Nestled in the rolling hills of Somerset, Bath is not only known for its stunning Georgian architecture and Roman history but also for its beautiful parks and surrounding countryside. I was thrilled to explore the natural beauty that lies just beyond the city’s historic streets. With a day dedicated to hiking, I set out on a journey that would take me through some of the most breathtaking landscapes Bath has to offer. From manicured parks within the city to the wild beauty of the Cotswolds, this day of hiking was both refreshing and unforgettable.
A Tranquil Start at Royal Victoria Park
My day began early, just after sunrise, as I made my way to Royal Victoria Park, one of Bath’s most iconic green spaces. Located just a short walk from the city center, this park is a perfect starting point for anyone looking to ease into a day of outdoor adventure. As I entered the park, the morning light filtered through the trees, casting a golden glow on the dew-covered grass. The air was crisp and refreshing, the perfect setting for a morning stroll to warm up my muscles for the more challenging hikes ahead.
Royal Victoria Park is a vast expanse of green, covering over 57 acres, and offers a little something for everyone. I began by wandering through the Botanical Gardens, a beautifully maintained area that showcases a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers. The gardens were peaceful at this time of day, with only the occasional jogger or dog walker passing by. The vibrant colors of the flowers, combined with the intricate landscaping, made this a truly relaxing start to my day.
From the Botanical Gardens, I made my way toward the park’s centerpiece, the Royal Crescent. This iconic Georgian terrace is one of Bath’s most famous landmarks, and its sweeping curve is a sight to behold. Standing in front of it, I took a moment to appreciate the architectural beauty before continuing my walk through the park. I followed a path that led me past the Great Dell Aerial Walkway, a unique wooden structure that winds its way through the treetops, offering a different perspective of the park.
Hiking the Bath Skyline
With the morning light fully illuminating the city, I left Royal Victoria Park and made my way to one of Bath’s most famous hiking trails, the Bath Skyline Walk. This 6-mile circular route offers some of the best views of the city and its surroundings, and it was the perfect choice for the main hike of the day.
The trail begins at Bathwick Hill, just a short distance from the city center. As I started the ascent, the city’s noise gradually faded, replaced by the sounds of nature. The first section of the trail took me through Bathwick Fields, a beautiful area of rolling meadows that offer panoramic views of Bath below. The sight of the honey-colored stone buildings of the city, contrasted with the lush green of the surrounding hills, was nothing short of spectacular.
As I continued along the trail, the path led me through a variety of landscapes, from open fields to dense woodlands. One of the highlights of the Skyline Walk is the Sham Castle, a Grade II listed folly that offers a picturesque spot for a break. The castle, built in 1762 by Richard James for Ralph Allen, is a striking structure that seems almost out of place in the countryside. However, it adds a touch of historical intrigue to the hike. I paused here to enjoy a snack and take in the views of the city framed by the castle’s arches.
The next stretch of the trail led me through Claverton Down, a wooded area that provides welcome shade on a warm day. The tranquility of the woods, combined with the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, made this one of my favorite parts of the hike. The path here is well-marked and easy to follow, winding its way through the trees and eventually opening up to more expansive views.
One of the most rewarding moments of the hike came as I reached Bathampton Down, where the trail offers a stunning view over the Avon Valley. The sight of the river winding its way through the landscape, with Bath nestled in the distance, is truly breathtaking. The descent from Bathampton Down was gentle and allowed me to savor the views as I made my way back towards the city.
A Well-Earned Rest at Prior Park Landscape Garden
After completing the Bath Skyline Walk, my legs were starting to feel the burn, and I was ready for a well-earned rest. My next stop was Prior Park Landscape Garden, a National Trust property that’s not only beautiful but also a great place to refuel with a picnic.
Prior Park is located on the southern edge of Bath and is easily accessible from the end of the Skyline Walk. The garden is renowned for its sweeping views of the city and its famous Palladian Bridge, one of only four in the world. As I entered the garden, I was immediately struck by the sense of tranquility that pervades the place. The garden is designed in the 18th-century landscape style, with rolling lawns, woodland walks, and tranquil lakes.
I found a spot near the Serpentine Lake, with a clear view of the Palladian Bridge, and unpacked my lunch. There’s something incredibly peaceful about enjoying a meal in such a serene setting, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the beauty of the landscape. After lunch, I took some time to explore the garden further, wandering through the woodland paths and discovering hidden grottoes and secluded glades. Prior Park is a place where you can easily lose track of time, absorbed in the beauty of the surroundings.
Exploring the Countryside on the Cotswold Way
Rejuvenated from my break at Prior Park, I set off for the final leg of my day’s adventure: a hike along the Cotswold Way. This long-distance footpath runs for over 100 miles, from Bath to Chipping Campden, and offers some of the most stunning countryside views in England. While I didn’t have time to tackle the entire trail, I planned to cover a section that would take me deeper into the countryside and away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
I began this part of the hike at Lansdown Hill, just north of Bath. The Cotswold Way is well-marked and offers a variety of terrains, from open farmland to shaded woodlands. As I walked, the city of Bath gradually disappeared from view, replaced by the rolling hills and patchwork fields of the Cotswolds.
One of the highlights of this section of the trail was passing by Kelston Round Hill, a distinctive peak that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The climb to the top was steep but short, and the reward was well worth the effort. From the summit, I could see for miles in every direction, with the Cotswold hills stretching out before me and the spires of Bath visible in the distance. It was a perfect spot to take a breather and simply soak in the beauty of the landscape.
As I continued along the Cotswold Way, I encountered a few charming villages, each with its own unique character. North Stoke, in particular, stood out with its quaint stone cottages and peaceful atmosphere. The village seemed frozen in time, with narrow lanes and ancient buildings that offered a glimpse into rural English life.
The final stretch of the hike took me through Upper Swainswick, a small village perched on the edge of the Cotswolds. The trail here winds through fields and along hedgerows, offering more stunning views of the surrounding countryside. As the afternoon light began to fade, I made my way back toward Bath, feeling both exhilarated and content from a day well spent in nature.
Reflecting on the Day at Alexandra Park
As the day drew to a close, I made one final stop at Alexandra Park to reflect on the day’s adventures. Located on a hill just south of the city, this park offers some of the best views of Bath, especially at sunset. The park itself is a quiet, green space with well-maintained gardens and plenty of benches where you can sit and take in the view.
From the viewpoint, I could see the entire city spread out before me, with the golden light of the setting sun casting a warm glow over the buildings. The spires of Bath Abbey stood out against the skyline, and I could even make out some of the places I had visited earlier in the day, including the Royal Crescent and the Bath Skyline Walk.
As I sat there, reflecting on the day, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore such a beautiful and historic part of England. Bath’s parks and countryside offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for hikers and nature lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Bath has something to offer everyone.
A Perfect Day in Bath’s Natural Beauty
My day of hiking through Bath’s stunning parks and countryside was a perfect reminder of the beauty that lies just beyond the city’s historic streets. From the manicured lawns of Royal Victoria Park to the wild, open landscapes of the Cotswolds, Bath offers a diverse range of natural experiences that are easily accessible and incredibly rewarding.
Whether you’re exploring the city’s famous landmarks or venturing into the surrounding hills, Bath’s natural beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression. As I made my way back to my hotel, tired but happy, I knew that this day would be one of the highlights of my time in Bath. For anyone planning a visit to this historic city, I highly recommend setting aside a day to explore its parks and countryside.
