The Top 5 Best Things to See and Do in Bath, England
#5 - Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
As you wander through Bath, you will notice that it is quite an old city, especially by American perspectives. However, did you know that you can walk inside and have a meal within the oldest house in Bath? The Sally Lunn House allows you to partake in history while enjoying breakfast, lunch, or dinner… and tasting the original Bath Bun. The house is from 1482, but Sally Lunn (known as Solange Luyon) didn’t move into the house until 1680. Solange Luyon was a French girl who moved to Bath as an assistant for a bakery. It was at the bakery that she created a brioche-like bun that she sold on the streets of Bath. Word got out about her concoction and she became quite well known in Bath. Because her French name was hard to pronounce, she later became known as Sally Lunn. You can see where it all happened and literally “taste” history. Just be sure to make reservations ahead of time, as it gets quite busy.
Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Average Cost: Varies based on what you order
#4 - The Jane Austen Centre
To all my Austen fans, this is a dream for you! At the Jane Austen Centre, you will feel like you’ve stepped into the Regency Era. Of course, Bath will feel familar to you because Jane Austen was inspired by the city of Bath to write some of her most notable novels. Here, you can dress up, write with quills, learn the history of the author and Bath while she lived her from 1801-1806, try traditional food, and more. You will see letters, clothing, and portraits of the Austen family while you walk through the experience. Very fun, even if you’re not a fan of Jane Austen. Be sure to pick up a “I Love Mr. Darcy” pin on your way out.
Hours: 9:45 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Average Cost: £14.75
#3 - The Pump Room
Speaking of Jane Austen, this is an area she frequently made appearances at, and it should not be missed on your travels to Bath. Technically, this building was created in 1706, but it was completely reconstructed in 1796 just above to Roman Baths. This is the place where the wealthy elite would come and take to the waters because it was believed they had healing powers. You can sample water from the fountain just as they did a couple centuries ago. Just be prepared… it has a “special taste.” Book reservations for their afternoon tea and listen to the live music being played, just as they would have when Charles Dickens paid a visit to the Pump Room. You won’t regret it!
Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Average Cost: Varies depending on what you order
#2 - The Crescent
Like mentioned earlier, the wealthy elite during the Regency era flocked to Bath to take to the waters for healing properties. And where did they stay while on their visit? Here at the Crescent - a gorgeous piece of Georgian architecture arched in the shape of a crescent moon. It was built between 1767-1775 that was composed of 30 terraced homes. This was a place to see and be seen during their time. Today, you can see the outside of the building…. but, if you’re lucky (and rich), you can stay there at The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa, which is what it is mainly used for today.
If you think you’ve seen it before, you probably have. It has been used as a filming location for countless movies and television series.
#1 - The Roman Baths
You cannot go to Bath and not see the Roman Baths! It’s literally what the city is named after. Long before aristocrats took to the waters in the 18th and 19th centuries, this area was founded in 43 CE when the Romans defeated Britain. They used this area for Roman baths to worship the goddess Minerva - the goddess of sacred water and healing. You can still walk near the baths and walk around the old temple where the Romans worshipped. During your tour, you can spot some coins, artifacts, and pottery found during excavations. You can also get an idea of what life was like during this ancient period in Roman Britain.
Hours: Summer (9:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.); Winter (9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.)
Average Cost: £26
