Shepherd's huts with hot tubs near Bath

With elegant Georgian architecture, scenic riverside strolls, and historic monuments everywhere you turn, Bath is deserving of its star attraction status. Prepare to be dazzled as you take in the headline acts—the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and Royal Crescent are all show-stoppers—then indulge your romantic side as you visit the Jane Austen Centre or indulge in a traditional afternoon tea. Once you’ve had your culture fix, there are outdoor pleasures to enjoy too. Go punting or canoeing along the River Avon, float over the countryside in a hot air balloon, or enjoy riverside walks and bike rides.

Whether you want to hit the beach or explore underground caves, North Somerset has outdoor adventures to suit all tastes. Head to the Mendip Hills AONB to hike through the Cheddar Gorge, explore the Wookey Hole caves, and taste Britain’s beloved Cheddar cheese. Along the coast, seaside resorts like Burham-on-Sea and Weston-Super-Mare have sandy beaches, summer entertainment, and great seafront camping.

Bath fills up with day-trippers in summer and during annual events such as the Bath Festival (May) or the Jane Austen Festival (Sept). Make your campsite reservations months in advance if visiting during these periods, and plan an early start to beat the crowds at top attractions. Spring and autumn are ideal for hikes in the surrounding AONBs, and there are options for winter campers, too—Bath is particularly magical over the holiday season.

• Bath has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up everything you need for your camping trip. 
• Bath has public transport links to many of the surrounding towns and AONBs, but it is handy to have your own transport, especially if staying at rural campsites.
• Wild camping is illegal throughout the UK, although there are some areas where it is possible with permission from the landowners.