Hey there, fellow explorers! It’s Sarah here. I recently revisited Rugby, a charming market town nestled in the heart of England, and oh my, how it’s blossomed since our last jaunt here in 2016! If you’re mulling over where to venture next, let me share with you 30 compelling reasons why you should visit Rugby in England.
Visit Rugby in England: video guide
Travel to Rugby in England: A 2024 Guide
Rugby Art Gallery & Museum: A Cultural Hub
The Rugby Art Gallery & Museum, one of the town’s cultural highlights, offers free admission to all visitors. It’s a fantastic spot for art enthusiasts with its range of events and exhibitions, including the Rugby Open 2023 exhibition and engaging drawing workshops.
A Calendar Brimming with Events at The BENN Hall
The BENN Hall in Rugby is bustling with events in 2024. Notably, the Phantom Revival Concert on January 20, priced at £17.50, and the Bay City Rollermania on February 23, for £29.00. The New Year’s Eve Party is another highlight, with tickets at £28.99.
Family-Friendly Performances at Macready Theatre
The Macready Theatre offers delightful family-oriented shows, like The Man Who Wanted to be a Penguin, with ticket prices ranging from £0.00 to £14.00. It’s a perfect venue for families seeking entertainment in Rugby.
Alexmas at The Alex: An Artistic Christmas Celebration
The festive event Alexmas at The Alex, located at Alexandra Art, 72-73 James Street, is a free event. It combines art with festive cheer, offering a unique experience during the Christmas season.
Rugby Town Concert Band: Melodies that Resonate
The Rugby Town Concert Band performs at various venues, including St. Peter and St. John’s Church. Their concerts are priced at £12.00 – £14.00, with some events being free.
Santa and the March of the Penguins: A Festive Delight
This charming free event in Rugby’s town centre runs from late November to early January, bringing the magic of a winter wonderland to life.
A Glimpse into the Past: Celebrating Rugby’s Heritage
The 200th anniversary of Rugby football at Rugby School in 2023 was a milestone for the town. The Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum, which commemorates this heritage, offers adult tickets for £8, concessions for £5, and free entry for under 12s.
Rugby’s Rich History and Modern Charms
Rugby School Shop & Tours: Walk Through History
Rugby is synonymous with the game that shares its name, and no visit is complete without exploring the Rugby School Shop & Tours. Walking through the corridors of this prestigious school, where the game was born, was like stepping into a historical novel. The tours are insightful, and the shop is a treasure trove for rugby enthusiasts.
The Outdoor Splendour of Rugby: Draycote Water and More
The town isn’t just about history; it’s also about embracing the outdoors. Draycote Water has become one of our favourite spots for a peaceful walk or a bit of bird watching. And if you’re into nature, don’t miss the Swift Valley Nature Reserve and the Great Central Walk – perfect for those who love to explore the natural beauty of the English countryside.
Fun for Kids: From Toft Studio to Elliotts Field
Rugby is incredibly family-friendly. Take your little ones to Toft Studio – they’ll have a blast. For a day of shopping and leisure, Elliotts Field Retail Park offers a great mix of stores and eateries. It’s ideal for families looking for a variety of activities.
The Culinary Scene: A Taste of Rugby
The Bull Inn: A Culinary Delight
We loved The Bull Inn on our last visit. It’s still there, offering the same warm, inviting atmosphere. The food is as delicious as ever, and the vibe is just perfect for a relaxing evening. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic English pub cuisine.
Summersault: More Than Just a Vegetarian Café
We revisited Summersault, and it remains a gem in Rugby’s culinary crown. The vegetarian fare is scrumptious, and the quirky gift shop adds to its charm. It’s a place that leaves you feeling content, both in heart and stomach.
The Architectural Beauty of Rugby
St. Marie’s Church: A Historic Marvel
On our stroll around town, we were drawn again to the architectural splendour of St. Marie’s Church. The history embedded in its walls and the welcoming community make it a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture and local history.
Wrapping up the Day
A Country Escape in Clifton upon Dunsmore
Our stay in a quaint Airbnb in Clifton upon Dunsmore, just outside Rugby, was the cherry on top of our visit. Overlooking the serene countryside, it was the perfect blend of rural tranquillity and proximity to the town’s attractions.
