Having lately spent the summer season pet-sitting on this historic metropolis, having fun with the vary of hikes and walks that had been out there within the space, I’ve put collectively a listing of the 15 finest 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 Website, in spite of everything!
Others come for the superb cafe, bar, and restaurant scene, and lots of crowds flock to the town as a result of Bathtub presents the proper mix of all of these items. Walks and hikes are actually on the listing of high issues to do in Bathtub.
Bathtub is situated within the south-west of England within the county of Somerset. The town, which is residence 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 through a couple of 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; plenty of my journeys are primarily based round exploring locations on foot. I like the completely different perspective of a city or metropolis you’ll be able to acquire 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 mild tempo. So, on this listing, 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 think about to be probably the greatest walks in Bathtub. Utilizing Bathtub Deep Lock as a place to begin, we’re going to move alongside the gorgeous Avon Canal all the best way to the neighboring village of Bathampton.
This route sticks to the Canal your complete means however does at instances 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. Moderately 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 large beer gardens and a courtyard simply steps from the Canal. It’s the proper place to refuel for the journey again to Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
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: Largely 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 the town and takes in some spectacular views and superb English countryside alongside the best way.
Start at Bathtub Spa Practice Station, and stroll east out of the town you start a steep climb to achieve 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 might be deceptive at instances.
Remember to put on sturdy mountaineering boots as some components of the route can change into fairly muddy. If there’s been extended, heavy rain, think about saving this hike for an additional day. Usually, the route is well-maintained and straightforward 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 Info
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 Fort
The most effective easy hill walks close to Bathtub is the beautiful easy route as much as Sham Fort. I used to be out for a morning stroll and got here throughout what I believed had been some long-lost ruins, however it turned out to be Sham Fort. It’s what is named a folly, (primarily a chunk of structure constructed purely for adornment), and isn’t in actual fact a citadel in any respect.
The stroll to Sham Fort was very good, nonetheless, and also you’ll be handled to some improbable 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 highway, you’ll meet footpaths that head all the best way as much as Sham Fort.
You possibly can be part of the Bathtub Skyline Stroll too and lengthen this hike exponentially. Or just return alongside an identical route again to Bathtub Metropolis Heart. That is finest to finish on an attractive clear day so you’ll be able to benefit from the beautiful views.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Practice Station – End – Sham Fort
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 a couple of relations and buddies go to me throughout my keep in Bathtub and I acquired fairly good at giving ‘the tour’ of the favored sights of the town. I’m pleased to share with you this free strolling tour in Bathtub that takes in some actual architectural wonders.
Utilizing Bathtub Spa station as your place to begin, head north into the town middle, following the major excessive avenue. That is often 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.
While you’re prepared proceed north, flip left once you attain George Avenue, after which instantly proper. This may 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 Info
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: Largely flat
5. Bathtub – Bradford-on-Avon
For those who’re feeling energetic, think about taking over the Bathtub to Bradford-on-Avon stroll. It takes in a few of 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 typically thought of 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 attraction and its many quaint cafes, retailers, 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 practice station – The Three Horseshoes, is one among my favorites within the city.
Path Particulars and Info
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 among 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 a couple of 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 a superb 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, 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).
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 Info
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
The most effective mountaineering trails close to Bathtub is a continuation of the earlier hike as much as and past the Widcombe Hill Viewpoint. Proceed just a little additional and also you’ll attain the tiny village of Monkton Combe, the place you’ll be able to relaxation your legs and revel in a rewarding beer on the Wheelwrights Arms.
As you attain the apex of Widcombe Hill, a public footpath on the suitable hyperlinks you to a stretch of the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. This cuts throughout stunning inexperienced fields and tree-lined walkways. On weekends you’ll have the ability to 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.
While you attain Combe Down, cross the principle avenue and take Shaft Highway. 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 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 Info
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 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 choose up the water behind Bathtub Spa Station and head west holding the river in your left always. This may lead you to a pleasant pub cease – The Locksbrook Inn – in round 45 minutes.
It’s also possible to lengthen this Bathtub river stroll all the best way to Bristol when you’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 closing refreshment earlier than heading again to Bathtub alongside the identical route.
Path Particulars and Info
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: Largely 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 all the necessary structure, monuments, and culturally important components of the town. You possibly can put your map of Bathtub away and decide to be proven the best way 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 feel they doubted the standard of my free guided tour…) and so they cherished it! The choice they went for even included entry to the Roman Baths, so that they acquired 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 nicely prematurely. Click on right here to be taught extra about Bathtub strolling excursions and to e book your’s forward of time.
Path Particulars and Info
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: Largely flat
10. Bridgerton Tour
For fans of the hit TV collection “Bridgerton,” I’ve acquired excellent news for you. Many scenes from the present had been shot in Bathtub and there’s a strolling tour tailor-made only for followers of the present. Why spend ages trying to establish the long-lasting filming places by yourself? As a substitute, be part of a educated information on a complete journey by key websites.
Throughout 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 had 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 when you cherished the present, even higher. Click on right here to e book your Bridgerton strolling tour immediately.
Path Particulars and Info
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: Largely 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 straightforward-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 citadel. The paths are thought of good and easy-going, however a few of the critiques lead me to consider that on moist days they will change into very muddy. So, when you’re planning on taking this one on and don’t fancy the mud, maybe anticipate a dry day.
