Leighton Townhouse

💡 Walk down to the riverside path on either side for the best photo of the bridge and weir. The shops on the bridge are boutiques, not chains, so window-shopping is worth a slow stroll.

💡 The free rooms are often less crowded than the museum upstairs. Sit in the Tea Room for a few minutes to imagine 18th-century society. Free entry to the rooms, but the museum costs £8.50.

💡 Go early morning around 7am to have the lawn almost to yourself for photos. The museum at No. 1 Royal Crescent charges entry, but the exterior and lawn cost nothing.

💡 Start at the entrance near Sham Castle for the best uninterrupted view. The walk takes about 3 hours, so bring water and sturdy shoes. Free, but parking at the National Trust car park costs a few pounds if you drive.

💡 Go just before a service (such as 5pm evensong) to hear the choir while admiring the architecture. The tower tour costs extra but the free entry is plenty. Check the website as opening hours change for services.

💡 Book a timed-entry ticket online in advance — the Roman Baths is Bath's single most-visited attraction and walk-up queues can exceed an hour in summer. Visit right at opening or in the last two hours of the day for the smallest crowds.