Bad of Bath fun Walking Tour of Bath

Discover a Different Side of Bath with the Bad of Bath Fun Walking Tour

If you’re visiting Bath and want to see the city beyond its well-trodden tourist spots, the Bad of Bath walking tour offers a refreshingly candid look into Bath’s shadier history. For just over $30, a friendly guide will take you on a two-hour stroll through some of the city’s most picturesque landmarks—Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge, the Circus—and sprinkle in stories of crime, corruption, and scandal that most visitors never hear. Led by guides like Simon—whose humor and knowledge shine through—this tour is both entertaining and eye-opening.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances famous sights with dark tales, giving you a more complex picture of Bath’s past. The stories about thieves, gamblers, and scandalous characters like John Wesley make history feel alive and relatable. Plus, the small group size (max 15 people) ensures a friendly, personalized atmosphere. One potential drawback? The tour tends to run longer than the advertised 1 hour 30 minutes, often stretching up to 3 hours, which might not suit everyone’s schedule or comfort. Still, if you enjoy a good story and a bit of humor, this walk is perfect for those wanting to explore Bath’s less polished, more human side.

Ideal for history buffs, fans of quirky stories, and anyone curious about the underbelly of historic cities, this tour offers a unique blend of education, humor, and authentic local storytelling. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, you’ll appreciate the engaging guide and the chance to see Bath from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Unique stories about Bath’s crimes, scandals, and hidden sins make this tour stand out.
• Combines iconic landmarks with dark tales for a well-rounded experience.
• Small group size boosts engagement and personal interaction with the guide.
• Humor and storytelling bring history to life in a fun, approachable way.
• Cost-effective at just over $30, offering great value for a 2-hour guided walk.
• Flexible meeting point in Abbey Churchyard makes for easy access.

A Closer Look at the Bad of Bath Fun Walking Tour

When considering a walking tour in Bath, most travelers think of grand architecture and the Roman Baths. While those are fantastic, the Bad of Bath tour offers a different flavor—a chance to learn about Bath’s darker history. For just over $30 per person, you’ll spend about two hours walking through some of the city’s key sights while listening to stories that are often left out of traditional guides. Led by knowledgeable guides like Simon, this tour strikes a nice balance between humor, history, and the scandalous side of Bath’s past.

The meeting point, at Abbey Churchyard, is central and easy to find, making it a convenient start to your exploration. The tour is capped at 15 travelers, which ensures a relaxed, personal atmosphere—no large, impersonal groups here. The duration of around 2 hours means you’ll see the highlights without feeling rushed, although some reviews mention it occasionally runs longer—sometimes up to three hours, which could be a consideration if you have tight schedules or mobility limitations.

One aspect we appreciate is the blend of well-known sites—such as Royal Crescent, the Circus, and Pulteney Bridge—with the more clandestine tales that Simon shares. These stories include tales of thieves, gamblers, and even the infamous preacher John Wesley, adding layers to the city’s storybook charm. These anecdotes not only entertain but give a sense of the city’s complex social history, making it a memorable experience for those who enjoy stories that go beyond the surface.

What to Expect at Each Stop

The Circus – Your tour kicks off here with a quick 5-minute stop. You’ll admire the impressive architecture and hear about its history, but it’s the stories Simon shares about the darker side of Georgian Bath that make this stop memorable. This site sets the tone for the tour—beauty mixed with intrigue. As one reviewer said, “Simon was fantastic at enthralling us with the dark murky history of Bath.”

No. 1 Royal Crescent – Another 5-minute stop, this stately Georgian home is a highlight. While its architectural grandeur is eye-catching, you’ll also learn about the lives of the wealthy and the less glamorous secrets behind the façade. The tour’s fast pace at these stops keeps the energy high and the stories flowing.

Pulteney Bridge – A 5-minute visit here not only showcases one of Bath’s most iconic structures but also reveals some lesser-known scandals tied to its construction and history. Travelers mention that these quick stops, combined with storytelling, make the experience feel packed yet intimate.

