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Bath City Boat Trip - practical travel guide with honest advice.
This popular river cruise takes you past Bath's most famous landmarks from a unique water-level perspective. The 45-minute journey includes live commentary about the Georgian architecture, Roman history, and stories behind the elegant buildings lining the River Avon. You'll pass under the shop-lined Pulteney Bridge and see the city's honey-coloured limestone buildings from angles impossible to capture on foot. Best for families and first-time visitors. This is a easy activity lasting 45 minutes. Group size: max 50. You meet at Pulteney Bridge slipway. Key highlights: Pass under historic Pulteney Bridge with shops built into the structure, See Pulteney Weir up close from water level, Live commentary about Bath's Georgian architecture and Roman heritage.
Price: £12
Duration: 45 minutes
Difficulty: easy
Group size: max 50
Minimum age: all ages
Best for: families and first-time visitors
Best time: Late afternoon for golden hour lighting on Georgian buildings
Meeting point: Pulteney Bridge slipway
Languages: English
Here is how the experience unfolds:
First 10 min Board boat at Pulteney Bridge slipway - Brief safety talk and seating selection for best views.
10-20 min Cruise past Pulteney Weir and Georgian terraces - Commentary covers the 1973 weir construction and Ralph Allen's stone quarries.
20-35 min Pass under Pulteney Bridge with shop viewing - One of only four bridges worldwide with shops on both sides.
35-45 min Return journey past Abbey and Roman Baths - Views of Bath Abbey's Gothic architecture and Roman Baths steam.
The whole experience takes 45 minutes. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Pulteney Bridge slipway.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Price | £12 |
| Duration | 45 minutes |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Group size | max 50 |
| Minimum age | all ages |
| Meeting point | Pulteney Bridge slipway |
| Languages | English |
| Cancellation | Free cancellation 24 hours before departure |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible boarding with assistance, stable platform boarding |
What is included: 45-minute boat cruise, Live commentary, Life jackets available.
Not included: Food and drinks, Hotel pickup, Gratuities. You will need to arrange these yourself.
What to bring: Warm jacket in cooler months, Camera, Cash for onboard refreshments. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.
Best time to go: Late afternoon for golden hour lighting on Georgian buildings.
Tip: Runs every hour in season
Tip: Best photography from right side of boat
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible boarding with assistance, stable platform boarding.
Operator: Pulteney Cruisers | Book directly (opens in new tab) | Phone: +44 1225 865000
After this activity, these are within easy reach:
This activity is run by Pulteney Cruisers.
Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).
Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 24 hours before departure.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible boarding with assistance, stable platform boarding.
Best time to go: Late afternoon for golden hour lighting on Georgian buildings.
Yes, trips run year-round but with reduced frequency November through March. Weather-dependent cancellations possible during storms. Check website for current winter schedule before visiting.
The boat departs from Pulteney Bridge slipway, located directly beneath Pulteney Bridge. Look for the blue and white Pulteney Cruisers sign near the bridge's east side.
Yes, trips run year-round but with reduced frequency November through March. Weather-dependent cancellations possible during storms. Check website for current winter schedule before visiting.
The boat departs from Pulteney Bridge slipway, located directly beneath Pulteney Bridge. Look for the blue and white Pulteney Cruisers sign near the bridge's east side.
Best for: canal enthusiasts and history buffs
Best for: couples and nature lovers
Best for: families with young children
Best for: couples and special occasions
Live availability from our partner Viator