Parade Gardens, Bath's Riverside Floral Oasis
A historic riverside garden in Bath offering vibrant floral displays, iconic views, and a tranquil urban escape.
Parade Gardens is a Grade II listed riverside park in the heart of Bath, offering stunning views of Pulteney Bridge and the River Avon. Known for its vibrant bedding displays, Edwardian bandstand, and tranquil lawns, it serves as a popular venue for concerts, fairs, and weddings. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, the gardens blend heritage architecture with natural beauty, providing a peaceful urban retreat.
A brief summary to Parade Gardens
- Grand Parade, Bath, BA2 4DF, GB
- +441225394041
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during spring and summer to experience the peak of the vibrant floral displays and seasonal 3D bedding features.
- Check the schedule for bandstand concerts and community events to enjoy live music in a picturesque setting.
- Use the wheelchair accessible ramps and paved paths for easy navigation throughout the gardens.
- Enjoy a picnic on the lawns or visit the onsite café for cream teas and light refreshments with outdoor seating.
- Take advantage of free entry during the trial period from April to December 2025 to explore without an admission fee.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Bath city centre; from there, Parade Gardens is a 5-10 minute walk. Bus services run frequently throughout the day with tickets costing around £2-£4 depending on distance.
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Train
Bath Spa railway station is approximately 15-20 minutes on foot from Parade Gardens. Trains connect Bath to major cities including London and Bristol. Walking routes are mostly flat and accessible.
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Car
Nearest pay-and-display parking is at Manvers Street car park, about a 4-minute walk away. Expect charges around £2-£3 per hour. Mobility parking for blue badge holders is available nearby on Walcot Street.
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Walking
Parade Gardens is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from Bath city centre landmarks such as Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge. Paths are paved and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Parade Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Parade Gardens
Historic Roots and Urban Setting
Parade Gardens, originally laid out in 1709 as St James's Park, was designed to complement the Assembly Rooms for spa visitors in Bath. This Grade II listed park occupies a triangular site bordered by North Parade, Pierrepont Street, and Grand Parade, nestled alongside the River Avon. Its central location places it within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, embedding it deeply in the city's rich heritage.Floral Mastery and Scenic Views
The gardens are renowned for their exceptional bedding displays, considered among the finest in the UK. Seasonal floral arrangements include intricate carpet bedding and an annual 3D floral feature during summer, showcasing innovative horticultural artistry. Visitors enjoy panoramic views of the historic Pulteney Bridge and the weir from the colonnade, a structure built in the early 20th century, enhancing the garden's scenic charm.Architectural and Cultural Highlights
Within the gardens, visitors can find the elegant Edwardian bandstand, a focal point for musical performances and community events throughout the warmer months. The site also features historic remnants such as Monk's Mill, a medieval mill older than Bath Abbey, alongside statues, sculptures, and the King Edward VII memorial. These elements contribute to the gardens' layered historical narrative and cultural significance.Community Events and Leisure Activities
Parade Gardens hosts a vibrant program of events including concerts, fairs, and outdoor theatre, often centered around the bandstand. The gardens provide deck chairs and children’s entertainment during summer, making it a family-friendly destination. The bandstand is also available for private hire, commonly used for weddings and ceremonies, adding an elegant backdrop to special occasions.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The gardens are fully wheelchair accessible, featuring paved paths and ramps. While direct vehicle access is restricted, loading and unloading are possible from Grand Parade. Nearby facilities include a café with outdoor seating offering sandwiches, cakes, and cream teas, and public restrooms are available close by. Mobility parking is located on Walcot Street, and the nearest pay-and-display car park is on Manvers Street.Seasonal Access and Free Entry
Open daily from 10am to 6pm, Parade Gardens operates seasonally with free entry currently trialed from April to December 2025, making it more accessible to all visitors. The gardens’ tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty provide a peaceful retreat year-round, with floral displays peaking in spring and summer. Its riverside location offers a serene environment ideal for picnics, leisurely strolls, and photography.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monks Mill
0.1 km
Discover Monks Mill, a rare medieval watermill ruin nestled in Bath’s picturesque Parade Gardens, echoing centuries of monastic industry and wool trade heritage.
The EASTGATE
0.1 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
0.1 km
Experience the rich history and delectable flavors at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum in Bath, where tradition meets taste.
Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
0.1 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
The Pump Room Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Archway
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
0.3 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
Bath Quays Waterside
0.5 km
A vibrant, sustainable waterside regeneration reconnecting Bath’s city centre with its historic river heritage and green public spaces.
Museum of Bath Architecture
0.6 km
Explore Bath’s architectural evolution from medieval roots to Georgian grandeur in a compact, richly detailed museum setting.