You’ll additionally have the ability to take a slight detour and go to the Newton Farm Store and Cafe which is just some minutes stroll into the village of Newton St Loe firstly (or finish) of your stroll. It’s a cute place for a espresso, a lightweight snack, lunch, or to choose up some domestically produced groceries and goodies.
Path Particulars and Info
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 completely loved the Kelston Round hike, it presents a few of the finest mountaineering in Bathtub. The picturesque path winds across the hills that encompass the village of Kelston and the great 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 instances and would go well with hikers of reasonable expertise ranges. The terrain presents a mix of rolling hills, regular accents, and rewarding viewpoints. Parking is offered on the Swineford Picnic Website, the place you’ll additionally discover the trailhead.
However the very welcoming Swan Inn at Swineford served as my place to begin. I fueled up with a tasty lunch right here earlier than embarking on the journey. This hike is an excellent 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 Info
Location: Park up and start on the Swineford Picnic Website
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 get pleasure from 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 had 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 primarily used numerous places as backdrops for telling tales. It was a very completely different vibe to the historic guided stroll my dad and mom booked and showcased some different components 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 Info
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: Largely 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 includes botanical gardens, a restaurant, and quite a few ponds and monuments. The park loop is a straightforward stroll and takes in some superb Bathtub surroundings and sights.
Located steps from the Royal Crescent, use the Victoria Park Bandstand as your place to begin and head in both route across the park. Remember to tick off the Colossal Head of Jupiter, The Nice Dell, and the Temple of Minerva in your means. For those who’re fortunate, and select to walk round on a pleasant night, chances are you’ll even see hot-air balloons launching from the park.
It’s a preferred strolling space simply outdoors of the principle hub and is among the finest locations for canine walks close to Bathtub Heart.
Path Particulars and Info
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: Largely flat
15. Bathtub Ramblers
For those who’re in search of strolling teams in Bathtub, the Ramblers could also be simply what you’re after. A great pal really useful them to me and though I used to be finally unable to arrange a hike with them, I used to be very concerned about their membership. For those who’re on the town for some time, they’re a priceless 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 at all times welcome, and when you 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 surroundings, 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 very best walks in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
Web site: ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/ramblers-groups/bath-group
The place to Keep in Bathtub
These are a couple of of the very best 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 lots of Bathtub’s sights. An array of resort decisions can be found, catering to a variety of budgets. So, whether or not you’re in search of a cheap weekend keep or a extra luxurious spa break escape, you’ll discover it in Bathtub Metropolis Heart.
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 outlets, cafes, and pubs, making it a super place to begin for a weekend journey in Bathtub. An additional advantage is that plenty 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 the town middle.
Right here, you’ll be able to uncover a number of pleasant flats, all inside straightforward attain of the town’s middle. Check out this condo possibility – it’s fantastically completed, has personal parking, and is good for every day walks into Bathtub.
Coombe Down
Lodges and flats inside Bathtub’s metropolis middle can include a hefty price ticket, making the concept of in search of lodging within the outskirts a sensible and budget-friendly different. The charming village of Combe Down, situated simply 3 miles away, is a superb alternative because it offers handy bus connections to the town middle.
My family opted for this association throughout their keep and made an enormous saving. For instance, this vacation residence is a superb possibility and includes a totally outfitted kitchen and a backyard space so you’ll be able to profit from your keep.
Mountain climbing in Bathtub: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on mountaineering round Bathtub, England:
The preferred hike in Bathtub is the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. The round strolling path presents gorgeous 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 offers a chance to flee into the countryside whereas nonetheless having fun with the town’s proximity.
Of the various leisurely and straightforward walks round Bathtub, a hike alongside the Avon Canal might be the best. The principally flat terrain stays alongside the canal for miles in every route. Effectively-maintained paths and common entry factors imply the route might be as lengthy or brief as you’d like.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll is probably the most stunning path in Bathtub. It presents superb 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 fundamental precautions. Put on applicable footwear and clothes, plan forward, and put together for inclement or opposed climate. Pack water and meals when you’re trying a sizeable hike. Know your route and have good steering choices with you comparable to maps, a cellphone, and so forth.
Completely. Strolling in Bathtub UK is an effective way to discover the cultural and historic sights of the town. The largely pedestrianized metropolis middle permits the general public to discover with out concern for autos or site visitors. There are additionally many nice hikes and walks simply outdoors of the town.
Sure, you actually can. A number of the finest treks in Bathtub are situated alongside the Avon River and Canal. Stretching all the best way from Bristol within the west to Studying 87 miles away, the Avon has enormous swathes of footpaths that enable for some stunning 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 fairly sharp accents and lengthy stretches of strolling. The terrain can generally be just a little 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 might be muddy in locations however is maybe probably the greatest summer season walks in Bathtub. Planning to undertake it in hotter months may even give hikers a greater likelihood 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 when you get pleasure from 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 Heart, total day hikes round Bathtub and the encircling stunning countryside that can problem even probably the most seasoned of hikers, or perhaps one thing in-between you’re in search of, you’re certain to search out it in Bathtub.
Pleased trekking!