honestly as someone who lives in Bristol and loves bath. Stay in bristol and get the train for a day its £6 or $8 return and takes like 20 mins. Hotels will be a lot cheaper. You will also have better train connections to cardiff or the cotswolds from bristol then bath
@@gamerboyx8243Nothing wrong with Cardiff. Cardiff is a lovely city. Capital of Wales. Nice bay to Pernarth with nice views. City with the most old shopping archaises and a really nice castle.
As a Somerset-based resident and business owner, we are super proud of Bath and you capture it beautifully. It's a super cool place to visit whatever the time of day and year. Love your videos, btw!
Ha, I brought a friend around here and she was shocked how much she walked! As a resident, I'll pop in a few lesser known things not to miss which are either free or very low cost. - Sydney Pleasure Gardens (found behind the Holburne, it has a railway and a temple to the Roman Goddess Minerva) - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institutuion which has a spectacular amount of things from Roman era brooches to Jurassic fossils. - As you mentioned the Victoria Art Gallery (a victorian art gallery fully restored) - As you mentioned, the Holburne Museum (restricted free times but well known if you like Bridgerton, it usually has some interesting exhibits and has an excellent tea room) - Bathwick Fields (take a bus 10 minutes up the hill from North Parade and find yourself at Bathwick fields overlooking the city for spectacular views) - Sham Castle (is what it says, it's a sham castle that is only one wall) - Royal Victoria Park (has several important historical pieces in it such as Nelson's vases, sculptures in the Botanical Gardens, another temple and a Georgian garden) - Pulteney Weir (you can follow a winding staircase down to the Weir for gorgeous views of the architecture and catacombs) - Guildhall market is a victorian market which houses a variety of things, it's around 800 years old now. - The Dundas Aquaduct is truly spectacular to see up close and is easily gotten to from Bath. Hope this helps anyone trying to not blow too much cash in an expensive area. I also recommend getting the free National Trust voucher if you can from the newspapers and going to Prior Park, it's like entering another world to go through that but it is pricey so having that voucher to make it free really helps with costs.
You should also see the Museum of East Asian Art (some amazing Chinese ceramics & other interesting stuff), and the American Museum (including an impressive collection of quilts).
If you are only visiting for the day, or staying slightly out of Bath, we had success with the Park and Ride facility. You park in a big carpark on the outskirts and pay for a bus to take you to the centre. A great service. Reliable and cost effective. We actually used this in many towns in the UK.
Important 'don't' when visiting Bath for any American must be 'don't forget to visit the American Museum.' It's a bus ride out of the centre to Calverton, near the University. 125 acres of gardens, American folk art and history.
3 years ago I sold my business and we retired to Bath after 45 years in London. I still love London, but the move was the best thing we ever did. We felt at home here on day one, and have made some great friends, mostly through the great pubs where people still actually talk to each other. A novelty I still haven't gotten over.
It's been several decades since I visited Bath, but one memorable stop that my family made was having a small brunch at the Pump Room at the Roman Baths. It wasn't terribly expensive, considering the setting, and likely would be a fine place for afternoon tea.
So pleased you mentioned the Frankenstein museum, we were on the mailing list for when it was opening years back, what makes it is the creaky old building its set in.
If you’re on a budget, stay in Frome 12 miles away and catch the D2 bus in. Runs every hour and costs only £2 at the moment. Much less touristy but has a charm of itself. Bradford on Avon also very nice.
My 9x great grandfather was a Mayor of bath back in 1600’s. He and the family are buried under the floor of the Abbey. I was very excited to go there. TFS
Thanks for the trip down memory lane! It's been 18 years since I was last in Bath, but one great pleasure was a free walking tour, conducted by volunteers, starting out from Bath Abbey. I loved every minute of Bath, but I did do a day trip to Stonehenge and another stop on the way by minibus, and a trip to Salisbury by train. If you go to that cathedral, don't miss the Chapter House, a lovely building with miniature faces on the wall all around the large round room. There's a faithful period copy of the Magna Carta there, too.
Was just in Bath in May and had a wonderful time. You mentioned all the things I would have mentioned. Bath is a very walkable city and the train & bus stations are super convenient to the city center.
In June my family and friends clilmbed to the top and it was amazing. I guessed the thickness of the ceiling which shocked the tour guides. I found Bath to be a highlight of our travels in England.
Salisbury is an excellent choice of daytrip from Bath, as it's only an hour away on the train and another stunning historic city to see with a totally different aesthetic. You can stopover at a choice of picturesque market towns between the two cities, such as Trowbridge, Bradford-on-Avon (not to be confused with the bigger Bradford up north) or Warminster.
Bradford (B-o-A) is beautiful - perfect for walking around, with lots of small alleys and history. Take the train, not a car, from Bath Spa and discover why it was called Little Bath.
@@wessexdruid7598 I've ridden the train from Bath to Salisbury and seen how picturesque all these places are; definitely beats the car hands down, as you can enjoy the view so much better. Cheers for the suggestion, as I was deciding which town to stopover at (BoA, Warminster or Trowbridge) whenever I go that way again. The great thing is that off-peak return tickets between Bath and Salisbury are reasonably priced (at least with a railcard) AND will allow you to break your journey at any of these towns on the way, so you can explore for a bit before hopping on the next train in an hour or two without having to worry about paying twice.
