Top 5 Running Routes in and around Bath

Getting those steps in is just as important when you’re on a city break – so what better way to explore the historic beauty of Bath than going for a run? Below we have constructed a list of our recommendations for the top 5 running routes in and around Bath which we guarantee will take your breath away in more ways than one!

Bath run-seeing

Bath is renowned for its iconic sights and architecture, and what better way to experience these landmarks than on a run through the picturesque city! By running in and around the centre, you will find yourself challenged by various inclines and declines, but rewarded with some iconic views only Bath can offer! 

If you follow the route we have put together and linked below, you will start at Bath’s iconic Victoria Park, run through The Royal Crescent, loop around The Circus, run through the bustling City Centre past Bath’s many Georgian buildings, past Bath Abbey, the namesake Roman Baths and find yourself quite literally breath-taken by the immense view at Pulteney Bridge where the route ends overlooking the River Avon which winds its way through the heart of Bath. In total, the route is 2.25 miles long so can either be the perfect short distance route or can be made longer by doubling back on yourself. 

There really is no better way of seeing Bath while simultaneously getting those all important steps in!

Two Tunnels Greenway

This paved multi-use trail encounters two tunnels, one of which spans just over one mile long, making it the UKs largest walking and cycling tunnel! Its use of interactive light and sound installations makes for a fun and unique running route, perfect for short or long distance runs! 

The route linked below is 13 miles and takes you from the centre of Bath through the two tunnels, over the Tucking Mill Viaducts and back to Bath alongside the stunning River Avon.

Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath

With its totally flat and never-ending path, The Avon and Kennet Canal path is one of the best places to start your run. Accompanied by some magnificent scenery of canal boats, wildlife, greenery and duck ponds, this path is great either for those shorter jogs, or longer distance more enduring runs. There truly is no limit to the distance you can cover as the path leads all the way to Reading! Whatever your running skill set, this path is a favourite among novices and pro-runners alike!

River Avon (Bath and Bristol Railway Path)

The former Bristol and Bath Railway is now one of the most sought after running trails in the vicinity of Bath. This 15 mile multi-use path offers a scenic run along the River Avon as you travel the path which links Bath with St. Phillips Road in Bristol. With plenty of stop-offs on route for picnics, toilet breaks and a meander around, this running trail offers the perfect opportunity for a run with a twist as you encounter some stunning views of Bath, the river and some historic bridges and tunnels. 

The route below is a 6-mile run along the Bath and Bristol railway path starting at the Kennet and Avon canal towpath mentioned above and ending near Saltford. The choice is yours whether you run the full 6 miles and double back on yourself or run less!

The Cotswold Way

If you’re looking for a challenging yet completely breath-taking run, The Cotswold Way is the route for you. It is considered one of the top sightseeing routes in the UK and is a 100 mile National Trail through the rolling hills of Bath northwest to Chipping Camden. While most of the route is gently rolling, you will encounter some steep climbs, however these will be rewarded with some remarkable scenic views and a huge sense of achievement! This is mostly a dirt trail but the route will take you through some villages where you will encounter some paved and stone streets to break the run up a bit!

A good starting point from Bath is Bath Abbey, the full route is linked below for your reference.