best way, immerse your self in fascinating behind-the-scenes insights concerning the present, shared by your educated information.
This strolling tour of Bathtub is an effective way to see one other aspect of the town. And if you happen to beloved the present, even higher. Click on right here to guide your Bridgerton strolling tour right this moment.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin and end at York St, Bathtub BA1 1NH, UK
Size: Approx. 2 miles (3.22km)
Period: 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: Principally flat
11. Newton St. Loe Round
A route I sadly didn’t get the possibility to do, however one which was definitely on my radar, was the Newton St Loe Round. I’ve heard it’s top-of-the-line household walks close to Bathtub. The straightforward-to-moderate path is widespread with canine walkers, joggers, and hikers of all ages and talents.
Located only a brief drive from central Bathtub, the route takes in a few lakes, woodland trails, and even a small fortress. The paths are thought-about good and easy-going, however a few of the evaluations lead me to imagine that on moist days they will change into very muddy. So, if you happen to’re planning on taking this one on and don’t fancy the mud, maybe watch for a dry day.
You’ll additionally be capable of take a slight detour and go to the Newton Farm Store and Cafe which is only a few minutes stroll into the village of Newton St Loe firstly (or finish) of your stroll. It’s a cute place for a espresso, a light-weight snack, lunch, or to select up some domestically produced groceries and goodies.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Workshop Lane, Newton St Loe
Size 2.2 miles (3.5km)
Period: 50 minutes – 1 hour
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 200 ft
12. Keltson Round Path
I totally loved the Kelston Round hike, it provides a few of the greatest climbing in Bathtub. The picturesque path winds across the hills that encompass the village of Kelston and the great Bathtub countryside. The beautiful views of the Avon Valley and the meandering River Avon make this one in all my favourite Bathtub climbing routes.
With a distance of round 7 miles, the climb is difficult at instances and would go well with hikers of average expertise ranges. The terrain provides a combination of rolling hills, regular accents, and rewarding viewpoints. Parking is accessible on the Swineford Picnic Web site, the place you’ll additionally discover the trailhead.
However the very welcoming Swan Inn at Swineford served as my start line. I fueled up with a tasty lunch right here earlier than embarking on the journey. This hike is a superb solution to escape the town, breathe within the contemporary countryside air, and immerse your self within the pure magnificence that surrounds Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Park up and start on the Swineford Picnic Web site
Size 7 miles (11.1km)
Period: 3 – 4 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 1,155 ft
13. Bizare Bathtub Comedy Stroll
If, like me, you take pleasure in some unusual tales blended in with some laughs, you’ll get an actual kick from the Bizare Bathtub Comedy Stroll. My husband and I signed up for this guided tour as we needed to listen to a few of the extra quirky tales of the town we have been staying in.
It was much less of a historical past tour and extra of a bit of road theater. Our information was actually comical and primarily used varied areas as backdrops for telling tales. It was a very completely different vibe to the historic guided stroll my mother and father booked and showcased some various elements of the town.
It’s an effective way to get your steps in for the day while strolling round Bathtub, seeing some high sights, and listening to some actually fascinating and humorous tales. I’d extremely advocate it. Click on right here to be taught extra about this Bathtub stroll.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin and end at The Huntsmans Inn, Terrace Stroll Bathtub BA1 1LJ
Size Approx. 2 miles (3.22km)
Period: 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: Principally flat
14. Royal Victoria Park
Right here’s a creation of my very own, and one other free strolling tour of Bathtub. Royal Victoria Park is an attractive landscaped inexperienced space that comes with botanical gardens, a restaurant, and quite a few ponds and monuments. The park loop is a simple stroll and takes in some superb Bathtub surroundings and sights.
Located steps from the Royal Crescent, use the Victoria Park Bandstand as your start line and head in both course across the park. Remember to tick off the Colossal Head of Jupiter, The Nice Dell, and the Temple of Minerva in your method. In the event you’re fortunate, and select to walk round on a pleasant night, it’s possible you’ll even see hot-air balloons launching from the park.
It’s a well-liked strolling space simply exterior of the primary hub and is without doubt one of the greatest locations for canine walks close to Bathtub Heart.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin at end on the Victoria Park Bandstand
Size: 1.3 miles (2.09 km)
Period: 25 – half-hour
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: Principally flat
15. Bathtub Ramblers
In the event you’re searching for strolling teams in Bathtub, the Ramblers could also be simply what you’re after. A very good buddy really useful them to me and though I used to be in the end unable to arrange a hike with them, I used to be very concerned about their membership. In the event you’re on the town for some time, they’re a helpful walker’s useful resource.
The Ramblers promote the enjoyment of strolling within the native countryside with often scheduled group walks and hikes across the stunning Bathtub countryside. Non-members are all the time welcome, and if you happen to attend three walks you’ll be invited to change into a fully-fledged member.
