With the school summer holidays now in full swing, here are some ideas for free days out in Bath! From our favourite playgrounds to shady woodlands and bike rides for little legs, there is something to keep everyone entertained.
Royal Victoria Park, Bath
Beautiful city centre park with something for everyone. Royal Victoria Park covers over 57 acres! Take a wonder around the beautiful botanical gardens, have a kick around on the large grass areas. Feed the ducks in the pond and of course there is the large adventure playground not to be missed! With zip lines, climbing frames and a large skatepark. Come on a summers evening to enjoy a picnic and watch the hot air balloons take off.
Other paid for activities include tennis and adventure golf.
LOCATION: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GZZutY9kP9KSELXB6
CAR PARKING: Free for a hour (you still need to register on the MiPermit App)
Two Tunnels Cycle Route
Grab your bikes or scooters and enjoy a two wheeled adventure through the Two Tunnels Greenway to Midford. This car free route, taking in the impressive Combe Down Tunnel, which is just over a mile, is a favourite with the kids. The lighting in the tunnels has been significantly improved, making it a bit less stressful when cycling with small children!
Take a picnic and enjoy the wonderful Cam Valley views. There are refreshments available at the Hope & Anchor pub in Midford. If little legs allow, you can continue on, into the pretty village of Wellow. Or do a complete loop and do the Two Tunnels Circuit, which brings you back into Bath along the Kennet and Avon Canal.
LOCATION: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NpwxoyH5y95GzSCZ8
CAR PARKING: Free for a hour on some residential streets
Bath City Farm
This little gem makes for a lovely free day out in Bath, especially for smaller children. Bath City Farm is an urban oasis, hidden away on the Southern slops of Bath. It is a great place to spend a couple of hours. With a range of farm animals, including pigs, goats and chickens. A great nature trail – see if you can find the hidden treetop house. There is also a community cafe, where you can grab a cuppa and enjoy the views, whilst the kids burn off some more energy in the adventure playground.
Check out their events as they are always really popular.
LOCATION: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8Gi1bt9d2xiz3XH3A
CAR PARKING: Small, free, car park on site
Rainbow Woods and the Bath Skyline
Who doesn’t enjoy cooling off in the woods on a hot summers day? Part of the beautiful Bath Skyline, this is a firm family favourite. Owned by the National Trust the well surfaced trail takes you through the woods to a natural play area. On the way have a hunt for the hidden fairy doors – all part of the magic of this place! The kids love the opportunity to run wild, climbing, swinging and enjoying the freedom of the woodland.
LOCATION: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9pQmwm8qVyGLi63a9
CAR PARKING: On road parking along North Road, but check permissions
Sydney Gardens
Just a 10-15 minute stroll along Great Pulteney Street lies Sydney Gardens, some of the last remaining Georgian pleasure gardens. Behind the Holburne Museum, Sydney Gardens is the oldest park in Bath. Recently restored to it’s former glory, the park boasts tennis courts, canal side walks and a fab natural play area with something for all ages. A lovely space to spend a summer’s afternoon.
LOCATION: https://maps.app.goo.gl/h3NdQTwt8r4jLXVT6
CAR PARKING: Various on street, check for local restrictions
