Weekend in Bath
This weekend itinerary for Bath focuses on creating lasting family memories with a smart mix of free community events and engaging ticketed attractions. We've balanced outdoor play, cultural enrichment, and thrilling seasonal fun, ensuring there's something to delight every member of the family (ages 3-12) while being mindful of your budget.
Friday Evening - Autumn Festival Fun
Friday, October 3Autumn Fayre Explore
Kick off your weekend at the Bath Autumn Fayre, a free, family-friendly event transforming Milsom Street.
Enjoy browsing over 100 stalls, listening to live entertainment, and soaking up the festive autumnal atmosphere with roaming performers and various family-friendly activities. It's a great spot to grab some early dinner from the street food vendors.
Perfect for all ages, with plenty of space for kids to wander and enjoy the performers. There are diverse food options available for easy family dining, including sweet treats. Facilities include public toilets nearby. The event is outdoors, so dress for the weather. Stroller accessible.
Milsom Street is in the city center, a short walk from Bath Spa station and city center car parks. Consider using public transport or walking if possible to avoid parking hassle. Nearest car parks include Charlotte Street Car Park.
Pumpkin Patch Nights
Experience the magical atmosphere of Pumpkin Patch Nights at Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park.
As the sun sets, the patch lights up with fairy lights and lanterns, offering pumpkin picking, live music, firepits, street food, and seasonal entertainment. Choose a 5 pm-7 pm session for an earlier family evening.
Kids will love picking their own pumpkins, enjoying the festive lights, and watching the performers. Be aware the patch can get muddy, so wellies are advisable. The event is outdoors. Suitable for children of all ages, though younger ones might prefer the earlier session. Pumpkins and fairground rides are extra.
Located just outside Bath, a short drive from the city. Ample parking is available on-site. The pumpkin patch itself is open farmland and may not be suitable for pushchairs, but the event area is accessible.
Saturday - History & Literature Adventure
Saturday, October 4Roman Baths Spiders
Embark on a 'Spooky Spider Hunt' at the historic Roman Baths.
This family-friendly trail, running throughout October, allows children to hunt for spiders while discovering the Roman myth of Arachne and Minerva. Included with your admission, this interactive experience brings ancient history to life with child-friendly audio guides and costumed characters.
Engaging for kids aged 6-12, while younger ones will enjoy the visual spectacle and audio guide. The site is not suitable for buggies, but carriers and backpacks are provided for babies and toddlers. Family-friendly toilets and baby changing facilities are available. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
The Roman Baths are centrally located. Parking is available in several car parks within easy walking distance (e.g., SouthGate or Charlotte Street). Public transport is convenient. Walking is the best way to explore the city center.
Park Playground Fun
After a morning of history, head to Royal Victoria Park for a picnic lunch and some energetic play.
The park boasts an expansive adventure playground with climbing frames, zip lines, a sandpit, and areas suitable for both toddlers and older children. You can grab lunch from the Pavilion Cafe or a kiosk, or bring your own picnic.
This park is a fantastic free resource for families. The playground is huge with diverse equipment. Toilets are available near the play area (requires 20p). Plenty of open space for kids to run around. Great for burning off energy. The Great Dell Aerial Walkway and Botanical Gardens offer a calmer alternative.
The park is easily accessible from the city center on foot. Parking is available within the park (first hour free, then paid). Stroller-friendly paths throughout the park.
Meet Liz Pichon
Immerse yourselves in the world of books at the Bath Children's Literature Festival.
Attend a special 'Meet Liz Pichon' event at The Forum Bath, where the bestselling author and illustrator of the Tom Gates series will launch her two new books. This event is perfect for engaging young readers and inspiring creativity.
Ideal for children aged 6-12 who love books and drawing. It’s an interactive session that encourages imagination and a love for reading. The duration is typically around an hour. Check for book-signing opportunities afterwards. Booking in advance is highly recommended as these popular events often sell out.
The Forum is centrally located, a short walk from the Roman Baths and Royal Victoria Park. Accessible by public transport and close to city center parking.
Autumn Fayre Dinner
Return to the Bath Autumn Fayre for an early evening meal.
With a wide array of street food options, it’s a lively and casual place to grab dinner, allowing the kids to enjoy the remaining atmosphere and perhaps another look at the stalls or performers before winding down for the day.
A relaxed dinner option with plenty of choice to suit different tastes, ensuring kids find something they like. The early timing is perfect for family bedtimes. The Fayre is outdoors, offering a festive and open environment.
Still easily accessible from The Forum on foot. City center parking options available.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, October 5Final Fayre Fun
Start your Sunday with a final visit to the Bath Autumn Fayre.
As it's the last day, you might find special deals from vendors. Enjoy the live music, grab some artisan treats, and let the kids engage with any remaining family-friendly activities before the fayre closes at 5 pm.
A gentle start to Sunday. Kids can enjoy the last of the street performers or choose a small souvenir. There are plenty of food stalls for a light brunch or snack, catering to various tastes. Stroller friendly and accessible.
Central location, easily accessible on foot or by public transport. Nearby city car parks available.
The Little Prince Show
Treat the family to a captivating performance of 'The Little Prince' at The Egg Theatre.
As part of the Bath Children's Literature Festival, this show promises a whimsical journey through the universe in search of the true meaning of friendship. It's a fantastic way to introduce children to live theatre in a family-friendly setting.
Suitable for children aged 3-12, offering a magical and thought-provoking experience. The Egg Theatre is known for its family-focused programming and comfortable environment. Shows typically run for about an hour. Check specific show timings when booking.
Centrally located, a short walk from Milsom Street. Nearby public car parks available. The theatre is generally accessible.
Garden Stroll & Play
Wind down the weekend with a relaxed visit to the Botanical Gardens within Royal Victoria Park.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll amongst the beautiful autumn foliage, and let the children have some final play in the adventure playground before heading home. The Great Dell Aerial Walkway is also a fun, unique feature for kids to explore.
A peaceful yet engaging way to end the weekend. The gardens offer a beautiful, serene environment for parents, while the nearby playground provides an outlet for any remaining kid energy. Public toilets are available. Good stroller accessibility.
Easily accessible by walking from the city center. Parking available within the park (first hour free, then paid).
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