The Recreation Ground, Bath
Historic home of Bath Rugby nestled beside the River Avon, blending sporting passion with Bath’s iconic heritage and scenic charm.
The Recreation Ground, commonly known as The Rec, is a historic sports venue in Bath, England, famed as the home of Bath Rugby. Nestled beside the River Avon in the Bathwick area, it offers an intimate and vibrant atmosphere for rugby matches and community events. With a capacity of around 14,500, the ground combines scenic surroundings with modern facilities, making it a key destination for sports fans and visitors exploring Bath's rich heritage.
A brief summary to The Recreation Ground
- Pulteney Mews, Bath, Bathwick, BA2 4DS, GB
- +441225337952
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early on match days to enjoy the lively fan zones with food stalls and live music before kickoff.
- Use public transport or cycle to avoid limited parking during events; bike racks are available on-site.
- Check the official Bath Rugby website for match schedules and ticket availability in advance.
- Accessible seating and facilities are available; contact Bath Rugby in advance for specific assistance.
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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Walking
A scenic 15-20 minute walk from Bath city center leads you to The Recreation Ground via quiet streets and riverside paths, suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility.
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Bus
Local buses from Bath Bus Station reach The Recreation Ground in approximately 10-15 minutes. Services run regularly but may be limited on match days; tickets cost around £2-£4.
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Car
Driving from Bath city center takes 5-10 minutes, but parking near The Rec is very limited on event days. Use nearby public car parks and plan extra time for walking.
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Bicycle
Cycling is a quick and eco-friendly option, taking 5-10 minutes from the city center. Secure bicycle racks are available on-site for visitors.
The Recreation Ground 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 The Recreation Ground
A Storied Home of Rugby Excellence
The Recreation Ground, affectionately called The Rec, has been the heart of Bath Rugby since its founding in 1865. This iconic venue, established in 1894, is steeped in sporting tradition and has witnessed countless memorable matches in English rugby union history. Its relatively modest capacity of approximately 14,500 ensures an intimate setting where the roar of passionate fans creates an electric atmosphere. The Rec's legacy is intertwined with Bath's identity, reflecting a rich heritage of success, innovation, and community spirit.Picturesque Setting in Bathwick
Situated in the Bathwick district, The Recreation Ground lies adjacent to the River Avon, providing a stunning natural backdrop that enhances the matchday experience. The venue is surrounded by the elegant Georgian architecture and historic streets of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage City. Nearby Pulteney Mews, a quiet street with late 20th-century terraced houses and historic connections to the grand Great Pulteney Street, adds to the area's charm. The blend of natural beauty and heritage architecture creates a unique environment for sports and leisure.Modern Facilities and Fan Experience
Despite its historic roots, The Rec offers modern amenities including accessible seating areas, hearing loops, and dedicated facilities for disabled visitors. On match days, the grounds come alive with vibrant fan zones featuring live music, food and drink stalls, and community activities such as a Kids’ Zone. The venue's proximity to Bath city center makes it easily accessible, with multiple transport options and bicycle racks encouraging eco-friendly travel. The club also hosts hospitality packages and group accommodations, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Community and Cultural Significance
Beyond rugby, The Recreation Ground serves as a community hub, hosting a variety of events and celebrations such as university graduation receptions. Its role extends into local culture, fostering a sense of belonging among residents and visitors alike. The venue’s location within Bath’s conservation area underscores the importance of balancing development with heritage preservation, ensuring that The Rec remains a cherished landmark for future generations.Accessibility and Transport Options
The Rec is conveniently reachable by walking from Bath city center within 15-20 minutes along scenic routes. Local buses connect the stadium to Bath Bus Station in 10-15 minutes, while car journeys from the center take about 5-10 minutes, though parking is limited on event days. Cycling is a popular and quick option, with secure bike racks available. Taxi services also provide easy access, making The Recreation Ground a well-connected venue for all visitors.Future Developments and Preservation
Plans for The Recreation Ground focus on enhancing spectator capacity and improving facilities while respecting the historic and environmental context. Efforts aim to complement the surrounding Georgian streetscape and the natural riverside setting, ensuring that upgrades maintain the venue’s unique character. This careful stewardship highlights the balance between modern sporting needs and Bath’s cultural heritage, securing The Rec’s place as a premier rugby destination and community asset.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
The EASTGATE
0.2 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
0.3 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
0.3 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
0.4 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Archway
0.4 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
0.4 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
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.
Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution
0.7 km
Discover the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, where history, literature, and science come together in the heart of Bath.
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
0.7 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.
Bath Quays Waterside
0.7 km
A vibrant, sustainable waterside regeneration reconnecting Bath’s city centre with its historic river heritage and green public spaces.
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.
Herschel Museum of Astronomy
0.8 km
Explore the Georgian home where William Herschel discovered Uranus and celebrate the Herschels’ legacy in astronomy and music.
Green Park Station
0.8 km
Historic railway station turned vibrant market hub offering fresh local produce, unique crafts, lively eateries, and cultural events in Bath.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
Bath Sports and Leisure Centre
0.1 km
A vibrant, fully refurbished leisure centre in Bath offering fitness, swimming, family fun, and wellness under one roof.
Prince Bladud and the Pig
0.1 km
Discover the legendary founder of Bath immortalized in stone alongside his healing pigs in the tranquil Parade Gardens.
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.
Argyle St & Pulteney Bridge
0.2 km
An iconic Georgian crossroads where historic Argyle Street meets the architecturally unique Pulteney Bridge spanning the River Avon.
Grand Parade
0.2 km
Historic Georgian riverside promenade in Bath with stunning views, elegant gardens, and rich cultural heritage by the River Avon.
Bath City Parade Gardens
0.2 km
A historic riverside oasis in Bath’s city centre, famed for vibrant floral displays, stunning views, and lively summer concerts.
Angel of Peace
0.2 km
A serene bronze tribute to King Edward VII, symbolizing peace and sovereignty at the heart of Bath’s Parade Gardens.
Bath Pavilion
0.2 km
A vibrant cultural and event venue in Bathwick, Bath, hosting concerts, weddings, and community celebrations in a flexible, atmospheric setting.
North Parade Bridge
0.2 km
Historic cast iron bridge blending Georgian elegance and 19th-century engineering over Bath’s 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.
Terrace Walk
0.2 km
Discover tranquility and timeless beauty on Terrace Walk, Bath’s charming canal-side promenade blending historic architecture with peaceful waterside views.
City Sightseeing Bath Hop On Hop Off
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s iconic landmarks and scenic beauty at your own pace with the flexible City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off bus tours.
Victoria Art Gallery
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s rich artistic heritage at Victoria Art Gallery, home to British masterpieces and dynamic exhibitions in a stunning historic setting.
Bizarre Bath
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s quirkiest comedy walk blending street theatre, local antics, and laughter in a lively 90-minute evening stroll.
Essential places to dine
Ponte Vecchio
0.1 km
Bath’s finest Italian restaurant in a converted riverside boathouse, with stunning views of Pulteney Bridge and the weir.
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.
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.
Antica Bath Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the charming Bathwick neighborhood at Antica Bath Restaurant.
Joya Italian Steakhouse
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant Italian steakhouse where you grill your own premium hot stone steak in a lively riverside setting.
Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Bath at Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant.
Opa Bath
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek meze and vibrant nightlife in atmospheric vaulted cellars by Bath’s River Avon.
La Perla
0.2 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the cozy, atmospheric arches beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Browns Bath
0.2 km
Classic British brasserie dining in Bath’s historic Old Police Station with seasonal menus and handcrafted cocktails.
Sotto Sotto
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic vaulted cellar setting beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Turtle Bay Bath
0.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean jerk flavors and tropical vibes in the heart of historic Bath at Turtle Bay.
The Restaurant at The Bird
0.3 km
Stylish, sustainable dining in Bathwick with modern British dishes, festive charm, and stunning views of Bath Abbey.
