Bath City Parade Gardens
A historic riverside oasis in Bath’s city centre, famed for vibrant floral displays, stunning views, and lively summer concerts.
Bath City Parade Gardens is a beautifully maintained Grade II listed riverside park in the heart of Bath, England. Spanning approximately two and a half acres, it offers stunning views of Pulteney Bridge, the River Avon, and Bath Abbey. Known for its vibrant floral displays, historic bandstand, and tranquil lawns, the gardens provide a peaceful urban oasis with seasonal events, concerts, and a charming café. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, it is wheelchair accessible and free to enter in 2025.
A brief summary to Bath City 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 in spring or summer to enjoy the spectacular bedding displays and the annual 3D floral carpet.
- Attend a summer concert at the Edwardian bandstand for a lively cultural experience.
- Bring a picnic or enjoy refreshments at the onsite café with outdoor seating.
- Use the wheelchair accessible ramps and paved paths for easy mobility throughout the gardens.
- Check the official website for current opening hours and any special event ticket requirements.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Bath Spa train station, it’s a 10–15 minute walk to Parade Gardens via city centre streets. Several bus routes serve stops near the city centre, including those on Grand Parade, facilitating easy access. Bus tickets typically cost £2–£4 depending on the route.
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Car
Visitors arriving by car can park at the nearby Manvers Street car park, about a 4-minute walk from the gardens. This pay-and-display car park charges approximately £1.50–£3 per hour. Note that Parade Gardens itself has no direct vehicle access.
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Walking
The gardens are centrally located and easily reachable on foot from most parts of Bath city centre, including Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, with flat, paved paths suitable for all abilities.
Bath City Parade Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bath City Parade Gardens
Historic Roots and Landscape
Bath City Parade Gardens traces its origins back to 1709, originally laid out as St James's Park to complement the Assembly Rooms for spa visitors. The gardens occupy a triangular site bounded by Grand Parade, North Parade, and the River Avon. Redesigned in the 18th and 19th centuries and further developed in the early 20th century, the park retains its historic charm as a Grade II listed site. Notable features include the remains of Monk's Mill, a medieval mill older than Bath Abbey, and the elegant Tuscan colonnades built in the early 1900s.Floral Displays and Riverside Views
The gardens are renowned for their award-winning bedding displays, including an annual three-dimensional carpet bedding feature in summer that showcases creative floral artistry. Visitors can enjoy expansive lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and shaded seating areas. The gardens provide picturesque views over the River Avon, Pulteney Bridge—one of the world’s few bridges with shops along its span—and the iconic Bath Abbey. The riverside promenade invites peaceful strolls along the water’s edge.Community and Cultural Hub
Parade Gardens is a popular venue for community events, including concerts held at the Edwardian bandstand throughout the summer months. The bandstand is also available for private hire, including weddings and ceremonies, making the gardens a cherished cultural and social space. Seasonal children’s entertainment and deck chair rentals enhance the visitor experience, while the onsite café offers refreshments such as sandwiches, cakes, and traditional cream teas.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The gardens are fully wheelchair accessible, with paved pathways and ramps leading into the park. Public restrooms, including accessible facilities, are available nearby, with additional Changing Places facilities a short walk away. Mobility parking for blue badge holders is located close to the gardens. The nearest car park is at Manvers Street, approximately a four-minute walk away. Public transport links and Bath’s train and bus stations are within easy walking distance.Seasonal Access and Entry
Parade Gardens operates seasonally, typically open from April to September, daily from 10am to 6pm. In 2025, entry is free as part of a trial by Bath & North East Somerset Council to increase accessibility. While the gardens are free to enter, some special events, such as summer concerts, may require tickets. Visitors are encouraged to check event schedules and opening times before planning their visit.Significance and Experience
This urban green space offers a serene escape in the bustling city centre, blending natural beauty with historic significance. It is a favored spot for picnics, leisurely walks, photography, and cultural enjoyment. The gardens’ combination of heritage, horticulture, and community spirit makes it a unique and memorable destination for visitors and locals alike.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
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
