Bath Self-Guided Walking Tour
City Centre
Helen's Bath: A Self-Guided Journey Through Time and Elegance
Greetings, explorers! I'm Helen, a Chartered Geographer with over 25 years of experience in teaching and leading fieldwork. I warmly welcome you to my self-guided walking tour of Bath, the only city in the UK listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bath holds a special place in my heart, as my teaching career began here. Now, I'm thrilled to guide you through its timeless charm.
Starting at the Heart: Bath Abbey and Roman Baths
Our journey around Bath begins at its core - the iconic Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths. As we explore this area, you'll delve into Bath's early history, spanning from the Roman arrival in 43AD to the Middle Ages when monks worshipped at the Abbey.
Bridging the Past: Pulteney Bridge and Beyond
Our walking tour map leads us to the remarkable Pulteney Bridge, one of only four bridges worldwide to house shops across its full length on both sides. As we pass the bustling Pulteney Weir below, the city's rich past comes alive with every step.
Georgian Grace: The Circus and Royal Parade
As we traverse back towards the city, you'll be captivated by the impressive Georgian architecture of The Circus and Royal Parade, areas which have starred in Netflix's 'Bridgerton' and the TV programme 'McDonald and Dodds'.
In the Footsteps of Great Writers: Jane Austen, Mary Shelley, and More
In the final section of our Bath walking tour, we walk in the footsteps of Jane Austen and Mary Shelley, both of whom drew inspiration from this city for their renowned works. Here, Bath's long history unravels through fascinating tales and a few spine-chilling stories.
Bathing in History: Thermae Bath Spa
Our tour concludes at the Thermae Bath Spa, the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain where you can bathe. Immerse yourself in the soothing waters, and let Bath's unique history wash over you (ticket not included here).
Discover Bath Your Way: Insider Recommendations, Top Tips, and More
Throughout this tour, I'll be sharing insider recommendations on the best spots to visit, eat, and drink. My number one tip? Look up! Bath's beauty isn't limited to ground level; when you look up, you'll discover more than you ever imagined.
Our tour spans approximately 3 miles in a circular route. Bath's terrain is relatively flat with a slight rise around the midway point. Do note that some sections of the tour, like the narrow steps down from Pulteney Bridge, feature preserved stone and cobble footpaths, adding a touch of authenticity (and unevenness) to your walk.
This activity includes:
- A lot of walking!
- Roman Baths
- The Circus
- Royal Parade
- Pulteney Bridge & Pulteney Weir
- Thermae Bath Spa
- Roman Past and Heritage
- Hidden Gems
- Audio Guides & Video Links
- Top Tips and Recommendations
Ready to explore Bath at your own pace? Purchase the tour here and you'll receive an email with further instructions (don't forget to check your spam!). Download the app, put on your walking shoes, and set off on this unforgettable journey through Bath's history, elegance, and charm.
