Shree Jagannatha Temple

You'll spot the temple's distinctive orange and gold roof long before you reach it, a jolt of colour in the Somerset countryside just outside Bath. This is Britain's first traditional Hindu temple, and it genuinely feels like stepping into another world - not in a touristy way, but in the sense that the devotion here is utterly real and uncompromising.

Inside, the main sanctum is packed with carved deities, incense hangs thick in the air, and there's usually chanting or prayer happening. The craftsmanship is proper impressive - all the decorative work was done by specialist artisans flown in from India. You can wander round the grounds, which include a herb garden and various shrines, and the whole place has a peaceful, working energy rather than feeling like a museum.

It's genuinely worth visiting if you're interested in Hindu practice and temple architecture, or if you just want to see something genuinely different in the English countryside. Families with older children who can respect a sacred space will find it fascinating. Younger kids might struggle with the quiet contemplation required.

Admission appears free, though donations support the temple. Allow an hour minimum. Call ahead to check opening times and whether visitors are welcome during particular ceremonies - respect for worship times matters here.

If you're camping nearby - Bath Mill Lodge Retreat is closest at 1.4 miles - it's an easy drive or even a walk from there. Worth combining with Bath itself, just a few miles away.