Trains are great, and cars are convenient, but nothing beats a good old fashioned walk. Especially when that walk is around one of the most picturesque cities in the country.
Bath is so pretty and historic that the entire city is a UNESCO heritage site. Yes, all of it. Well, most of it. The point is, there’s a lot to see, and all of it is good. Most people know that, though, but what they might not know is that the area around the city is equally – if not more – scenic.
And that gorgeous countryside does not go to waste. Bathscape, which oversees the natural landscape in and around the city of Bath, has developed a 20-mile long walking route for those who want to get a bit of fresh air in their lungs without deviating too far from society. The route is called Circuit of Bath and divided into four sections, so you don’t have to do it all in one day if you’re not that intense a hiker.
Because it’s a circuit, where you start and end is up to you. Yep, it’s a choose your own (guided) adventure. And it is free to do whenever you please.
You can do Bathscape’s new route on your own, self guided by signs on the trail, or as part of a group or sponsored walk. It even passes through some historical landmarks and, of course, a couple of pubs to pause and get some energy back. You’ll also get some cracking views of the city, as well as the nearby countryside, which has apparently been known as particularly ‘therapeutic’ for centuries.
If you do want to do the walk as guided by its creators you’ll have to wait a bit, because the next two-day walkathon isn’t until May 10 next year. Although it’s better to get it in the diary now so you have time to prepare, physically and mentally.
You can learn more about the walk, or the other routes that Bathscape offer, which begin as short as one or two miles, here. If you’re looking for some likeminded walkers, Bathscape also hosts walking groups which you can join on their website.
Time (to get) Outdoors
We understand the allure of the great outdoors, which is why we have specialised guides to the country’s best wild swimming spots, the best natural wonders in the UK, the most exciting extreme outdoor activities, and our nation’s prettiest beaches.
Did you see that two British destinations have been named the ‘most underrated’ in the world to visit in 2025?
Plus: The UK’s poshest suburbs have been named – do you live in one?
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out UK newsletter for the latest UK news and the best stuff happening across the country.