Rugby: Where Every Street Tells a Story
Caldecott Park: A Green Oasis
Amidst the bustling town lies Caldecott Park, a verdant oasis that offers a tranquil escape. Its well-maintained gardens and playgrounds are perfect for a family day out or a quiet stroll to enjoy nature’s beauty. It’s amazing how this park combines the charm of old England with the vibrancy of modern landscape design.
Rugby Theatre: A Cultural Beacon
The Rugby Theatre continues to be a cultural beacon, showcasing a variety of performances. Whether it’s a gripping drama or a light hearted comedy, the theatre’s vibrant community spirit makes every visit memorable. It’s a testament to Rugby’s thriving arts scene.
The Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum: Celebrating Rugby’s Legacy
No trip to Rugby would be complete without a visit to The Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum. This small yet fascinating museum offers a deep dive into the history of the game and its roots in this very town. It’s an absolute must for sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Discovering Rugby’s Hidden Gems
The Adventure Zone: Family Fun Unleashed
For those travelling with kids, The Adventure Zone is a gem. It’s a place where laughter and excitement fill the air, and children can have a blast while parents relax. We loved the vibrant atmosphere and the range of activities available.
Great Central Walk: A Journey Through Nature
The Great Central Walk is a hidden treasure for nature lovers. It’s a peaceful trail that takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of the Warwickshire countryside. Ideal for a leisurely walk or a cycling adventure, this path is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty surrounding Rugby.
A Peek into Rugby’s Artistic Side: Local Art and Craft
Rugby’s artistic scene is vibrant and diverse. From local galleries to craft shops, the town is brimming with creativity. We stumbled upon several local artists’ studios and were mesmerised by the talent and variety of artwork on display.
Rugby: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
A Taste of the Local Life: Markets and Shops
Exploring the local markets and shops in Rugby is a delight. From fresh produce to artisan crafts, these markets are a window into the everyday life of the town. The friendly vendors and the quality of goods reflect the town’s commitment to maintaining its rich heritage while embracing modernity.
Rugby’s Culinary Diversity: From Traditional to Contemporary
Rugby’s culinary scene has something for every palate. From traditional English fare to contemporary cuisine, the variety of dining options is impressive. We enjoyed everything from cosy cafes to elegant restaurants, each offering a unique taste of the local culture.
Rugby: Where Past Meets Present
Rugby’s Festive Spirit: A Victorian Christmas
One of the highlights of our trip was experiencing Rugby’s festive spirit. The Victorian Christmas events at the Rugby Art Gallery and Museum were a delightful journey back in time. Making our own Christmas crackers and listening to readings from A Christmas Carol truly captured the essence of a traditional English Christmas.
Engaging Workshops at Rugby Art Gallery and Museum
The Rugby Art Gallery and Museum also offers a range of engaging workshops. A popular recent example friends of ours attended was the Drawing Workshop with Jamie Boots, focusing on wildlife themes like elephants and tigers. These sessions are not just educational but also a fun way to interact with local artists and like-minded art enthusiasts.
Exploring Rugby’s Outdoor Adventures
Beyond its historical and cultural offerings, Rugby has plenty of outdoor adventures. Draycote Water is ideal for water sports and picnics, while Swift Valley Nature Reserve offers tranquil walks amidst diverse wildlife. For the more adventurous, The Adventure Zone provides a thrilling experience for all ages.
Rugby’s Community Spirit
Rugby Town Concert Band: A Musical Treat
Another gem we discovered was the Rugby Town Concert Band. Their performances, filled with energy and community spirit, are a testament to the town’s vibrant cultural life. The blend of classic and contemporary pieces makes their concerts enjoyable for everyone.
St. Marie’s Church: Architectural and Spiritual Grandeur
A visit to St. Marie’s Church is a journey into Rugby’s spiritual and architectural heritage. The church’s stunning architecture and the warm community make it a serene and welcoming place for reflection and admiration.
Unwinding in Rugby’s Serene Countryside
A Country Retreat in Clifton upon Dunsmore
Our stay in Clifton upon Dunsmore offered the perfect balance between rural tranquillity and accessibility to Rugby’s attractions. The countryside’s scenic beauty, combined with the cosy and comfortable Airbnb, provided a much-needed retreat after our days of exploration.