Because of this, and for his or her efforts within the preservation of the native setting, I’ve made them my closing alternative for walks round Bathtub entry. On high of the 14 wonderful walks listed beforehand, the Bathtub Ramblers will open up a plethora of data and insights into much more of the perfect walks in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Data
Web site: ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/ramblers-groups/bath-group
The place to Keep in Bathtub
These are just a few of the perfect neighborhoods and areas in and round Bathtub:
Bathtub Metropolis Heart
Staying within the coronary heart of the town means you’ll have handy proximity to a lot of Bathtub’s sights. An array of resort decisions can be found, catering to a variety of budgets. So, whether or not you’re searching for a cheap weekend keep or a extra luxurious spa break escape, you’ll discover it in Bathtub Metropolis Heart.
Right here’s an amazing resort I discovered, it’s conveniently near the prepare station too.
Widcombe
Widcombe boasts its personal bustling excessive road, full with a captivating assortment of outlets, cafes, and pubs, making it a great start line for a weekend journey in Bathtub. An additional advantage is that numerous vacationers are likely to overlook this quaint Bathtub suburb. It lies simply past the prepare station, a couple of minutes stroll in the other way from the town heart.
Right here, you’ll be able to uncover a collection of pleasant residences, all inside straightforward attain of the town’s heart. Check out this condominium choice – it’s fantastically completed, has non-public parking, and is good for day by day walks into Bathtub.
Coombe Down
Accommodations and residences inside Bathtub’s metropolis heart can include a hefty price ticket, making the thought of in search of lodging within the outskirts a sensible and budget-friendly various. The charming village of Combe Down, positioned simply 3 miles away, is a superb alternative because it supplies handy bus connections to the town heart.
My circle of relatives opted for this association throughout their keep and made an enormous saving. For instance, this vacation residence is a superb choice and incorporates a absolutely geared up kitchen and a backyard space so you’ll be able to benefit from your keep.
Mountaineering in Bathtub: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on climbing round Bathtub, England:
The most well-liked hike in Bathtub is the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. The round strolling path provides beautiful views of the town and its surrounding countryside. It’s a favourite amongst each locals and guests for its mixture of pure magnificence and ranging terrain. It supplies a possibility to flee into the countryside whereas nonetheless having fun with the town’s proximity.
Of the various leisurely and simple walks round Bathtub, a hike alongside the Avon Canal might be the best. The largely flat terrain stays alongside the canal for miles in every course. Nicely-maintained paths and common entry factors imply the route may be as lengthy or brief as you’d like.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll is probably the most stunning path in Bathtub. It provides wonderful panoramic views of the town, permitting you the chance to benefit from the scenic countryside, rolling hills, and plenty of pure wonders.
Trekking Bathtub isn’t inherently harmful, however as with all hike you should definitely take primary precautions. Put on acceptable footwear and clothes, plan forward, and put together for inclement or hostile climate. Pack water and meals if you happen to’re trying a sizeable hike. Know your route and have good steering choices with you reminiscent of maps, a telephone, and many others.
Completely. Strolling in Bathtub UK is an effective way to discover the cultural and historic sights of the town. The largely pedestrianized metropolis heart permits the general public to discover with out concern for automobiles or site visitors. There are additionally many nice hikes and walks simply exterior of the town.
Sure, you definitely can. A few of the greatest treks in Bathtub are positioned alongside the Avon River and Canal. Stretching all the best way from Bristol within the west to Studying 87 miles away, the Avon has big swathes of footpaths that enable for some stunning walks and hikes alongside its banks.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll is without doubt one of the hottest Bathtub trails and is taken into account to be of average problem. In full, at 7.5 miles and 1,100 ft incline, there are some moderately sharp accents and lengthy stretches of strolling. The terrain can generally be somewhat muddy too, however the views are completely definitely worth the effort.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll is 7.5 miles lengthy and achieves an altitude of 1,100 ft – it ought to take skilled hikers round 3 hours to finish in its entirety.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll may be muddy in locations however is probably top-of-the-line summer season walks in Bathtub. Planning to undertake it in hotter months may also give hikers a greater likelihood of a transparent day and even higher views. Predominantly, the route is well-maintained and walkable always of the yr.
In Closing
Bathtub is a superb place to go to if you happen to take pleasure in strolling or climbing. I beloved having so many nice prospects at my disposal throughout my time within the metropolis.
So, if it’s strolling in Bathtub Metropolis Heart, whole day hikes round Bathtub and the encompassing stunning countryside that can problem even probably the most seasoned of hikers, or possibly one thing in-between you’re searching for, you’re positive to seek out it in Bathtub.
Glad trekking!