@@AymanTravelTransport Bradford is more picturesque - but hilly (like Bath). Give Trowbridge a miss - and Warminster is an Army town. There are some lovely old buildings, but it is more spread out than B-o-A. Consider hopping off at Avoncliff, for lunch at the Cross Guns - next to the weir and aqueduct.
Bath is a beautiful! The whole city is a World Heritage site. I would stress that you can't go into the bath because it's dangerous. It's been known to have dangerous bacteria, and also, it's lined with lead. The Roman bath complex is fascinating, and in the summer, the bath area is torch-lit in the evenings. The photos and videos that show the bath itself are almost universally known, but there is so much more down there. The engineering of the place is a real eye-opener. You learn interesting details about how the Romans used the baths for religious and social purposes. The Mayor's free walking tour is very good. It meets right outside the entrance to the Roman baths. The buskers around the city are lovely. It's wonderful to sit with some picnic food and enjoy the music and the atmosphere of the city. You've noted the beautiful Georgian architecture, and it is truly gorgeous, and I'll note a correction, if I may. The architecture of the Roman baths is also Georgian, not Victorian, as you said it is. And those Jane Austen fans you see walking around in period dress are wearing Regency clothing, not Victorian. I think it's nice to have the correct information any time you visit a place. I loved my time in Bath!
Such an amazing city and yes....do not pass up the chance for a day in the Cotswolds too. I love Bath and would recommend it as a must visit to anybody heading to England.
Speaking as a nearby resident, even I don't drive or park in the centre. Stay outside and use the park and rides, they are very convenient. I realise this was probably filmed a while ago, but get yourself down to Wells, just a short drive south. We'll make you welcome. Watch Hot Fuzz first though! 😉
We took a tour to bath and Stonehenge. When we got to bath we didn’t have a ticket to go in the baths !!?? We skipped the walking tour. I walked over and asked how long to go in as there was a long line. The guy at the front said “we had two people no show, so you can come right in because that line is groups “. So lucky. We were the only ones in the small tour that actually saw the baths.
Great video. Love Bath! There is a Premier Inn in the center city, save money by staying there. And make sure to visit the Bath Brew House, wonderful brewery and restaurant - great place to meet local Bath residents
Another museum that's well worth a visit is the American Museum quite close to the centre of the city. An easy taxi ride for example and of particular interest I think to visitors from the USA.
Visited Bath couple months back as a day trip from London. Idk if you tried the steep climb behind the bus station to Alexandra Park for wonderful views of the city. Its one of the best hidden gems in town. I'm told there's an easier way to get there, which there obviously is but we took the hard one haha. But if you take the tough route, take a couple of oxygen cylinders with you. Its like a Dutch staircase level incline. Gorgeous city. I actually booked my tickets to the Roman Baths online while outside the queue haha. It'll be fine. Loved the Royal Crescent and the Circus. Some place to buy a house lol.
I saw my fav cafe in your video several times! The Bath Bun! They have a wiltshire ham and white cheddar sandwich w/ butter on a baguette that I dream about! Had it twice when we were there in May!
I used to live in Bath and honestly really miss it - despite it being one of the most expensive places in the country to live. It's a really beautiful city, and I'd move back in a heartbeat if I could.
After 45 years in London, I'd say Bath's public transport utterly sucks. All you have is buses. Then again, everything is relative and compared to any US city/town of that size I guess it's good.
Also don’t think that Southgate place is named after Gareth Southgate. But also don’t forget to buy a 70% hot chocolate from Mrs Potts chocolate house!
My top tip is to hire a bike (or bring one with you) and ride between Bath and Bristol on the "Bristol and Bath Railway Path". It's an old railway line which has been converted to a leisure path for walking and cycling. 15 miles long and completely separate from all roads. Aside from one or two crossing points you won't see a car the entire way.
As someone who grew up in Bath, I was always told that Sally Lunn Buns were Bath buns. Interesting to see that other establishments are selling different "Bath buns"!
My little sister went to uni in Bath and we were lucky enough to visit her on many occasions in the beautiful city. She was a student whilst they filmed the first season of Bridgerton. Haven’t watched it myself but it’s a reference many non-Brits seem to understand when I tell them about Bath.
I did a bus day trip from London to Bath. I’ll always remember the Roman coins in the museum with the straight Roman numerals etched into them. I love ancient history 🇺🇸❤️🏴
I live in Bristol and we are so lucky to have Bath 15 min away and Cardiff 45 min away (by train). My favourite day trips on my days off :) And the Thermae Bath Spa (with the rooftop pool) in Bath is such a great experience with amazing views of the city and the best thing is that kids aren't allowed, so you can enjoy it in peace lol
Bath is a day trip, maybe 2 at best. I'd recommend going to London, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Brighton, Manchester, or somewhere in Cornwall instead.
We recently did a tour of Bath and the region. Our tour guide recommended The Huntsman for lunch - which looked fine - but they we having staffing issues when we arrived, so they weren't serving food. Just a block away at the corner of North Parade and A3039 is a terrific vegetarian restaurant called The Green Rocket. The have light and highly creative fare in a causal atmosphere.
