Bath: Tootbus Bath Discovery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Bath, you’ve probably seen the iconic Georgian architecture, Roman remains, and charming streets. But navigating this compact, historic city on foot can be tiring—enter the Tootbus Bath Discovery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. This experience promises a flexible, scenic way to see Bath’s most famous sights without the hassle of public transportation or the expense of guided group tours. With two routes over two days, audio commentary, and the option to hop on and off as you please, it’s a popular choice—and for good reason.

One of the standout features we love is how easy it is to customize your sightseeing. Whether you’re eager to snap photos at Pulteney Bridge or want to enjoy panoramic views from the Skyline Tour, this tour gives you control. Plus, the value for money is impressive—$29.70 per person unlocks two full days of access, guided commentary, and the chance to explore at your own pace. The only caveat? The audio quality can vary for some, especially for those with hearing difficulties, as noted by a few reviewers. Still, if you’re after a relaxed, informative way to discover Bath, this experience will likely be a good fit, especially for travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration with some expert insights thrown in.

It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the city, families looking for flexible activity, or anyone who loves panoramic views and scenic stops. If you prefer a more structured, private tour, this might not be the perfect fit, but for those wanting to soak up Bath’s charm with minimal planning, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Flexible two-day hop-on hop-off access allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Two routes—the City Tour and Skyline Tour—cover both the heart of Bath and its surrounding vistas.
• Audio commentary provides meaningful insights into Bath’s history and landmarks.
• Regular buses every 15-30 minutes minimize wait times and keep your day moving.
• Excellent reviews for drivers and staff, with many describing them as friendly, informative, and helpful.
• Great value for money, especially considering the two-day validity and included walking tour.

A Deep Dive into the Bath Tootbus Experience

How the Tour is Structurally Set Up

The Tootbus Bath Discovery Tour operates with two main routes that run over two days, giving you ample flexibility. The City Tour starts early at 9:45 AM and runs until about 6:30 PM, with buses arriving every 15 minutes. The Skyline Tour begins at 10:30 AM and runs until 5:30 PM, with buses every 30 minutes. You can hop on at any of the designated stops, making it easy to start your adventure straight from the train station or your hotel.

The ticket is valid for 24 hours from the first time you validate it on the bus, but since it’s valid for two days, you can spread out your sightseeing, which is helpful if you want to relax between outings or focus on specific sights.

What to Expect on the Buses

The buses are open-top—perfect for catching the sunlight and snapping photos of Bath’s stunning architecture. They’re comfortable, with Wi-Fi onboard and provided headphones for the audio guide. The recordings are available in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and more, making it accessible for international visitors.

The commentary is generally praised for being informative and engaging. One reviewer noted that the guide was very informative, and another appreciated the fun and welcoming driver, Bryan, who added humor to the ride. Several reviewers mentioned the buses are frequent and that the pick-up points are convenient, although a few found the map directions to the nearest stop a little confusing — so it’s worth checking your route beforehand.

The Main Stops: Sights You’ll See and Experience

Bath Abbey, Royal Crescent, and The Circus

The tour’s most iconic sights are easily accessible. The Royal Crescent and The Circus are architectural masterpieces and perfect photo spots. We loved how the open-air bus gave us a birds’ eye view of these sweeping Georgian facades. The Bath Abbey, with its striking Gothic architecture, is another highlight, and many passengers enjoy a quick stop here for photos or a quick stroll inside.

One reviewer shared, “It was amazing… Bryan the driver was funny and welcoming… The trip was awesome and I learned a lot.” The commentary includes fascinating tidbits about these landmarks, making the sightseeing more than just pretty pictures.

Pulteney Bridge and The Roman Baths

The Pulteney Bridge, with its unique design and shops perched along it, is a must-see photo spot. The tour stops close enough for quick photos, and the guide shares interesting facts about its history.

The Roman Baths are a major attraction, though entry tickets are not included in the tour price. You’ll love the convenience of seeing the Baths from the bus, especially if you’re pressed for time. Some visitors find the audio commentary especially helpful here, describing the significance of the ancient site.

