Top 10 Walks in Bath
Bath might be a bustling city, but there's surprisingly a lot of open space to enjoy a walk alongside the water or in the stunning countryside. Whether it's a bright summers day or bitter winter morning, we've put together the Top 10 walks Bath has to offer - perfect for all year round!
Whether you're aiming to improve your fitness or just looking for somewhere to give the dog a walk, here's our list of our top 10 walks in Bath we believe are worth doing!
1. Prior Park Landscape Garden
About: Situated in the heart of Bath just off Ralph Allen Drive, escape from the city and step into a beautiful, nature filled countryside setting at Prior Park. The trails around the park guide you through forest wilderness, featuring wild garlic, snowdrops, daffodils and other seasonal flowers.
At the bottom of the park sits a lake with one of the only four Palladian Bridges in the world. Prior Park makes a stunning walk, for all ages (and dogs!)
The walk is around 1 mile (1.6km), however if you take the path up to the top of the park, you can carry on beyond Prior Park and head towards Alexandra Park for a much longer stroll. The top of the hill also offers stunning views over Bath City.
Note: It is owned by the National Trust so there is a charge.
Location: Ralph Allen Dr, Bath BA2 5AH. Click here for more information
2. Dyrham Park
About: Dyrham Park is a true treasure, and although it's based 9 miles north of Bath, it's definitely worth the short drive. Sat in 274 acres of parkland, Dyrham offers endless walking opportunities as well as wonderful views across Bath and Bristol as well as the formal gardens at the back of the house.
The walks can be varied, but on average, to see the main parts of the park it is 2 miles (3.5km). Note: It is owned by the National Trust so there will be a charge.
Location: Dyrham SN14 8HY. Click here for more information
3. Alexandra Park
About: The 11 acre Alexandra Park is slightly less known than the other parks in Bath, but it's definitely not one that you'll want to miss out on.
Situated at the very top of Bath, the park offers breathtaking panoramic views over the city and is a huge hotspot for photographers, tourists and locals alike.
Enjoy a picnic, dog walk, or just admire the stunning cityscape whilst taking in the gorgeous countryside at the same time. Entry is free and parking is free in the car park.
Location: Bath BA2 4RQ. Click here for more information
4. River Avon Trail
About: Everyone knows Bath for the beautiful weir and the famous Pulteney Bridge that sits on the Avon. But have you ever thought about how stunning a walk along the River Avon would be?
We can tell you now, it's absolutely lovely - especially in the summer! The River Avon Trail begins at Pulteney Bridge, and ends at the other side of Bristol (so plenty of walking to be had!)
Location: Bath BA2 4AT. Click here for more information
5. Royal Victoria Park
About: Royal Victoria Park is a favourite amongst many for a reason. With the 57 acres of land, there's plenty of walking to be had there.
The Botanical Gardens is a must; the beautiful seasonal flowers, trees and shrubs are picture perfect. Take a picnic with you too to enjoy after your leisurely/tiring walk (we'll leave which up to you!)
There is limited car parking at Royal Victoria Park, however Charlotte Street Car Park is just around the corner.
Location: Marlborough Lane, Bath BA1 2NQ.
6. Bath to Bradford on Avon walk
About: Now...we know what you're thinking. Bath to Bradford on Avon is a LONG way - so this is for the keen fitness finatics!
This 10 miler is ideal for walkers as it takes you all the way along the beautiful River Avon, passing many little villages and pub stops for a rest if you need one. But rest asssured - if you don't feel up to such a strenuous walk, you could just follow the path to Bathampton (around 45 mins) and then catch a boat along the river back.
7. Bath Skyline
About: Similar to Alexandra Park, Bath Skyline offers just what it says in the name...stunning skyline views across Bath and the surrounding countryside.
With 6 miles of ancient woodland and meadows, it makes the ideal dog walking spot or family day out. If you're doing all 6 miles, ensure you're following the walk in a clockwise direction. Don't forget your camera - because you'll be snapping all day long at those stunning Bath views!
Location: Bath, BA2 6EN
8. Kelston Roundhill Walk
About: Dipping out of the city here, we head just north of Weston for the Kelston Roundhill Walk - an ancient barrow with beautiful views over the Somerset countryside.
It's been noted that on a clear day, you can even see across to the Severn Bridge and beyond! As part of the Cotswold Way, there are plenty of public footpaths to be followed so plenty of exploring to be had.
With rolling fields upon rolling fields, there's plenty of space to exercise the dog or have fun with the family!
Location: Kelston, Bath, BA1 9AG
9. Cheddar Gorge
About: Although Cheddar Gorge is about a 45 minute drive from Bath, it's well worth travelling for. Explore the ancient caves, take a look at Britain's oldest complete human skeleton (if you're brave enough!) and admire the beautiful scenic views over Somerset.
They're unlike any other views you'll see! Take a 4 mile stroll along the cheddar cliffs (dogs allowed) and admire some of the most spectacular natural sights you'll ever see.
Location: Cheddar Gorge, Somerset BS27 3QF
10. Great Chalfield Manor and The Courts Garden
About: If you're looking for a more relaxed approach to a walk, the stunning Great Chalfield Manor and The Courts Garden is ideal.
These are smaller National Trust estates compared to Prior Park and Dyrham Park, offering just the stunning formal gardens rather than the extensive estate land the others offer.
There is plenty of space for picnics and fun with all the family! Unfortunately dogs are not permitted at either of these locations.
Great Chalfield Manor Location: Great Chalfield, Atworth, Melksham SN12 8NJ
The Courts Garden Location: Holt, Bradford-on-Avon BA14 6RR
So there we have it! These are what we believe to be the Top 10 Walks in Bath! Have we missed your favourite? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @TotalBath!