Tip: Whilst in Bath (or Bristol) get a train up the valley to Bradford on Avon. Visit the tithe barn and the Boat pub. Ramble up the K&A canal. Also try Bath city centre pubs.
But as a person who grew up mostly in Frome and also read a lot of Jane Austen, and was desperate to try the *waters* in the Pump Rooms. The *waters* are really very bad - I am convinced that people thought they were healthful just because they tasted awful. I do recommend the honey crumpets though. Definitely use the park and ride if you can its much cheaper. Also if you don't like it crowded do not visit during the Christmas market. Although I will say that for most UK cities, York being a particularly stressful experience.
There are lots of parking spaces, it's just very expensive. Try Charlotte Street Car Park, over 1000 spaces. There are also many multi-story car parks, you just need to know where they all are, as they are not easy to find. I recommend The Salamander for a pint of Bath Ale. Hudson's for a good steak.
To be honest, Bath very much fits the American stereotype of posh and classy Britain, rather than what most cities are like, it can quite easily be done in 4-6 hours on a day trip (even by spending £29 to look at a green pond with a contactless wishing facility), but I would definitely recommend Bristol more - a gem that doesn’t get anywhere near enough tourists (but I’m bias)
In years gone by we traveled carrying local currency but not now days as we rely heavily on the plastic fantastic (Qantas Card loaded in local currency mostly) so no folding stuff. Not all cabbies accept credit/debit cards. We got caught out by not asking when we caught a cab from the train station back to our B&B late one night last Christmas. The driver was very understanding and waived any fee. Lovely chap.
My biggest "do": make sure you get up in the hills and suburbs around Bath. This is when you realise just what a nice city it is in all directions. The very epicentre of the high street can have its chavy moments, just like any UK city.
I most include Bath in my next trip to Europe 🥰 . P.S. Now I know the reason for your happiness - being surrounded by beautiful women 👍. Gorgeous wife , beautiful mother - dream come true 😉 ( not forget your awesome boys ) .
Mark, you should have added that the water in the Main Bath was closed because of an organism that is in that water which can find its way into the brain causing death. Swimming was allowed up to the 1880's until they started having deaths and put the water under investigation. The other public baths there are safe, just not the old Roman main bath.
Swimming stopped in 1978 because a bacteria was discovered in the water in the Kings Bath and sadly a girl died. Also at a similar time a lady swimming in the Kings Bath, now kept at a much lower water level and having had the central fountain removed, was burned very badly because against advice she went too close to the source of the Spring. The Roman Baths has never been open to the Public like normal swimming Pools it was only open a few evenings during the Bath/Mid Somerset Festival and was restricted to advance ticket holders and adults only. My parents went certainly once and maybe twice. Back in the 1960s the local swimming pool, Beau Street Baths, now the site of the Therma Spa complex, The Cross Baths, The Technical Collage opposite the Beau Street Baths, the Royal Mineral Hospital which no longer exists and the Sports Centre Pool in North Parade Road built in mid to end 1970s were and are supplied with the warm water from the natural springs. You can also still taste the Mineral water in the Pump Rooms which form part of the Roman Baths Complex.
2 more adds, Don't forget to Look up. . .along the streets on the buildings above the ground floor you may see chunks out of the "plaster". The city decided NOT to repair the damage of bullet holes from German planes strafing the city in it's attacks during WWII. You can easily see how close the residents were to being killed. Also, don't laugh at the "funny dressed people. I will be one of them. Dressed in Regency (Jane Austin) attire or Victorian (Dickens era) attire, myself and friends add color to your walk. Bring the feel of the old world while you promenade the walks. Like Rodeo folks wear their hat s& belt buckles to their specialized events, we like to wear our attire to honor the literary and historical events in the city of Bath. Just ask for a picture we don't mind at all. Take the memory home with you and smile.
I had the privilege of learning to swim as child in the untreated spa waters, in the Cross Baths. Fond memories of snow falling on my head and the dread of getting out into the fridgid air. The unfortunate death of a bather closed the baths to the public in 1978, when a bather died from an amoeba-borne illness that she contracted from the water. I have also been privileged to have lived in the City my whole life, but the cost of that privilege has risen so much that my wife and I could no longer afford to buy the house that we own.
I have question for you, Mark: Why do you visit the UK so frequently? Is there anything in particular that you admire? I'm moving there myself to study, work and live next year but I would like to know your thoughts
Hi. Just to say sorry but I’m going to be pedantic but you keep mentioning Victorian in the same sentence as Georgian … 2 different eras. Georgian is literally during the reigns of Georges I to IV (with the Regency era - the period most associated with Jane Austin - during the end of George III’s reign when his son, the Prince of Wales, was made Prince Regent to carry out the duties of Monarch while his father was incapable during his mental illness - he later became George IV upon his father’s death). Victoria was after George IV (with George IV’s younger brother, William IV in between). Again, sorry for being pedantic. 😊
I kept shuddering too. If you're going to set yourself up as an authority, a basic understanding of the subject is necessary to avoid looking like a dork.
