There’s something special about returning to the same place, not only because of the familiarity, but because it removes any sense of rush. Day trips further afield suddenly feel easier, without the worry of missing out, and you’re free to really soak up what’s around you. This is the first in a series of day trips we’ll be sharing, starting close to home, with easy escapes from our London and Cotswolds houses. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, a spontaneous escape feels particularly called for, and the first place we always suggest is Bath. The best part? Bath is only around 90 minutes by direct train from London Paddington, making it one of the most civilised day trips you can take from the capital. Early start, late supper back home, no overnight bag required.
Start with a stroll
From the Romans to Jane Austen, Bath has been seducing visitors for quite literally centuries, and it shows. This is a city where you can clock two thousand years of British history in the space of a single stroll: From ancient Roman relics, honey-coloured Georgian crescents and the occasional Austen-esque bonneted enthusiast pausing for effect.
From Bath Spa station, walk straight ahead for five minutes and you’ll find yourself at Pulteney Bridge, one of only a handful of bridges in the world with shops built across it. You might also recognise it from the Les Miserables film or the recent House of Gucci film, where it provided a suitably dramatic backdrop to rather grim cinematic fates. Even without Hollywood credentials, it’s worth soaking up: the view over the River Avon is one of Bath’s most photogenic.
If the weather’s playing along, duck down into the small riverside Parade gardens nearby. They often host flower shows and seasonal displays and are a peaceful way to ease yourself into the city before the crowds fully wake up.
For breakfast or coffee, head slightly north to Walcot Street, Bath’s bohemian streak. Landrace Bakery is the go-to for excellent coffee and genuinely outstanding pastries (arrive early; they sell out for a reason). If you want something more substantial, Walcot House does a solid eggs affair in relaxed but handsome surroundings.
Walcot Street is also where Bath’s independent soul lives. Pop into The Bath Cheese Company for local cheeses worth smuggling home, browse homeware at Graham & Green, and then, non-negotiable, make your way back towards the centre for Toppings Booksellers. Housed in a former Georgian bank, its soaring shelves, rolling ladders and armchairs invite you to lose an entire afternoon. Even the most disciplined day-tripper tends to emerge with at least one book they didn’t know they needed.