Rugby’s Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Adventure
Rugby’s culinary scene is as diverse as its culture. Whether you crave traditional English pub food or contemporary vegetarian dishes, Rugby’s restaurants cater to every taste.
A Town That Leaves You Wanting More
Rugby: A Tapestry of Experiences
As our reminiscing on Rugby comes to a close, I’m reminded of the town’s unique charm. From its historic roots in the sport of rugby to its lively arts scene, vibrant community events, and picturesque natural surroundings, Rugby is a tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered.
So, there you have it – 30 reasons why Rugby should be on your travel radar in 2024. Whether you’re seeking history, culture, nature, or culinary delights, Rugby offers an enriching and diverse experience. I can’t wait to hear about your adventures in this captivating English town! Drop us a line in the comments to share :)
I enjoyed some time off from my day-job yesterday and remembered the merits of working for myself. That is, the freedom to wander and work from wherever I please. On this particular day, that took me on one of the best of London secret walks, along the Thames path around Bermondsey. Lovely!
Not that I didn’t miss my work friends, on the contrary, they don’t realize how much I value them. As any independent contractor or remote worker will verify, working on your own all the time can be a lonely business.
I’ve never had the chance to really indulge in this kind of down-time in London though. Usually, if I had time off it was because I was chasing employment or contracts, and I never allowed myself to chill out and explore!
But with a pay-cheque coming in, this time I was happy to indulge in the surprises of London’s beautiful old back streets without any worries. Speaking of which, as we bid farewell to 2023 — a year of coronation celebrations and Superloop introductions — we’re embracing what 2024 has in store for us in London.
London secret walks – Rotherhithe to Tower Bridge
Yesterday was a crisp winter/spring cross-over day, where the sun was shining brightly.
It was chilly but divine; ideal for taking a stroll along one of the best London secret walks.
Charles Dickens describes such a day perfectly in Great Expectations:
“It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.”
Thames Walk: London Secret Walks
What I wanted to share with you, is my favourite thing to do in London when I have a spare bit of sunlight – the Thames path walk around Bermondsey.
London secret walks – the Thames path
This section of the Thames path walk weaves its way around the back streets of zone one (the city), along the water and into central London where Tower Bridge dominates the landscape, as it has done for around 130 years.
Our friends Barry and Paulo introduced us to this vibrant area and secret London walk. Many of the great London secret walks can be had around Bermondsey, Southwark, from London Bridge, around Southbank, and across Tower Bridge to the extraordinary Tower of London or lovely St Katharine Docks.
I recently worked out that my favourite wander of them all is accessible via the London Overground (train) from where I jump on at Dalston Junction. It’s just a 12-minute ride up the line to Rotherhithe. From here, you are only a fifteen to twenty-minute walk away from Tower Bridge, but a world of magical experience from the tourist grind.
Thames Walk London Tower Bridge Shard Sunset
London Secret Walks, my route along the Thames path, begin at Rotherhithe. Head to the Overground (orange line) station of Rotherhithe in East London.
No, I still can’t pronounce it, but it’s now one of my free-time go-to destinations.
Turn left out of the station, and then left again immediately at the first street, Railway Avenue (next to the station). It’s just a short walk to the end of this street, where you’ll end up right on the Thames, and on the doorstep of the fascinating Brunel Museum.
Last summer when we passed by here, the tunnel was open underground, and we crawled down a man-hole to below the street where there was a fab light-show art installation being exhibited!
Walk along the riverside – just head towards the bridge! My Google map above might help you out (start at the blue star and follow the red markers into the city). Essentially you can explore what is called ‘The Thames Path’ which travels past some terrific old buildings. This includes what I understand is the oldest pub on the Thames, the Mayflower.
Apparently, to avoid paying mooring taxes, Captain Christopher Jones tied his ship up alongside this pub, and people boarded here before the Mayflower sailed to Plymouth to pick up the remaining passengers and then continued on its historic voyage to America in 1620.
There’s always been surprisingly few people down this part of the world when we’ve dropped by. We’ve taken many visiting friends on this walk because it’s historical and pretty.