Don’t forget to experience Bath on a rugby home fixture day. An electrifying experience seeing the city swarming with rugby fans wearing the blue, black and white of Rugby RFC.
The angels climbing downwards on the 'Jacob's Ladder' sculpture on the Abbey aren't meant to be fallen angels, Lucifer, anything like that, but just angels descending to Earth to collect souls for Heaven. They do look somewhat creepy in the way they're crawling, though!
The first don't of visiting Bath, is don't pronounce the city's name the same way you pronounce the object bath ;) Regarding cars - don't. The city HATES cars. Extortionate parking prices and a confusing one-way system that will funnel you through bus only entrances that come with hefty fines will make you regret it big time. I speak as an ex-resident who lived there for 20 years. I now live an hour away and rarely visit as it's so much trouble. Don't miss an opportunity to see The Theatre Royal. It's such a charming venue.
Bath was built in a time long before cars. My first wife's job was in the centre of Bath - the commute was an hour, but half an hour for the last three miles. And that was in the mid-80s.
I've lived here for eight years, now in a sleepy village a few miles north on the Avon. Summers can be a drag because it's so busy so I avoid the centre. TOP TIP - The mayor provides free tours every day. They take a couple of hours and are packed full of interesting facts. The guides will be offended if you try to tip them, a big no no. Just book a slot online and meet up outside the Abbey. ANOTHER TOP TIP - The Abbey/Cathedral is free, but just to make sure, go in when there's a service on, God never charges for a chat and will give you free tea and biscuits at the end.
Lived there for a few years. My biggest don't is "Don't take the back roads to get to the city. Use A roads to get there". The number of times I've been driving normally on country lanes and found someone driving a great big rental car obviously petrified when anyone even drives the other way. It's dangerous and unnecessary. Use the A road, there are clearly marked lanes and no passing places. Kthxbai.
This is definitely a fave of mine, but I can't believe the public baths aren't covered. They are wonderful and the view from the top outdoor pool is something to behold. It isn't that expensive to go, but do book ahead. There is something to that water too...my skin is always clear of blemishes and super soft after a visit to the baths.
honestly as someone who lives in Bristol and loves bath. Stay in bristol and get the train for a day its £6 or $8 return and takes like 20 mins. Hotels will be a lot cheaper. You will also have better train connections to cardiff or the cotswolds from bristol then bath
Still possible? I did it when I visited Bath from Bristol. Decades ago.
You're a lucky bastard, did you know that?
Why would anyone ever go to Cardiff😂?
I'd stay in Bristol. It's such a great city
@@gamerboyx8243 Cardiff is arguably nicer than Bristol 😂
@@gamerboyx8243Nothing wrong with Cardiff. Cardiff is a lovely city. Capital of Wales. Nice bay to Pernarth with nice views. City with the most old shopping archaises and a really nice castle.
As a Somerset-based resident and business owner, we are super proud of Bath and you capture it beautifully. It's a super cool place to visit whatever the time of day and year. Love your videos, btw!
Thank you! We always love visiting Bath and the whole region is so great!
Super 😆
Bath is one of the most beautiful cities I've ever been in. Really everybody should visit if in UK.
One of my favourite places in the U.K, very clean and a happy vibe to the place.
Same here!
Ha, I brought a friend around here and she was shocked how much she walked!
As a resident, I'll pop in a few lesser known things not to miss which are either free or very low cost.
- Sydney Pleasure Gardens (found behind the Holburne, it has a railway and a temple to the Roman Goddess Minerva)
- Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institutuion which has a spectacular amount of things from Roman era brooches to Jurassic fossils.
- As you mentioned the Victoria Art Gallery (a victorian art gallery fully restored)
- As you mentioned, the Holburne Museum (restricted free times but well known if you like Bridgerton, it usually has some interesting exhibits and has an excellent tea room)
- Bathwick Fields (take a bus 10 minutes up the hill from North Parade and find yourself at Bathwick fields overlooking the city for spectacular views)
- Sham Castle (is what it says, it's a sham castle that is only one wall)
- Royal Victoria Park (has several important historical pieces in it such as Nelson's vases, sculptures in the Botanical Gardens, another temple and a Georgian garden)
- Pulteney Weir (you can follow a winding staircase down to the Weir for gorgeous views of the architecture and catacombs)
- Guildhall market is a victorian market which houses a variety of things, it's around 800 years old now.
- The Dundas Aquaduct is truly spectacular to see up close and is easily gotten to from Bath.
Hope this helps anyone trying to not blow too much cash in an expensive area. I also recommend getting the free National Trust voucher if you can from the newspapers and going to Prior Park, it's like entering another world to go through that but it is pricey so having that voucher to make it free really helps with costs.
You should also see the Museum of East Asian Art (some amazing Chinese ceramics & other interesting stuff), and the American Museum (including an impressive collection of quilts).
If you are only visiting for the day, or staying slightly out of Bath, we had success with the Park and Ride facility. You park in a big carpark on the outskirts and pay for a bus to take you to the centre. A great service. Reliable and cost effective. We actually used this in many towns in the UK.
