A Weekend in Bath: Charm, Character & a Cup of Tea with History

Bath has a certain quiet charm. It’s not trying too hard, and that’s what makes it work. Between the Georgian terraces, the old stone streets, and the constant presence of history, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down. I spent a weekend there, and it turned out to be exactly the break I didn’t know I needed.

First Impressions

As soon as I arrived, I felt like I could breathe a little easier. Bath isn’t a place for rushing around. You can spend the day walking with no real plan—stopping for coffee, browsing independent shops, and just taking it in. The city feels both lived-in and well looked after.

Independent Cafés and Bars

One of the things I appreciated most was how many independent places there are. Lunch at Milkbun Deli was straightforward and good—fresh ingredients, no fuss. Later that day, I had a drink at The Bath Gin Bar. It was low-lit, a bit quirky, and felt like the kind of place that knows what it’s doing without making a big deal out of it.

Bookshops Worth Visiting

If you like books, Bath is a great city to explore.

Mr B’s Emporium is probably the best-known and for good reason. It’s a mix of winding rooms, thoughtful staff picks, and a real love for books.

Topping & Company is another standout, with floor-to-ceiling shelves and rolling ladders. You could spend hours in there without noticing the time.

Tea at the Roman Baths

I booked afternoon tea at the Pump Room, right by the Roman Baths, and it turned out to be a highlight. There was a live pianist playing while people chatted quietly over scones and tea. It’s one of those experiences that could easily feel over-the-top, but it didn’t. It was simple, well done, and rooted in the setting.

Staying Just Outside Town

My hotel was just outside the city centre, tucked away enough to feel calm but still close enough for a short bus ride into town. Waking up to quiet streets and green views set the tone for each day. It made the trip feel slower in a good way.

Wandering, Shops, and Good Coffee

A lot of my time was spent walking and stopping wherever looked interesting. Botanica Studio was a standout—full of plants and ceramics, and generally a calming space. I had coffee from a few places—WatchHouse was reliable, but there were plenty of smaller spots with just as good (if not better) drinks and less of a crowd.

A Surprisingly Great Find: Thirsty Meeples

One of the more random things I did was visit Thirsty Meeples, a board game café. It’s casual, friendly, and has a huge collection of games. Definitely worth a stop if you’re with friends or just want to do something a bit different.

Final Thoughts

Bath is the kind of place that doesn’t demand anything from you. You can take it slow, do a lot or not much at all, and still feel like the time was well spent. I’ve been back a couple of times since this trip, and each visit has felt like a proper break from the usual pace of life.