
When in Bath, do as the (future) Bjørkmanns would…
Breakfast
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Kingsmead Kitchen
Kingsmead Square is one of the best places for breakfast (and lunch). They serve the breakfast menu all day, so it’s our go-to spot especially if you’re battling a hangover or craving eggs from midday onwards.
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Wild Cafe
Wild Cafe is an old classic spot that’s down a super cute, cobblestone road. Inside is very cosy, so you may have to wait a moment as they also don’t take bookings. Nicholsons have frequented this spot for more than a decade.
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Green Bird Cafe
Green Bird Cafe is a lovely spot up near the Circus and Royal Cresent, so its perfect if you want to stop somewhere on your way to see the sights
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Boston Tea Party
This location sits at the top of town and earns a crown when considered next to its smaller location in Kingsmead Square. This location has a big, bright and tall-ceilinged space that welcomes you with the smell of coffee and brunch.
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Cafe Lucca
Description goes hereHip eatery & cake bakery inside a shop with modern daytime fare & afternoon tea plus a terrace.
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Good Day Cafe
Sometimes it can be tough keeping up with all the new independent openings across Bath, but this one caught our attention with its everchanging seasonal menu.
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The Ivy
If you want a fancy cocktail with your brunch, this is a great spot. You can find breakfast classics as well as a traditional full English.
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Green Rocket Cafe
Dining with, or consider yourself, Veggie or Vegan? Come here! When Alena interviewed at Bath Spa Uni, she and Lara stayed in the apartment above. Been coming here ever since (even as non-veggies).
Coffee & Cake (or Bread)
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Colonna
If coffee were a religion, this would be the chapel. Formerly Colonna and Smalls, this coffee shop is No. 1 in Bath, won Best Coffee Shop in Europe in 2016, and sits among the best in the world. They take part in coffee competitions, collaborating with industry experts, scientists and inventors from many different fields… all while running their airy and light shop in Bath.
Stop by for a brew and take some beans (or their very own pods) home. if you’re obsessed with all things coffee, these are your people.
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Landrace Bakery
Landrace is a bakery, a restaurant upstairs & a flour mill restoring a regional community of speciality grains & beautiful ingredients. Its probably one of the most upand coming spots in Bath, featured in the Michelin Guide 2024 for their food and freshly baked treats. We recommend a cardamom bun and a coffee to go.
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Society Cafe
Society Cafe(s) have been a coffee and cake staple for us throughout our time in Bath. Offering 2 locations around town, we specifially love their Kingsmead Square spot. If the weather is nice, you can get some great people watching in alongside a fantastic coffee. They’re a family-owned business which makes shopping independant easy (if not preferred).
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Mokoko
Mokoko hits two birds with on stone, coverig both as indepandant coffee shop and bakery that serves Bath from 3 different locations. They’re a wonderful bunch and are invested in sustainability and quality. If you’re heading out for a walk or bike ride, we recommend taking one of their amazing sourdough sandwiches to go.
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WatchHouse
WatchHouse was born inBermondsy, London… but Bath became their first location outsid of Bath. They offer a contemporary coffee experience for those on the go or wanting to sit and enjoy. Thy do have a s all but tasty food menu and have some lovey seating upstaids. Plus, they are also dog friendly.
Tour
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Roman Baths
Situated on top of a natural hot spring, the Roman Baths were originally constructed between 60-70AD in the first few decades of Roman Britain. The presence of the baths led to the development of a small, prosperous Roman settlement named Aquae Sulis. The Roman Baths were in use until the withdrawal of the Romans from Britain in the 5th Century and were already in ruins by the next century. The crown jewel of Bath tourist attractions this really is a must.
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Royal Crescent
This crescent of 30 terraced houses is arguably the most iconic of all the crescents in the UK, and one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture. Having featured in countless film and television productions, the Royal Crescent is one of the most famous landmarks in Bath and great for a little stroll conveniently located next to the Jane Austen museum and Victoria Park.
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Circus
Similar to the Royal Crescent, this unique example of Georgian architecture really stands out amongst the many sights in Bath. Originally called the King’s Circus, this historic ring of townhouses was built between 1754-1769. In the centre of the circus you will find a mighty oak towering over a brass circular plaque - if you stand in the middle and speak or shout, you’ll be able to project a powerful echo.
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Holburne Museum
Starting life in 1799 as the rather grand Sydney Hotel, the grand three-storey building was converted to the Holburne Museum in 1916 to house the extravagant collection of art and historical relics amassed by the eccentric collector, Sir Thomas Holburne. A minor noble, his collection of over 4,000 Chinese, Italian, Persian and British cultural artifacts and paintings was bequeathed to the people of Bath in 1882. The collection has withstood the test of time and the museum now also hosts exhibitions of contemporary artists such as the famous Grayson Perry and David Hockney. Well worth a visit.
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Bath Abbey
The Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, colloquially known as Bath Abbey, was originally founded in the 7th century by Benedictine monks and rebuilt in the 12th and 16th centuries. The abbey as we know it in all its glory today stems from the restorative works carried out in the 1860s. It’s a truly beautiful example of gothic architecture and right next to the Roman Baths so you can get a double cultural whammy within just a few feet of each other.
