Roman treasures, literary legends, and riverside views make this UNESCO city one of England’s must-sees.
With elegant Georgian architecture, scenic riverside strolls, and historic monuments everywhere you turn, Bath is deserving of its star attraction status. Prepare to be dazzled as you take in the headline acts—the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and Royal Crescent are all show-stoppers—then indulge your romantic side as you visit the Jane Austen Centre or indulge in a traditional afternoon tea. Once you’ve had your culture fix, there are outdoor pleasures to enjoy too. Go punting or canoeing along the River Avon, float over the countryside in a hot air balloon, or enjoy riverside walks and bike rides.
Whether you want to hit the beach or explore underground caves, North Somerset has outdoor adventures to suit all tastes. Head to the Mendip Hills AONB to hike through the Cheddar Gorge, explore the Wookey Hole caves, and taste Britain’s beloved Cheddar cheese. Along the coast, seaside resorts like Burham-on-Sea and Weston-Super-Mare have sandy beaches, summer entertainment, and great seafront camping.
North of Bath, the patchwork hills and winding lanes of the Cotswolds lead the way to some of England’s most picturesque villages. This AONB is the place for celebrity-spotting, scenic walks and bike rides through the countryside, and leisurely pub lunches. Burton, Bourton on Water, and Broadway are some of the most visited towns, where you’ll find plenty of choices for camping and glamping.
Less than an hour’s drive east, the verdant chalklands of the North Wessex Downs AONB are beloved by hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. Visit the UNESCO-listed Avebury stone circle, enjoy views of the Wiltshire White Horses, or set sail for a cruise along the Kent & Avon Canal. Further east, Downton Abbey fans won’t want to miss a visit to Highclere Castle.
Bath fills up with day-trippers in summer and during annual events such as the Bath Festival (May) or the Jane Austen Festival (Sept). Make your campsite reservations months in advance if visiting during these periods, and plan an early start to beat the crowds at top attractions. Spring and autumn are ideal for hikes in the surrounding AONBs, and there are options for winter campers, too—Bath is particularly magical over the holiday season.