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
0.6 km
Discover the timeless beauty and historical significance of the Bath Assembly Rooms, a stunning example of Georgian architecture and social culture.
The Circus
0.7 km
A breathtaking Georgian circle of townhouses blending classical design with ancient symbolism in the heart of Bath.
Green Park Station
0.7 km
Historic railway station turned vibrant market hub offering fresh local produce, unique crafts, lively eateries, and cultural events in Bath.
Herschel Museum of Astronomy
0.7 km
Explore the Georgian home where William Herschel discovered Uranus and celebrate the Herschels’ legacy in astronomy and music.
Sydney Gardens
0.7 km
Explore the lush beauty and historical charm of Sydney Gardens, a tranquil park in Bath perfect for leisurely strolls and serene picnics.
Museum of Bath at Work
0.8 km
Explore Bath’s Industrial Heritage at the Museum of Bath at Work – A Journey Through Time and Craftsmanship.
Unmissable attractions to see
Prince Bladud and the Pig
0.0 km
Discover the legendary founder of Bath immortalized in stone alongside his healing pigs in the tranquil Parade Gardens.
Terrace Walk
0.1 km
Discover tranquility and timeless beauty on Terrace Walk, Bath’s charming canal-side promenade blending historic architecture with peaceful waterside views.
Angel of Peace
0.1 km
A serene bronze tribute to King Edward VII, symbolizing peace and sovereignty at the heart of Bath’s Parade Gardens.
Grand Parade
0.1 km
Historic Georgian riverside promenade in Bath with stunning views, elegant gardens, and rich cultural heritage by the River Avon.
Bizarre Bath
0.1 km
Experience Bath’s quirkiest comedy walk blending street theatre, local antics, and laughter in a lively 90-minute evening stroll.
Bath Abbey
0.1 km
Discover Bath Abbey’s breathtaking Gothic architecture, centuries of history, and vibrant spiritual life in the heart of historic Bath.
In and Beyond Bath
0.1 km
Discover the magic of Bath with In and Beyond Bath, your guide to unforgettable tours and experiences in this historic city and its surroundings.
Pulteney weir
0.1 km
One of the world’s few bridges with shops on both sides, Pulteney Bridge is Bath’s stunning Georgian landmark blending history, commerce, and river views.
Bath Guildhall Market
0.1 km
800 years of trading beneath a Victorian dome—Bath's authentic heart of independent commerce.
North Parade, Bath
0.1 km
Discover North Parade, Bath’s elegant Georgian street blending historic charm with scenic riverside views in the heart of this UNESCO city.
City Sightseeing Bath Hop On Hop Off
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s iconic landmarks and scenic beauty at your own pace with the flexible City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off bus tours.
Beazer Garden Maze
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s serene Beazer Garden Maze, a historic labyrinth blending art, nature, and heritage in a peaceful riverside setting.
Victoria Art Gallery
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s rich artistic heritage at Victoria Art Gallery, home to British masterpieces and dynamic exhibitions in a stunning historic setting.
Pulteney Bridge
0.1 km
An elegant 18th-century Palladian bridge in Bath with unique shops spanning both sides, blending history, commerce, and stunning river views.
Marshal Wade's House
0.1 km
A rare early 18th-century Palladian townhouse in Bath’s historic heart, blending classical elegance with rich heritage and modern comfort.
Essential places to dine
Browns Bath
0.1 km
Classic British brasserie dining in Bath’s historic Old Police Station with seasonal menus and handcrafted cocktails.
Joya Italian Steakhouse
0.1 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant Italian steakhouse where you grill your own premium hot stone steak in a lively riverside setting.
Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Bath at Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant.
Tagine Zhor
0.1 km
Experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality of Morocco in the heart of Bath at Tagine Zhor, a vibrant and authentic Moroccan dining destination.
Sotto Sotto
0.1 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic vaulted cellar setting beneath Bath’s historic streets.
OAK Restaurant
0.1 km
Discover OAK Restaurant in Bath: exquisite vegetarian small plates crafted with local, seasonal ingredients in a cozy, historic setting.
La Perla
0.1 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the cozy, atmospheric arches beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Bill's Bath Restaurant
0.1 km
A vibrant British restaurant in central Bath, perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner near the Theatre Royal and Bath Abbey.
Chez Dominique
0.2 km
Intimate modern French bistro in Bath offering seasonal Anglo-French cuisine with expertly crafted dishes and warm, attentive service.
The Hive Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
Bath's beloved neighbourhood restaurant, celebrated for its Sunday roast and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Ponte Vecchio
0.2 km
Bath’s finest Italian restaurant in a converted riverside boathouse, with stunning views of Pulteney Bridge and the weir.
Turtle Bay Bath
0.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean jerk flavors and tropical vibes in the heart of historic Bath at Turtle Bay.