Serenity in Central London
Who would have thought you could experience such nostalgia in a peaceful setting in central London? This was the first chance I had to walk it on my own, and as haunting church bells rang out from St Mary’s, I couldn’t help but think about all the lives that had passed here before me.
Perhaps if I close my eyes, I could be transported to any space in time when this place was bustling with trade, markets, sailors, religious folk mingling on the church’s steps, and kids in newsboy caps and scruffy neck-scarfs running barefoot in the street. Just imagine what it might have been like…
Water laps against the old buildings, crows cry out, and seagulls squawk, but the sound of tourist chatter is nil. Every now and then the warehouse conversions open up to vast and amazing viewing spaces, like the spot just past a pub by the name of Angel, which is opposite ruins of King Edward’s manor.
Here you can gaze up and down the Thames, with all of London’s famous landmarks in sight. It’s breath-taking whether the sun is out or not (though it can be windy and a bit chilly on a cloudy day).
Thames Walk London City View Cityscape
You can’t really get lost at this point, because while there’s construction going on, you just need to walk adjacent to the water. Follow the Thames Path signs towards Butlers Wharf; there’s an underpass where eventually you will find more people congregating around Tower Bridge.
I like to stop and people-watch from a perch at All Bar One (free WiFi and yummy tapas here too). But you can easily continue meandering along to the bridge and then across towards the Tower of London.
The experience is ‘secret London’ at its best, and I feel so privileged and grateful to have the chance to get to know this energising old city intimately.
Quieter Walk Along the Other Way from Rotherhithe
If you want to take a look at this area but would prefer to hang out in a quieter spot rather than walking towards the city, we discovered a lovely large and comfortable pub that’s about a five-minute walk from Rotherhithe station. Turn left and go directly down Salter Road until you come to the Thameside YHA.
Across the road from there, positioned on a nice patch of land by the water is The Salt Quay, a good place to eat, chat, blog and soak up some atmosphere. We had a good old gossip with Jordan Lea and Rachael at this very place last summer.
2024 Updates: Embracing New London Walks and Challenges
As we step into 2024, it’s exhilarating to see new trends and opportunities for walking enthusiasts in London. Embrace the London secret walks and discover even more about this wonderful city.
Guide Dogs Sculpture Trail in Canary Wharf (March 2024)
This spring, don’t miss the Guide Dogs sculpture trail in Canary Wharf, featuring stunning guide dog sculptures by various artists. It’s a fantastic way to explore London’s art scene while enjoying a leisurely walk.
Walk 2024km Challenge
For those looking for a more ambitious challenge, why not aim to walk 2024km this year? It’s a great way to stay fit, explore new areas, and contribute positively to our environment.
Nature Notes (iOS Only)
Take the time to appreciate and note the beauty of nature on your walks. It’s a wonderful way to enhance your wellbeing and connect with the environment.
Personal Walking Challenges: Embrace London Walks
Customise your walking experience with a challenge that suits your style. Dive into the world of London Walks by choosing a step, distance, or time-based challenge.
This is your opportunity to uncover the diverse array of Hidden London tours. Make 2024 a year to walk more and discover the secret corners and treasures of London. Every step you take is a chance to experience something new and extraordinary in the city’s unique and lesser-known paths.
Exploring London’s Evolving Landscape
In 2024, London continues to evolve, offering an array of experiences that enrich our walks. The city’s dynamic changes not only reflect its history but also its commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future. Each step along these London secret walks is a journey through time and imagination.
Energy Revolution Gallery at the Science Museum (Spring 2024)
For those who intertwine their walks with a touch of educational enrichment, the upcoming Energy Revolution Gallery at the Science Museum is a must-visit. This space, dedicated to the climate crisis, offers insights into how we can pivot towards greener energy sources. It’s an inspiring addition for anyone interested in environmental sustainability and the future of our planet.
The British Science Festival at UEL (September 2024)
Another exciting event in 2024 is the British Science Festival, returning to London after over two decades. This festival, hosted by the University of East London, is an excellent opportunity for science lovers to engage with innovative ideas and discoveries. It’s a perfect blend of education and leisure for those who love to combine their intellectual interests with their walking adventures.
