First time in Bath? There are a probably a few things already on your list such as, admiring the Georgian architecture, visiting the Roman Baths, relaxing in our amazing spas and spa hotels and soaking up the literary haunts of Jane Austen and Mary Shelley. But there's even more to learn about Bath as a first-time visitor, let us help guide you to make the most of your inaugural visit.

Get to know Bath

On a first visit to Bath, it's a good idea to get to know the city and who we are. Head to Bath World Heritage Centre which celebrates Bath’s unique cultural offering as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and gives an insight into what makes the city so special.  

Tours are also a great way to get to know a city and in Bath you really are spoiled for choice. Make life easier by checking out all the tours and sightseeing options in Bath.

Bath has it's fair-share of must-see attractions and sights, we've pulled together some handy lists to help you choose which ones to visit first. Check out the Top Ten Things to do in Bath

If you are visiting Bath for the first time in 2024, then take a look at our round-up of 24 Things to do in Bath in 2024

Bath’s History

Bath's history is, without a doubt, remarkable. With an impressive Roman legacy and stunning Georgian architecture, it’s no wonder the entire city is a World Heritage Site. Find out more about the city's history and visit our special and historic sites.

Delve into Bath's incredible history

Spas and Wellbeing in Bath

There’s definitely something in the water here in Bath. In 2021, Bath received an exceptional second UNESCO inscription, as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe.

There is archaeological evidence that suggests that there was human activity around the hot springs on which Bath is built as far back as 8000 BC. Much later, in 863 BC, according to legend, Prince Bladud founded the city of Bath around the hot springs. Today, you can bathe in the same mineral-rich thermal springs that soothed the Romans 2,000 years ago at Thermae Bath Spa.

Find out more about spas and wellbeing in Bath

Literary Bath

Countless authors have found inspiration in Bath over the centuries, most notably Jane Austen. There are many chances to enter Austen’s world and that of her Regency romances in Bath, including at the dedicated Jane Austen Centre.

If gothic literature is more up your street, don’t miss Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein. The atmospheric attraction reveals the author’s complex past as well as the story behind the world’s favourite monster.

Discover more about Bath's Literary Heritage

Incredible places to eat and drink

Bath’s exceptional food and drink scene has gained the city a reputation as a delectable destination for a foodie break. On a first visit you'll want to try all the tasty treats we have to offer, perhaps you fancy partaking in afternoon tea in Bath? Bath is the ideal setting to indulge in a quintessentially English afternoon tea.

It's not only afternoon tea that we do well here though. We have michelin-starred restaurants, incredible restaurants, cosy cafés, chilled out bars, thriving local producers and passionate artisans. 

Discover more about Food and Drink in Bath

Bath on Screen

Perhaps you are visiting Bath for the first time as you've been inspired by your favourite film or TV show that was filmed in the city such as Bridgerton or Wonka? Bath has long attracted directors and producers eager to feature the city’s stunning Georgian architecture and surrounding manor houses and countryside on both the big and small screen.

Find out all about what's filmed in Bath and filming locations here

Sleep Bath style

Find your home away from home in Bath with a fantastic array of hotels, guesthouses, cottages and more. 

Find out more about where to stay in Bath here.

Festivals and events

Bath serves as a stage for a packed calendar of events throughout the year, so no matter when you have decided to visit for the first time, you're sure to find something going on. Perhaps you might want to catch a show and experience Bath's live music, theatre, and comedy scene, or attend one of our many festivals. If you are visiting Bath at Christmas, don't miss the Bath Christmas Market.

For a full calendar of events in Bath head to our what's on page.

Plan your trip

To get the very best out of your visit to Bath, let us help you work out the details. Our wealth of resources and information make getting to (and around) the city simple, fuss-free and enjoyable. Check out our FAQs from visitors, maps to help you navigate and travel information, plus more

We also have an extensive accessibility guide to help you get familiarised with accessibility in Bath. Head here for more information.

Need more inspiration for your trip?

If you still need more inspiration for your visit then head to our blog. There are hundreds of articles to browse to find out all you can about Bath and what you may wants to do, see and visit whilst you are here. 

Discover the Bath for you on our blog