The Corridor, Bath
Step into one of Britain’s oldest shopping arcades: a graceful 1825 covered promenade of independent boutiques, cafés, and elegant Georgian–Victorian architecture in the heart of Bath.
One of Britain’s earliest shopping arcades, The Corridor in Bath is a graceful 1825 Georgian–Victorian arcade linking High Street and Union Street. Under a high glass roof supported by ornate ironwork, it houses a curated mix of independent boutiques, cafés, and high‑street names. Marble columns, a musicians’ gallery with gilt lions’ heads, and a Doric colonnade at the High Street entrance give it the feel of a grand 19th‑century promenade. Though damaged by an IRA bomb in 1974, it was meticulously restored and remains a charming, covered shortcut and a delightful place to browse artisanal goods, enjoy a coffee, and admire historic architecture in the heart of Bath.
A brief summary to The Corridor Bath
- High St, Bath, BA1 5AP, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy the arcade at its quietest, with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere for browsing shops and cafés.
- Look up as you walk through: the high glass roof, iron trusses, and musicians’ gallery with gilt lions’ heads are some of the most striking architectural details.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along High Street and Union Street to experience the full range of Bath’s shopping, from historic arcades to modern high‑street stores.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from Bath Spa station
From Bath Spa railway station, follow signs for the city centre and High Street. The walk takes about 5–10 minutes along level, paved routes; The Corridor is clearly visible once you reach High Street.
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By bus to the city centre
Most Bath city centre bus routes stop near High Street or Union Street. From the main stops, it’s a 2–5 minute walk along level pavements to reach The Corridor.
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From nearby car parks
The closest car parks are SouthGate Shopping Centre and the Bath Sports and Leisure Centre car park, both about a 5–10 minute walk away on level, paved routes to High Street and The Corridor.
The Corridor Bath location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Corridor Bath
A Grand 19th‑Century Arcade
Opened in October 1825, The Corridor is one of the world’s earliest purpose‑built retail arcades, designed by Bath architect Henry Goodridge in the elegant Georgian style. Inspired by the fashionable covered shopping passages of Paris and London’s Burlington Arcade, it was conceived as a refined, sheltered promenade where Bath’s well‑to‑do could stroll and shop in comfort. The arcade runs from High Street to the edge of Union Street, forming a graceful, covered link between two of Bath’s main shopping areas. Its Grade II listed status reflects its architectural importance as an early example of the indoor shopping arcade, a concept that would later evolve into the modern shopping centre.Architecture and Atmosphere
The Corridor’s most striking feature is its high, arched glass roof supported by slender iron trusses, which floods the arcade with natural light and creates a bright, airy atmosphere. At the High Street end, a Doric colonnade with marble columns marks the entrance, while the opposite end also features marble columns and a more intimate feel. Running along the centre of the arcade is a musicians’ gallery with a wrought‑iron balustrade adorned with gilt lions’ heads and garlands, a decorative touch that hints at the arcade’s original role as a fashionable social space. The Victorian redevelopment introduced large plate‑glass shop fronts, which remain in place today, giving the arcade a timeless blend of Georgian grandeur and Victorian shopfront elegance.Shopping and Dining Today
Today, The Corridor is home to around two dozen shops, offering a mix of well‑known high‑street brands and independent, specialist retailers. Visitors can browse clothing, jewellery, stationery, gifts, furniture, and more, with several cafés and eateries providing places to pause for coffee, cake, or a light meal. The atmosphere is more relaxed than the open High Street, making it a pleasant place to escape the weather and enjoy a more personal, less crowded shopping experience. The arcade’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to combine historic charm with contemporary retail, creating a unique environment where the past and present of Bath’s shopping culture meet.History and Resilience
The Corridor has played a notable role in Bath’s history beyond shopping. In the 19th century, number 7 housed the photographic studio of William Friese‑Greene, later celebrated as a pioneer of cinematography. The arcade’s history also includes a darker chapter: on 9 December 1974, an IRA bomb exploded inside, causing extensive damage to this historic part of the city. The subsequent major restoration carefully rebuilt the arcade to its former glory, preserving its distinctive roof, colonnades, and decorative details. This careful restoration ensures that today’s visitors can still experience the arcade much as it appeared in the 19th century, a testament to Bath’s commitment to its architectural heritage.A Living Piece of Bath’s Fabric
More than just a shopping arcade, The Corridor is an integral part of Bath’s urban fabric, serving both as a covered shortcut between streets and as a destination in its own right. Its elegant proportions, historic details, and mix of shops and cafés make it a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re drawn by the architecture, the independent boutiques, or simply the pleasure of strolling under a glass roof in the heart of a World Heritage city, The Corridor offers a distinctive and memorable experience. It stands as a beautifully preserved example of early retail architecture, where the rhythms of daily life continue beneath a canopy of glass and iron.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Pump Room Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
The EASTGATE
0.1 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
0.1 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
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.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
0.2 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
0.2 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
Monks Mill
0.2 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.