Living in and Loving London: Embracing the Journey
In 2024, let’s walk not just for the sake of exploration but for the stories we will tell, the people we will meet, and the memories we will cherish. London is a city of endless surprises, and each walk is an opportunity to uncover something new.
So, lace up your walking shoes, step out the door, and let’s make 2024 a year of unforgettable walks and discoveries.
Let’s build a community of walkers who not only seek the beauty of London secret walks but also engage actively with the city’s evolving narrative. Your stories and insights are what make this journey so enriching for all of us.
Do you have a favourite walk in London? Please do share in the comments so we and other readers can check it out! Your insights always add such richness to our community’s experience.
I’ve been lucky enough to live in this great city and have experienced many of London’s best views over the past few years.
But I have never experienced the Monument, Sir Christopher Wren’s 202 feet (61 m) stone column built to commemorate one of the most famous events in the city’s history, the Great Fire of 1666.
London’s best views | 5 reasons to visit Monument
History
The world’s tallest stone column just outside Monument tube station pays homage to the Great Fire and the rebuilding of the city. Apparently if you lay the column on its side, it measures the exact distance between it and the house of Thomas Farynor, the king’s baker in Pudding Lane where the fire started at 2am on Sunday 2 September.
Before the fire was finally extinguished it destroyed 13,000 houses and 90 churches; including part of Saint Paul’s Cathedral.
Waiting time
Unlike many attractions in London where you have to line up in long queues regardless of the weather, I only had to wait six minutes for entry to the Monument. Better than what I anticipate the wait at the London Eye is!
Cost
Entry into the Monument is only £4 for adults (as at February 2016) compared with the Shard (over £25) and London Eye (over £20).
Exercise
If you’re an active person you’ll love the 311 step climb to the top. It’s a great way for toning your bottom and legs while experiencing London’s amazing skyline.
That said, don’t worry if this sounds daunting, it’s actually a pretty easy climb, the average person taking around four minutes to make it up to the top (not counting if you have to wait for children loitering in the stairwell along the way).
Views
As you exit the stairs onto a small ledge you’re met by a simple wire fence separating you from the 166 drop to the ground below and magnificent 360 panoramic views of the London skyline. The Monument offers wonderful views of the Shard (hard to miss), Tower Bridge, Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Gherkin (30 St Mary Axe), Leadenhall Building (affectionately known as the Cheese Grater) and Canary Wharf in the distance.
There’s plenty more to do in this part of London too. Monument is a very short stroll from a brilliant free attraction, the London sky garden, also featuring some of London’s best views.
Last year, 21-year-old Jordan Lea Hart, embarked on a once-in-her-young-lifetime trip abroad. While she’d enjoyed a holiday or two closer to home and with family, this was her first significant trip overseas – just she and her best friend, Rachael. We’d spoken to the girls a few times about travel and life abroad, and were very excited to hear when they took the massive step to book and confirm it all.
Jordan Lea and Rachael enjoyed the same tour of Europe with Expat Explore that we did in 2011 (on just the second 26-day itinerary since the group launched it), and I was keen to find out more about the experience, their tips and stories of travel and friendship. Most importantly, I was keen for insights into why they too, advocate taking the chance to travel, live and learn!
When did you travel to Europe?
In July and August 2015, European summer time.
This was your first major overseas trip – how did the decision come about to do it?
Throughout high school, my best friend and I always talked about travelling to Europe, specifically London, because we love historical buildings and English boys! Once we finally had enough coin we booked it.
When did you decide what type of travel option to pursue?
I wanted to do a coach tour as it just seemed like the most cost-effective way to get a taste of each country. Originally the plan was to go on a month tour, then rent a car and road trip around Ireland, Scotland and Wales, however that didn’t end up on the agenda due to work and study commitments.
We decided on Expat Explore’s 26 Day Ultimate Europe Tour because it is great value for money (even considering the conversion from Aussie dollars).
One of the first things our tour guide, Will, said was, “You guys are travellers, not tourists, we are not going to hold your hand everywhere you go, it’s up to you. YOU create your journey, we just guide.”
