Bath with the Family: What to Do, Where to Stay and How to Plan It
Bath attracts over 6 million visitors each year and is consistently rated as one of England’s best destinations for a family city break. The attractions are varied, the city is compact and easy to explore on foot, and there is more than enough to fill three or four days. Here’s how to plan a family trip to Bath.
What to Do with Children in Bath
The Roman Baths is the obvious starting point, and it genuinely appeals to children. Audio guides are included in the admission price, with a children’s version narrated by Michael Rosen featuring Roman characters. It is available in English, French, German, Mandarin and Ukrainian. Younger visitors can also follow Hoot the Owl on an activity trail around the site. Adult tickets start from £20, and booking online saves £2 per ticket. Children accompanied by a full-paying adult can enjoy free entry with a Blue Peter badge.
Royal Victoria Park is Bath’s main green space. Just a 15-minute walk from the city centre, it offers a large playground, a boating pond and the Royal Victoria Park Botanical Gardens. It’s an excellent place for children to burn off some energy between sightseeing.
Bath Abbey welcomes families, with entry by suggested donation. The fan-vaulted ceiling and medieval stained glass make a lasting impression, while tower tours are well worth booking in advance if you’re visiting with older children.
The Fashion Museum in the Assembly Rooms is often overlooked by families. Its extensive costume collection spans several centuries and includes interactive displays and dressing-up opportunities. The Museum of Bath at Work provides an engaging look at the city’s industrial history and is equally enjoyable for curious children and adults.
Getting Around with Children
Bath’s compact city centre is one of its biggest advantages for families. Most major attractions are within a 15 to 20-minute walk of each other, and much of the centre is pedestrianised. Pushchairs and prams are easy to use throughout most of the city, although the cobbled streets around the Roman Baths require a little extra care.
Where to Stay with a Family in Bath
Trim Street is our most family-friendly property. Studios are ideal for smaller families, while the one-bedroom apartment offers separate sleeping and living areas. The two-bedroom penthouse sleeps up to six guests and includes a private roof terrace, making it an excellent choice for families wanting extra outdoor space. Every apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, giving you the flexibility to prepare meals instead of eating out every day.
Westgate Apartments offers studios with sofa beds available on request, making them suitable for smaller family groups. Cots are available at both properties. Please let us know when booking if you require one.
Tips for Visiting Bath with Children
- Book Roman Baths tickets online in advance to save £2 per ticket and secure your preferred entry time during busy periods.
- Visit Royal Victoria Park in the morning, when younger children have the most energy. It’s only a short walk from Trim Street.
- Join one of Bath’s free walking tours if you’re travelling with older children. They provide fascinating insight into the city’s Georgian architecture.
- Enjoy afternoon tea at the Pump Room with older children. The Jane Austen connection and live classical music make it a memorable experience.
