Having lately spent the summer season pet-sitting on this historic metropolis, having fun with the vary of hikes and walks that have been obtainable within the space, I’ve put collectively a listing of the 15 finest walks in Bathtub, UK.
Bathtub sits in a phenomenal a part of England and attracts numerous guests yearly. Guests come to Bathtub for its historical past and tradition – town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, in spite of everything!
Others come for the wonderful cafe, bar, and restaurant scene, and lots of crowds flock to town as a result of Bathtub gives the right mix of all of this stuff. Walks and hikes are actually on the record of prime issues to do in Bathtub.
Bathtub is situated within the south-west of England within the county of Somerset. Town, which is house to two universities, additionally occurs to be nestled amongst some improbable 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 mountaineering and strolling all around the world. From the mountains of Southern California to the vineyards of Florence and Sienna; a number of my journeys are based mostly round exploring locations on foot. I 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 a fan of 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 individuals who are merely in search of some relaxed strolling in Bathtub.
1. Bathtub Deep Lock – Bathampton
Let’s start with what I contemplate to be probably the greatest walks in Bathtub. Utilizing Bathtub Deep Lock as a place to begin, we’re going to move alongside the attractive Avon Canal all the way in which to the neighboring village of Bathampton.
This route sticks to the Canal all the approach however does at occasions require you to cross to the opposite aspect as one pathway involves an finish. I cherished admiring the various fairly narrowboats that moor up alongside the banks of the Canal, and watching because the boaters function the locks. Quite 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 stunning 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 Achieve: Principally flat
2. Bathtub Skyline Stroll
For these in search of good mountaineering in Bathtub, look no additional than the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. This encompasses a loop of the outer hills of town and takes in some spectacular views and wonderful English countryside alongside the way in which.
Start at Bathtub Spa Practice Station, and stroll east out of town you start a steep climb to succeed in the loop. I’d advise you to observe the route clockwise, as throughout my earlier hike right here the signage had been eliminated within the anticlockwise route. This led to a couple mishaps and turnbacks because the path could be deceptive at occasions.
Make sure to put on sturdy mountaineering boots as some elements of the route can change into fairly muddy. If there’s been extended, heavy rain, contemplate saving this hike for an additional day. Typically, the route is well-maintained and simple to observe and it’s definitely worth the effort of the climb for the views. The Skyline Stroll is one among my favourite mountaineering 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 Achieve: 1,100 ft
3. Bathtub Spa – Sham Citadel
Among the finest easy hill walks close to Bathtub is the beautiful easy route as much as Sham Citadel. I used to be out for a morning stroll and got here throughout what I assumed have been some long-lost ruins, but it surely turned out to be Sham Citadel. It’s what is named a folly, (basically a chunk of structure constructed purely for adornment), and isn’t the truth is a fortress in any respect.
The stroll to Sham Citadel was very good, nevertheless, and also you’ll be handled to some improbable views of town when you’re there. Starting once more from Bathtub Spa Station, stroll east out of town alongside the canal till you attain Bathwick Hill. Climb the hill, turning left onto Cleveland Stroll. Alongside this highway, you’ll meet footpaths that head all the way in which as much as Sham Citadel.
You may be part of the Bathtub Skyline Stroll too and lengthen this hike exponentially. Or just return alongside an identical route again to Bathtub Metropolis Middle. That is finest to finish on a phenomenal clear day so you’ll be able to benefit from the pretty views.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Practice Station – End – Sham Citadel
Size: 2.8 miles (4.51km)
Period: 1.5 – 2 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 246 ft
4. Bathtub Spa – Bathtub Abbey – The Royal Crescent
I had fairly just a few members of the family and associates go to me throughout my keep in Bathtub and I received fairly good at giving ‘the tour’ of the favored sights of town. I’m glad 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 town middle, following the important excessive avenue. 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. Make sure to spend loads of time having fun with this iconic a part of Bathtub’s historical past.
Whenever you’re prepared proceed north, flip left while you attain George Avenue, after which instantly proper. This can then lead you on to the Circus – a surprising assortment of Georgian homes inbuilt a spherical. Simply steps from right here is one among Bathtub’s most well-known landmarks; the equally gorgeous Royal Crescent.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Practice Station – End – The Royal Crescent
Size 2.4 miles (3.86km)
Period: 1 hour – 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Principally flat
5. Bathtub – Bradford-on-Avon
In the event you’re feeling energetic, contemplate taking up the Bathtub to Bradford-on-Avon stroll. It takes in among the finest locations to hike within the space. You’ll go 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 of a difficult route and shouldn’t be undertaken with out prior planning and preparation. The reward on the finish is the fantastic city of Bradford-on-Avon with all of its quintessential English historic allure and its many quaint cafes, outlets, and pubs.
It’s a protracted, powerful stroll and I wouldn’t advise making an attempt to stroll there and again in sooner or later. Common buses and trains provide the choice to make it a one-way hike. The pub by the Bradford-on-Avon practice station – The Three Horseshoes, is one among 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 Achieve: 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 thing of my keep in Bathtub and loved the train of mountaineering up the hill just a few occasions every week. The views of town as you attain the highest are breathtaking.
