10 of the best free things to do in Bath in 2023

27 January 2023

Bath is a city bursting with attractions, and many cost nothing to experience. From parks to historical buildings, family activities to incredible architecture, there are countless ways to enjoy the city without spending a penny.

Here’s our rundown of 10 of the best free things to do in Bath in 2023:

  1. Visit Bath’s new World Heritage Centre. Find out what makes Bath a UNESCO World Heritage site and learn about its fascinating history at this brand new visitor centre on York Street – free entry
  2. Gaze up at Bath Abbey’s incredible fan vaulted ceiling. It’s free to take a peep inside Bath’s most famous landmark, it’s 1,200-year-old Abbey. You’ll be gobsmacked by the beautiful stained glass windows, monumental stone columns and sheer scale of the interior.
  3. Spend an afternoon at Victoria Art Gallery. While tickets for special exhibits cost £7 per adult, entry to the permanent collection is free. The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, and you’ll find it on Bridge Street.
  4. Browse the exhibits at the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution (BRLSI). An educational charity with roots dating back to 1824, the BRLSI has an extensive and fascinating collection of books, artefacts and fossils. The exhibits are free, and you can also attend expert talks and lectures from as little as £2.
  5. Have a family day out in Royal Victoria Park. Bath’s grand park was opened by Princess Victoria (the future queen) back in 1830 and has remained a popular spot for leisure, picnics and even hot air balloon rides ever since. There’s 57 acres of beautiful green space to explore, along with tennis course, an adventure playground and 18-hole mini golf course.
  6. Join a free walking tour. Learn all about Bath’s rich history and architecture on a free tour with the Mayor of Bath’s Corps of Honorary Guides. They take place daily, and you don’t need to book in advance. Check timings here and then just turn up at The Pump Room.
  7. Take a self-guided Jane Austen walking tour. Download the free ‘Footsteps of Jane Austen’ audio tour and map, and you can step into the famous writer’s life in Bath. This fascinating self-guided tour takes you around highlights of the city, and includes extracts relating to Bath from Austen’s letters and novels. Find out more here.
  8. Tackle the Bath Skyline Walk. This 6-mile circular route takes in spectacular views across the city and the countryside beyond, including meadows, hidden waterways, forests and historical landmarks.
  9. Cycle the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. This 13-mile cycle-friendly route connects the two cities, and there are even interesting places to explore along the way. Highlights include the Willsbridge Mill nature reserve and the Avon Valley Railway.
  10. Take the kids to Bath City Farm. This popular visitor attraction  and charity is the perfect day out  for families, and it’s free entry (although donations are welcome). It has farm animals, woodland nature trails, a children’s playground and a fabulous cafe.

Planning a trip to Bath? Check out our beautiful self-catering Bath apartments in the city centre, with options to suit every group size and budget.