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Jane Austen Museum
An immersive museum dedicated to Jane Austen’s life in Bath, its location on the famous Royal Crescent make it worth a visit if you’re a Jane Austen fan or just fancy a dose of that 19th century Pride and Prejudice life.
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Pulteney Bridge + Weir
Built in 1774 in the Palladian style, it has been designated as a Grade I listed building and along with the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence is one of the last merchant bridges still in operation in Europe with plenty of small quaint and independent shops along its length. Strolling across its span with a cop of coffee and taking in it the architecture is a must.
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Prior Park Garden
If you’re a fan of Palladian bridges, this is definitely PRIORity visit (see what I did there). Prior Park is a beautiful and intimate 18th century landscape garden at the top of Bath with one of only four Palladian bridges found in the world. The garden offers the opportunity for a delightful stroll through the expansive grounds with some fantastic views of Bath along its pathways.
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Royal Victoria Garden
One of the main parks in Bath, the Royal Victoria Park is overlooked by the Royal Crescent and covers a large section of the city. One way to enjoy it would be to start at the Jane Austen Museum, take in the Royal Crescent and then go for a jaunt through Victoria Park. Bonus points if you get an ice-cream in the sun.
Bike + Walk
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Canal Path to Cross Guns
This is our favourite bike ride to do on a beautiful summer day. The views are magical along the canal path, and you’ll see the famous Dundas Aqueduct, a high bridge for canal boats. From Bradford-on-Avon, you can park and take a 20-30 min walk. From Bath, we recommend you start the bike ride near the Holburne Museum, and it will take around 45 minutes on an electric bike one way, then the same coming back of course. If you choose to walk, it will take 2 hours out and anotherw2 hours back.
We usually rent e-bikes from Bath EBike Hire but if you’d prefer to go manual, we can also recommend Green Park Bike Station. Make sure to pack sunglasses, sunscreen and plenty of water!
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Bath Skyline Walk
One of the most popular walks in Bath, the skyline walk takes you to views high above the town. Imagine Bath’s Valley, a bowl; now, picture yourself walking uphill from the bottom, reaching the rim of the bowl and being able to peer back down into town to admire its World Heritage Site beauty. There’s a reason the whole city is protected, and this walk will give you a whole new perspective.
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The George Inn Pub Walk
One of our favoured pub walks, on the slightly shorter side, starts behind the Holburne museum in the gardens. Follow the main path up to a small gate next to the bridge that allows you to access the path next to the canal. Now just follow the canal along for about 45 minutes and take in the quaint eccentricities of the narrowboat dwellers that live on the canal and the beautiful views of Bath from the side of the valley. Keep going until you start hitting some cute and delightfully British cottages and a little further on your left by the church you’ll come on the George for a very welcome pint.
Afternoon Tea
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The Pump Room
Classic tea spot built into the Roman Baths, that’s usually accompanied by live piano. You can also take a sip from the built-in drinking fountain serving hot spa water. Containing 43 minerals, it has a rather unusual taste!
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The Ivy
Colourful and fun, The Ivy makes for the perfect tea spot that is right in the centre of town. The interior here really ads to te experience.
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Sweet Little Things
This is a casual girls-girl spot, but it's also fantastic for anyone needing vegan or gluten-free options. Prepare for all things pink. PS: dog-friendly.
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Royal Crescent Hotel
Another classic tea spot, and if weather allows, you could sit in their garden while sipping English Breakfast.
Shop
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Finisterre
A Cornish-based brand, first discovered by Joachim while studying in Falmouth, has now become a staple in the Nicholson family, too. Find sustainable adventure and leisure wear. Hunting for a rain jacket, shorts or a wetsuit? Find all of the above at Finisterre. Bonus points if you find Taren Stormes Martino (yes, his real name) working there. Tell him we sent you.
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Magalleria
Here’ you’ll find the most incredible colleciton of independant and niche magazines. They claim to have one of the largest stashes you’ve ever seen. You’ll cover topics such as life, culture, art, fashion, design, lifestyle, maps, guides and more
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Always Sunday
Always Sunday is independatly owned and ful of well-curated goodies for the home. They espcially like to collaborate with local artisans that adds a unqiueness to what you’ll find.
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Botanica Studio
If you’re not travelling internationally and have a bit of a green thumb, this is the perfect spot for you. Botanica Studio will have you dreaming abut how you plan to expand your current plant collection.
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Topping & Company
It is probably one of the most magical locations for this independent, family-run book seller, which can also be found in Edinburgh, Ely, and St Andrews.
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Beckford Bottle Shop
Are you at the top of town (or on foot) and looking for a bottle of wine? Look no further. If you’re hungry, you can also stay for food or take a few steps south to the Beckford Canteen.
