Things to see and do on Bathampton Meadows

A visitor walking and their child riding a bike along the path towards the meadows. — Visitors on the cycle path at Bathampton Meadows, Bath | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

Located on the eastern edge of Bath, Bathampton Meadows contributes to the green surroundings of the World Heritage City of Bath. As a green corridor it links the centre of Bath to the surrounding areas of Batheaston, Bathampton and Bathford. A stroll through the meadows, which date back to the late 18th century and were once part of Ralph Allen’s estate, takes in farmland, waterways and views of the city. Here’s a guide to some of the things you can see on Bathampton Meadows.

Autumn highlights in Bathampton Meadows

The changing seasons brings colourful trees, a bounty of berries and fungi, and bright mornings with reflections down the calm river and a chance to see delicate spider webs glistening in the branches. Strolling through Bathampton Meadows in the autumn is a pleasure for the senses and plenty of blackberries to pick, ready from crumbles or pies.

Species rich hedgerows

With 12 different species the newly restored hedgerows will offer wonderful autumn colours. Bright yellows on the field maples, the rich orange of the oak leaves and blushed reds on the crab apples and spindles. The birds and small animals should also be happy as berries on the elderberries, hawthorn and sloe ripen and drop, along with hazelnuts.

Fun for all the family

Why not go on a fungi spotting walk? After rainy days there will be plenty popping up in the grassland and woodland areas. Fairy ring champignons have an unmistakable circular pattern in the grass, and the beautiful colours of waxcap: snowy, scarlett, blackening, golden, and cedarwood. Autumn is also a time for conkers dropping from the 200 – 300 year old horse chestnut tree.

In the air

Autumn is mating season for bats and with dusk coming earlier in the day it’s a good time to spot them. As winter approaches migratory birds head to the meadows, you might be able to see small flocks of fieldfares and redwings.

Historic farmland and wide-open spaces

The Meadows are made up of three large open fields which connect surrounding areas to the centre of Bath. This historic farmland dates back to 1743 when Ralph Allen purchased Bathampton Manor and the estate that is now Bathampton Meadows. As a designated flood area for the river Avon which runs alongside, you can see wetland areas which offer different fauna and flora throughout the seasons.

Spot the ancient oak

Bathampton Meadows is home to some ancient trees including an oak tree that’s estimated to be over 800 years old making it a contender for ‘Champion Oak status’. You can spot the tree from the path as you pass the sheep grazing fields, a smaller oak stands next to it. Home to many other trees lining the river and edges of the Meadows, you can also see giant sequoia trees and willows by the river. Over 2000 new hedgerow trees have been planted on the Meadows, which will add to blossom on the Meadows over time.

A visitor carries a child through grassy meadows — Visitors walking along the 'green corridor' at Bathampton Meadows, Somerset | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

Wildflowers and blossom

Blackthorn and willow trees offer a welcome burst of colour in springtime as they start to flower. You can also see blossom on the pear trees by the bridge in Batheaston. From spring the Meadows start to come alive with marsh-marigolds and cuckoo flowers, and in the summer months the fields are dappled with wildflowers such as purple loosestrife and other wetland loving plants. In the coming years the diversity of wildflowers will improve as new seed is sown across the Meadows.

Wildlife spotting on the Meadows

Home to many bats, birds and butterflies, the meadows provide an opportunity to spend time in nature. Hedgerows provide navigation routes for bats and have recently been planted with new trees and grassland seed mix to provide homes for pollinators and breeding sites for birds. We’ll be conducting butterfly surveys in the summer months to monitor the number of species already present in the meadows and to see how this changes over time.

Waterways

Running alongside the river Avon, the Meadows see many visiting birds that come because of the river such as migrating Canadian geese. On a walk you might spot swans, ducks and other water loving birds. If you're lucky enough, you might even spot a beaver. In the field near, Kensington Meadows, an old Victorian culvert and stream run through the middle.

Views to admire

Due to the open nature of Bathampton Meadows, on clear days there are some wonderful views of landmarks in Bath. Look up to Little Solsbury Hill, which is easily reached from the Meadows for those looking for longer walks, or across to Bathampton Downs or the tree-rich Browne’s Folly.