7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Bath

Bath, a city renowned for its Roman-built baths and stunning Georgian architecture, is not only a fantastic place to live for digital nomads but also an excellent base for exploring the South West of England. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and proximity to both bustling cities and tranquil countryside, Bath offers a variety of weekend getaway options. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems off the beaten track, there's something for everyone within a short journey from this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Oxford

The city of Oxford is a blend of historic charm and academic prestige. Known as the "City of Dreaming Spires," Oxford is home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Visitors can explore the historic university colleges, stroll through the Botanic Garden, or punt along the River Thames. The city's vibrant literary history, with ties to authors like Lewis Carroll and J.R.R. Tolkien, makes it a fascinating destination for book lovers.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Oxford from Bath is by train, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 10 minutes from Bath Spa to Oxford Station.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe with a copy of every book published in the UK and Ireland.

Where to Stay: The Old Bank Hotel offers luxurious accommodations with views of the city's famous spires, while the Malmaison Oxford, a boutique hotel set in a converted prison, provides a unique stay.

Where to Eat: The Eagle and Child pub is famous for being the meeting place of the Inklings, a literary group that included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are synonymous with quintessential English countryside. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is dotted with charming villages, rolling hills, and historic manors. Spend your weekend wandering through the streets of towns like Chipping Campden or Bourton-on-the-Water, or enjoy a hike along the Cotswold Way. The region is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with plenty of picturesque scenery.

How to Get There: Driving is the most convenient way to explore the Cotswolds, with various destinations within a 1 to 2-hour drive from Bath.

Travel Tip: For a unique experience, visit the Cotswold Lavender Farm during blooming season to see the fields awash with purple and enjoy the fragrant scents.

Where to Stay: The Lygon Arms in Broadway offers a historic and luxurious stay, complete with a spa and an excellent restaurant.

Where to Eat: The Wild Rabbit in Kingham is a modern British inn with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients, perfect for a memorable meal in the countryside.

Cardiff

Just across the Severn Bridge, Cardiff, the capital of Wales, offers a dynamic mix of history and modernity. Visitors can explore Cardiff Castle, catch a rugby match at the Principality Stadium, or enjoy the bustling Cardiff Bay area. The city is also home to a vibrant food scene and numerous cultural events throughout the year.

How to Get There: Cardiff is easily accessible by train from Bath Spa Station, with a journey time of around 1 hour.

Travel Tip: Check out the Doctor Who Experience for an interactive journey through the world of the famous TV show, which is filmed in and around Cardiff.

Where to Stay: The St. David's Hotel in Cardiff Bay offers stunning waterfront views and a luxurious spa.

Where to Eat: For a taste of Wales, try Pettigrew Tea Rooms at the entrance of Bute Park for traditional Welsh cakes and afternoon tea.

Glastonbury

Glastonbury is not just famous for its music festival; it's also steeped in myth and legend. The town is said to be the resting place of King Arthur and is home to the evocative Glastonbury Tor. The quirky high street, with its esoteric bookshops and cafes, adds to the town's unique charm. It's an ideal spot for those interested in history, spirituality, and nature.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Glastonbury from Bath is by car, with a journey time of around 1 hour.

Travel Tip: Climb to the top of Glastonbury Tor for panoramic views of the Somerset Levels, especially magical at sunrise or sunset.

Where to Stay: The George and Pilgrim Hotel is one of the oldest in the South West and offers a historic stay right on the high street.

Where to Eat: The Hundred Monkeys Cafe offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with organic, locally sourced dishes.

Avebury

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the prehistoric site of Avebury. Less crowded than its famous neighbor Stonehenge, Avebury's stone circle is the largest in the world and visitors can walk freely among the stones. The village itself is charming and offers a glimpse into rural English life, with thatched cottages and traditional pubs.

How to Get There: Avebury is best reached by car from Bath, with a journey time of around 1 hour.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Avebury Manor and Garden, a National Trust property where you can interact with the exhibits and even sit on the furniture, unlike most historic homes.

Where to Stay: The Red Lion Inn, located within the stone circle, provides a unique place to stay with a traditional pub on-site.

Where to Eat: The Red Lion Inn also serves hearty British fare, perfect after a day of exploring the ancient landscape.

Castle Combe

Often referred to as 'the prettiest village in England,' Castle Combe in the Cotswolds is a hidden gem that seems untouched by time. With its picturesque stone cottages and tranquil atmosphere, it's a perfect spot for digital nomads looking for a quiet retreat. The village has been a filming location for movies like "War Horse" and "Stardust," adding to its storybook appeal.

How to Get There: Castle Combe is a short drive from Bath, taking approximately 30 minutes by car.

Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds and have the idyllic streets more to yourself.

Where to Stay: The Manor House Hotel offers luxury accommodations in a stunning country house setting, complete with a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Where to Eat: The White Hart, a traditional British pub in the village, serves delicious local ales and classic pub food.

Frome

The market town of Frome is a creative hub with a strong community spirit and an emphasis on independent businesses. Its charming streets are lined with artisan shops, galleries, and vintage boutiques. The first Sunday of each month sees the Frome Independent Market take over the town, showcasing the best of local food, drink, and crafts.

How to Get There: Frome is easily accessible by train from Bath, with a journey time of around 45 minutes.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Frome Independent Market for a lively and colorful experience of this creative town.

Where to Stay: The Archangel offers boutique rooms in a building that dates back to the Domesday Book, with a popular restaurant and bar on-site.

Where to Eat: The Garden Café in the heart of Frome offers a vegetarian menu with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, all made with local, seasonal ingredients.