It was awesome because that’s exactly what he did – told us the way to our hotel, how to get home, and what time we would be leaving for the next trip. We never considered a party-type tour, we really wanted to make the most of our travels, not spend the time in bars 24/7 and hung-over every day! Not to say we didn’t have a few cheeky drinks.
Was there anything you were worried about prior to taking this big trip so far away from home?
I was worried about missing home too much; I was in a brand new relationship so this trip was a massive test on us. I missed him terribly but we survived it, thank God for Viber.
Do you think you were well prepared for the trip, or did you learn along the way?
Prior to us leaving I quit my job! I was treating this trip as a fresh start for me, to get perspective on what I really want. I had to be very careful with my money, budgeted a lot, made trips to the local supermarkets to get fresh fruit and snacks for the long coach journeys.
Clothing was something I was not prepared for. I was under the impression Europe would have cold days, and I would only need so many shoes or pairs of socks. The little things ran out fast, and I packed about 10 jumpers and no summer clothes. That was a massive wake-up and I spent a lot of money buying summer basics (most of Europe is hot in summer!). But I learned little tricks after a few weeks, like washing delicates in the sink then rolling them up in the bathroom mat so they dried a lot faster.
I also thought this would be a great best friend trip, just myself and Rachael the whole time! But we met some lifelong friends, we created ‘the squad’ after two days on tour – myself, Rachael and three rowdy British girls – we were inseparable.
What were three highlights of Europe?
The whole trip was a highlight but I do recall a few special moments.
Our first stop was Amsterdam, and Expat scheduled an optional activity for day one on the road. Everyone else on the bus went except Rachael and I; We ditched it. Woke up late, caught the train into the city centre, wandered around just taking it all in for six hours. We walked away from all the tourist areas and went local. We found all these amazing hidden cafes and lunch hot-spots. It was beautiful and so peaceful to just wander and soak up all the culture. Once we got back to tourist-central, we naturally tested the devil’s lettuce from the local coffee shop (not to be confused with cafe) and ended up having the wildest night of our lives.
Sneaking into random hotels, running along the canals and eating the best yogurt and fruit anyone could ever have – our first day was done right.
The second highlight for me was meeting the squad, Alice, Anya and Sara. Here are five girls with completely different backgrounds and we clicked instantly as if we were long-lost soul-mates. We had one night in the Rhine Valley where we all had too much wine, ended up smashing karaoke with a Spice Girls comeback, and we were almost as good as the real thing. So many nights were unforgettable with these girls!
Barcelona was an absolute highlight for me personally; the culture of that place blows my mind! Oh and the sangria!
The last highlight, even though bitter-sweet, was our final night of the tour in France, sitting under the Eiffel Tower and its 9pm light show, drinking mini bottles of wine, with our cheese dips and chocolate.
Some England highlights?
The UK was a short but sweet stay, four days in total, but so full of life. We went to the markets, Harry Potter studio tour and stayed walking-distance from Oxford Street. Also spent a night drinking cocktails with some of my favourite people. It was the perfect end to our trip.
What did you learn about yourself through this experience?
That if I set a goal to do something it will be achieved. And, that I can successfully catch public transport in any country! It helped me also appreciate how lucky I am to have had the chance to do this at 21. Most people don’t get that chance, even couples on our tour said this was their first holiday overseas and they were well over 50.
How has such a significant travel experience shaped the way you are now planning for your future?
It only makes me want to plan for more! I have the thirst for travel, the way it opens your eyes is something else. The world is a fascinating place.
What’s your advice for anyone planning to travel or tour Europe in the summer?
You need a reliable water bottle, sunscreen and good walking shoes.
Be warned of the crowds in Italy, it will have you feeling like you’re suffocating, so go see all the major sights in the afternoon, because in summer the sun doesn’t set until 9pm so it’s nowhere near as hot then.
Learn the underground in European cities. Local trains usually work like clockwork and will take you anywhere you need to go. It all works in colour lines so don’t worry about not knowing the language if you need to get around.
In France, buy souvenirs from the salespeople on the street, not stalls; the sellers are lovely and you get the same thing but for half the price!
What are your essential travel planning websites and apps?
