What to do in Bath while house and pet sitting

With its incredible history, beautiful architecture and laid-back, leafy feel, Bath is one of the UK’s most popular visitor destinations. It’s also a great place for pet sitting, as the city sits in glorious rolling countryside that’s perfect for dog walks.

Wondering what to do in Bath? Let us give you a few ideas. There are so many things to do in Bath that it’s really tricky to recommend just a few! 

Whether you’re a Janeite (a Jane Austen fan), interested in Roman history, or simply love shopping in unique and quirky little shops, you’ll find much to love here. No doubt you’ll find your favourite Bath attractions as you spend more time in this elegant town. 

Here’s our guide to what to see in Bath.

Bath attractions

Bath is rightly proud of its history and heritage, so naturally, it has a collection of wonderful museums telling its story. Here are a few of our favourite heritage attractions in Bath.

1. The Jane Austen Centre: an absolute must-visit for any fans of Jane Austen’s books (or anyone that’s enjoyed a TV or movie adaptation!). It tells the story of the city as well as its famous resident, and is an excellent glimpse into Georgian Bath.

2. The Holburne Museum: this art gallery combines permanent exhibitions with touring displays, and we’d recommend taking in one of their talks. 

3. Bath Abbey Pump Rooms: yes, this is a restaurant, but it’s such a Bath institution that it qualifies as an attraction! Enjoy afternoon tea in the sumptuous surroundings, accompanied by the gentle sound of piano music. Remember to “take the waters” at the famous fountain.

4. The Fashion Museum: another must-see for anyone interested in Bath’s social history. Discover fashions dating from 1600, housed in the elegant Assembly Rooms.

Free things to do in Bath

If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of free things to see in Bath.

1. Royal Crescent and The Circus: stroll around two of Britain’s most famous addresses, admiring the honey-coloured stone and the graceful Georgian architecture. Take a picnic and have lunch in one of the nearby parks.

2. Bath Skyline: for the best views of Bath, leave the city and head into the nearby countryside. This 6-mile, National Trust-managed trail takes you around the perimeter of the city, giving you a new perspective of the town and some wonderful views.

3. Pulteney Bridge: if you haven’t taken a photograph of this splendid Georgian bridge, have you even been to Bath? As well as admiring the bridge, make sure you get the chance for at least one riverside walk during your stay.

4. Markets, music and festivals: Bath is often busy with buskers, street theatre, food stalls, markets, events… Simply walk around, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

As well as these, we’d also suggest simply exploring the beautiful little streets, or getting out into the countryside just outside the city. You’ll find lots of lovely walks with stunning rural views, and you won’t have to pay more than your petrol and parking.

Fun things to do in Bath

What is there to do in Bath that’s simply good fun? There’s a really eclectic mix of attractions in Bath, and we’ve listed some of our favourite ones here:

1. Roman Baths: Bath’s most famous attraction is an awe-inspiring place to visit. This is where the Romans came to bathe and worship the goddess Sulis Minerva. It’s a look into Bath’s long history and the culture of the Romano British people.

2. Thermae Bath Spa: if you fancied having a dip at the baths (most definitely a no-no), book yourself a swim in this amazing place. If you can, try to swim in their outdoor rooftop pool, especially after dark. A real experience. 

3. Bath Distillery: visit the fascinating gin distillery, and pick up a bottle of Bath’s finest. Gin not your tipple? There are also breweries in Bath...

4. Bath Abbey Tower: the Abbey itself is one of Bath’s most beautiful buildings and should definitely be on your to-do list of what to see in Bath. If you’re feeling fit, take a tour up the 212 steps of the tower. You’ll be rewarded by the unique view over the rooftops of the city.

What to do in Bath with pets?

Bath is a great place to be a dog. This green city has so many lovely parks and open spaces, and there are riverside walks, too. Here are a few of the best things to do in Bath with a dog.

1. Royal Victoria Park: this lovely garden has dedicated dog walking paths plus some great areas for an off-leash scamper. Some dogs need a lot of walking, so luckily there are plenty of parks to choose from in Bath.

2. Bath Skyline Walk: so good we’ve listed it twice! This 6-mile trail is the best place to take an energetic dog who loves a long walk in the countryside.

3. Kennet & Avon Canal walk: pick up this lovely waterside path at Sydney Gardens and follow it alongside the canal. Look out for dog-friendly pubs on the way…

4. Hall & Woodhouse: speaking of dog-friendly pubs… This is a top spot for sociable canines. Dogs are welcome in the ground-floor Pantry area. Water bowls are provided on request, so you can both enjoy a drink.

5. The American Museum and Gardens: with its gorgeous grounds and exciting trees to sniff and explore, dogs love the American Museum just outside town. They can also join the humans on the Garden Cafe’s terrace.

Best restaurants in Bath: Food and drink

There are so many fabulous places to eat and drink in Bath, which has a great reputation for the quality of its food. From the famous bath buns to five-star dining, there’s a wide choice. Here are a few of the best restaurants in Bath.

Best restaurants in Bath for lunch 

Looking for a spot for lunch? Try some of these fantastic places during your stay.

1. Sally Lunn’s: make sure you have at least one lunch, breakfast or cream tea at this famous bakery, and try their legendary Bath Buns.

2. The Marlborough Tavern: a great city centre gastropub that offers a classic lunchtime menu. Their walled garden is one of the loveliest spots for an al fresco lunch in Bath, or find a table inside near the fire.

3. The Scallop Shell: this is a brilliant fish and chips restaurant in Monmouth Place, that serves the freshest fish in the crispiest batter alongside proper, home-cooked chips. It’s irresistible.

4. Woods: a real Bath favourite with a great lunch menu. Fancy a picnic? Call into Woods fabulous deli on your way.

5. Dough: there are two branches of Dough in Bath (The Corridor and Kingsmead Square), both serving the most incredible authentic pizzas.

Best restaurants in Bath for dinner

It was so hard to shortlist restaurants in this seriously food-centred city. Here are just some of the top restaurants in Bath for dinner.

1. Olive Tree: if you really want to treat yourself, head for this Michelin-star restaurant below the Queensbury Hotel. Dining in the Q Bar is a less expensive alternative that allows you to experience this splendid place.

2. The Grand Eastern: come here for amazing curries in an incredible setting. They also offer a takeaway service via Deliveroo.

3. Henry’s: this Saville Row restaurant is modern and elegant, with the most tasting menus. It’s also a good spot for lunch.

4. The Circus: a lively restaurant in a Georgian house between The Circus and The Royal Crescent. It serves delicious modern European food.

5. Corkage: this wonderful wine bar serves daily specials, alongside the most incredible wine list you’ll ever encounter.

We hope this has given you some insight into things to do in Bath, UK. It’s one of the loveliest cities in England, with so many attractions packed into a relatively small space. Spend the morning sightseeing, before tucking into a hearty meal in one of the many gastropubs, and enjoying a riverside stroll in the afternoon.

Dogs love hanging out in Bath’s many parks, or getting out and about in the Somerset countryside. If you’re sitting a cat, look forward to an evening snuggle after a busy day in town.

House and pet sitting in Bath

If Bath sounds like your kind of place, find out what’s available on our Find a House Sit page. There are adorable pets in Bath and Somerset just waiting to meet a trusted sitter like you. You’ll have a wonderful time making a new four-pawed friend, while finding out what to do in Bath, England.

If you’re new to the world of pet sitting, read our pet sitting blog post to find out more about this rewarding experience.