What Is Bath Famous For? A Roman Spa Turned Student City

Welcome to Bath, a city where ancient stone meets student spirit, and every cobbled street has a story to tell. This former Roman spa town is beautifully nestled within the county of Somerset, and whether you’re here for a long time or a short time, there’s plenty to explore.

It’s a pretty sight that’s been globally recognised too. Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a legendary wellness hotspot, a haven for literary minds, and a thriving student city. So, if you’re wondering what is Bath famous for? Pour yourself a drink and discover it all!

The Roman Baths: 2,000 Years of Relaxation

You read that right, the Roman Baths have been entertaining visitors to the city for the past two millenniums. They are the crown jewel of the cities tourist attractions and are also where the city derives its modern name from.

Back when togas were trending, Bath was known as Aquae Sulis, which referenced the Roman god Minerva and the baths constructed to celebrate the goddess of hot springs. It was a luscious sanctuary for weary travellers and soldiers alike. Today, the bathhouse still bubbles away, although you can no longer jump in yourself.

While you can’t enjoy the original baths, the modern version is just as good. The Thermae Bath Spa is where natural thermal waters and rooftop pools serve up a chilled environment and skyline views.

Why it matters: 

• It’s one of the world’s best preserved Roman bathhouses.
• A tangible link to the city’s ancient past.
• A top attraction for students looking to blend history with chill out time.

Georgian Grandeur and Instagram Spots

The heart of Bath’s Georgian centre is like something out of a period drama, or a postcard.

The Royal Crescent and The Circus are architectural showstoppers. Picture stone facades, curved terraces, and perfect lawns. It’s one of the most quintessentially ‘British’ neighbourhood’s in the city. Oh, and did we mention that Bridgerton is filmed here?

Aside from being eye candy, these sites offer a visual timeline of the UK’s 18th century heritage. Bath’s most prominent era was when writers such as Jane Austen descended upon the city for relaxing inspiration.

Local Tip:

If you’re into culture with a twist, check out the Jane Austen Centre. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or mildly curious, it’s a fun peek into Regency life, bonnets and all.

Student Energy in a City of Stories

Bath is a city that preserves its past while looking towards the future. It’s buzzing with new ideas, live music, independent restaurants, and late night student hideouts.

Home to both the University of Bath and Bath Spa University, students play a huge role in shaping the city’s rhythm. You’ll find study sessions in sunny parks, coffee fuelled writing in local cafés, and weekend market dashes that deliver flavoursome bites.

You might notice:

• Fellow students relaxing by Pulteney Bridge.
• Green Park station being packed with young people commuting into university.
• Local galleries serving as a great artsy meeting spot.

The multi-faceted appeal of Bath’s attractions give it a great blend of old soul and young energy.

👉 Discover more of what Bath has to offer students. 

Boutique Living and Indie Everything

If your idea of a good day out includes quirky shops, art markets, and your usual high street fodder, you’re in for a treat. From the historic Guildhall Market to hidden bookshops and vintage discoveries, Bath’s indie scene is alive and thriving.

Foodies will also feel at home. Whether you’re hunting for artisan sourdough, bubble tea, or the best vegan snacks, there’s no shortage or student budget friendly gems.

Some of our favourites: 

• The Raven for classic pies and pints.
• Colonna & Small’s for mind blowing coffee.
• Yak Yeti Yak for Nepalese comfort food.

Festivals, Films, and Laughs

Bath doesn’t switch off with the sunlight. The city has a rocking festival for almost everything, including fashion, comedy, music, and literature.

AT Royal Victoria Park you can catch a wide range of open air cinema screenings (weather permitting of course), or soak in the vibes of a smooth jazz show at Green Park Brasserie. It’s the kind of city that has something going on most nights, though not always what you’d expect.

For more information about what students can get up to in Bath, read more of our city specific blog posts. 

A City with Feel Good Energy

Aside from its gorgeous setting and Roman heritage, Bath has plenty more to appeal to students looking at studying there.

• Reliable transport links (including late night buses).
• Clean, walkable streets that take you back in time.
• A raft of study friendly cafés and libraries.
• Green spaces that delight and offer great walking routes.

Upon arriving in Bath, you’ll step foot into a city that inspires academic success and supports your student lifestyle.

The Roundup: What is Bath Famous For?

Whether it be Roman ruins, Georgian lanes, rooftop spas, or vibrant restaurants, Bath has loads to uncover. The city has a way of drawing you in and never letting go, tempting you to stay forever.

There’s beauty in every corner of the city, with stories to back up the visuals. What makes Bath stand out is its history, but it’s buzzing student attractions only add to the appeal.

Will we see you at the spa?