The Best Bed and Breakfasts to Book in Bath

Super-king beds, superb continental breakfasts – this is an intimate Bath bed and breakfast done right. The traditional decor and four-poster beds will have you channelling your inner Austen in no time – and affable host Richard (chief bellringer at Bath Abbey) can give you the lowdown on the building’s rich history and religious artefacts. Ask him for recommendations before heading into the city centre to explore the sights – a 25-minute walk away.

You’ll receive a friendly welcome at this Edwardian home, situated between two historic parks and owned by the charming Toni and Dawn. All five rooms are en-suite and have the ultimate home-away-from-home essential: Netflix. After a breakfast of honey-drizzled porridge or eggs benedict, head into the city on foot, or visit the nearby Holburne Museum, an art gallery that doubled as the home of Lady Danbury in Bridgerton.

The Kennard began life as a lodging house in 1794 and, over 200 years later, it remains one of Bath’s best places to stay. Twelve rooms are spread across five floors – and while none comes with a bathtub, the B&B has plenty of other plus points: well-stocked honesty bars on each landing, a cute little reading nook and a beautiful, Georgian-style manicured garden. Breakfast options at this good-looking guest house include locally sourced sausages and vegan options.

Looking for the quieter side of Bath? Just a 20-minute stroll south of the city centre, this high-end family-run B&B is a fine spot to unwind. Sisal carpets and calming neutral tones feature throughout the Victorian villa, and rooms are decked out with French-style furniture and fresh flowers. You’ll want to linger in the light-filled breakfast room, with its blue-and-white checked tablecloths and generous spread of cereals, fruits and yoghurts. Vegetarians, place your order quickly: the plate of herb and potato vegetable sausages with halloumi, mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes and a potato scone will tempt even the meat-eaters.

A short walk from the city centre, this Victorian bed and breakfast in Bath offers views of the city from its upper floors. Open-minded foodie? Experimental restaurant Menu Gordon Jones is just around the corner, and it’s quite the experience – there’s no menu, just nine surprise courses. You’ll need to book well in advance. Back at the hotel, sink into a wingback chair by the fire with a whisky in the cosy bar, or – on a clear, warm evening – take your nightcap into the fairy-lit garden.

With just six French country-style rooms and a pair of extremely gracious live-in hosts, a stay at this end-of-terrace Victorian home on the eastern edge of Bath feels like a trip away with friends. A 10-minute stroll will take you to Bathwick Meadow, where you can soak in views of the city. Alternatively, follow the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath south to Widcombe village, a pleasant high street dotted with pubs and cafes.

Just around the corner from the Royal Crescent, a collection of beautiful Georgian townhouses, Brooks Guesthouse definitely shares their opulent reputation. With 22 modernly furnished rooms on offer, Brooks is also one of the more eco-friendly businesses on our list, having been given the Green Tourism award several times in the past few years. The staff is welcoming and knowledgeable about the local area, and, as a bonus, the award-winning kitchen serves some of the best breakfasts in the city.

This four-star B&B in Bath is a sleek and modern choice, located just outside of the city. Relatively new in comparison to some of the other guest houses on our list, Cedars B&B is a great option for both work trips and leisurely weekends away. Complimentary breakfast is available in the dining hall or delivered to your room. If you’re looking for something a little more special, Cedars has an Airstream mobile home available, perfect for a unique romantic trip to the historic city.