Bath is more than a scenic city in Somerset. Home to the University of Bath and Bath Spa University, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the ideal location for students wanting to explore new horizons. Between studying and socialising, there are plenty of things to do, from free activities and cultural attractions to lively nightlife. Find out more in this handy guide to the city.
Where To Stay as a Student in Bath
Discover the perfect place for your new adventure at our student apartments in Bath. The Brook is designed with your student life in mind. This accommodation features awesome social spaces for making new friends, dedicated study areas for when it’s time to work hard, and an on-site gym and wellness centre, allowing you to look after your physical and mental health. What’s more, The Brook is ideally located a 15-minute walk from the city centre, giving you convenient access to all of Bath’s best bits.
Cafes and Coffee Shops in Bath
Whether catching up with friends over coffee and cake or working away from your desk, you can do so at Bath’s charming cafes. If you like working to background noise or enjoy socialising in a bustling atmosphere, head to one of the high-street chains like Starbucks and Costa. You can always get your go-to order in any branch and log on to the free Wi-Fi for study sessions. If you want somewhere cosier, try one of the smaller, independent cafes, of which Bath has many. Cassia Bath and Coffee#1 Bath Riverside are two spots near our student apartments, offering views of the River Avon. Meanwhile, the city centre is home to Picnic Coffee, a favourite for speciality drinks, Cascara, a great spot for vegan and gluten-free options, and the local chain, Society Café.
Restaurants in Bath
Bath has loads of restaurants and fast-food outlets where you can go for a nice meal or grab a quick bite to eat. Roll out of bed after an all-nighter and refuel with breakfast or brunch at one of the popular student spots including Bill’s, The Architect and Aqua. When it comes to lunch and dinner, you can eat out on a budget at Southgate. The shopping centre has several cafes, bars and restaurants, such as Nando’s, Caffe Nero and Brewdog, offering student discounts. Other budget-friendly eateries include Bath Pizza Co., which has weekday meal deals, and The Canon with its menu of traditional comfort food.
Nightlife in and Around Bath
Beneath Bath’s stunning architecture, you’ll find a thriving underground club scene where students head for thrills, spills and parties galore. Second Bridge is a Bath institution. It has several spaces, each catering to different music tastes, and hosts themed student nights with cheap drinks. Labyrinth, Komedia and Moles also draw in students, with club nights, live music and fun events.
When you fancy a quieter night, Bath’s pubs and bars have got you covered. The King of Wessex and Canon are student favourites for a cheap night out. So is The Bath Brew House, a microbrewery serving beers crafted on-site and tasty food, which students can get at a discount.
Shopping in Bath
At Southgate shopping centre, you can shop all your favourite brands under one roof. It has over 50 stores, including fashion, home and lifestyle, health and beauty, and technology, alongside food outlets and a cinema. Loads offer student discounts and deals, making it easier to manage your budget while enjoying student life. For unique finds, go to Greek Park Station. This market has various stalls selling everything from fresh fruit and veg to antiques and gifts. And during the winter term, you won’t want to miss the renowned Bath Christmas Market, even if only to soak up the festive vibes.
Fitness and Wellbeing
As a student in Bath, you’ll have access to a wealth of gyms, fitness studios and leisure facilities. You can easily exercise at home when you live at our student accommodation. The Brook has an on-site gym and wellness centre. There’s also a PureGym just along the road, which has daily classes and offers a student membership. The University of Bath has incredible on-campus facilities at the Team Bath Sports Training Village. With an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a sprung-wood sports hall, and the UK’s only push-start track, it’s no wonder so many professional athletes choose to train here. And you can access it all with a discounted student membership, no matter which institution you’re studying at.
Nature and Outdoor Spaces
Alongside picturesque architecture, Bath benefits from stunning public parks and green spaces. Sydney Gardens, situated behind the Holburne Museum, is the oldest park in the city. The grounds feature several listed buildings and beautifully landscaped green spaces, making it ideal for accessing peace and quiet in a tranquil setting. Prior Park is another beauty spot offering breathtaking views of the city.
Bath is surrounded by the rolling Somerset hills, so there’s plenty of countryside to explore and wildlife to spot when the mood takes you. Animal lovers can also enjoy some four-legged company at Bath City Farm. This petting zoo offers free entry, perfect for a cheap day out.
Bath’s Cultural Attractions
A free walking tour is one of the best things to do when you arrive in Bath as a student. These guided walks occur daily and cover key locations, allowing you to see the sights and get to know your way around the city. Perhaps the most iconic attraction, the Roman Baths is a must-visit. This ancient site provides a glimpse into the past by letting visitors explore the Roman Baths complex, walk across original pavements and see the ruins of the Temple of Sulis Minerva.
Elsewhere, book lovers will delight in exploring the Jane Austen Centre. The author was one of the city’s most famous residents, and the museum offers unique insights into her life and work. Other notable museums include The Holbourne Museum, which displays decorative and fine art, and the Fashion Museum for clothing and costumes throughout the decades.
Find where you belong at our student accommodation in Bath. Browse the available room options and book the perfect home for your new adventure.