We will be in Bath for the start of the Jane Austen fest this weekend. Wondering how much the crowds will affect our sight seeing or if anyone recommends specific things to do then. We'll have our daughters, ages 11 & 15, who at least know about Jane and P&P. Thanks!
Posted by
Fredericksburg, VA, USA
409 posts
We were there three years ago for the Jane Austen festival...a lot of fun. We arrived in Bath by train from London Paddington at around 9:30 AM and there were people in Austen dress at the train station. We went to the Roman Bath immediately...that's where the promenade begins. I think it kicked off around 11 AM - check the Bath city website. Lots of photo ops - men, women, kids, and even dogs in period dress. Restaurants were crowded, so you may not get your first choice. B&B's were full but I assume you have already booked a room. Otherwise, our sightseeing was unaffected.
Posted by
OP
Atlanta, GA, USA
14 posts
Thanks!
Posted by
Downingtown, USA
2448 posts
We had a great lunch at Sally Lunns several years ago, imagine with the festival you might need reservations. Enjoyed the walk over the bridge at night, so peaceful. Not sure if they are doing this during the festival but we loved the Bath Walks tour which took about an hour and leaves from in front of the abbey. I think it was free but can't remember. If have a car, highly recommend the great town of Wells, I think only half hour from Bath, we loved it. Enjoy your trip.
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
14709 posts
I am in Bath now and was talking to a gent who does walking tours from the Jane Austen Center during the Festival. I am guessing you need to book ahead for them, but that would be great fun! If you are staying overnight, I would try to be at the Roman Baths at 9 when they open. Skip the Fashion Museum, it was a huge disappointment. I did enjoy the #1 Royal Crescent Museum, which is in the end house on the Royal Crescent. The Jane Austen Center itself is quite small. The 8GBP entry fee is a bit steep for what you get, but you will probably want to do it anyway. It starts with about a 15 minute talk on Jane, then the guide leads you downstairs to the display area. Have a wonderful time!
(Editing to clarify...I am sending from my phone and altho the symbol for the GBP shows up when I type, it will not post!)