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Bath to Bathampton Round Trip - practical travel guide with honest advice.
This extended river cruise takes you beyond Bath's city centre into peaceful countryside along the River Avon. The journey travels approximately three miles to Bathampton village, passing through quieter stretches where you'll spot herons, kingfishers, and other wildlife. The boat moors briefly at Bathampton weir, giving passengers the option to disembark for refreshments at the historic George Inn before returning to Bath. Best for couples and nature lovers. This is a easy activity lasting 1.5 hours. Group size: max 30. You meet at Forester Road boat station. Key highlights: Three-mile journey through peaceful Avon countryside beyond Bath, Wildlife spotting including herons, kingfishers, and water voles, Optional stop at 17th-century George Inn at Bathampton.
Price: £18
Duration: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: easy
Group size: max 30
Minimum age: all ages
Best for: couples and nature lovers
Best time: Spring and summer for best wildlife activity and weather
Meeting point: Forester Road boat station
Languages: English
Here is how the experience unfolds:
First 15 min Depart Forester Road through city outskirts - Pass recreational areas and Bath University sports grounds.
15-45 min Cruise through countryside to Bathampton - Wildlife spotting opportunities with commentary about local ecology.
45-60 min Brief stop at Bathampton weir - Optional 15-minute pub break at the George Inn (drinks not included).
60-90 min Return journey to Bath - Different perspective on the same route with afternoon lighting.
The whole experience takes 1.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Forester Road boat station.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Price | £18 |
| Duration | 1.5 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Group size | max 30 |
| Minimum age | all ages |
| Meeting point | Forester Road boat station |
| Languages | English |
| Cancellation | Free cancellation 48 hours before departure |
| Accessibility | Limited wheelchair access, requires transfer from wheelchair to boat seat |
What is included: 1.5-hour boat cruise, Wildlife commentary, Life jackets, Brief Bathampton stop.
Not included: Food and drinks at pub stop, Entrance to George Inn, Transportation to meeting point. You will need to arrange these yourself.
What to bring: Warm clothing layers, Binoculars for wildlife, Cash for pub refreshments. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.
Best time to go: Spring and summer for best wildlife activity and weather.
Tip: Bring layers for cooler evenings
Tip: George Inn at Bathampton allows boat passengers
Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access, requires transfer from wheelchair to boat seat.
Operator: Bath Boating Station | Book directly (opens in new tab) | Phone: +44 1225 466407
After this activity, these are within easy reach:
This activity is run by Bath Boating Station.
Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).
Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 48 hours before departure.
Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access, requires transfer from wheelchair to boat seat.
Best time to go: Spring and summer for best wildlife activity and weather.
No, this is a return boat trip only. Passengers must return on the same boat. The footpath back to Bath is approximately 3 miles along the towpath if you prefer walking.
Common sightings include herons, kingfishers, moorhens, and various duck species. Occasional glimpses of water voles and bats during evening cruises. Spring brings nesting activity and more active wildlife.
No, this is a return boat trip only. Passengers must return on the same boat. The footpath back to Bath is approximately 3 miles along the towpath if you prefer walking.
Common sightings include herons, kingfishers, moorhens, and various duck species. Occasional glimpses of water voles and bats during evening cruises. Spring brings nesting activity and more active wildlife.
Best for: canal enthusiasts and history buffs
Best for: families with young children
Best for: families and first-time visitors
Best for: couples and special occasions
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