Steeped in thousands of years of fascinating history and boasting postcard perfect vistas, plus a thriving foodie and style scene, Bath is a gorgeous town nestled in the undulating hills of the English countryside. A short one and a half hour train ride from nation’s capital, it’s also a breeze to get to. So if London is on your honeymoon wish list, a few days in Bath could be a delightful addition to your itinerary.

To do

No matter whether you’re a foodie couple, stylish pair, sporty duo, or tired twosome in need of a post wedding pamper session, Bath is bound to offer an activity or two that you and your love will adore!

Take a stroll

One of the loveliest ways to enjoy Bath is by spending a few hours simply strolling along its beautiful streets, while ticking off some of the must-sees along the way. Head to Pulteney Bridge for a photo stop, before making your way across the bridge to see the lovely array of florists, art stores and clothing shops which line each side.

A visit to the architecturally beautiful Bath Abbey is another essential experience and includes the chance to see stunning glass windows, beautiful ceiling work and elaborate woodwork, all the while being immersed in hundreds of years of history.

Roman Baths

Of course, no visit to Bath would be complete without visiting its namesake attraction – the truly visionary original Roman Baths, located in the heart of town. Take a self-guided audio tour around the original mineral baths, spas, plunge pools and treatment rooms of this well-preserved ancient marvel and discover more about the Roman culture, customs and way of life.

Thermae Bath Spa

Spend a blissful afternoon luxuriating in the naturally warm mineral waters at the renowned Thermae Bath Spa. Book a spa pass to enjoy two hours of decadent relaxation, including access to the jaw-dropping rooftop pool which offers 270 degree views of the city and beyond! After an outdoor dip, venture below to the Wellness Suite to enjoy an infrared sauna, refreshing visit to the ice chamber, rainforest showers and multiple steam rooms. In need of extra pampering after your big day? Pre-book a couples massage after your spa session and enjoy fifty minutes of pure relaxation.

Down to the river

On a sunny day, wander across the Pulteney Bridge and up to the Bath Boating Station to take a punt on your boating skills! Depending on your sense of adventure, opt to canoe, row or even punt your way along the picturesque River Avon, before returning to the dock and enjoying a well-deserved drink or meal at the adjoining Bathwick Boatman Restaurant. Dine inside or enjoy a glass of bubbles alfresco in the simply sublime garden area, while watching the boats go by – perfect!

Dining

From casual bakeries to gastro pubs and Michelin star dining, Bath is a gourmet go-to that has something for every palate and budget.

Breakfast – Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House

Part roll, part brioche, the eponymous Sally Lunn bun is an intrinsic part of Bath’s gastronomic history, so it seems fitting to start the day at this delicious establishment! Set over two levels, complete with grand fireplaces and a rickety staircase, Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House is one of Bath’s oldest homes, dating back to the 1400s. Order the decadent cinnamon butter or fragrant lemon curd bun and a pot of Bath blend coffee for a sweet wake up call worth getting out of bed for.

Take home treats – The Foodie Bugle Shop

Lovers of decidedly English homewares, sweet treats, pretty stationery and dreamy interiors will adore the gorgeous store-cum-café The Foodie Bugle Shop, a Bath favourite. Step into this lovely space for a light lunch or sweet treat before browsing the shelves lined with neatly curated collections of local produce and kitchen delights, like gooey honeycomb, enamel mugs, plaid tea towels and artisanal chocolates.

Afternoon Tea – Burano Café

After a few hours of wandering along Bath’s delightful winding streets, alleys and avenues it’s time for an afternoon pick-me-up with a side of shopping! Tucked away behind the gorgeous House of Brissi homewares store, you will find a delightful walled courtyard café; complete with fairy lights, blooming flower boxes and cute wall installations. Order a mini Victoria sponge cake and a requisite pot of Earl Grey for a delectable (and Instagrammable!) afternoon tea.

Dinner – Hare and Hounds

A few minutes drive out of the town centre, the Hare and Hounds is a stately stone pub bolstered by sweeping hillside views and an impressive British menu. An essential stop for nature-loving foodies, this gastro pub serves up a modern-meets-patriotic selection of pub classics, mixed with more adventurous entrees and divine desserts. Plus, it’s an all-seasons location – opt to relax on the gorgeous back deck on warmer evenings or retreat to the cosy interior on cooler nights.

Stay

Blessed with an abundance of quality accommodation options, Bath makes a simply sublime honeymoon spot. Home to quaint guesthouses, grand heritage estates and trendy boutique hotels, this riverside locale has a home-away-from-home to cater to a variety of personal tastes.

Brittons Farm Estate

If butler-style breakfasts delivered to your room, quintessentially British interiors and verdant country vistas sound like your idea of honeymoon bliss, reserve a suite at Brittons Farm Estate; a rustic retreat located around 15 minutes from the town centre. Tucked away down a quiet country lane, this sprawling 1643 Jacobean property offers luxury accommodation set amongst 42 acres of manicured gardens and grassy meadows – complete with resident horses!

Choose a delightful room in the main house or select one of the luxuriously appointed suites finished with original stone walls, heated flagstone floors, deep soaking tubs, rain showers and lush bath products by The White Company. You will truly never want to leave!

All images by Anika Reynolds.

Ms Zigzag says: Bath was never on my travel hit-list… until now! It sounds so quaint and romantic, and I can definitely imagine strolling countryside enjoying the fresh air, digging into the quintessentially English fare and those natural baths! Thanks for the travel inspiration, Anika!