Botanical Gardens

Bath's Botanical Gardens sit on the outskirts of the city, a proper oasis if you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Bath Mill Lodge Retreat or CAMPWELL FARM. The gardens sprawl across grounds planted with everything from exotic specimens to native shrubs - the sort of place where you can lose an hour without trying.

It's genuinely good for families. Kids won't get restless wandering the paths, and there's enough variety to keep even the plant-indifferent entertained. Older visitors who take their horticulture seriously will find plenty to examine. The gardens read as a working collection rather than a manicured showpiece, which makes it feel less stuffy than you'd expect from something near Bath.

Budget a couple of hours if you're being leisurely. You could do it in 45 minutes if you're just after a walk and a bit of fresh air. The actual layout and visitor facilities are worth checking before you go - opening times and admission aren't straightforward to pin down online, so ring ahead or check with your park's reception when you arrive.

It's worth combining with Bath itself if you're making a proper day of it. The gardens work well as a quieter counterpoint to the city's Georgian terraces and Roman baths. Not a blockbuster attraction, but solid for a morning or afternoon when the weather's decent.