In Europe, always search for the city metro map and have a screen copy on your phone for reference. In London, download the app Kabbie. I would have been lost without this – it’s like Uber but cheap. Another helpful tip is to buy your food and alcohol for your trip. This saves you so much money; the supermarkets have everything you could ever need! Don’t get stuck buying supplies at expensive bars or corner stores.
Would you recommend a tour and why?
Yes! Especially if you have never travelled to that country before, it helps you get your bearings and you have a whole coach support system; a tour guide who you can bother with a thousand questions as they know all the good spots, and you meet amazing people. Once you have done a tour, you can go back the places you enjoyed and you’ll already have knowledge to get around like (nearly) a local!
What does travel mean to you now?
A world of opportunities! I have found what I want to do: work, save, travel.
Bath is the epitome of Georgian elegance and is a wonderful place to visit at any time of the year. It’s a pleasurable day trip from London (take Great Western Rail from Paddington); or stay a night or two and truly indulge in all the romantic things to do in Bath!
Personally, I love Bath because it’s easy to get around but has all the perks of a city like shopping, coffee, plenty to see and do. Bath is rich in history – the buildings tell many lifetimes worth of tales, dating back to the Romans right through to Jane Austen, and even the birth of Royal Mail. And, aside from anything else, the city is strikingly beautiful.
It’s one for the romantics, for sure – a very special place, like York (which you also must visit). Here are seven of our sweetest ideas for you to explore…
7 romantic things to do in Bath, England
Bath Abbey Tower Tour
Bath Abbey is the divine structure that makes for a perfect meeting spot in the town centre. It is an utterly surprising find as you’re wandering the old streets, and you’ll have your phone in hand snapping pictures before you even realise what you’re doing!
Indulge in some people watching in the square, and when you’ve gathered your breath, climb to the top for a bird’s eye view of the area.
If this idea takes your fancy, you can book exclusive personalised tours which take place out of hours. Watch the sun set over this uniquely lovely place, away from the tourist crowds. More at bathabbey.org/towertours.
Stroll along the Gravel Walk
This is fine for all, but Austen fans will especially rejoice because it is the setting of Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth’s proposal in Persuasion.
Continue your wander through to Royal Victoria Park for a picnic, and wind up your exploration in the lovely woodland of the Botanical Gardens.
Be mindful after dark though, for although it might seem pretty at dusk it is said that a number of Bath’s former residents often also wander here. Particularly notable is a white haired man who will appear before you on the Gravel Walk, only to vanish back into the night. Spooky, although perhaps a romantic pursuit for the ghost-hunters (like me) among you…
Boo!
Take to nature – canal ride, row boat or horse drawn carriage ride
As you step off the train into the city of Bath, you’ll spot signs for visitor information centres. Drop in and enquire about one of the unique opportunities to interact with nature.
Back in town, we suggest skipping the cab line and instead take a horse drawn carriage ride around the city, just like in Austen’s romantic age. Be enchanted as you pass by grand spaces like the Royal Crescent, Royal Victoria Park and The Circus. Courtyard Carriages will make it happen.
Stay overnight in a romantic hotel!
Bath is brimming with excellent accommodation options for all budgets. If you’re willing to splash out for a special occasion and take full advantage of this city’s status as a centre for romance, this one looks nice – the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. It’s centrally located with sublime views of the city! We’ve not stayed here, but sure would like to. Seems so very Austen-esque.
Another decadent property I spotted on our travels was Bath Spa Hotel, a five star stay overlooking the breathtaking Bath landscape.
Jane Austen festival in September
Yes, yes and yes!
Indulge in regal splendour – performances, balls, workshops, promenades, fairs, lunches, breakfasts (and the odd Mr Darcy sprinkled around town for good measure)…
There are even short tours of the surrounding area on offer so you can get your entire literary and adventure fix with the least amount of effort. If you’re a fan of the author, don’t miss visiting in September. More at janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk.
Note: there’s a plethora of Austen experiences open all year round too if you can’t make it in spring.
Thermae Bath Spa
Bath is of course famed for its ancient baths and healing waters, and now thanks to Thermae, we can all take a dip.
