The Bath Lookout at Alexandra Park

Why make the climb

From the top of Beechen Cliff the whole of Bath opens out below you: the river, the abbey, the honey-coloured crescents and terraces climbing the far slopes, and the green hills that ring the city. It is the best place to understand how Bath sits in its valley, and a good first stop if you want to get your bearings before exploring the centre. The park itself opened in 1902 to mark the coronation of Edward VII and has mature trees around a large open lawn.

Getting up there

Walkers can take Jacob's Ladder, a long flight of steps up the wooded cliff, which is a steep but short way up from the station side of the river. If you would rather avoid the steps, the gentler route is via Shakespeare Avenue off the Wells Road (A367). The park is on a bus route and there is paid parking inside it, although vehicles are not allowed in between dusk and dawn.

Making an afternoon of it

Bring a picnic: there is a picnic area, a children's playground and space for a game of boules, and dogs are welcome. Early morning and late afternoon light are particularly good for photographs over the city. Once you are back down, the Widcombe side of the river and the riverside walk lead you straight back towards the station and the centre.

Highlights

• Panoramic views over Bath from the top of Beechen Cliff
• Alexandra Park opened in 1902 for Edward VII's coronation
• About 11 acres of parkland with mature trees
• Free to visit and open all year

Good to know

• The steps up Jacob's Ladder are steep; Shakespeare Avenue is the easier route
• Paid parking inside the park; no vehicle access between dusk and dawn
• Dog-friendly, with a picnic site and children's playground

Frequently asked questions