Important 'don't' when visiting Bath for any American must be 'don't forget to visit the American Museum.' It's a bus ride out of the centre to Calverton, near the University. 125 acres of gardens, American folk art and history.
3 years ago I sold my business and we retired to Bath after 45 years in London. I still love London, but the move was the best thing we ever did. We felt at home here on day one, and have made some great friends, mostly through the great pubs where people still actually talk to each other. A novelty I still haven't gotten over.
It's been several decades since I visited Bath, but one memorable stop that my family made was having a small brunch at the Pump Room at the Roman Baths. It wasn't terribly expensive, considering the setting, and likely would be a fine place for afternoon tea.
Didn't think I'd see somewhere so local on this channel, great coverage!
How lovely to ser your Mom.
Bath is a treasure to humanity.
So pleased you mentioned the Frankenstein museum, we were on the mailing list for when it was opening years back, what makes it is the creaky old building its set in.
If you’re on a budget, stay in Frome 12 miles away and catch the D2 bus in. Runs every hour and costs only £2 at the moment. Much less touristy but has a charm of itself. Bradford on Avon also very nice.
And learn how to pronounce it! 😂😂
As a local, if you're heading down to Salisbury on a train, stop off at Bradford on Avon for a few hours 😊
Bradford on Avon is a lovely place. Went to prep school (The Old Ride) there. The school does not exist anymore, but the town is still lovely.
I'm local to Bath and just wanted to say what a great, thorough review you've done here, impressive!
Bath is gorgeous, definitely a favourite trip when I stayed in Bristol!
My 9x great grandfather was a Mayor of bath back in 1600’s. He and the family are buried under the floor of the Abbey. I was very excited to go there. TFS
Thanks for the trip down memory lane! It's been 18 years since I was last in Bath, but one great pleasure was a free walking tour, conducted by volunteers, starting out from Bath Abbey. I loved every minute of Bath, but I did do a day trip to Stonehenge and another stop on the way by minibus, and a trip to Salisbury by train. If you go to that cathedral, don't miss the Chapter House, a lovely building with miniature faces on the wall all around the large round room. There's a faithful period copy of the Magna Carta there, too.
I live only 10 minutes away from Bath by train….it is a gorgeous city…very special. 🧡💚
Was just in Bath in May and had a wonderful time. You mentioned all the things I would have mentioned. Bath is a very walkable city and the train & bus stations are super convenient to the city center.
Jane Austen’s Bath !! Omg 😳!! I’ve got goosebumps! Loooove love ❤️ love 💕!! Epic! - Amy
In June my family and friends clilmbed to the top and it was amazing. I guessed the thickness of the ceiling which shocked the tour guides. I found Bath to be a highlight of our travels in England.
Salisbury is an excellent choice of daytrip from Bath, as it's only an hour away on the train and another stunning historic city to see with a totally different aesthetic. You can stopover at a choice of picturesque market towns between the two cities, such as Trowbridge, Bradford-on-Avon (not to be confused with the bigger Bradford up north) or Warminster.
Bradford (B-o-A) is beautiful - perfect for walking around, with lots of small alleys and history. Take the train, not a car, from Bath Spa and discover why it was called Little Bath.
@@wessexdruid7598 I've ridden the train from Bath to Salisbury and seen how picturesque all these places are; definitely beats the car hands down, as you can enjoy the view so much better. Cheers for the suggestion, as I was deciding which town to stopover at (BoA, Warminster or Trowbridge) whenever I go that way again. The great thing is that off-peak return tickets between Bath and Salisbury are reasonably priced (at least with a railcard) AND will allow you to break your journey at any of these towns on the way, so you can explore for a bit before hopping on the next train in an hour or two without having to worry about paying twice.
@@AymanTravelTransport Bradford is more picturesque - but hilly (like Bath). Give Trowbridge a miss - and Warminster is an Army town. There are some lovely old buildings, but it is more spread out than B-o-A. Consider hopping off at Avoncliff, for lunch at the Cross Guns - next to the weir and aqueduct.
I've worked and studied in Bath. Really good job, WW!
One of the greatest British Cities!
Bath is a beautiful! The whole city is a World Heritage site. I would stress that you can't go into the bath because it's dangerous. It's been known to have dangerous bacteria, and also, it's lined with lead. The Roman bath complex is fascinating, and in the summer, the bath area is torch-lit in the evenings. The photos and videos that show the bath itself are almost universally known, but there is so much more down there. The engineering of the place is a real eye-opener. You learn interesting details about how the Romans used the baths for religious and social purposes. The Mayor's free walking tour is very good. It meets right outside the entrance to the Roman baths. The buskers around the city are lovely. It's wonderful to sit with some picnic food and enjoy the music and the atmosphere of the city. You've noted the beautiful Georgian architecture, and it is truly gorgeous, and I'll note a correction, if I may. The architecture of the Roman baths is also Georgian, not Victorian, as you said it is. And those Jane Austen fans you see walking around in period dress are wearing Regency clothing, not Victorian. I think it's nice to have the correct information any time you visit a place. I loved my time in Bath!
Such an amazing city and yes....do not pass up the chance for a day in the Cotswolds too. I love Bath and would recommend it as a must visit to anybody heading to England.
