There’s already a huge choice of fantastic walks in Bath, from the Bath Skyline circuit to routes along the Kennet and Avon Canal. It’s why the city and its surrounding countryside is such a popular spot with walkers, hikers and outdoor adventurers.

But there’s now a new and improved walk to discover. The Circuit of Bath hiking route is a waymarked 20.5-mile circular route all the way around the city. It’s been painstakingly improved across every section by the Bathscape project, in conjunction with Cotswolds National Landscape. 

Dan Merrett, project manager for Bathscape, told the Bath Echo:

“This is a significant milestone in our project and one of which we are very proud.

“Through our project partner, Cotswolds National Landscape, we have made physical improvements to the route including installing waymarkers and we now have trail guides ready to use, splitting the route into four sections.

“Walkers can really challenge themselves whilst experiencing the best of Bath as a landscape city.

“We’re grateful to the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens and Bath Ramblers for all their work and to the players of the National Lottery, which are funding the project.”

About the Circuit of Bath route

If you want to get to know Bath and its surroundings from every angle, this is exactly the right walk for you. It takes in almost every one of the city’s best features and landmarks, including Little Solsbury Hill, the Dundas Aqueduct and Beckford’s Tower. 

You’ll walk alongside rivers and the Kennet and Avon Canal, explore woodland and valleys, and discover charming villages such as Woolley, Bathampton and Monkton Combe. It’s a hugely diverse and fascinating route, which is simply beautiful in all seasons. 

Walk the whole route on 25th September

To celebrate the improvements made to the Circuit of Bath route, there will be a sponsored walk taking place on Sunday 25th September. It’s part of the Bathscape Walking Festival, a popular annual event attracting keen hikers, walkers and families from miles around. 

The aim of the walk is to complete the whole of the circuit in one day, a challenge that will prove irresistible to most hiking fans. However, the walk has also been divided into four more manageable sections. These are:

1. Lansdown to Batheaston
2. Batheaston to Brassknocker Basin
3. Brassknocker Basin to Odd Down
4. Odd Down to Lansdown

This means you can tackle as much or as little as you like, and shuttle buses are on hand for those who finish each section. 

The funds raised on the day will go to local homelessness charity Julian House. The charity will also be there on the day providing checkpoints, water, snacks and toilet facilities. You can sign up to take part in the sponsored walk here. 

And make sure you have somewhere to rest those weary feet after the walk. Take a look at our city centre Bath apartments, but make sure to book early as we’re expecting the city to be busy during the Bathscape Walking Festival.