Thousands of people flock to Bath every year, but not just for the Roman Baths or the afternoon tea. Many come in search of breath-taking Bath Skyline walks, which take in views of the city as well as the beauty of the countryside beyond.

The route

The Bath Skyline walk route is pretty long, covering a total of 6 miles and taking around 4 hours to complete if you’d like to do the whole thing. It’s one of the National Trust’s most downloaded walks, possibly because it covers so much incredible scenery while just a short walk from the city centre.

Bath Skyline circular walks are for everyone, with easy to moderate terrain and perfect for both children and dogs. You can do just one section or spend the whole afternoon on the walk, it’s up to you.

The walk officially starts at Bathwick Hill, short distance outside of the city centre. However, the National Trust has put together a ‘Walk to the View’ route that starts at the Bath Tourism Information Centre on York Street.

The Bath Skyline – what to look for

If you’re worried about missing something on your walk, here are some of the best highlights of the route, with something for everyone:

• Claverton Down – this beautiful woodland spot is not only quiet and pretty, with some of the best panoramic Bath skyline views on the walk, but it also boasts a unique feature. The landscape is warped by the distinctive anthills of yellow meadow ants, some of which are over 100 years old.
• Sham Castle Down – an unusual castle built in 1762 from local Combe Down quarry stone, this impressive feature on the landscape is well worth exploring.
• Bathwick and Bathampton Wood – both of these woodlands offer a pleasant change of scenery during Bath Skyline walks. They may not have the cityscape views, but they do offer quiet, shade and lots of wildlife.
• Bushey Norwood – history and archaeology buffs will love this part of the walk, as Bushey Norwood is where the remains of early Roman earthworks and an Iron Age hillfort can be found.
• Rainbow Wood Farm – a great spot for families, this National Trust farm often has calves and young lambs to coo over in the spring.
• Woodland Play Area – another must-visit point on the walk for families, the play area offers open space, natural play equipment and some fun quirks too (look out for the faces in the trees!)
• Prior Park Landscape Garden – complete with extravagant follies and peaceful woodland, this 18th century garden is yet another welcome change of pace on your walk.

If this Bath Skyline guide has whet your appetite for a ramble along the outskirts of the city, make sure you secure a base camp for your adventures before heading to the city. We have a number of elegant Bath self-catering apartments and houses to choose from here at Bath Holiday Rentals, all within easy reach of the start of many of the area’s most popular walks and cycling routes.