The Herd Steak Restaurant
0.2 km
A cozy, family-run steakhouse in Bath famed for locally sourced, dry-aged beef and impeccable service in a unique basement setting.
Yak Yeti Yak
0.2 km
Authentic Nepalese cuisine and Himalayan hospitality in a vibrant basement gem.
Opa Bath
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek meze and vibrant nightlife in atmospheric vaulted cellars by Bath’s River Avon.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Orange Grove Gifts and Souvenirs
0.0 km
Discover unique Bath-inspired gifts and souvenirs in a friendly, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of the historic city.
Wood & Burr
0.0 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and wooden puzzles at Wood & Burr, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of historic Bath.
Nām
0.1 km
Discover unique art and scents in a cozy Bath boutique offering distinctive homewares to inspire your living space.
A Nice Little Shop
0.1 km
Charming souvenir shop nestled in Bath’s historic Guildhall Market, offering authentic gifts in a vibrant, centuries-old marketplace.
The Bath Bazaar
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm in the heart of Bath’s historic Guild Hall at The Bath Bazaar.
Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath
0.1 km
A beloved independent bookshop in Bath offering rich literary selections, live author events, and a welcoming atmosphere daily until late evening.
The Antique Map Shop
0.1 km
Discover rare antique maps and prints in a historic shop set on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge, blending history with timeless charm.
Fancy That of London
0.1 km
Charming Bath gift shop in historic Abbey Chambers offering Bath-themed treasures and warm, personal service near Bath Abbey.
Wadswick - Bath
0.2 km
Discover authentic British country lifestyle and designer clothing in a historic boutique on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge.
TILLIUS
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts in TILLIUS, a charming boutique nestled on Bath’s iconic Georgian Pulteney Bridge, blending history with distinctive finds.
Bluebells of Bath
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home decor at Bluebells of Bath, a charming independent shop in the heart of historic Bath.
Hidden Store Bath
0.2 km
Discover ethically made artisan gifts and homewares that celebrate Bath’s rich heritage and creativity in a warm, curated boutique setting.
Beats Of Bath
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Bath’s historic Cheap Street at Beats Of Bath.
Pinkart
0.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local artistry at Pinkart, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of historic Bath.
Jacks of Bath
0.2 km
Discover authentic Bath souvenirs in a charming boutique nestled in the historic Abbey Churchyard, perfect for unique gifts and keepsakes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sleight Magic Bar
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s only magic bar, where captivating close-up illusions meet expertly crafted cocktails in a vaulted cellar setting.
ArtBar
0.1 km
A stylish cocktail bar and art gallery in Bath’s historic Abbey Hotel, blending creative ambiance with refined drinks and local charm.
All Bar One Bath
0.1 km
A stylish and spacious wine bar on Bath’s historic High Street, blending modern comfort with vibrant city energy.
The Hideout
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s hip-hop inspired whisky bar nestled in a historic cellar, blending quirky charm with expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming vibe.
Coeur De Lion
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s smallest pub, Coeur De Lion, where cozy charm meets local ales and simple, tasty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Opium Bar
0.2 km
Discover vintage charm and expertly crafted cocktails in Bath’s secretive vaults beneath Grove Street.
The Old Green Tree
0.3 km
A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
Belushi's Bath
0.3 km
A lively sports bar and live music venue in Bath offering great food, cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere near the city’s historic heart.
Juno Bar and Kitchen
0.3 km
Lively central Bath bar serving craft beers, bold burgers, inventive cocktails, and a buzzing social scene with pool and music.
The Grapes
0.3 km
A historic Bath pub blending traditional charm with lively music, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city’s heart.
Fidel Rum Bar
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s cozy rum sanctuary with expert cocktails, a global rum collection, and a warm, inviting atmosphere at Fidel Rum Bar.
The Botanist Bath
0.3 km
A botanical haven in Bath blending historic charm, seasonal menus, award-winning cocktails, and live music across three vibrant floors.
The Bath Distillery Gin Bar
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s historic gin revival in a vibrant Georgian bar with exclusive small-batch gins and expertly crafted cocktails.
Vino Vino
0.4 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed wine and cocktail bar in Bath with artisan sharing plates and a vibrant al fresco terrace.
The Dark Horse
0.4 km
Discover Bath’s moody, intimate cocktail bar with inventive drinks, warm service, and a hidden underground charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
0.1 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
0.3 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
Komedia
0.3 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Zero / Zero
0.4 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Sub 13
0.5 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Lomah
0.5 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
The Tub
2.1 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Motion
16.9 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Dare to Club
17.0 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Loco Klub
17.3 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Thekla
18.0 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Popworld - Bristol
18.4 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
18.4 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Lakota
18.4 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
PRYZM
18.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly