Bathampton: History, Riverside Landscape and Canal Experiences

Bathampton combines impressive evidence of the past with riverside landscapes and experiences along the Kennet-&-Avon Canal. Anyone planning a trip can choose between historical discoveries, the riverside landscape and a cycling tour. Bathampton Camp is particularly prominent: the Scheduled Monument is an Iron Age hillfort from the earlier Iron Age on Bathampton Down, overlooking the River Avon valley.

Hillfort, Church and Local History

Despite its later use as a golf course and some quarrying, Bathampton Camp is comparatively well preserved. The site therefore provides a tangible connection to the earlier history of the landscape, without its historical significance being limited to a single building. For families who enjoy combining different themes while travelling, the hillfort can provide a particular focus alongside nature and riverside experiences.

Bathampton’s parish church is also part of the village’s history. It was originally Norman and was largely rebuilt around 1750 by Ralph Allen. Admiral Arthur Phillip, the first governor of New South Wales, is buried in the parish church. To the north-east of the chancel of St Nicholas parish church there is also a group of five chest tombs. Dating from the late 18th or early 19th century, it forms a good collection of classical and traditional local types of tomb.

River Avon and Bathampton Mill

Bathampton Meadows extend along the River Avon. As floodplain, they protect Bath from extreme weather events and give the surrounding area a distinct landscape character. An area by the River Avon at Bathampton Mill is also designated as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest.

Bathampton Mill itself is a corn mill. The inscription “G.E.A. (George Allen), 1818” points to its history; it is probably the conversion of an older building. Anyone who enjoys combining historic buildings with an appreciation of the landscape will find another distinctive aspect of the village here. The Claverton Pumping Station, a Grade I listed museum operated by volunteers, is located nearby.

Canal Excursions and Practical Information

From Bathampton, you can cycle along the towpath of the Kennet-&-Avon Canal to Claverton Pumping Station. Bathampton is also a starting point for family outings to explore the Kennet-&-Avon Canal. This allows the trip to be tailored more towards history, landscape or an active excursion, depending on your interests. Bus route 265 runs from Bath city centre to the village of Bathampton and can be taken into account when planning your journey. The village’s character also includes a permanent mooring area with several boat services.

When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday house in Bathampton, it is therefore worth deciding on your preferred focus for the trip first: historic sites around the camp and church, the riverside landscape along the Avon or an excursion along the canal.

Discover More Places

For further travel planning, you can also explore Ubley, Bishop Sutton, Bath, Batheaston, Temple Cloud, Farrington Gurney, Keynsham and Kelston.

For the overarching travel overview: Bath And North East Somerset.