A Weekend Getaway in Bath: How to get here, where to stay and where to eat
Bath has long been a destination for a weekend away. Only 1hr 15 mins on a direct train from Paddington, with a busy city centre that’s also just minutes from the rolling Somerset countryside, it offers a perfect UK escape.
Getting here…
From London
Train: The fastest and most convenient option is the train journey from London Paddington Station. Direct trains take just over 1 hour and 15 minutes and depart almost hourly.
Coach: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider taking a coach from various London locations, such as Victoria Coach Station. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, but you can often find discounted tickets online.
Car: Driving from London takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and The Yard has bookable parking.
From nearby Bristol
Train: For a quick and comfortable journey, hop on a train from Bristol Temple Meads station. The journey takes a mere 11 minutes, making it a breeze. Trains run frequently throughout the day.
Bus: Take a scenic journey on a bus from Bristol Bus Station. The X39 takes about an hour, offering a chance to admire the surrounding countryside.
Car: Driving from Bristol is the most flexible option, taking approximately 35 minutes depending on traffic. While it’s the most convenient, consider parking costs within the city centre.
Beyond London and Bristol
Bath is well-connected to other major UK cities by train and coach networks. Use online journey planners like National Rail Enquiries (https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/) or National Express (https://www.nationalexpress.com/) to explore options from your specific location.
Where to Stay…
For a truly relaxed, comfortable and stylish stay, we just happen to think The Yard in Bath pretty perfect. The hotel is housed in a thoughtfully restored historic building, offering a blend of traditional charm and modern comfort. With a focus on interesting and stylish rooms, friendly staff, and central location, The Yard is the perfect base for exploring the city. For those looking for a stay outside of the city centre, The Pig is beautiful and a short 20 minutes drive into town.
Where to Eat…
Bath’s culinary scene caters to everyone.
- Beckford Canteen is a recently opened restaurant that is committed to using fresh, local ingredients and is located on one of the prettiest streets in Bath. Its sister restaurant, Beckford Bottle Shop, is 2 minutes away and is half wine bar and half small plates restaurant. Both are delicious!
https://www.beckfordcanteen.com/ & https://www.beckfordbottleshop.com/ - The Walcot, offers the perfect setting for a cosy romantic evening. Their bar has a chic, grown-up feel, with brilliant wines, cocktails and nibbles – perfect for a pre-dinner drink. Their restaurant at the back of the building is definitely worth a visit too https://www.walcothousebath.com/
- Landrace, Bath – an institution for foodies visiting the city. Champions of local, quality produce, the cafe come shop offers the best coffee and buns in Bath, while the newly extended Landrace Upstairs offers lunchtime and evenings diners some of the most best food in Bath https://landrace.co.uk/
You can read our Guide to Restaurants in Bath here.
Activities
Day 1: Start your day with a visit to the Roman Baths, a fascinating glimpse into Roman life in Britain right in the centre of the city. Next, explore Bath Abbey which is just next door, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the Victoria Gardens towards the beautiful Royal Crescent and The Circus.
Day 2: Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history with a guided walking tour, we have a wonderful, friendly and very knowledgeable guide we work with who can be booked for private or group tours.
Day 3: Plunge into the pools and saunas at Thermae Bath Spa, a spa complex built in the centre of town using Bath’s natural thermal spring water.
Getting the most your of your accommodation:
The Yard in Bath offers additional perks to enhance your stay with us. Enjoy a delicious breakfast in our charming courtyard, or unwind in our cosy bar with a handcrafted cocktail and selection of small plates. We can also help you arrange various activities and experiences, ensuring a truly unforgettable long weekend.
So, pack your bags, book your stay with us, and prepare to be charmed by the beauty and buzz of our city.