Bath, located in southwest England, is renowned for its Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, and stunning surrounding countryside. If you’re considering day trips from Bath, there are numerous options ranging from historic sites like Stonehenge and Glastonbury to scenic locations in the Cotswolds.
Bath is conveniently situated near cities such as Bristol, Oxford, and Cardiff in Wales. There are also several national parks, beaches, and other beauty spots like Cheddar Gorge, Dartmoor, and Cornwall that are easily accessible for day trips.
Having visited Bath and the west country frequently since childhood, I’ve taken many of these day trips and highly recommend planning extra days to explore some of the highlights.
Here are some fantastic day trips from Bath, covering historic sites, natural beauty, and nearby towns and cities:
1. Stonehenge: About 30 miles from Bath in Wiltshire, Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument featuring a ring of massive standing stones. Dating back to around 3000 BC, the site remains a mystery in terms of its construction. Visiting Stonehenge is a must, especially during the summer solstice when the sun aligns perfectly with the stones.
2. The Cotswolds: Known for its picturesque market towns and villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Norton, and Castle Combe, the Cotswolds offer stunning scenery with stone cottages and rolling hills. A tour is recommended to fully appreciate this charming area.
3. Bristol: Just 13 miles northeast of Bath, Bristol can be easily reached by bus or train. Notable attractions include the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the SS Great Britain, and the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. The city is great for a day of exploration, especially in the spring and summer.
4. Cheddar Gorge: Located 23 miles from Bath, this limestone gorge in the Mendip Hills features towering cliffs and hiking trails. It’s also the birthplace of Cheddar cheese, making it an interesting destination for both nature lovers and foodies.
5. Avebury: This village features a large green with standing stones akin to a smaller version of Stonehenge. It’s a stunning and picturesque destination worth visiting.
6. Oxford: Just over 90 minutes by train from Bath, Oxford is famous for its university and historic landmarks. Key spots include the Ashmolean Museum and the 700-year-old Bear Inn.
7. Glastonbury: Known for its legendary music festival, Glastonbury also has a mystical charm with its second-hand bookshops and Glastonbury Tor. The hill is believed to be the legendary Avalon from King Arthur’s tales.
8. Dartmoor: Approximately two hours from Bath, Dartmoor National Park offers beautiful valleys, streams, waterfalls, and moorland. It’s perfect for hiking and nature enthusiasts.
9. Woolacombe: This seaside resort in north Devon is ideal for surfing, swimming, and enjoying the beach. It’s a perfect day trip for those looking to enjoy the British coastline.
10. Cardiff: Just over an hour by train, Cardiff offers attractions like Cardiff Castle and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s an easy and enjoyable trip from Bath.
11. Weston-Super-Mare: A laid-back seaside town an hour from Bath, Weston is great for a relaxing day by the sea with its large promenade, beach, and interesting museums.
12. Salisbury: Home to a beautiful 13th-century cathedral with the tallest spire in the country, Salisbury is rich in history and surrounded by the stunning Wiltshire countryside.
13. London: Less than 90 minutes by train, London offers a wealth of activities from visiting the British Museum to catching a show in the West End. It’s perfect for a day full of urban exploration.
There are also some great day trip tours from Bath, such as:
– Stonehenge, Avebury, and Cotswolds Tour: Covers historic stone circles and picturesque villages.
– Glastonbury Tor Private Tour: Including Glastonbury Abbey and the town.
– Dark Ages England Tour: Exploring top sights in the Cotswolds.
– Full-Day Tour of the Cotswolds: Visiting beautiful villages and historic sites.
For convenient trips without a car, cities like Bristol, Cardiff, Oxford, Weston-Super-Mare, and Salisbury are easily accessible by train.
With so much to see and do, Bath makes an excellent base for exploring the beautiful Westcountry and beyond. Whether you’re into history, nature, or vibrant city life, there’s a day trip from Bath that will suit your interests.