Where to go shopping in Bath

Bath is one of the most historic cities in the UK, which given the country's rich heritage is saying quite a lot. The city dates back to Roman times when its natural springs made it the ideal location for one of the public bath complexes the Romans were so fond of. Long after the collapse of the Roman Empire, Bath became massively popular during the 18th century, when aristocrats came to improve their health by taking the same waters the Romans did. And that popularity continued through the Industrial Revolution and the emergence of a new middle class of wealthy industrialists.

Now, Bath offers more than a trip back in time. For all its historic elegance, Bath also offers a vibrant retail scene full of independent retailers, both in the city centre and in the outlying districts. Plus, you'll find all the usual department stores and luxury fashion boutiques that make visiting Bath a highlight for shoppers.

While you explore the city, you can make things easier on yourself by taking advantage of Bounce luggage storage in Bath. We store more than just suitcases and can look after purchases of any size and value for as long as you need whether it's in the center of town or near the Bath Bus Station or Bath Spa Train Station. Explore the lively market at Green Park Station, a redeveloped railway station, or visit antique shops and independent shops along historic Broad Street while we look after your things until you are ready to pick them up after shopping in Bath.

All you need to know when shopping in Bath

Shopping in Bath blends history with contemporary style. Along with the high-end retailers close to the famous Royal Crescent, you'll find bustling markets filled with local produce, funky thrift stores offering vintage clothing, and fast fashion courtesy of the famous high street brands. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your visit:

Shopping architecture

Bath’s shopping districts are well-placed within its beautiful historic setting, making every trip an aesthetic pleasure. In this city, you can easily combine sightseeing and shopping, enjoying the beautiful Regency and Georgian architecture of Bath while you stroll from one shop to the next. Key locations include:

• Milsom Street: A sophisticated shopping street offering designer boutiques, high-street brands, and stylish cafes. Fashionistas will love this area, and it's a great place for window shopping, even if your budget doesn't stretch to actually buy anything here.
• SouthGate Bath: A modern shopping complex with popular retailers and dining options. This is a good place for one-stop shopping, and a handy option if you just need a few items to keep your trip going smoothly instead of making shopping a focus of the trip. It's also a good place for families, as there are a few play areas to keep the kids entertained.
• Walcot Street: Known as Bath’s artisan quarter, Walcot offers vintage shops, quirky boutiques, and handmade goods. If you like your shopping a little bit more avant-garde, you'll love this part of town. Browse record stores, bookshops, fashion boutiques, and thrift stores, guided by your own sense of style and the countercultural vibe of the area.
• Guildhall Market: A historic indoor market that has been trading for over 800 years, featuring a variety of stalls. If you're doing a self-catering holiday, this is the perfect place to buy produce and other necessities, but it's also a wonderful location to try local specialties and learn more about the food culture of Bath.

Opening hours and seasonality

Most shops in Bath are open from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with shorter hours on Sundays (10:30 AM to 4:30 PM). During the festive season, Bath’s Christmas Market lights up the city with extended hours and a magical shopping atmosphere.

Shop like a local

• Bring reusable shopping bags, as UK shops charge for single-use bags, if they provide them at all.
• Bath is a compact and walkable city, so exploring shopping areas on foot is easy and enjoyable. It's also a good way to see more of the city, allowing you to combine sightseeing and shopping so that you really get the most out of your time here.
• Carry cash for markets and independent stores that may not accept cards. Using cash can also help you get a better deal with some small retailers if you are planning on haggling over prices. Remember, though, that Bath is not a particularly cheap city, and in general, retailers would rather not make a sale than lower their prices.

Unique shops to visit in Bath

Bath is home to an array of unique stores that reflect its artistic and cultural heritage. Here are some must-visit spots:

The Bath Aqua Glass Shop

This shop specializes in handcrafted glassware, inspired by the city’s Roman baths. From jewelry to home decor, each piece is a work of art. All the glass here is designed and made by local people, so you won't find cheap mass-produced items, but instead unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. It's not a cheap place to shop, but the skill and care with which these items are made more than justifies the prices.

Address: 14 Cheap St

Topping & Company Booksellers

An independent bookstore with a cozy atmosphere, Topping & Company offers a wide selection of books and hosts author events. The store recently relocated from its previous much-loved location, but the grand building it now occupies certainly won't disappoint. Spread across three floors and located right next to the famous Roman Baths, this is the perfect place to expand your mind and pick up a literary souvenir or gift.

Address: York Street

The Yellow Shop

This boutique is a haven for vintage enthusiasts, offering curated collections of pre-loved clothing and accessories. There's no missing the bright yellow front of this iconic store, and what its name lacks in originality, it more than makes up for in the originality of the clothes on offer. Bath has always been a place that's popular with high society, and that makes the ideal environment for a thrift store where you can find amazing clothes that suit your style, whatever it may be.

Address: 72 Walcot St

Meticulous Ink

A luxury stationery shop providing bespoke letterpress printing and fine writing materials, perfect for thoughtful gifts. The beautiful pens, journals, and fine paper on offer here make this a dream for any creative person or stationary fan.

Address: 134 Walcot Street

Shopping in Bath beyond clothing

Bath’s markets and specialty stores offer a range of products beyond fashion. If you really want to take the pulse of the city, the markets are the perfect place to do it. They are also the ultimate foodie destination, as you can try local specialties and learn more about the produce of the region from the people who know it best.

Guildhall Market

This historic market features stalls selling everything from local crafts and antiques to fresh produce and specialty foods. Shopping here is a feast for the senses, and you're bound to work up an appetite as you browse the stalls. Luckily, there are tons of great places to eat here, too.

Address: High Street

Bath Christmas Market

Held annually, this festive market offers handcrafted gifts, gourmet treats, and seasonal decorations, all in the heart of the city. Let the scent of mulled wine and the sound of Christmas carols transport you back through the traditions of the season in this beautiful environment.

Location: Various streets around Bath Abbey

The Fine Cheese Co.

A must-visit for foodies, this shop offers a curated selection of artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and gourmet products. They also offer ready meals that you can take with you to have a gourmet picnic in this beautiful city, and there's a café where you can try some of the items on offer to see what you like best.

Address: 29-31 Walcot Street

Traditional shopping options in Bath

For those seeking a more conventional shopping experience, Bath has some good options. Because sometimes, you just need a new T-shirt or a pair of socks, and there are plenty of shops in Bath that can give you a quick fix for your shopping needs.

SouthGate Bath

This modern shopping complex features high-street brands like Apple, H&M, and Lululemon, along with restaurants and a cinema.

Address: Southgate Place

Milsom Place

A charming shopping area with boutique stores, artisan cafes, and upscale retailers, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Address: Milsom Street

Pulteney Bridge Shops

Lined with small independent stores, this historic bridge offers unique finds, from gifts and art to handmade jewelry. If you're looking for something a bit fancier, this is almost certainly where you'll find it.

Bath is well known as a beautiful and historic city. What doesn't always get quite as much attention is its retail scene. But taking a shopping trip through Bath is a wonderful way to see more of the city and also scratch your retail itch. And with a great variety of well-known chain stores and independent boutiques, you can find whatever you're looking for here.

Let Bounce look after your bags so that you can travel light. With your belongings safely looked after, you can really immerse yourself (sorry, couldn't resist!) in the elegant charm of Bath.