Set into the rolling hills of southwest England, Bath is an airy and picturesque city surrounded by nature. When taking the train into Bath Spa Station, the view over the landscape is often commented on by travellers!
Sustainable travel helps the city retain its unique atmosphere and double-UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription – a rare and valuable status. The city has a compact layout and is very pedestrian-friendly, yet getting into the natural landscape is simple and cost-effective.
Whether you’re taking a day trip, enjoying a weekend citybreak or taking a longer cultural stay, getting to and around Bath is easy and sustainable.
Arriving in Bath: Travel by Train
One of Bath’s greatest strengths is its excellent rail network. Bath Spa railway station is located right at the heart of the city, just a short walk from many shops, restaurants, attractions and other transport links.
Direct trains connect Bath to major cities like London, Bristol and Cardiff, making it easy to travel without a car. From London Paddington station, for example, you can reach Bath in around 90 minutes. It’s faster than driving and more relaxing.
The train station itself is a heritage building and an example of ‘spa architecture’. Its elegant style has been the first impression of Bath for many visitors over the centuries.
Choosing to travel by trail doesn’t just mean making a more sustainable choice and reducing your carbon footprint. You can enjoy the scenic views as you approach the city, arrive stress-free and step right into the historic city centre without parking or traffic on your mind.
You can buy train tickets online, via the GWR app or at the station you are travelling from.
A City Designed for Walking
Bath is wonderfully walkable. Many of its most famous landmarks, from the Roman Baths to the Royal Crescent, are within easy walking distance of each other. The routes from one attraction to another will often entail passing over other heritage landmarks. Crossing Pulteney Bridge, for example, takes you over one of the most photographed examples of Georgian architecture in Bath. Built in 1769 by renowned architect Robert Adam, it is one of only four bridges in the world to have shops across its full span on both sides, making it an architectural and historic marvel.
There’s much more to discover: hidden courtyards, galleries and alleys full of independent shops, as well as countless scenic viewpoints along the way. Walking is convenient, but it’s also the best way to enjoy Bath’s charm.
An Easy Park and Ride
Bath has three Park & Ride services situated on each side of the city, each to suit motorists approaching from all directions. These operate seven days a week and buses run into the city centre from all three Park & Ride sites up to every 15 minutes, with a journey time of only 10 minutes.
All Park & Ride services operate until 11:30pm Monday-Saturday and until 6:00pm on Sundays and Public Holidays. All buses are fully accessible for wheelchair users and pushchairs.
We advise all visitors to consider using one of Bath’s Park & Ride services to save money on parking charges, avoid the stress of driving in the city centre, and help improve air quality.
Convenient Bus Services
Bath has many regular buses that run across the city, as well as to neighbouring towns and villages.
Bus and coach stations are located in the heart of the city, so you’ll be perfectly placed to start exploring as soon as you arrive.
Visitors can pay for tickets on board from the driver on all buses, or in advance using the First West app. All buses in the city accept cash and contactless card payments, but the latter is preferred.
You can find out more about Bath’s various bus routes and timetables on the First Bus website.
Note: With a GWR Plus Bus Pass you can get unlimited travel on all trains and most buses in Bath. You can buy a daily, weekly or monthly ticket for use any time, any day.
E-Scooters
You will also find e-scooters at designated parking areas around the city centre.
Sustainable Travel in Action
The city is now operating a Clean Air Zone in the centre. Private cars are not charged in the zone and you may be able to apply for an exemption or discount if you’re travelling in certain motorcaravans. However, the Park & Ride services offer an alternative to driving and help reduce carbon emissions which damage the town’s buildings and environment.
Bath has made clear efforts to promote sustainability and reduce congestion in its historic core. Traffic restrictions in central areas, improved walking routes and investment in cycling infrastructure all help protect the city’s heritage while enhancing the visitor experience.