With honey-coloured Georgian crescents, rooftop spas, and a calendar packed with cultural happenings, Bath is one of the UK’s most charming cities to explore in summer. But in August, it steps up another level. Think torchlit live music by ancient Roman pools, pop-up beer gardens in lush parks, Shakespeare under the stars, and food festivals celebrating everything from street eats to fine dining.

Whether you’re a history lover, festivalgoer, foodie, or family traveller, Bath in August offers something to suit every kind of summer escape.

Here’s your complete guide to the best events, performances, and cultural moments in Bath this August 2025—plus where to relax, discover, and make the most of your stay.

Live Music & Festivals in Bath – August Highlights

Summer Lates at the Roman Baths

Dates: 21 July – 31 August 2025
Where: Roman Baths, Abbey Church Yard
Why Go: This is one of the most atmospheric events of the summer. As dusk falls, the Roman Baths are transformed into a stunning torch-lit setting with live acoustic music, DJ sets, jazz trios, and gospel singers, all curated to complement the historic site. Visitors can explore the baths until 10pm and enjoy drinks from the pop-up bar.

What to Expect: Live acts on the colonnade, mood lighting around the steaming waters, and one-of-a-kind Instagram-worthy moments.

Bath Foodies Festival 2025

Dates: 29–31 August 2025
Where: Royal Victoria Park
What to Expect: A feast for all the senses—top chefs from MasterChef, Great British Bake Off and Michelin-starred restaurants lead live demos, while street food traders from around the UK serve up everything from gourmet burgers to vegan wraps and churros. There’s also live music, a kids’ cookery school, and artisan market stalls.

Headliners: The Feeling, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, and tribute bands across the weekend.

Top Tip: VIP tickets include a glass of fizz and access to exclusive areas.

UK Songwriting Festival

Dates: 3–9 August 2025
Where: Bath Spa University, Newton Park
Overview: A residential retreat for emerging and established songwriters to develop their craft through workshops, mentoring, and performances. While the main sessions are ticketed, evening concerts are often open to the public, offering a unique showcase of new music talent in intimate surroundings.

Bath River Music & Art Walk

Dates: 17–18 August 2025
Where: Along the River Avon, near Widcombe & Bathwick
Description: This local favourite returns for a weekend of riverside creativity, with acoustic musicians, chalk art installations, pop-up poetry readings, and family-friendly activities along the riverbanks. It’s a celebration of community, water, and sound—ideal for a sunny afternoon stroll.

Theatre, Comedy & Outdoor Performance

Open Air Theatre: Wind in the Willows & Much Ado About Nothing

Dates: Throughout August
Where: American Museum Gardens & Parade Gardens
Bring a blanket and settle under the stars as Chapterhouse Theatre and Bath Open Air Theatre Company present classics in scenic locations. Wind in the Willows offers family-friendly fun with colourful costumes and interactive moments, while Much Ado delivers Shakespearean wit with a summer twist.

Note: Shows go ahead in light rain—bring waterproofs!

Theatre Royal Bath – Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The Musical

Dates: Running throughout August
Overview: A world-premiere musical based on Hitchcock’s iconic TV series. Expect a blend of suspense, dark humour, and theatrical flair. Great for older teens and adults seeking a stylish evening out.

Komedia Bath – Comedy & Music Nights

Dates: Multiple throughout August
Why Go: Komedia hosts everything from indie gigs and comedy cabaret to Bingo Lingo, musical drag acts, and family daytime discos. It’s a great venue to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Exhibitions & Cultural Attractions

“The Most Tiresome Place in the World”: Jane Austen & Bath

Dates: Running until October
Where: No. 1 Royal Crescent
Why Go: This beautifully curated exhibition explores Jane Austen’s complicated relationship with Bath, based on her letters and novels. Discover Austen’s acerbic wit, her views on the social scene, and the city’s role in Persuasion and Northanger Abbey.

Victoria Art Gallery – The Lost Spells

Dates: Ongoing through August
Overview: Based on the book by Jackie Morris and Robert Macfarlane, this magical exhibition brings nature to life through artwork and poetry. Ideal for families, with interactive stations and weekend storytelling.

Family-Friendly Activities in August

Bath on the Beach

Dates: Until 10 August
Where: Royal Pavilion Gardens
What to Expect: A pop-up beach bar complete with deck chairs, mini-golf, giant Jenga, and food trucks. It’s Bath’s most relaxed social spot—ideal for an early evening cocktail or laid-back lunch.

Prior Park Archaeology Festival

Dates: Late July – early August
Explore the history beneath your feet with guided digs, storytelling walks, and activities for children, all set within one of Bath’s most picturesque parks.

Yeo Valley Bee Safari

Dates: Until 21 August
Take the kids on a fun and educational trail that explores pollinators, ecosystems, and the essential role of bees. Expect interactive signage and surprise sensory stations along the way.

Bonus: One-Off Concerts & Gigs

• Ocean Colour Scene – Bath Forum, 24 August
• Big Girls Don’t Cry (Frankie Valli Tribute) – Bath Forum, 29 August
• Tangled Up in Blues – Radford Mill Farm, 9 August

Note: Book early for Bath Forum events—many summer shows sell out weeks in advance.

Heritage and Hidden Gems

• Cleveland Pools – England’s oldest outdoor pool has reopened after restoration. A serene spot for a morning dip or riverside relax.
• The Herschel Museum of Astronomy – Discover the story of how William Herschel discovered Uranus from his garden in Bath.
• The Jane Austen Centre – Join costumed guides for tours, tea tastings, and dress-up photo sessions.

Make Bath Your Summer Base with Pass the Keys

Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family festival break, or a culture-packed getaway, Pass the Keys Bath offers a curated selection of short-term holiday lets across the city.

From elegant Georgian apartments with balcony views to garden cottages near Royal Victoria Park, each home is professionally managed, spotlessly clean, and ready for your arrival. Local partner Chris ensures everything runs smoothly—from self-check-in to local recommendations.

Ready to explore Bath this August? Book your stay with Pass the Keys and experience the very best of this iconic city in summer.