The UK is home to some incredible cities – two of our favourites being Bristol and Bath. Even better, it takes less than 20 minutes to get from one to the other on the train and it’s just a 40-minute drive between the two. In fact, they’re so close to each other it’d be rude to explore one and not the second. So, what are you waiting for? Travelling alone? Find your next free weekend, book a day off work and scroll through our 3 day itinerary for Bristol and Bath. Or maybe you’re looking for a party house with a hot tub for you and your friends.
Day 1 – Bristol
Morning
The best weekend breaks always start nice and early so you can make the most of your time. After arriving in Bristol, drop your bags at your accommodation and then head straight to Bristol Cathedral. Founded in 1140 and originally called St Augustine’s Abbey, the Cathedral has hosted daily prayers since the 12th century. It’s free to enter and a gift shop and cafe are on-site. Just a 10-minute walk away, you’ll find Cabot Tower – a memorial of John Cabot’s quest to cruise from Bristol in search of a route to Asia. It’s set in beautiful greenland and there’s 109 steps to the top.
Once you’ve taken in the views, head over to Bristol Museum and Art Gallery – which is just 5 minutes away. There really is something for everyone here including Egyptian mummies, wildlife remnants and world-renowned art and pottery.
Afternoon
After a spot of lunch at one of Bristol’s best-loved eateries, it’s time to head to Clifton – a popular suburb and one of the oldest parts of Bristol. Clifton is ideal for a wander and boasts lots of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. You’ll also find one of Bristol’s most famous attractions – Clifton Village and the staggering Clifton Suspension Bridge. From here, take the short walk over to Clifton Observatory which offers stunning views of the bridge and nearby countryside.
After a day in Bristol city centre and beyond, it’s likely you’ve worked up an appetite so why not head for some food and drinks? Or cosy up in your private accommodation and order food to go…
Day 2 – Bristol
Morning
Bristol’s streets are home to plenty of shops – whether you’re looking for high-street fashion names or something a little quirky. While the city has lots of attractions to be ticked off your list, one of the best ways to see its true beauty of it is to wander around aimlessly. Grab a coffee and treat yourself to something new!
At 11.30 am every Thursday to Sunday, there’s a guided tour along Bristol’s Saxon town walls that takes visitors to the historical sites of the city as well as Banksy’s artistic hotspots. It takes about 2 hours in full and only costs £8 per adult – and it’s a great way to get to the heart of Bristol. After all that walking, why not head into St Nicholas Market? Bristol’s oldest and most popular market boasts several different food stalls, including delicious street food. Monday even offers a vegan market day! Grab a freshly baked pastry and rest your feet or sit down for a leisurely lunch before heading back out in the afternoon.
Afternoon
One of the best things about Bristol is how much there is to see and do for all ages. But don’t worry if you’re concerned about missing out on bits as there’s lots of tourist bus tours and walking tours around the city. Alternatively, you can explore on your own. To kick things off, head slightly out of town to Tyntesfield House – a Victorian-Gothic property owned by the National Trust. Wander through the gardens, adventure around the house and discover everything there is to know about William Gibbs – Britain’s richest non-noble.
Then, it’s time to go back into the city – with a 10-minute drive to the Great Western Dockyard. Here, you’ll find a docked SS Great Britain launched in 1843 and was the largest ship in the world at the time. Next on your list needs to be Spike Island – an innovative and interactive space that allows all ages to experience the unexpected and learn something new. It showcases work from over 70 individuals and organisations and is one of the most impressive exhibitions. Just along the river, you’ll come to M Shed Museum, a museum dedicated to Bristol – a must-see for your trip.
We recommend staying close to the harbourside and heading to Cargo Wapping Wharf for dinner. All the food stalls are housed in shipping containers and there’s even some independent shops to browse while you wait for your food! You might even find a bar with live music – the perfect end to an evening.
Day 3 – Bath
Morning
It might be your final day but don’t worry; we’ve got a packed itinerary for you. Bristol and the city of Bath are just 12 miles away from each other, and the train only takes about 12 minutes. Don’t worry if you’re driving, as it’s just as easy to reach. Once you’ve arrived, head straight to the Roman Baths – an ancient religious spa still houses some Roman artefacts. Once done, head to the Thermae Spa for a 2-hour session in the pools, steam rooms and sauna. There’s even a rooftop pool which is filled with Bath’s naturally warm and mineral-rich waters.
Dried off, head just a few minutes walk to Bath Abbey, which has been in situ since 757. While the Abbey has been through many religious and architectural reforms and survived two World Wars, it still stands tall today. From here, wander up to Pulteney Bridge and Pulteney Weir. The weir was built in 1603 to stop the city from flooding and has now become an attraction in its own right.
After all that exploring, you’ll be spoiled for choice if you’re ready for lunch. But if you’re looking for more things to do, there’s Holburne Museum and its fine art exhibition, the beautiful Sydney Gardens which Jane Austen frequented, and even the Jane Austen Centre. For a lunch to remember, why not visit Sally Lunn’s? It’s one of the oldest houses in Bath!
Afternoon
Tummy’s full, it’s time to walk it all off with a wander to The Circus – an impressive piece of architecture that was completed in 1768. Rumour has it that everything you say will echo if you stand in the middle of the buildings. From here, head to Royal Crescent – a beautiful selection of houses built in a crescent shape. There’s even a museum which offers regular events and workshops. And, if you’re looking for one more thing to do before returning to your accommodation, the Fashion Museum Bath is ideal for fashionistas of all ages.
So, there you have it. A 3-day itinerary for seeing the best of Bath and Bristol. But hang on a sec; you need somewhere to rest your head. Well, don’t worry because we’ve got that covered too. From romantic lodges to family-friendly cottages, our range of accommodations has something for everyone – and each property even comes with a private hot tub. That’s right – your 3-day trip to Bristol and Bath got even better…