It’s already June and we’re all looking forward to warm sunny days just around the corner.
Now is the time to think about how to make the most of days off and long summer evenings.
And Bath is the perfect place to be – with so much going on this season.
Visit Bath has released a comprehensive guide to summertime in Bath for locals and visitors.
Here are some of the highlights.
Festivals
Bath on the Beach
Royal Victoria Park will once again be transformed into a Caribbean paradise this summer from June 14 to August 3. Be transported to a tropical nirvana at Bath on the Beach, complete with hammocks, cabanas, palm trees and volleyball.
Sip on cooling cocktails and enjoy Mexican street food at the Pura Vida Bar while you feel the sand in between your toes.
Entry is free. Beach volleyball is £10, while table tennis and boules are £5 for 30 minutes.
Pub in the Park
Tom Kerridge’s Pub in the Park returns to Royal Victoria Park for its second year from June 21 to 23 for three days of delicious food, chef demonstrations and live music.
Some of the best UK pubs will be serving up their tasty dishes alongside performances from the likes of Basement Jaxx (DJ Set), Gabrielle, Texas, Natalie Williams and the Soul Family, Will Young, The Bluetones and The Cuban Brothers.
Tickets start from £30 for adults and £20 for children.
Bath Carnival
Returning to paint the town a rainbow of colours, Bath Carnival takes to the streets on July 13.
With its exciting street procession of vibrant costumes, dynamic dance and lively music, the city turns into one big party, embracing all that carnival culture has to offer from all corners of the globe.
Sydney Gardens also plays host to a free Party in the Park, with music, workshops, kids’ activities and plenty of food and drink from 10am–10pm.
Alfresco Dining
Pub gardens
Boasting Bath’s biggest beer garden, The Boater’s weirside terrace is the place to be during the summer months.
Or escape the hustle and bustle at the Hare & Hounds, which is only a mile from town but feels like a world away with glorious views over Bath.
Located on the canal with delicious pub grub and an outside bar, The Locksbrook Inn is another popular summer spot.
The Bird, Bath has launched their new pop-up for the summer season, The Nook Garden. The perfect sun trap for sipping on cocktails.
They also serve food, including sourdough pizzas, summer salads and sweet treats on Friday evenings from 5 to 9pm and Saturdays from 12 to 9pm.
Alternatively, enjoy the lively atmosphere under the vaulted ceiling of Green Park Station as you tuck into pizza and a pint or prosecco for £10 at Bath Pizza Co.
New summer flavours
New for summer 2019, Noya’s Kitchen has opened their garden where they will be serving their seasonal, weekly changing lunch time menu of delicious Vietnamese dishes.
Meanwhile Koffmann & Mr. White’s has released a new menu bursting with fresh summer flavours. The new à la carte menu sits alongside the Prix Fixe menu, with two courses (priced at £14.50) or three courses (priced at £17.50) on both the lunch and dinner service.
They also have a new menu for their terrace where you can enjoy light summer bites in the sunshine.
Afternoon tea
Indulge in a quintessential British summer pastime by entering the tranquil gardens of The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa for a traditional afternoon tea.
The luxurious experience is £37.50 per person with a dedicated children’s tea at £19.50 per child.
Later, take in the city’s stunning skyline over a refreshing glass of Pimm’s on the rooftop terrace of Hall & Woodhouse and bring the evening to a close with a cocktail in Sub 13’s hidden garden.
Family Fun
Marvellous museums
Beat summer holiday boredom by taking a trip to one of Bath’s many marvellous museums. Meet costumed characters at the Roman Baths, dress up in Georgian finery at Fashion Museum Bath and get crafty at Victoria Art Gallery.
At The American Museum and Gardens, kids can embark on a trail, solving riddles and learning about American history (£2.50 per child in addition to normal admission).
It also offers a taster of the true summer camp experience with indoor and outdoor activities for all ages every Wednesday in August.
Get hands on
Little ones can get creative for free at The Edge with artist educator Victoria Willmott on July 6 and 20. Or throughout August, pop into No.1 The Royal Crescent to make an elegant Georgian bonnet or bicorn hat to take home.
Just outside the city, Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park is the perfect family day out with animals, tractor rides, play areas and much more to keep kids entertained. Standard entry is £10 per adult and £10.50 per child.
The Great Outdoors
Get active
Explore Bath on two wheels with one of Wild Swim Bike Run’s guided cycle tours (from £25 per person). They are led by friendly, knowledgeable guides and suitable for individuals or groups of all levels.
Experience the tranquility of the Kennet and Avon Canal at a relaxed pace by hiring a Bath Narrowboat for the day. Each boat holds between six and ten people.
For an outdoor activity with a difference, paddleboard along the River Avon with Original Wild (from £18 per person). Or try one of their other unforgettable experiences including raft building, canoeing, kayaking, climbing and abseiling.
Pack a picnic
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to scenic spots for a picnic in Bath. Pick a shady spot beneath a tree in Royal Victoria Park, admire magnificent views over the city in Alexandra Park or enjoy a spread in the sweeping valley of Prior Park Landscape Garden.
Summer Romance
Complete spa experience
Thermae Bath Spa’s Twilight Package makes for the ultimate summer date night. Take a soak in the Minerva Bath, stop for a light dinner in the Springs Restaurant and watch the sun go down from the rooftop pool. Entry costs £92 for two adults.
Immerse yourself in history with a torchlit visit to the Roman Baths followed by dinner at The Roman Baths Kitchen. The Roman Baths takes on a magical atmosphere once the daylight fades, the crowds disappear, and the flickering torches are lit. Tickets cost £49 per adult.
Go big
For a breathtaking experience, book a balloon flight over Bath with Bailey Balloons or Bath Balloons (both from £110 per person). Feel the exhilaration as you take to the skies while enjoying stunning aerial views of the city below.
Staying in Bath
Meet your budget
Conveniently located in the city centre and recently refurbished, YMCA Bath offers affordable, family-friendly accommodation from £14 for a room.
There are a variety of self-catered options like Panda Sanctuaries’ stylish holiday homes (from £80) or, just 15 minutes from Bath, Fern Cottage offers family hospitality, fresh local food and plenty of space for little ones to run free (from £75).
Go all out
For a luxurious stay, book into Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa, a grand country house a short drive from Bath (from £320).
Or Grade II listed and set within 20 acres of private grounds, Bailbrook House has stunning views over the city and the surrounding countryside (from £95).