The Elder Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with a focus on seasonal wild game in Bath’s elegant Georgian setting.
Tagine Zhor
0.3 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Antique Map Shop
0.2 km
Discover rare antique maps and prints in a historic shop set on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge, blending history with timeless charm.
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 Bath-inspired gifts and souvenirs in a friendly, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of the historic city.
Wood & Burr
0.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and wooden puzzles at Wood & Burr, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of historic Bath.
Wadswick - Bath
0.2 km
Discover authentic British country lifestyle and designer clothing in a historic boutique on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge.
A Nice Little Shop
0.2 km
Charming souvenir shop nestled in Bath’s historic Guildhall Market, offering authentic gifts in a vibrant, centuries-old marketplace.
The Bath Bazaar
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm in the heart of Bath’s historic Guild Hall at The Bath Bazaar.
Nām
0.3 km
Discover unique art and scents in a cozy Bath boutique offering distinctive homewares to inspire your living space.
Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath
0.3 km
A beloved independent bookshop in Bath offering rich literary selections, live author events, and a welcoming atmosphere daily until late evening.
Hidden Store Bath
0.3 km
Discover ethically made artisan gifts and homewares that celebrate Bath’s rich heritage and creativity in a warm, curated boutique setting.
Anthropologie
0.3 km
Discover Anthropologie Bath: vibrant women's fashion and unique home décor in a stylish boutique at the heart of historic New Bond Street.
Fancy That of London
0.3 km
Charming Bath gift shop in historic Abbey Chambers offering Bath-themed treasures and warm, personal service near Bath Abbey.
Bluebells of Bath
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home decor at Bluebells of Bath, a charming independent shop in the heart of historic Bath.
Vintage Abs Bath
0.3 km
Discover authentic vintage clothing and accessories in Bath’s charming Upper Borough Walls at Vintage Abs, a haven for fashion lovers.
Beats Of Bath
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Bath’s historic Cheap Street at Beats Of Bath.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Opium Bar
0.2 km
Discover vintage charm and expertly crafted cocktails in Bath’s secretive vaults beneath Grove Street.
Sleight Magic Bar
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s only magic bar, where captivating close-up illusions meet expertly crafted cocktails in a vaulted cellar setting.
ArtBar
0.3 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
0.3 km
A stylish and spacious wine bar on Bath’s historic High Street, blending modern comfort with vibrant city energy.
The Hideout
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s smallest pub, Coeur De Lion, where cozy charm meets local ales and simple, tasty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Belushi's Bath
0.4 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 Old Green Tree
0.4 km
A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
Juno Bar and Kitchen
0.4 km
Lively central Bath bar serving craft beers, bold burgers, inventive cocktails, and a buzzing social scene with pool and music.
Henrietta Restaurant, Bar & Garden
0.4 km
Elegant dining and classic Afternoon Tea in a charming historic villa with a tranquil garden terrace in the heart of Bathwick.
The Botanist Bath
0.4 km
A botanical haven in Bath blending historic charm, seasonal menus, award-winning cocktails, and live music across three vibrant floors.
Fidel Rum Bar
0.5 km
Discover Bath’s cozy rum sanctuary with expert cocktails, a global rum collection, and a warm, inviting atmosphere at Fidel Rum Bar.
The Grapes
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover Bath’s historic gin revival in a vibrant Georgian bar with exclusive small-batch gins and expertly crafted cocktails.
Revolution Bath
0.5 km
Lively cocktail bar in Bath’s city centre offering creative drinks, American-inspired eats, and vibrant nightlife until the early hours.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
0.4 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
Zero / Zero
0.5 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Komedia
0.5 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
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.
Sub 13
0.6 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
The Tub
2.0 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Motion
17.0 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Dare to Club
17.1 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Loco Klub
17.5 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
18.1 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
18.5 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
18.5 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Lakota
18.5 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
PRYZM
18.5 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
- Lively
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly