Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey showing a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and a square or plaza
Choose two or more items and save on your trip:
Built in the Gothic style, this prestigious church is a popular pilgrimage destination and an important city landmark.

The spiritual centre of the city, Bath Abbey is a masterpiece of perpendicular Gothic design. Popular among local worshippers as well as tourists, this church has a regular congregation that numbers in the hundreds. Attend a religious ceremony, concert or lecture in this impressive ecclesiastical structure.

Trace the history of the church, whose full name is the Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. The history of the site dates back to the eighth century, with additions and renovations taking placee several times since then. It can now seat about 1,200 people in its cruciform-plan interior.

Before entering, take some time to explore the spacious plaza out front. This square is a popular spot for street artists and offers some great views of the church’s exterior. Take note of its majestic spires and arched windows, which are both typical Gothic architectural elements. Inspect the western façade, where you’ll find a sculpture depicting angels ascending stone ladders to heaven.

Inside, look up at the church’s attractive ceiling, which features a beautiful example of fan vaulting. Fan vaulting is a popular Gothic ceiling pattern, in which curved ribs radiate outward, resembling a handheld fan. Stroll through the spacious nave and note the large church windows, which create a light and airy feel inside.

Elsewhere on the church walls, you’ll be able to see many beautiful memorial stones, some of which are dedicated to fallen soldiers. Read the stone plaques to discover their stories.

Descend to the cellars to explore the Heritage Vaults Museum, which is devoted to the history of the abbey. The modest collection features sculptures, religious relics and models of older incarnations of the church.

The church opens is open daily from morning to late afternoon and has limited opening hours on Sundays. It is free to enter, although there is a suggested donation. Take a tour of the tower for a small fee. There are discounted rates available for kids.

Bath Abbey is located just north of the city’s main railway station, next to the Roman Baths and Thermae Bath Spa. Take the bus or train to get there.

Plan a trip to see Bath Abbey

Hotel Riu Plaza London Victoria
Berkley Aparthotel
Grange Beauchamp
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Holiday & seasonal tours

See all 4 activitiesOpens in new tab

Reviews of Bath Abbey

4.4
Top destination
5 - Excellent
160
" "5 - Excellent 48.048048048048045%
4 - Good
153
" "4 - Good 45.945945945945944%
3 - Okay
15
" "3 - Okay 4.504504504504505%
2 - Disappointing
1
" "2 - Disappointing 0.3003003003003003%
1 - Terrible
4
" "1 - Terrible 1.2012012012012012%

4/5 - Good

Ann
27 Feb 2019

Very interesting free 2 hour walking tour from near here looking at sights and history.

4/5 - Good

Ann
27 Feb 2019

Choral evensong 3.30pm on Sunday's

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
23 Feb 2019

Go on the Tower Tour - but get there early to book a tour on the day!

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Hampton by Hilton Bath City
Hampton by Hilton Bath City
4 out of 5
Avon Street, Bath, England
Hampton by Hilton Bath City
Apex City of Bath Hotel
Apex City of Bath Hotel
4 out of 5
1 James Street West, Bath, England
Apex City of Bath Hotel
The Gainsborough Bath Spa
The Gainsborough Bath Spa
5 out of 5
Beau Street, Bath, England
The Gainsborough Bath Spa
Hotel Indigo Bath, an IHG Hotel
Hotel Indigo Bath, an IHG Hotel
3.5 out of 5
2-8 South Parade, Bath, England
Hotel Indigo Bath, an IHG Hotel
Doubletree by Hilton Bath
Doubletree by Hilton Bath
4 out of 5
Walcot Street, Bath, England
Doubletree by Hilton Bath
Abbey Hotel Bath, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Abbey Hotel Bath, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
4 out of 5
1 North Parade, Bath, England
Abbey Hotel Bath, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Francis Hotel Bath
Francis Hotel Bath
4 out of 5
Queen Square, Bath, England
Francis Hotel Bath
No.15 by GuestHouse, Bath
No.15 by GuestHouse, Bath
4.5 out of 5
15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath, England
No.15 by GuestHouse, Bath
Hiding Space - Westgate Apartments
Hiding Space - Westgate Apartments
4 out of 5
4-5 Westgate Buildings, Bath, England
Hiding Space - Westgate Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.