Bath, with its blend of Roman history and Georgian elegance, has always been one of my favorite places to visit. But this time, instead of just exploring the city on foot, I decided to rent a car and embark on a series of scenic road trips through the lush countryside surrounding Bath. Bath’s central location makes it an ideal hub for discovering more of what this region of the UK has to offer, from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the dramatic coastline of Somerset.
Renting a car in Bath was one of the best travel decisions I’ve made, and I’m excited to share my experience and tips for making the most of your road trip adventure.
Renting a Car in Bath: My Experience
I booked my car rental through Enterprise, a company I’ve used before and trusted for its reliable service. Their Bath office is conveniently located near the city center, just a 10-minute walk from Bath Spa train station. This made picking up the car incredibly easy, as I didn’t have to worry about navigating public transportation or lugging my bags too far.
Booking the car was straightforward. I went online the night before my trip, browsed through their available vehicles, and selected a compact SUV. I wanted something big enough to feel comfortable during long drives but not too large to navigate the winding country roads I knew I’d encounter.
On the day of pickup, I arrived at Enterprise’s Bath location, where the staff were friendly and efficient. After a brief check of my license and paperwork, I was handed the keys to a Nissan Qashqai, a perfect vehicle for a combination of city driving and country exploration. The car was clean, modern, and equipped with GPS, which was a huge plus for me. I’m not always the best with directions, so having reliable navigation was essential.
Scenic Road Trips from Bath
With my car ready to go, I set out on a series of day trips that allowed me to explore the natural beauty, charming villages, and historic sites surrounding Bath. Here are some of the best routes I discovered.
1. The Cotswolds: A Journey Through Quintessential English Countryside
The Cotswolds is just a short drive from Bath and offers one of the most picturesque landscapes in all of England. Known for its honey-colored stone cottages, rolling hills, and quaint villages, this area is a dream come true for anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic drive.
My first stop was Castle Combe, often referred to as the “prettiest village in England.” The drive from Bath to Castle Combe took about 30 minutes, and the roads were easy to navigate. Castle Combe looks like a place frozen in time, with its historic cottages, stone bridges, and flowing river. I parked the car in a small lot just outside the village and spent a couple of hours wandering through the streets, taking photos, and enjoying a cup of tea at a local café.
From Castle Combe, I continued my drive through the Cotswolds, passing through other charming villages like Lacock and Bibury, both of which are well worth a stop. The roads in this area are scenic but narrow, so I was glad I had chosen a car that wasn’t too large. Driving here felt like stepping into a postcard, with each turn revealing more breathtaking views.
2. Cheddar Gorge and the Mendip Hills: Dramatic Scenery and Adventure
For a change of pace, I decided to head southwest of Bath to Cheddar Gorge, one of the UK’s most famous natural landmarks. The drive to Cheddar Gorge took about an hour, but it was worth every minute. As I approached the gorge, the landscape changed dramatically. The towering cliffs on either side of the road made for a breathtaking entrance.
Cheddar Gorge is not only a stunning place to drive through but also a great destination for hiking and exploring. After parking the car at one of the designated lots, I spent the afternoon hiking the cliffs and even ventured into the famous Cheddar Caves, where you can learn about the history of the gorge and see the underground formations.
The drive through the Mendip Hills was equally rewarding. The roads wind through open fields and woodlands, with plenty of places to stop and take in the views. If you’re up for a bit of an adrenaline rush, there’s also rock climbing and caving available in the area.
3. Stonehenge and Salisbury: A Journey into History
No trip to this part of England would be complete without visiting Stonehenge, and with a car, it’s an easy drive from Bath. The route takes about 50 minutes and passes through scenic countryside. As I drove along the A36 and A303, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement as the iconic stones came into view in the distance.
Parking at Stonehenge is simple, with a large visitor car park just a short shuttle ride away from the stones. I spent a couple of hours exploring the site, learning about its history, and marveling at the ancient stone circle. The audio guide provided fascinating insights into the mystery of Stonehenge’s construction and purpose.
From Stonehenge, I continued my road trip to the nearby city of Salisbury, home to the impressive Salisbury Cathedral. The drive was smooth and scenic, and the city itself is full of history and charm. I parked near the cathedral and spent the afternoon wandering through the medieval streets, stopping for lunch at a cozy pub.
4. Wells and Glastonbury: Mystical Towns and Stunning Cathedrals
Another memorable day trip was to the towns of Wells and Glastonbury, both located about an hour’s drive from Bath. Wells is England’s smallest city but boasts one of the most beautiful cathedrals I’ve ever seen. The drive to Wells was peaceful, taking me through quiet country lanes lined with hedgerows and farms.
After parking near Wells Cathedral, I spent time exploring the cathedral itself, which is famous for its unique scissor arches and stunning stained glass windows. The town of Wells is also charming, with cobbled streets and a picturesque market square.
From Wells, I continued to Glastonbury, a town known for its mystical and spiritual associations. The drive between the two towns took only about 15 minutes, and I arrived at Glastonbury Tor, a hill topped with a tower that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The climb to the top was invigorating, and the views were well worth the effort.
Car Rental Companies in Bath: My Recommendations
While I had a great experience with Enterprise, there are several other reputable car rental companies in Bath that offer excellent service and a wide range of vehicles. Here’s a brief overview of some of the best options.
1. Hertz Car Rental
Hertz is another reliable choice for renting a car in Bath. They have a location close to the city center, making it easy to pick up your vehicle before heading out on your road trip. Hertz offers a wide range of cars, from economy models to larger vehicles like SUVs and minivans. Their cars are well-maintained, and they provide good customer service. Hertz is known for its flexible rental terms and competitive pricing, making it a great option for both short and long-term rentals.
2. Avis Car Rental
Located near Bath Spa Station, Avis is a convenient option for travelers arriving by train. Avis offers a wide selection of vehicles, including eco-friendly options like hybrids and electric cars. If you’re planning on driving longer distances, Avis is known for its generous mileage allowances and straightforward pricing. Their vehicles are modern and come equipped with the latest safety features, so you can feel confident on the road.
3. Europcar
Europcar has a great reputation for customer service and offers a range of vehicles to suit every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a small car to navigate narrow country lanes or a larger SUV for a family road trip, Europcar has you covered. Their Bath location is easy to access, and they often have special deals for weekend rentals, making them a budget-friendly option for short trips.
4. Thrifty Car Rental
If you’re looking for a more budget-conscious option, Thrifty offers competitive rates without compromising on service. Thrifty’s fleet includes a variety of vehicles, and their Bath location is well-reviewed for its efficient service. They often have deals for longer rentals, so if you’re planning on exploring the region for a week or more, they could be a great choice.
Why Renting a Car in Bath is Worth It
Having the freedom to explore the countryside around Bath at my own pace was a game-changer. While Bath itself is compact and walkable, the surrounding areas are full of hidden gems that are best accessed by car. Renting a car allowed me to venture off the beaten path, discover charming villages, and experience the natural beauty of the region without being tied to a strict schedule.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing drive through the Cotswolds, an adventure to Cheddar Gorge, or a historical journey to Stonehenge, renting a car in Bath will make your trip truly unforgettable. And with so many great car rental options in the city, finding the right vehicle for your road trip couldn’t be easier.
Tags: Best Car Rentals in Bath, Scenic Road Trips in Bath