I’ve always been an explorer, and one of the left unticked boxes on my list is to visit Bath. Since I don’t want to be alone, I called my cousins, planned our trip, and hit the road!
At first, they wondered why Bath? No deep explanations! It’s just that I am a sucker for ancient buildings. Those Gothic and Georgian architectures really hit me, and I feel like I’ll regret it if I don’t get to see the Roman Baths personally.
So, we explored different routes, and we’re sharing three routes on how to get there. Check out our day trip from London to Bath and see some great stops and activities to try all in one day!
When is the best time to go to Bath?
The best time to visit Bath is between May and June and September to October, as these months have decent weather and fewer crowds.
You can go to the Roman Baths and the Royal Crescent without any summer rush.
How long does it take to drive from London to Bath?
The drive from London to Bath typically takes between 2.5 and 3.5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 115 miles (185 kilometres).
Popular route options
- Via A4 and M4: The fastest option is to go via M4 and A4. It will take you through South Gloucestershire and is estimated to take 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Via M3 and M4: This is ideal if you want to pass by some cultural detours like Winchester or Salisbury, with an estimated journey time of 3 hours and 20 minutes.
What to do along the route from London to Bath
Visit Windsor Castle
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Address: Windsor
Just 30 to 40 minutes from London, you’ll arrive at Windsor. This is a worthy stop if you’re a history buff and royal fanatic. Plus, you don’t want to miss the oldest inhabited castle, Windsor Castle.
You’ll see St. George’s Chapel, where Prince Harry and Meghan got married. It’s also the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II and other monarchs.
The best part for me, though, is seeing the fancy interiors of the rooms and the artworks of Leonardo da Vinci.
Enjoy a peaceful stop at Forbury Gardens in Reading
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Address: Abbot’s Walk, Reading
For a peaceful stop, the Forbury Gardens offers a perfect location to stretch your legs. It’s a public Victorian garden with a huge statue of the Maiwand Lion.
You can take pictures of this iconic lion as it symbolises local pride and a historical landmark worth flexing. Aside from that, you can walk and see some ancient stone arches for a medieval life vibe.
Good things? You can enjoy and do all these for FREE! You can even picnic and have a quick snack or midday coffee on one of the benches.
Shop on the historic High Street in Marlborough
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Address: Marlborough
Did you know that Marlborough’s High Street is one of the widest streets in London? So you’d better take this opportunity to visit it and do some shopping.
This high street was originally built to cater to bustling markets, and it has served its purpose ever since medieval times. There are fashion boutiques, bookstores, and vintage shops where you can snag some local items you can’t find in London or Bath.
While shopping and walking down the alleys, take time to appreciate the historic atmosphere. The 18th-century inns and cobbled lanes will give you that unique experience.
Take a look at Avebury Stone Circle
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Address: Avebury, Marlborough
Been to Stonehenge? If so, then you’d better see Avebury Stone Circle, which is bigger and older than Stonehenge.
Unlike Stonehenge, you can actually walk around and touch the Avebury stones. You’ll also love the idea of walking through rolling hills and even some grazing sheep. Visiting it feels like a raw and very perfect place for self-reflection before going to Bath.
Less crowded and most especially, less commercialised, this place is 10/10 for a stop! It won’t take much of your time, but it’ll give you a refreshing drive afterwards.
Take pictures at Castle Combe
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Address: Chippenham
Talking about those honey-coloured stone cottages with a medieval bridge feels like a dream. But we’re telling you, you can make it come true by stopping at Castle Combe!
This village in Wiltshire is just 12 miles from Bath, so make sure to stop by to see that timeless English architecture. Make sure to take photos of the picture-perfect stone cottages with wooden doors and climbing roses.
Don’t forget to include the stone bridge with that line of cottages for an epic snap. Every angle is Instagram-worthy (no bad sides, really)!
Appreciate the medieval streets and the Salisbury Cathedral
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Address: Salisbury
Still in Wiltshire, but in the southeast part is Salisbury. Taking a quick look at this place feels like reopening a gorgeous England medieval past.
The highlight for me here is the Salisbury Cathedral, home to the UK’s tallest church spire. Its stunning Gothic architecture is impressive enough, but the real surprise is its fully functional mechanical clock. It’s still hard to grasp how it’s still ticking until today.
What makes the cathedral even more stunning is the quiet courtyard and cobbled streets that surround it. You can stay here for less than an hour, and you’ll still feel satisfied with the views.
Take a quick stroll in Bradford-on-Avon
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Address: Bradford-on-Avon
Just 20 minutes away from Bath, Bradford-on-Avon is perfect for a quick detour. Known for its riverside views and blooming flowers, it’s a peaceful spot to slow down.
You can simply take canal-side walks and see boats and ducks on the river. There are plenty of riverside cafes too—ideal for a quick coffee or tea while you rest your feet and stretch your legs.
If you have the energy to stroll more, then visit some shops to pick up handmade soaps or candles as souvenirs.
Where to eat along the route to Bath
The Food Gallery
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Address: 47-48 High St, Marlborough
Contact Details:
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Pricing: From £10 per meal
The Food Gallery is a locally famous cafe shop in Marlborough. They have barista-crafted espresso and some great meals for breakfasts, lunches, and even quick snacks.
You can drop by here and taste their gourmet sandwich or panini. If you want to delight your sweet tooth, then try their homemade cakes and Belgian-style hot chocolate (if you’re not into coffee).
If you choose to dine here, expect a lively atmosphere just on the High Street. It’s a very convenient and relaxing top during your road trip.
The Sign of the Angel
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Address: 6 Church St, Lacock, Chippenham
Contact Details:
Operating Hours:
Pricing: From ~£18 per two-course meal
Located in Lacock, this 15th-century and two-AA restaurant makes an excellent spot if you’re looking to try locally sourced British dishes.
The restaurant is famous for its Wiltshire pork belly and lamb shoulder shepherd’s pie—both hearty and full of flavour. If you’re lucky, you might catch one of their occasional tapas offerings.
The cosy atmosphere, complete with sloping floors and warm fireplaces, makes it feel wonderfully romantic. And if you’re not ready to leave, they also offer charming historic rooms from around £95 a night.
The Stonehenge Inn & Carvery
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Address: 2 Stonehenge Rd, Durrington, Salisbury
Contact Details: +44 1722 433186
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Pricing: From £7 – £20 per adult
If you’re after a classic pub-style British vibe, I recommend stopping by The Stonehenge Inn & Carvery. Aside from their great dishes, they also offer a value menu of 2 for £25. So if you’re on a budget, then this is good news!
Their typical menu items include pie, salmon supreme, and mixed grill. There are also starters like Cajun fries and whole baked camembert. My favourites, though, are their carvery meals that come with roast meat, side, and veggie options.
If you decide to drop by here, you’ll get a family-friendly place with a courtyard where kids can play. It also has a bar with cocktails and an overall casual vibe.
Sotto Sotto
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Address: 10 N Parade, Bath BA2 4AL
Contact Details: +441225330236
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Pricing: From ~£30 per person
A few steps from the Roman Baths, you’ll reach Sotto Sotto. This is an Italian restaurant, perfect for a celebratory meal as you arrive in Bath.
You’ll love how their menu blends authentic Italian classics with some twists like their Calamaretti fritti ai sette sapori and Branzino. While they use authentic ingredients, they also make sure to support local British produce.
Dining here gives you that romantic and cosy atmosphere because of the underground candlelit vaulted cellars.