Speaking as a nearby resident, even I don't drive or park in the centre. Stay outside and use the park and rides, they are very convenient.
I realise this was probably filmed a while ago, but get yourself down to Wells, just a short drive south. We'll make you welcome. Watch Hot Fuzz first though! 😉
The greater good
We took a tour to bath and Stonehenge. When we got to bath we didn’t have a ticket to go in the baths !!?? We skipped the walking tour. I walked over and asked how long to go in as there was a long line. The guy at the front said “we had two people no show, so you can come right in because that line is groups “. So lucky. We were the only ones in the small tour that actually saw the baths.
Great video. Love Bath! There is a Premier Inn in the center city, save money by staying there. And make sure to visit the Bath Brew House, wonderful brewery and restaurant - great place to meet local Bath residents
Really liked your presentation and valuable suggestions!
Another museum that's well worth a visit is the American Museum quite close to the centre of the city. An easy taxi ride for example and of particular interest I think to visitors from the USA.
Visited Bath couple months back as a day trip from London. Idk if you tried the steep climb behind the bus station to Alexandra Park for wonderful views of the city. Its one of the best hidden gems in town. I'm told there's an easier way to get there, which there obviously is but we took the hard one haha.
But if you take the tough route, take a couple of oxygen cylinders with you. Its like a Dutch staircase level incline. Gorgeous city.
I actually booked my tickets to the Roman Baths online while outside the queue haha. It'll be fine.
Loved the Royal Crescent and the Circus. Some place to buy a house lol.
I saw my fav cafe in your video several times! The Bath Bun! They have a wiltshire ham and white cheddar sandwich w/ butter on a baguette that I dream about! Had it twice when we were there in May!
I used to live in Bath and honestly really miss it - despite it being one of the most expensive places in the country to live. It's a really beautiful city, and I'd move back in a heartbeat if I could.
A few years ago I stayed in a hotel in Bristol, and used the park and ride to get to Bath. You get a lot more hotel for your money in Bristol.
Top tip, don't bother with a car, the public transport links in Bath are excellent.
Just went there last week and agree. Stayed at the University and bus service is great. Leave your car at home or at your hotel.
After 45 years in London, I'd say Bath's public transport utterly sucks. All you have is buses. Then again, everything is relative and compared to any US city/town of that size I guess it's good.
Great video. I'm from a small town called Cheltenham which isn't to far away. I visit as often as I can.
I went there 50 years and I loved seeing the Baths and just walking around Bath.
It has changed a huge amount since the 60s/70s
Also don’t think that Southgate place is named after Gareth Southgate. But also don’t forget to buy a 70% hot chocolate from Mrs Potts chocolate house!
The bell tower tour at the abbey was a highlight of my time in Bath!
It is a lovely, safe town.
having lived less than an hour from Bath for 50+ years we visited the roman baths for the 1st time this year and it was well worth it .
Parking - use the park and ride sites. It’s so easy.
Bath was built for horses and carriages - not cars.
My top tip is to hire a bike (or bring one with you) and ride between Bath and Bristol on the "Bristol and Bath Railway Path". It's an old railway line which has been converted to a leisure path for walking and cycling. 15 miles long and completely separate from all roads. Aside from one or two crossing points you won't see a car the entire way.
Loving the advice Walter. 👍😊🇮🇪
Good review. I cycle into Bath fairly often. Thanks for mentioning trains and buses as Bath is already choked with cars.
As someone who grew up in Bath, I was always told that Sally Lunn Buns were Bath buns. Interesting to see that other establishments are selling different "Bath buns"!
Bradford-on-Avon may be a cheaper option for accommodation, it's 4 stops by train or a scenic bus ride.
One stop, usually, from Bath Spa - only the odd train stops at Avoncliff.
My little sister went to uni in Bath and we were lucky enough to visit her on many occasions in the beautiful city. She was a student whilst they filmed the first season of Bridgerton. Haven’t watched it myself but it’s a reference many non-Brits seem to understand when I tell them about Bath.
I did a bus day trip from London to Bath. I’ll always remember the Roman coins in the museum with the straight Roman numerals etched into them. I love ancient history 🇺🇸❤️🏴
Bath is amazing! Went there last September.
I live in Bristol and we are so lucky to have Bath 15 min away and Cardiff 45 min away (by train). My favourite day trips on my days off :)
And the Thermae Bath Spa (with the rooftop pool) in Bath is such a great experience with amazing views of the city and the best thing is that kids aren't allowed, so you can enjoy it in peace lol
Bath is a nice place to visit at Christmas time too.
Very timely, Wife and I are headed out in about 5 weeks to Bath. We plan to spend 5 days before we head out to Portugal & Spain.
Bath is a day trip, maybe 2 at best. I'd recommend going to London, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Brighton, Manchester, or somewhere in Cornwall instead.
@@IllusionistBeatsOfficial Rubbish.
What a beautiful area. I enjoyed this video. 😊❤
We recently did a tour of Bath and the region. Our tour guide recommended The Huntsman for lunch - which looked fine - but they we having staffing issues when we arrived, so they weren't serving food. Just a block away at the corner of North Parade and A3039 is a terrific vegetarian restaurant called The Green Rocket. The have light and highly creative fare in a causal atmosphere.