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Paxton and Whitfield
Say CHEESE! Bath is lucky to have 1 of the four shop locations in the UK, let alone the world. This London-founded cheesemonger will have something up your street, and you can by as much, or as little, as you want. Walking cheese slice, anyone? Be sure to check if their famous truffle brie is in stock…
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Great Wine Co
If you’re south in town or near the train station, you can pop into this wonderful wine shop formerly known as Great Western Wine. They’re serious wine people, have parking, and can sort free shipping on orders over £50. Plus you can get 10% off orders of 12+ bottles.
Restaurants
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Scallop Shell
Quite possibly will be the best fish and chips (and scallops) you’ve ever had in your life. Booking ahead is highly recommended.
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Beckford Canteen
This is a really lovely lunch spot that has both (air-conditioned) indoor and outdoor seating on top ofbosting an airy space. Set in a former Georgian greenhouse, Beckford Canteen offers delicious food made with produce from the South West. Also, these guys are featured in the Michelin Guide 2024 for high quality and good value for money.
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Jars Meze
A cosy Greek restaurant in a small alleyway that makes you feel at home with delicious, sharable small plates or fantastic mains.
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Menu Gordon Jones
Experience contrasting flavours, textures and temperatures with English, Indian and Asian influences. MGJ serves some of the finest food you can find in Bath, delivered in a surprise tasting menu. The location is a bit odd, but worth the trip. Booking is required, and they can sometimes be difficult for allergies; call ahead and enquire. Also featured in the Michelin Guide 2024 for creative and complex dishes.
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The Circus Restaurant
The Circus is a wonderful restaurant located just off the very famous and picturesque “Circus”, a historic ring of large townhouses. The Circus prides itself on a seasonal menu based on produce sourced as locally as possible. Great for a dinner where you really want to treat yourself.
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The Elder
Another fabulous restaurant which has sent ripples through the Bath culinary scene is The Elder. Housed in a beautiful Georgian townhouse, the elegant and atmospheric dining rooms create a wonderful dining experience enhanced by a thoughtful and painstakingly prepared menu. Much of the produce and game comes from the owners local estates and the cocktails are fantastic. We highly recommend it.
Pubs
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The Raven
A pub that’s so down for a good time, the pub landlord asked Keir Starmer to leave over Covid Lockdown policies. They’re a family-run pub serving real ales and local pies at big wooden tables inside 2 Georgian townhouses. In the summer, chances are you’ll be drinking a pint in the street to enjoy the weather. If we had to tell you one pub you had to visit, this would be it. PS: the pub recently became dog friendly, therefore increasing revenue opportunities from us.
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Hare & Hounds
🏆 Sunday Roast-Worthy
This spot requires a car and sits atop the most beautiful view of the land that surrounds Bath. You’ll feel on top of the world with a fabulous pit and some food if you’re hungry. This spot is also dog-friendly, Poppy approves.
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Pulteney Arms
The Pulteney Arms is what you would call a “proper local boozer” where a bloke named Bert who mumbles unintelligibly to himself in the corner and seems to have grown roots attached to the barstool has been drinking for the last 25 years and has a brass plaque dedicated to him. It is still Bath after all, so it is a posh proper local boozer with a great atmosphere and friendly bar staff. Worth a visit for a swift pint if you find yourself with a thirst for real ale (or whatever you should desire) on Great Pulteney Street.
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Marlborough Tavern
🏆 Sunday Roast-Worthy
The Marlborough Tavern is an absolute Bath classic and must visit if you’ve got a hankering for a proper British Sunday roast (and a jaunt past the Royal Cresent). Fair warning - it’s so popular that a booking is warranted, but you won’t regret it!
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Town+House
🏆 Sunday Roast-Worthy
Set in a historic Georgian building and situated at the top of town, the Town+House pub offers a delightful dining experience. They put on live music, are dog friendly, and also offer a reat spot to escape the crowds for some lunch, dinner, a pint or even cocktails.
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The Crystal Palace
The Crystal Palace is a lovely, quaint pub located right in the centre of Bath on Abbey Green, right next to the shop that was used as the setting for “Modiste” in Bridgerton.
Bars
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The Dark Horse
Our favourite bar in Bath, this dark little den full of little nooks and crannies does the best cocktails in town hands down. Located very centrally in the lovely little Kingsmead Square, it’s the best place in town to escape and have a good time in atmospheric and moody surroundings.
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Opium Bar
Styled on a 19th century Chinese opium den, Opium Bar is a charismatic and atmospheric cocktail bar just off Pulteney Bridge. Superb little spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the main parts of Bath, and their drinks are excellent to boot.
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The Bath Distillery Gin Bar
This establishment specializes in Gin and they do a marvelous job of it. Showcasing local Bath gin, they also have an excellent selection of other worldwide gins - always buzzing, it is a great place to start a little bar crawl right next to the Raven.
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The Hideout
If you have a craving for whisky, then The Hideout is your spot. They have an incredible assortment of whiskies from all over the world and do some superb whisky-based cocktails - but don’t worry, they do expertly crafted drinks as well. A proper little hole in the wall, space is at a premium but it’s a friendly and welcoming establishment.