The hill itself is fairly steep at occasions, and will provide you with a great leg and butt burn! It appears to go on for some time too but it surely’s not too lengthy till you attain the Widcombe Hill Viewpoint. From Bathtub, this can be a pretty brief, however pretty energetic, stroll with a fantastic view to complete (I’ll be increasing on this stroll extra within the subsequent hike).
Make sure 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 Achieve: 492 ft
7. Monkton Combe
Among the finest mountaineering trails close to Bathtub is a continuation of the earlier hike as much as and past the Widcombe Hill Viewpoint. Proceed a bit 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 fitting hyperlinks you to a stretch of the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. This cuts throughout lovely 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 Retailers in Bathtub 2023.
Whenever you attain Combe Down, cross the primary avenue and take Shaft Street. This small avenue results in a set of descending stairs that land you in Monkton Combe. The views from the stone steps are gorgeous, however you’ll want to gasoline up earlier than making an attempt 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 Practice Station – End – Wheelwrights Arms Nation Inn & Pub
Size: 6 miles (9.66km)
Period: 2.5 – 3 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 550 ft
8. Avon Canal Stroll – West
The gorgeous Avon River and Canal are an actual focus of Bathtub Metropolis Middle. You’ll come throughout ornate bridges and the flowing water many occasions 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 holding the river in your left always. This can lead you to a pleasant pub cease – The Locksbrook Inn – in round 45 minutes.
You may also lengthen this Bathtub river stroll all the way in which to Bristol for those who’re so inclined! However I’d counsel simply persevering with for an additional 10-Quarter-hour till you attain The Boathouse Pub. It’s one other nice cease by the water for a remaining refreshment earlier than heading again to Bathtub alongside the identical route.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Practice Station – End – The Boathouse Pub
Size 5.2 miles (8.37km)
Period: 2 – 2.5 Hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Principally flat
9. Metropolis Strolling Tour
There are a variety of nice strolling excursions in Bathtub. Educated Blue Badge tour guides will make sure you see the entire vital structure, monuments, and culturally vital elements of town. You may put your map of Bathtub away and decide to be proven the way in which by somebody who is aware of all of it inside out.
My dad and mom got here for a go to and took a guided tour (I believe they doubted the standard of my free guided tour…) they usually cherished it! The choice they went for even included entry to the Roman Baths, so that they received to tick off one other main landmark on the identical morning.
Excursions are well-liked in Bathtub, particularly throughout weekends and the summer season holidays. I’d advise reserving effectively upfront. 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 Achieve: Principally flat
10. Bridgerton Tour
For fanatics of the hit TV sequence “Bridgerton,” I’ve received 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 making an attempt to establish the enduring filming places by yourself? As an alternative, be part of a educated information on a complete journey via key websites.
Throughout the 90-minute tour, you’ll stroll by the outside of Woman Danbury’s residence and go to the Nationwide Belief property the place quite a few ballroom scenes have been captured. Alongside the way in which, 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 town. And for those who cherished the present, even higher. Click on right here to guide your Bridgerton strolling tour right now.
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 Achieve: Principally flat
11. Newton St. Loe Round
A route I sadly didn’t get the prospect to do, however one which was actually on my radar, was the Newton St Loe Round. I’ve heard it’s probably the greatest household walks close to Bathtub. The simple-to-moderate path is well-liked 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 of good and easy-going, however among the opinions lead me to imagine that on moist days they will change into very muddy. So, for those who’re planning on taking this one on and don’t fancy the mud, maybe anticipate 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 regionally 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 Achieve: 200 ft
12. Keltson Round Path
I totally loved the Kelston Round hike, it gives among the finest mountaineering in Bathtub. The picturesque path winds across the hills that encompass the village of Kelston and the fantastic Bathtub countryside. The gorgeous views of the Avon Valley and the meandering River Avon make this one among my favourite Bathtub mountaineering routes.
With a distance of round 7 miles, the climb is difficult at occasions and would swimsuit hikers of reasonable expertise ranges. The terrain gives a mix of rolling hills, regular accents, and rewarding viewpoints. Parking is on the market 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 method to escape town, breathe within the recent 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 Achieve: 1,155 ft
13. Bizare Bathtub Comedy Stroll
If, like me, you take pleasure in some unusual tales combined 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 wished to listen to among the extra quirky tales of town we have been staying in.
It was much less of a historical past tour and extra of a chunk of avenue theater. Our information was actually comical and basically used numerous places as backdrops for telling tales. It was a totally completely different vibe to the historic guided stroll my dad and mom booked and showcased some various elements of town.
It’s an effective way to get your steps in for the day while strolling round Bathtub, seeing some prime sights, and listening to some actually attention-grabbing and humorous tales. I’d extremely suggest 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 Achieve: 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 a phenomenal landscaped inexperienced space that includes botanical gardens, a restaurant, and quite a few ponds and monuments. The park loop is a straightforward stroll and takes in some wonderful Bathtub surroundings and sights.