Tip: Whilst in Bath (or Bristol) get a train up the valley to Bradford on Avon. Visit the tithe barn and the Boat pub. Ramble up the K&A canal. Also try Bath city centre pubs.
Took the train into Bath yesterday with my bike, then came home down the K&A, crossing two aqueducts. A lovely day out.
But as a person who grew up mostly in Frome and also read a lot of Jane Austen, and was desperate to try the *waters* in the Pump Rooms. The *waters* are really very bad - I am convinced that people thought they were healthful just because they tasted awful.
I do recommend the honey crumpets though.
Definitely use the park and ride if you can its much cheaper.
Also if you don't like it crowded do not visit during the Christmas market. Although I will say that for most UK cities, York being a particularly stressful experience.
The wishing well at the baths is now contactless. A CONTACTLESS WISHING WELL!!!!!
Bath is awesome;easy train from London.
There are lots of parking spaces, it's just very expensive. Try Charlotte Street Car Park, over 1000 spaces. There are also many multi-story car parks, you just need to know where they all are, as they are not easy to find. I recommend The Salamander for a pint of Bath Ale. Hudson's for a good steak.
Hudsons is a stone's throw from us but we much prefer Herd. Old Green Tree is the best pub in Bath.
Yeah but you can be stuck in traffic for ages trying to get into the city centre.
To be honest, Bath very much fits the American stereotype of posh and classy Britain, rather than what most cities are like, it can quite easily be done in 4-6 hours on a day trip (even by spending £29 to look at a green pond with a contactless wishing facility), but I would definitely recommend Bristol more - a gem that doesn’t get anywhere near enough tourists (but I’m bias)
I recommend the river trips from Bath.
Bath has three Park & Rides. Best to use them at busy times - cheap and stress free!
Go to Avebury rather than Stonehenge. It is older and you can walk in the stones. You can also do a walk in the lovely countryside nearby
You can walk amongst the stones of stonehenge as well on solstice days.
I would like to see you do a Livestream with World According to Briggs, and hear you guys talk about all the places you've been to.
Briggs is a joke 😂
In years gone by we traveled carrying local currency but not now days as we rely heavily on the plastic fantastic (Qantas Card loaded in local currency mostly) so no folding stuff. Not all cabbies accept credit/debit cards. We got caught out by not asking when we caught a cab from the train station back to our B&B late one night last Christmas. The driver was very understanding and waived any fee. Lovely chap.
All reputable cab companies around Bath and Bristol take cards. There has been a big change since Covid.
My biggest "do": make sure you get up in the hills and suburbs around Bath. This is when you realise just what a nice city it is in all directions. The very epicentre of the high street can have its chavy moments, just like any UK city.
'Climbing up on Solsbury Hill'.... 🙂
Going over the hill to dundas aqueduct is a beautiful short walk. Cycling through the railway tunnel is even more fun
Visited there twice when I was stationed in the UK 85-89.
Unless you enjoy feeling like you are in a theme park do not go in June, July, August or September when you will see more tourists than locals.
Don't skip the Lake District the next time you are here, trust me Mark it is peak England!
That would be the Peak District, surely?
@@wessexdruid7598 not even close
I most include Bath in my next trip to Europe 🥰 .
P.S. Now I know the reason for your happiness - being surrounded by beautiful women 👍. Gorgeous wife , beautiful mother - dream come true 😉 ( not forget your awesome boys ) .
Ahhh man you weee 20mins away from us 😢
I live near here!
Hello Mark's Mum! 👋 😁
Mark, you should have added that the water in the Main Bath was closed because of an organism that is in that water which can find its way into the brain causing death. Swimming was allowed up to the 1880's until they started having deaths and put the water under investigation. The other public baths there are safe, just not the old Roman main bath.
He said you don’t swim in that one.
@@tomg_2 He did but he really did not give the reason why. Its like the little girls toy should have probably been destroyed for her own safety.
Swimming stopped in 1978 because a bacteria was discovered in the water in the Kings Bath and sadly a girl died. Also at a similar time a lady swimming in the Kings Bath, now kept at a much lower water level and having had the central fountain removed, was burned very badly because against advice she went too close to the source of the Spring. The Roman Baths has never been open to the Public like normal swimming Pools it was only open a few evenings during the Bath/Mid Somerset Festival and was restricted to advance ticket holders and adults only. My parents went certainly once and maybe twice.
Back in the 1960s the local swimming pool, Beau Street Baths, now the site of the Therma Spa complex, The Cross Baths, The Technical Collage opposite the Beau Street Baths, the Royal Mineral Hospital which no longer exists and the Sports Centre Pool in North Parade Road built in mid to end 1970s were and are supplied with the warm water from the natural springs. You can also still taste the Mineral water in the Pump Rooms which form part of the Roman Baths Complex.
@@britasmith8008 The Min (Royal Mineral Hospital) still exists - but the NHS have moved out and it's being turned into a luxury hotel & spa.
@@wessexdruid7598 it does not exist as a working remedial hospital as it was when I lived in Bath.