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.
Henrietta Park
0.5 km
Discover the tranquility of Henrietta Park in Bath, a serene escape filled with beautiful gardens and lush greenery perfect for relaxation.
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
0.5 km
Discover the timeless beauty and historical significance of the Bath Assembly Rooms, a stunning example of Georgian architecture and social culture.
Herschel Museum of Astronomy
0.5 km
Explore the Georgian home where William Herschel discovered Uranus and celebrate the Herschels’ legacy in astronomy and music.
Green Park Station
0.5 km
Historic railway station turned vibrant market hub offering fresh local produce, unique crafts, lively eateries, and cultural events in Bath.
Museum of Bath Architecture
0.5 km
Explore Bath’s architectural evolution from medieval roots to Georgian grandeur in a compact, richly detailed museum setting.
The Circus
0.5 km
A breathtaking Georgian circle of townhouses blending classical design with ancient symbolism in the heart of Bath.
Museum of Bath at Work
0.7 km
Explore Bath’s Industrial Heritage at the Museum of Bath at Work – A Journey Through Time and Craftsmanship.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hen Weekends in Bath
0.0 km
Celebrate your hen weekend in style at Beau Nash House, Bath’s vibrant venue blending historic charm with lively entertainment.
Bath Guildhall Market
0.1 km
800 years of trading beneath a Victorian dome—Bath's authentic heart of independent commerce.
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.
Fudge Kitchen Ltd - Bath
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s artisan fudge haven where tradition, creativity, and quirky charm blend into every creamy bite.
Bath Walking Tours
0.1 km
Explore Bath’s rich history and stunning architecture on expert-led walking tours from Abbey Courtyard.
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.
Bath Ghost Tours
0.1 km
Experience the haunted history of Bath with Bath Ghost Tours, where chilling tales meet captivating storytelling in a stunning city.
Best of Bath Walking Tours
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s Georgian elegance and rich history on an engaging small-group walking tour led by expert local guide Bob Andrews.
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.
The Roman Baths
0.1 km
Step into ancient history at The Roman Baths, where steaming hot springs and Roman ruins reveal 2,000 years of Bath’s heritage.
Bath's Historic Venues
0.1 km
Experience elegant Georgian dining and historic charm with live classical music overlooking Bath’s iconic Roman Baths.
Grand Parade
0.1 km
Historic Georgian riverside promenade in Bath with stunning views, elegant gardens, and rich cultural heritage by the River Avon.
Pulteney Bridge
0.2 km
An elegant 18th-century Palladian bridge in Bath with unique shops spanning both sides, blending history, commerce, and stunning river views.
Bath World Heritage Centre
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s rich heritage and UNESCO status through interactive exhibits, expert guidance, and immersive walking trails at the city’s cultural hub.
Pulteney weir
0.2 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.
Essential places to dine
Jars Meze
0.0 km
Authentic Greek meze and Mediterranean warmth in Bath's most intimate family-run taverna.
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.
Bonghy Bo
0.1 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant Asian fusion scene with Bonghy Bo’s eclectic menu and intimate, stylish setting.
Browns Bath
0.1 km
Classic British brasserie dining in Bath’s historic Old Police Station with seasonal menus and handcrafted cocktails.
Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Bath at Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant.
Turtle Bay Bath
0.1 km
Experience authentic Caribbean jerk flavors and tropical vibes in the heart of historic Bath at Turtle Bay.
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.
Raphael Restaurant
0.2 km
A relaxed, wine-focused restaurant in a Georgian townhouse, serving modern British dishes with seasonal, local ingredients in the heart of Bath.