After you’ve explored the interesting old ruins, step it up to contemporary times in an utterly indulgent and romantic manner. Thermae now boasts a sensational rooftop pool with sweeping city views. There’s plenty of other treatments you can enjoy too – the best of modern pleasures and old world lush blended into a sublime chance to unwind and feel the love.
Country walks and quaint villages
When we visited Bath recently, we actually took the Hop on Hop off bus tour, which features two routes through Bath. One travels around the city and explains the local history, and the other highlights the outskirts upon the hilltops overlooking the city’s skyline. This is an excellent way to get your bearings in the city. Helpful too, because Bath is very hilly so it’s easy to get tired making your way around. An option like this makes it simpler to identify the places you might like to go back to, and the skyline journey in particular showcases some lovely walks.
Suggested places to visit include the ‘prettiest village in England’, Castle Combe (accessible from Bath), Kennet and Avon canals which are some of the loveliest waterways working their way through England. The tour guide also pointed out walks you can try nearby to stops on the tour’s itinerary such as around Middle Hill Lodge.
Words can’t describe how lovely it is here, although many writers have attempted to do so throughout history. Why not visit and see for yourself? You may find the Visit Bath website useful, and book your train tickets in advance for the best deal, Trainline.
If you’ve found this helpful or have a tip to add, please let us know in the comments.
Rolling green hills, pretty ponds, and sheep calmly grazing across vast expanses of English countryside − it was all very dreamy, as we headed towards the filming location of Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle.
We’d been driving along a quiet winding road for a while and wondered where it was.
“If you tilt your head to the left, Miss, just over the tops of those trees, you’ll see it in a moment,” chimed the jolly cab driver I’d met just 15 minutes ago in the nearby village of Newbury.
Filming location of Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle
As he spoke, indeed, it appeared! How amazing – Downton Abbey, or in real life, Highclere Castle – a very accessible day trip from London.
I couldn’t help the welling of excitement as we rounded the corner past more manicured greenery.
All of a sudden, England’s most famous stately home, Highclere Castle arose, grand as ever.
It reminded me of the excitement of when we had the chance to explore historical Blencowe Hall (part of my heritage and a stately place up in the north of England)!
It was just like in one of the world’s most-watched series’, Downton Abbey (sadly, final season aired in 2016, but as of an update to this blog, a film was released late 2019.
Exploring Highclere Castle (‘Downton Abbey’)
You too can play out your Crawley family fantasies by visiting the filming location of Downton Abbey, as do thousands of others who visit annually during the lavish property’s open periods (usually UK’s spring/summer).
The Jacobethan-style country house is set on 5000 acres (five times bigger than New York’s Central Park).
It’s an opportunity to step back into another world altogether.
The library is magnificent, housing over 5000 classic editions; pause a moment in the posh dining room and ballroom (where many a romantic Downton moment has been stolen), and the bedrooms (there’s over 50!).
You can wander the formal gardens, plus enjoy a spot of tea and scones. It’s very special, almost royal like Buckingham Palace, that’s for sure.
When Downton filming is done, Highclere hosts expensive events and celebrity weddings.
It’s home to Lord and Lady Carnarvon, and the property has been in the Carnarvon family for over 300 years.
Back in its heyday, an army of 60 servants catered to the Carnarvons’ every desire. However, it costs around $1 million to maintain such a stately home these days, with just 20 full time staff.
Getting from London to Highclere Castle
It’s an easy day trip − around an hour’s train ride from Paddington to the quaint town of Newbury, then a friendly cab driver will ferry you to Downton… er, I mean, Highclere (but don’t worry if you get it wrong, they’re used to it!).
Good news for those fretting over the end of our favourite show or indeed excited for the new film – you can still make a pilgrimage here and enjoy ever more of England’s charms. Book your tickets here
Are you a Downton Abbely fan too? Drop me a line in the comments!
Hi, we’re Sarah & Cooper. Welcome to Travel Live Learn! We’re Aussie expats currently living in the UK (for the third time!) with our adorable Westie, London. Our mission? To inspire you to embrace a life of adventure—whether it’s travelling longer, relocating to the UK or Europe, or exploring the freedom of remote work and digital nomadism. Enjoy your time on our site! We'd love to stay in touch: subscribe for our weekly stories, updates and remote work job opportunities direct to your inbox.
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