Hey Mark, awesome video
Don't feed the seagulls ! - Don't they evil , they evil !. I love you Walter🤗 you made me laugh ☺
2 more adds, Don't forget to Look up. . .along the streets on the buildings above the ground floor you may see chunks out of the "plaster". The city decided NOT to repair the damage of bullet holes from German planes strafing the city in it's attacks during WWII. You can easily see how close the residents were to being killed. Also, don't laugh at the "funny dressed people. I will be one of them. Dressed in Regency (Jane Austin) attire or Victorian (Dickens era) attire, myself and friends add color to your walk. Bring the feel of the old world while you promenade the walks. Like Rodeo folks wear their hat s& belt buckles to their specialized events, we like to wear our attire to honor the literary and historical events in the city of Bath. Just ask for a picture we don't mind at all. Take the memory home with you and smile.
I had the privilege of learning to swim as child in the untreated spa waters, in the Cross Baths. Fond memories of snow falling on my head and the dread of getting out into the fridgid air. The unfortunate death of a bather closed the baths to the public in 1978, when a bather died from an amoeba-borne illness that she contracted from the water.
I have also been privileged to have lived in the City my whole life, but the cost of that privilege has risen so much that my wife and I could no longer afford to buy the house that we own.
I have question for you, Mark:
Why do you visit the UK so frequently? Is there anything in particular that you admire?
I'm moving there myself to study, work and live next year but I would like to know your thoughts
Have friends and family there so fun to visit
Hi. Just to say sorry but I’m going to be pedantic but you keep mentioning Victorian in the same sentence as Georgian … 2 different eras. Georgian is literally during the reigns of Georges I to IV (with the Regency era - the period most associated with Jane Austin - during the end of George III’s reign when his son, the Prince of Wales, was made Prince Regent to carry out the duties of Monarch while his father was incapable during his mental illness - he later became George IV upon his father’s death). Victoria was after George IV (with George IV’s younger brother, William IV in between). Again, sorry for being pedantic. 😊
I kept shuddering too. If you're going to set yourself up as an authority, a basic understanding of the subject is necessary to avoid looking like a dork.
To understand a place, you must understand its history.
use 'park and ride' and get the bus into the city, much easier. :)
Yes it is **hilly**
Don’t forget to experience Bath on a rugby home fixture day. An electrifying experience seeing the city swarming with rugby fans wearing the blue, black and white of Rugby RFC.
@@neilbridgeman7768 perhaps one to avoid if you don’t like crowds
Rugby fans are not like footie fans... 😀
Just want to give a big shoutout to my friend Maxwell, owner of Colonna and Smalls. It is the best coffee you’ll have, like best ever.
Fun fact: it's the birthplace of the founder of Bed Bath & Beyond.
The angels climbing downwards on the 'Jacob's Ladder' sculpture on the Abbey aren't meant to be fallen angels, Lucifer, anything like that, but just angels descending to Earth to collect souls for Heaven. They do look somewhat creepy in the way they're crawling, though!
The first don't of visiting Bath, is don't pronounce the city's name the same way you pronounce the object bath ;)
Regarding cars - don't. The city HATES cars. Extortionate parking prices and a confusing one-way system that will funnel you through bus only entrances that come with hefty fines will make you regret it big time.
I speak as an ex-resident who lived there for 20 years. I now live an hour away and rarely visit as it's so much trouble.
Don't miss an opportunity to see The Theatre Royal. It's such a charming venue.
It's "Barth". Or to be truly local, "Baarf".
Bath was built in a time long before cars. My first wife's job was in the centre of Bath - the commute was an hour, but half an hour for the last three miles. And that was in the mid-80s.
Visit LJ hugs behind the abbey! Amazing street food
Wow I didn’t know they had Baths there
Now you know where they got the name from, the ancient Romans.
I've lived here for eight years, now in a sleepy village a few miles north on the Avon. Summers can be a drag because it's so busy so I avoid the centre.
TOP TIP - The mayor provides free tours every day. They take a couple of hours and are packed full of interesting facts. The guides will be offended if you try to tip them, a big no no. Just book a slot online and meet up outside the Abbey.
ANOTHER TOP TIP - The Abbey/Cathedral is free, but just to make sure, go in when there's a service on, God never charges for a chat and will give you free tea and biscuits at the end.
❤❤❤❤
Lived there for a few years. My biggest don't is "Don't take the back roads to get to the city. Use A roads to get there". The number of times I've been driving normally on country lanes and found someone driving a great big rental car obviously petrified when anyone even drives the other way. It's dangerous and unnecessary. Use the A road, there are clearly marked lanes and no passing places. Kthxbai.
Did you miss the Bath narrowboats?
Don't take a shower; take a bath.
What? Why on earth! I lived in Bath for 20 yrs and visit regularly, last a couple of weeks ago and always have showered with zero problems.
Do go on the Ghost Tour xxx
This is definitely a fave of mine, but I can't believe the public baths aren't covered. They are wonderful and the view from the top outdoor pool is something to behold. It isn't that expensive to go, but do book ahead. There is something to that water too...my skin is always clear of blemishes and super soft after a visit to the baths.