Walk 5 hrs (16.5km) 
Total Ascent 466 m 
Highest Point 185 m Welcome to this Signature Hike
Bath is a beautiful, historic city built from the iconic stone that bears its name. This hike starts in its heart and carries you above and around it, showing it off from every perspective. You’ll encounter a folly castle and a real aqueduct on your walk through the woodland, along the canal and the river.
Read the infomation below to learn more about your walk before you head off.
Ready to walk?
Be sure to download your PDF guide for the walk and make sure you have the OS maps app downloaded.
Before you start
Here’s 3 important things you need to know before you head off:
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Save This Guide
Save the PDF guide on your device that you’re going to use on the walk. (This contains all the handy information, from how to get there, points of interest and pubs, taxis etc).
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Download OS Map App
This is how you will navigate your way around the route. The link for the route is in this guide and will take you to the OS Maps app.
Click here for Apple
Click here for Android
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Battery
Make sure you have plenty of battery. We hope you have a great walk.
The Curator Gabriel Birstowe
Meet the Curator
Gabriel – or ‘Gabes’ – having grown up in the beautiful countryside on Bath’s doorstep, has been exploring its hidden and not so hidden walking routes since a young age. Having adventured around the world he now finds himself back in this astonishingly charming landscape, exploring its surroundings by means of a liveaboard canal boat. Being an avid mushroom forager, Gabes is always searching the countryside for his next fungi find. If anyone is best suited to share this wonderful part of the world with you, it’s Gabes.
“Bath has been celebrated as one of the most beautiful cities in England and what better way to view its splendour than by walking the rolling hills and valleys surrounding it. This hike takes you high above the city giving you fantastic panoramic views of its historic beauty, winds you through enchanting woodlands, ambles along the tranquil canal and gives you the option of plenty of wild swims along the way. Watch out for the unmistakable bright blue of the kingfisher that can be spotted darting along the canal, or the patient heron poised on the bankside. Bring your mushroom knowledge and see how many varieties you can identify along the way! Idyllic picnic spots can be found throughout the walk, giving you a pause to soak it all in.”
Adventure Summary
Bath, Somerset
Bath is a beautiful, historic city built from the iconic stone that bears its name. This hike starts in its heart and carries you above and around it, showing it off from every perspective. You’ll encounter a folly castle and a real aqueduct on your walk through the woodland, along the canal and the river, with ample opportunity to put your feet up by the fire in the pub or reward yourself with an afternoon tea at cafés which have the Vespucci seal of approval and are waiting for you along the way.
There are opportunities for wild swimming for the brave, and a shorter option to take you home from Freshford station if dinner and a well-earned sleep beckon! Along the way, you will even pass the final resting place of the longest surviving British soldier to fight in World War I. Once back in Bath, glowing from an unforgettable day out, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city itself, with great food spots, charming watering holes and the gorgeous sights it has to offer. All of this and more within an hour and a half by train from London Paddington.
Hike Highlights
The City of Bath
The city of Bath captivates with its harmonious blend of Georgian architecture and natural hot springs.
Dunas Aqueduct
The 18th century aqueduct showcases the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the period.
River Avon
Home to diverse wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, and various fishes.
Sometimes, we can get so caught up in reaching our destination that we forget to take in our surroundings. When in fact, some of the best moments on a walk are the ones spent not walking. It is not until you stop and look a little closer, that you truly see the magic of where you are.
Our hikes are not about how fast you walk, but about how much you take in. We share these beautiful trails with an abundance of wildlife and there’s always something to marvel at – so long as you take the time to look around.
Nestled on the banks of the River Frome at Freshford, just outside Bath, this 16th-century village inn is a gem in The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The inn blends traditional charm with contemporary flair, featuring original timber beams, open fires, a beautiful garden, and ample parking. Guests are welcomed warmly and can enjoy a menu of delicious, locally sourced food, real ales, and fine wines. Whether for a countryside walk stop or a delightful dining experience, this pub offers history, comfort, and quality.
Points of interest
Places to enjoy along the route
The insiders guide to
The City of Bath
🍽️ EAT
Dos Dedos
The Raven
Schwartz Bros
The Salamander
Hondo Sushi
🍺 DRINK
Colonna & Small’s
Fidel Rum Bar
The Bell
The Old Green Tree
The Star
🛏️ SLEEP
Eight
The Yard
📍 DO
Explore the Francis Gallery
Watch Bath Rugby play at ‘The Rec’
Day trip to Bradford-on-Avon
Check out the Fashion Museum
Paddle Board on the River Avon
👀 SEE
Roman Baths
The Royal Cresent
Bath Skyline
The Flea and Farmers’ Markets
Bath Abbey
What’s Next?
Done the hike? Let us and fellow members know how you got on and leave any tips and advice!