Located steps from the Royal Crescent, use the Victoria Park Bandstand as your start line and head in both route across the park. Make sure to tick off the Colossal Head of Jupiter, The Nice Dell, and the Temple of Minerva in your approach. In the event you’re fortunate, and select to walk round on a pleasant night, you could even see hot-air balloons launching from the park.
It’s a well-liked strolling space simply exterior of the primary hub and is among the finest locations for canine walks close to Bathtub Middle.
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 Achieve: Principally flat
15. Bathtub Ramblers
In the event you’re in search of strolling teams in Bathtub, the Ramblers could also be simply what you’re after. A superb good friend beneficial them to me and though I used to be in the end unable to prepare a hike with them, I used to be very taken with their membership. In the event you’re on the town for some time, they’re a worthwhile walker’s useful resource.
The Ramblers promote the enjoyment of strolling within the native countryside with often scheduled group walks and hikes across the lovely Bathtub countryside. Non-members are all the time welcome, and for those who attend three walks you’ll be invited to change into a fully-fledged member.
For that reason, and for his or her efforts within the preservation of the native atmosphere, I’ve made them my remaining alternative for walks round Bathtub entry. On prime of the 14 glorious walks listed beforehand, the Bathtub Ramblers will open up a plethora of information and insights into much more of one of the best 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 one of the best neighborhoods and areas in and round Bathtub:
Bathtub Metropolis Middle
Staying within the coronary heart of town means you’ll have handy proximity to lots of Bathtub’s points of interest. An array of resort decisions can be found, catering to a variety of budgets. So, whether or not you’re in search of a cost-effective weekend keep or a extra luxurious spa break escape, you’ll discover it in Bathtub Metropolis Middle.
Right here’s a nice resort I discovered, it’s conveniently near the practice station too.
Widcombe
Widcombe boasts its personal bustling excessive avenue, full with an enthralling assortment of retailers, cafes, and pubs, making it an excellent start line for a weekend journey in Bathtub. An additional advantage is that a number of vacationers are inclined to overlook this quaint Bathtub suburb. It lies simply past the practice station, a couple of minutes stroll in the other way from town middle.
Right here, you’ll be able to uncover a choice of pleasant residences, all inside straightforward attain of town’s middle. Check out this residence choice – it’s fantastically completed, has personal parking, and is good for day by day walks into Bathtub.
Coombe Down
Lodges and residences inside Bathtub’s metropolis middle can include a hefty price ticket, making the thought of looking for lodging within the outskirts a sensible and budget-friendly various. The charming village of Combe Down, situated simply 3 miles away, is a superb alternative because it supplies handy bus connections to town middle.
My circle of relatives opted for this association throughout their keep and made an enormous saving. For instance, this vacation house is a superb choice and includes a totally outfitted kitchen and a backyard space so you’ll be able to profit from your keep.
Climbing in Bathtub: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on mountaineering round Bathtub, England:
The most well-liked hike in Bathtub is the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. The round strolling path gives gorgeous views of 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 town’s proximity.
Of the various leisurely and simple walks round Bathtub, a hike alongside the Avon Canal might be the simplest. The principally flat terrain stays alongside the canal for miles in every route. Nicely-maintained paths and common entry factors imply the route could be as lengthy or brief as you’d like.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll is essentially the most lovely path in Bathtub. It gives superb panoramic views of 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 every hike you’ll want to take primary precautions. Put on applicable footwear and clothes, plan forward, and put together for inclement or adversarial climate. Pack water and meals for those who’re making an attempt a sizeable hike. Know your route and have good steering choices with you resembling maps, a cellphone, and many others.
Completely. Strolling in Bathtub UK is an effective way to discover the cultural and historic sights of town. The largely pedestrianized metropolis middle 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 town.
Sure, you actually can. A few of the finest treks in Bathtub are situated alongside the Avon River and Canal. Stretching all the way in which from Bristol within the west to Studying 87 miles away, the Avon has enormous swathes of footpaths that permit for some lovely walks and hikes alongside its banks.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll is among the hottest Bathtub trails and is taken into account to be of reasonable issue. 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 a bit 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 could be muddy in locations however is probably probably the greatest summer season walks in Bathtub. Planning to undertake it in hotter months may even give hikers a greater probability of a transparent day and even higher views. Predominantly, the route is well-maintained and walkable always of the 12 months.
In Closing
Bathtub is a superb place to go to for those who take pleasure in strolling or mountaineering. I cherished having so many nice prospects at my disposal throughout my time within the metropolis.
So, if it’s strolling in Bathtub Metropolis Middle, whole day hikes round Bathtub and the encompassing lovely countryside that can problem even essentially the most seasoned of hikers, or perhaps one thing in-between you’re in search of, you’re certain to seek out it in Bathtub.
Comfortable trekking!