Bath’s Shopping and Dining Streets

Stops at Milsom Street and Queen Square give you opportunities to explore Bath’s vibrant shopping district and enjoy local cafes. The Sally Lunn’s stop is also included, famously recognized as one of the oldest houses in the city, where you can try the famous Bath Bun—a simple but delicious treat appreciated by many.

The Skyline Tour: Beyond the City Center

After exploring the city, most travelers recommend hopping on the Skyline Tour for breathtaking views of Bath from across the river. It passes through Prior Park Landscape Gardens, The University of Bath, and the American Museum. From these vantage points, you’ll see the city’s rooftops and spires against the rolling countryside.

Several reviews highlighted how this route offers a different perspective. One commented that the skyline tour contributed greatly to their enjoyment, giving a sense of the wider landscape and Bath’s setting.

Walking Tours and Additional Features

The tour includes self-guided walking tours via the Tootbus app, which many travelers find helpful to explore specific neighborhoods or landmarks more intimately. The app also features real-time bus tracking, making it easier to plan your next move.

A notable point is that the tours are wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing and frequency are convenient, but be sure to check the schedule, especially for the Skyline Tour if you’re tight on time.
• Start your tour at any designated stop—there’s no need to stick to a single start point.
• Bring your own headphones if you want better audio clarity, as some reviewers noted that the provided ones sometimes weren’t loud enough for hearing aids.
• Children under five travel free, which is great for families.
• Keep in mind that food, drinks, and entry tickets are not included, so plan your meals or entry visits accordingly.
• The app is a valuable tool, but some reviews suggested that the map could be updated for more accuracy, especially during traffic jams or roadworks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This hop-on hop-off experience is best suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Bath’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple transport modes. Families and groups will appreciate the flexibility, especially since buses run every 15 minutes on the City route and every 30 minutes on the Skyline. It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy taking photos or want a scenic, relaxed way to explore the city’s major sights.

If you’re on a tight schedule or want to avoid walking uphill, this tour offers a convenient solution. Conversely, if you prefer a guided tour with a dedicated guide and tickets included to attractions, this might not be your best fit.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Tootbus Bath Discovery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour offers excellent value and a flexible way to see Bath. With its two routes, informative audio guides, and the ability to hop on and off at your leisure, it caters well to travelers who want to balance sightseeing with comfort. The positive reviews about helpful staff and stunning views confirm that many guests find it a worthwhile investment.

While some minor issues like audio quality or map updates exist, they don’t significantly detract from the experience. It’s a practical, enjoyable method for discovering Bath’s highlights, especially if you prefer exploring at your own pace without the pressure of scheduled tours.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply someone wanting a comfortable way to see Bath’s famous sights, this tour is likely to enhance your visit.

FAQ

Does the ticket allow me to hop on and off at any stop?
Yes, your ticket is valid for two days from first validation, and you can hop on and off at any of the designated stops along both routes.

Are the buses accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour states that buses are wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs.

What languages are available for the audio commentary?
The audio guide is available in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Polish, Russian, Chinese, and Japanese.

Can I start the tour at any stop?
Absolutely. You can board the bus at any of the designated stops, making it flexible to join from wherever is most convenient.

How often do the buses run?
The City Tour buses arrive every 15 minutes, while the Skyline Tour runs approximately every 30 minutes, minimizing waiting time.

Are food and entry tickets included?
No, food, drinks, and attraction entry tickets (like the Roman Baths) are not included in the tour price, so plan accordingly.

In summary, the Tootbus Bath Discovery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour offers a practical, flexible, and scenic way to see Bath’s top sights with minimal fuss. It’s especially suitable for first-timers, families, and those who enjoy a relaxed, self-paced exploration. While it’s not a guided tour per se, the audio commentary and helpful staff add a layer of insight that makes this experience both enjoyable and informative. If your goal is to get a broad overview of Bath without the stress of walking everywhere or navigating public transport, this could be just what you need.