Discover the best things to do in Bath with family — from historic landmarks and family-friendly walking tours to fun attractions for all ages.
It’s possible to enjoy the perfect family day out in Bath, without breaking the bank. Swap some paid attractions for the city’s beautiful sights and free entertainment for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. With a little planning, you can still see all the highlights and enjoy some treats.
One of our top tips is to follow a family-friendly walking tour, which guides you around the historic Royal Crescent, The Circus, Pulteney Bridge, and Guildhall Market. Along the way, you might even get to taste the famous Bath waters before relaxing by the river and tackling Beazer’s Maze.
6 Best Things to Do in Bath for Families
- Step back in time at the Roman Baths
- Enjoy street entertainers in Abbey Courtyard
- Take a family-friendly walking tour of historic sites
- Browse Guildhall market and sweet shop
- See Pulteney Bridge and solve Beazer’s Maze
- Enjoy dinner or visit the theatre in Kingsmead Square
1. Step back in time at the Roman Baths
Alt: Family exploring the Roman Baths in Bath, England, with kids using interactive exhibits and activity trails
If you only visit one paid attraction in Bath, make it the Roman Baths. The family-friendly museum allows you to walk in the shadow of the Roman, who built the baths to harness the city’s natural hot spring waters. Kids can enjoy activity trails and free handsets, while live actors to bring history to life.
Don’t spend too long looking at the statues at the beginning as you’ll want your energy for the Baths themselves and the digital recreation of what the city once looked like. It’s also important to book in advance and visit first thing in the morning, to avoid the coach loads of tourists.
2. Enjoy street entertainers in Abbey Courtyard
Alt: Children watching street performers and musicians in Abbey Courtyard, Bath, with Bath Abbey in the background
Abbey Courtyard is buzzing with street performers, musicians, and jugglers. Performances change daily and are free to watch, making this one of the top things to do in Bath with kids. It’s a lively spot where you can enjoy stunning views of Bath Abbey while soaking up the city’s atmosphere.
The courtyard is also a perfect place for a well-earned rest after visiting the Roman Baths. Treat the family to hot chocolate at Miss Potts Chocolate House, cool off with ice cream from The Real Italian Ice Cream Company, or enjoy a free tea or coffee at the amazing Toppings Bookshop.
3. Take a Family-Friendly Walking Tour of Historic Sites
Alt: Family on a walking tour of Bath historic sites, including Royal Crescent, The Circus, and Pulteney Bridge
Instead of joining one of the standard free walking tours, which can sometimes go on too long for children, you can download this Family-Friendly Bath Walking Tour, created by me! It lets you explore Bath’s historic sites with fun stories and challenges for kids along the way.
Starting outside Bath Abbey, the tour takes around an hour and allows you to:
- Taste the famous Bath spring water at the historic Pump Rooms
- See the beautiful Royal Crescent, The Circus, Assembly Rooms, and Victoria Park
- Search for ghost signs — faded painted advertisements revealing the city’s commercial past
- Discover the story behind the Royal coat of arms featuring the lion and unicorn
- Look for filming locations from Bridgerton, Gladiator, and Wonka
This is one of the top things to do in Bath with kids and a fun way to experience a family day out in Bath at a relaxed, kid-friendly pace. Just remember to bring headphones.
4. Browse Gildhall market and Sweet Shop
Alt: Family browsing quirky stalls and sweet shop at Guildhall Market, Bath, with local crafts and treats
A hidden gem is the historic Guildhall Market, where trading has taken place for over 800 years. It’s a great stop on a family day out in Bath, with quirky stalls, local crafts, souvenirs, and sweet treats from the old-fashioned sweet shop.
Enjoy mooching around the market, which includes a cheese shop (we recommend the Bath Blue), a pet shop, bakery, and a café serving jacket potatoes. Even if the weather isn’t ideal for sightseeing, the indoor market offers plenty of little treasures for children, teens and furry friends.
5. See Pulteney Bridge and Solve Beazer’s Maze
Alt: Children exploring Beazer’s Maze by the River Avon with Pulteney Bridge in the background in Bath
The other side of the Guildhall Market, you’ll find the world-famous Pulteney Bridge. One of only four bridges in the world with shops, it and has featured in films ranging from The Gladiator to Wonka. It’s also the perfect photo opportunity for a family day out in Bath.
After exploring the bridge, head down the steps to the right to enjoy scenic views of the weir and river Avon. Take a few moments to relax, then head to Beazer’s Maze, which all the family can enjoy solving. It’s not too difficult, but provides plenty of fun and a chance for kids to play.
6. Enjoy Dinner or Visit the Theatre in Kingsmead Square
Alt: Family dining in Kingsmead Square, Bath, near cafés and theatre venues, enjoying a family-friendly evening
A great way to end your day is with dinner in Kingsmead Square. There are six pizza restaurants, including Zizzi’s and Pizza Express, two Thai restaurants, including Giggling Squid, and a Five Guys. It’s a great spot to reflect on your day exploring Bath, with options to suit all tastes and ages.
If you want to stretch your day even further, there are also three theatres nearby, including the children’s Egg Theatre and the Little Theatre cinema. The Bath Theatre Royal also puts on great shows for children throughout the year, making this a fun way to round off a family day out in Bath.
Tips for visiting Bath with Kids
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Plan your timing – Mornings are best for popular attractions like the Roman Baths to avoid crowds. Afternoons are perfect for walking tours, Abbey Courtyard performers, and markets.
Book tickets in advance – Many paid attractions, especially the Roman Baths, can sell out. Pre-book online to secure your preferred time slot.
Wear comfortable shoes – Bath is a very walkable city, but the streets are mostly cobbled and hilly in places.
Check the weather – Many attractions are outdoors, so pack layers, raincoats, or sunscreen depending on the season.
Bring snacks and water – While there are plenty of cafés, having snacks on hand keeps kids energized during walking tours or maze adventures.
Use public transport or park strategically – Bath city center is busy, so consider nearby car parks or buses to avoid congestion.
Mix paid and free attractions – Swap a few paid sites for free entertainment like street performers, markets, and scenic riverside walks for a budget-friendly family day out in Bath.
Keep teens engaged – Include filming locations, interactive exhibits, or small challenges (like searching for ghost signs) to keep older kids interested.
Check opening times – Many shops, cafés, and markets close earlier than you might expect, especially on Sundays.
Our Family Day Out in Bath
See what it’s really like visiting Bath with the family in our vlog. We explored the Roman Baths, watched street performers in Abbey Courtyard, tackled Beazer’s Maze, wandered Guildhall Market, and strolled across Pulteney Bridge — all while enjoying a family-friendly walking tour of the city.
“Family Day Out in Bath 🇬🇧 | A Local Mum’s Guide to the Best Things to Do with Kids!”
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ALT TEXT: “Family day out in Bath with kids — local family exploring Roman Baths, Abbey Courtyard street performers, Guildhall Market, Pulteney Bridge, and Beazer’s Maze.”