Walking Between The Sights

The walk between these landmarks is part of the charm. We loved how Simon navigated the narrow streets, sharing humorous anecdotes and scandalous tales that make the city come alive. The route is straightforward, ensuring you don’t get lost, and the pace is comfortable for most. Be prepared for some standing around during the stories, which, according to reviews, can extend the tour longer than expected.

The Guide: Simon and His Charm

The reviews universally praise Simon’s knowledge, humor, and personable style. He’s described as a “polished guide,” “hilarious,” and “extremely knowledgeable.” Several mention that Simon remembers everyone’s names and makes the small group feel like friends on a shared adventure. His storytelling approach turns what could be a standard historical walk into a lively, engaging experience.

Many reviews also highlight the value for money—people think Simon’s storytelling skills and local insights make this tour worth far more than its modest price. One reviewer even said Simon “should charge more,” which speaks to the quality of his delivery.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While most travelers find the tour enjoyable and well-paced, a few mention it occasionally runs longer than the advertised 1.5 hours—sometimes up to 3 hours. If you or your companions have mobility issues or prefer shorter excursions, this could be worth considering. The tour is mostly on foot, with minimal waiting or transportation, making it accessible for those comfortable walking.

It’s also worth noting that service animals are allowed, making the tour suitable for pet owners. The start time at 10:00 am and the central meeting point make it easy to fit into your day.

Price and Value

At just over $30 per person, the tour offers excellent value—especially given the small group size, engaging guide, and unique stories. Compared to typical guided tours, which can be longer or more expensive, this experience is a compact yet rich way to get to know Bath’s hidden stories.

You might find that the stories about Bath’s crimes, scandals, and gossip add depth to your visit, making familiar sights more meaningful. The fact that it combines famous landmarks with dark secrets gives a layered understanding of the city that standard tours often miss.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits history enthusiasts, story lovers, or anyone curious about Bath’s less polished, more human side. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a lively storyteller and appreciate humor with their history. It’s also great for travelers who want to see the main sights but prefer to hear the stories behind them rather than just take photos.

If you’re traveling with older adults, remember the tour can run longer than expected and involves walking, so plan accordingly. Families with teenagers or groups of friends looking for a fun, relaxed outing will also find this tour a hit.

The Sum Up

The Bad of Bath fun walking tour emerges as an excellent choice for anyone wanting to see Bath’s most famous sights with a twist. The stories of crime, scandal, and corruption turn familiar landmarks into vivid tales that stick with you long after the walk ends. The guides’ humor and knowledge make this tour not just informative but genuinely fun—an experience that brings out the city’s quirkiest side.

For travelers seeking a small-group, affordable, and entertaining way to explore Bath, this tour offers a memorable mix of history, humor, and authentic local flavor. It’s especially ideal if you’re interested in stories that aren’t covered in mainstream guidebooks or want to walk away with some entertaining anecdotes to share.

If you appreciate well-told stories, a relaxed pace, and a chance to see the city through a different lens, this tour will deliver. Just keep in mind—if you prefer a strictly traditional tour or are tight on time, it might be worth considering the tour duration before booking.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Typically around 2 hours, but some reviews note it can run longer, sometimes up to 3 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Abbey Churchyard in Bath, a very central location.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the extended length and walking might be tiring for some. It’s best for those comfortable on their feet.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

What sights are included?
Famous landmarks like the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and Pulteney Bridge, combined with stories about Bath’s darker side.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, but consider the length and walking involved if traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is the cost?
Just over $30 per person, making it a great value for a two-hour guided experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Bad of Bath walking tour offers a lively, authentic glimpse into Bath’s lesser-known stories, perfect for those who enjoy humor, history, and a touch of scandal. It’s a memorable way to see the city from a different perspective—informative, fun, and designed for genuine travelers eager for a local’s take.