BATH’s INDIE NEIGHBOURHOODS

Each of Bath’s neighbourhoods has its own unique atmosphere, but all of them are filled with independent spirit.

Kingsmead

Square and Saw Close

With coffee shops, restaurants, street food and a world-famous cocktail bar, Kingsmead Square is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and watch the world go by. Just around the corner from Kingsmead Square is Saw Close, the centre of Bath’s theatre district, which is home to the Theatre Royal Bath and the community owned Komedia brings music and comedy in Bath. The area also boasts a plethora of eateries, from woodfired pizza at The Oven to the Bath institution that is Schwartz Bros.

Green Park Station

Green Park Station is a former railway station that is now a unique shopping venue, lined with independent shops and stalls, as well as the popular Bath Pizza Co. The beautiful cast-iron roof provides year-round shelter and houses regular bustling markets.

Milsom Street Quarter

The stylish Milsom Street is well-known for being home to one of the world’s oldest department stores, but you will also discover some independent gems on your wanders. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Milsom Street is Milsom Place, where you will find an array of shops and restaurants, including Chanii B, the home of internationally-renowned shoe designer Chantal Pilon and The Gaff a small-plate restaurant.

Artisan Quarter

The Walcot Street area of Bath has held the informal title of Bath’s Artisan Quarter since the 1960s, and brings together a vibrant collection of characterful independent shops and restaurants. Whether you are looking for quirky second-hand clothes or classic comics, Walcot Street has you covered. There are some lovely restaurants lining the street, and you will also find one of Bath’s institutions, the community-owned Bell Inn.

Abbey Quarter

Abbey Green is a historic cobbled square that is home to a nineteenth-century London Plane tree. Wander around the Abbey Quarter and you will find a wonderful selection of independent shops and eateries. bathabbeyquarter.com

Widcombe

Head over the footbridge behind Bath Spa Station and you will find Widcombe Parade, offering everything from coffee houses to gift shops, and even a gin distillery. Just up the road, you will find Widcombe Social Club, a community-focused venue offering live music and comedy nights.

Larkhall

Sitting on the edge of the city, Larkhall’s village atmosphere is bolstered by independent shops including Larkhall Butchers, a farm shop, delis, florists and even a co-operative printing workshop.

Moorland Road

Based in the popular Oldfield Park area, the bustling Moorland Road is home to independent retailers aplenty. Find a wide range of hardware products at Francis DIY, which first opened in 1967, stock up on essentials at Bath’s first refill store, Newleaf Healthfoods, and tuck into out-of-thisworld burgers from Magu Diner, or award-winning fish and chips from The Oyster Shell.

Bear Flat

Named the second-best place to live in the South West by the Sunday Times last year, Bear Flat has a tight-knit community and an impressive range of independent shops and eateries, including the Good Bear Café, where 2014 Masterchef winner Ping Coombes hosts supper clubs, and Menu

Gordon Jones, a stylish contemporary restaurant with a long waiting list.

Weston

Originally a separate village, Weston is now a suburb in north-west Bath that is home to cosy cafés, takeaways, and a friendly pub.

Union and Northumberland Passages

One of city’s best kept secrets, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the main streets but just seconds away from Bath’s tourist destinations. Described by Jane Austen as ‘“this interesting passageway”, this characterful area is crammed with independent cafes, coffee shops, jewellers, pubs, and gift shops.