Côte Bath
0.2 km
Stylish French brasserie in Bath’s historic Milsom Place, serving seasonal modern classics with vegan and gluten-free options in a charming courtyard setting.
OAK Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover OAK Restaurant in Bath: exquisite vegetarian small plates crafted with local, seasonal ingredients in a cozy, historic setting.
The Hive Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
Bath's beloved neighbourhood restaurant, celebrated for its Sunday roast and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Chez Dominique
0.2 km
Intimate modern French bistro in Bath offering seasonal Anglo-French cuisine with expertly crafted dishes and warm, attentive service.
Amarone Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and elegant ambiance in the heart of historic Bath at Amarone Restaurant.
Ole Tapas
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Bath’s historic city centre.
La Terra
0.2 km
Contemporary Italian fine dining rooted in family tradition, impeccable sourcing, and warm hospitality in Bath's city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Silver Shop Of Bath
0.0 km
Discover Bath’s longest-established silver jewellery shop, offering unique gifts and expert craftsmanship in a charming historic setting.
Firefly Vintage Bath
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage gems and timeless style at Firefly Vintage Bath, a cozy boutique for curated vintage clothing in the heart of Bath.
Beats Of Bath
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Bath’s historic Cheap Street at Beats Of Bath.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.1 km
Discover playful Scandinavian design and affordable creative gifts at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Bath’s vibrant Union Street.
Vintage Abs Bath
0.1 km
Discover authentic vintage clothing and accessories in Bath’s charming Upper Borough Walls at Vintage Abs, a haven for fashion lovers.
Bluebells of Bath
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home decor at Bluebells of Bath, a charming independent shop in the heart of historic Bath.
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.
Anthropologie
0.1 km
Discover Anthropologie Bath: vibrant women's fashion and unique home décor in a stylish boutique at the heart of historic New Bond Street.
Jacks of Bath
0.1 km
Discover authentic Bath souvenirs in a charming boutique nestled in the historic Abbey Churchyard, perfect for unique gifts and keepsakes.
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.
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.
Jigsaw
0.1 km
Elegant ladies’ fashion and accessories boutique offering refined style and attentive service in the heart of Bath’s historic Old Bond Street.
Wadswick - Bath
0.1 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.
Orange Grove Gifts and Souvenirs
0.2 km
Discover unique treasures and local crafts at Orange Grove Gifts and Souvenirs in the heart of Bath, a must-visit for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Coeur De Lion
0.0 km
Discover Bath’s smallest pub, Coeur De Lion, where cozy charm meets local ales and simple, tasty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
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 Old Green Tree
0.1 km
A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
Fidel Rum Bar
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s cozy rum sanctuary with expert cocktails, a global rum collection, and a warm, inviting atmosphere at Fidel Rum Bar.
Belushi's Bath
0.2 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.
The Grapes
0.2 km
A historic Bath pub blending traditional charm with lively music, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city’s heart.
The Bath Distillery Gin Bar
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s historic gin revival in a vibrant Georgian bar with exclusive small-batch gins and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Botanist Bath
0.2 km
A botanical haven in Bath blending historic charm, seasonal menus, award-winning cocktails, and live music across three vibrant floors.
Sleight Magic Bar
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s only magic bar, where captivating close-up illusions meet expertly crafted cocktails in a vaulted cellar setting.
The Hideout
0.2 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.
Vino Vino
0.2 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed wine and cocktail bar in Bath with artisan sharing plates and a vibrant al fresco terrace.
ArtBar
0.2 km
A stylish cocktail bar and art gallery in Bath’s historic Abbey Hotel, blending creative ambiance with refined drinks and local charm.
Opium Bar
0.2 km
Discover vintage charm and expertly crafted cocktails in Bath’s secretive vaults beneath Grove Street.
Hall & Woodhouse Bath
0.3 km
Historic multi-floor pub and restaurant in Bath offering classic ales, diverse menu, and rooftop city views.
The Dark Horse
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s moody, intimate cocktail bar with inventive drinks, warm service, and a hidden underground charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Komedia
0.2 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Zero / Zero
0.3 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
0.4 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Second Bridge
0.4 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
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
2.3 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Motion
16.7 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Dare to Club
16.8 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Loco Klub
17.2 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
17.9 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
18.2 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
18.2 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Lakota
18.2 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
PRYZM
18.2 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
