A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Nottingham vs. Bath for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nottingham or Bath?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Bath can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a livable, cultural, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bath

Bath is a architectural, charming, and historical spa town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nottingham and Bath: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Historic Roman Baths


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Bath?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nottingham than Bath, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Nottingham is more popular for its music and big city activities, while Bath is known for its museums, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bath is more touristy than Nottingham and is popular for its world-renowned Roman built baths as well as its historical architecture and many museums. Nottingham is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also home to Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Bath?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bath and Nottingham. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Bath?

Nottingham
Bath

Bath is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Bath that are not to be missed. The main draw to Bath is the rich history and most sights are focused on the area's spa city past. The Roman Baths are a highlight of a trip to the city, but other not to be missed places include Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Bath? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Bath

Both Nottingham and Bath offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Bath has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Sample afternoon tea or try some local fish and chips. There are a diversity of restaurants to choose from so it's easy to find local favorites, vegetarian options, or international cuisine.

Is Nottingham or Bath Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Bath

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Bath.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

If you're looking for night time activities Bath has a few options to choose from. Head to George Street, which is the liveliest part of the city at night. You'll find a mix of high end restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars that keep the energy high. One of the most popular nightlife venues in Bath is Bath Komedia, which is a popular music and comedy club.

Is Nottingham or Bath Better for Music?

Nottingham
Bath

Nottingham is very good for live music. However, Bath is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Bath is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Bath Better for its Old Town?

Nottingham
Bath

Bath is well known for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Bath is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Roman old town has charming streets and a vibrant environment. On pleasant weekends you'll find tourists and locals alike filling the restaurants and town squares, giving the city an energy and lively atmosphere.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Bath?

Nottingham
Bath

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bath and Nottingham.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Bath is well-known for its shopping. Head to Stall Street and Union Street for the most popular shopping streets in town. Many visitors pick up jewelry, glass, and fudge or other sweets while exploring the area.

Is Nottingham or Bath Better for Families?

Nottingham
Bath

Both Nottingham and Bath are good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Bath offers lots of family activities. The city is all about history and architecture, so at times it can be challenging for the kids to stay entertained. For a change of pace, take a boat on the canal or explore one of the beautiful gardens.


Is Nottingham or Bath Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Bath

Bath is very popular for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Bath is a great spa town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its beautiful architecture and fascinating history, this city is perfect for couples. Take a canal cruise or wander through the scenic areas to enjoy a romantic trip.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Nottingham or Bath Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Bath

Bath is a spa town with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Bath is a good spa town to visit for backpackers. You'll find a surprising number of hostels around town so it's not hard to meet other backpackers while you're in the area.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Bath Better for Students?

Nottingham
Bath

Bath is well known for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Bath. The University of Bath offers a number of different programs so this is a popular city for local and international students.

Nottingham is not popular with students.


Is Nottingham or Bath Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Bath

Nottingham is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

You'll find some public transit in Bath, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You likely won't need public transit because it's easy to walk most places, but there are buses around town.

Is Nottingham or Bath a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Bath

Bath is very popular for its walkability. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Bath on foot is easy. It is a very walkable city with most sights and activities packed into a very compact area. There are also many pedestrian areas that are easy to explore on foot.

Nottingham is a very walkable city. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Bath Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bath or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Bath?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nottingham and Bath. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bath than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bath.

Families should spend more time in Bath than Nottingham. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bath, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bath than Nottingham. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bath that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bath than Nottingham if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bath.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Bath? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Bath 1-3

One day in Nottingham or Bath?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Nottingham. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With museums and nightlife around the historical spa town of Bath, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bath, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Nottingham or Bath?

Nottingham is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Bath, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this spa town.

Five days in Nottingham or Bath?

You'll find food and shopping around the livable destination of Nottingham. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bath, a popular spa town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Bath?

The livable city of Nottingham offers shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Bath is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Bath or Nottingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Bath is £141. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nottingham and Bath in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Bath £79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Bath £158
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Bath

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Bath? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nottingham


Hotels in Bath


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Bath Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Bath £26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $223
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $96
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bath

Also for Bath, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Bath".: $161
  • Bath to Heathrow Airport private airport transfer: $288
  • Bus Transfer to/from Bristol Airport: $21

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Bath?

Prices for flights to both Bath and Nottingham change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nottingham £36
    Bath £43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Bath £17

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Gems of Boston (UK) – Private Walking Tour for Couples: $222
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Men's Yellow Belly Half-Day Spa Experience: $203
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $278
  • Nottingham Treasure Hunt Adventure - Robin Hood's Secret Stash: $9.44
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $151
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bath

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Bath's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Thermal Bath Spa
    £35

Tours and Activities in Bath

For Bath, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Jane Austen Self Guided Tour: $6.51
  • Highlights from Bath’s Canal Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Bath : 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour With An App: $8.99
  • Bridgeton Walking Tour with an APP: $8.99
  • From Bridgeton Self Guided Walking Tour with an APP: $9.99
  • 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour in Bath with An App: $9.99
  • Discover Bath's Timeless Charm: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Bath Self-Guided Private Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Jane Austen Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour in Bath: $13
  • Bath & Stonehenge City Break from London - Self-Guided Tours: $13
  • Bath Private Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Bath £14

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Bath

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bath:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nottingham and Bath, we can see that Bath is more expensive. And not only is Nottingham much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nottingham would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nottingham and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bath would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bath than you might in Nottingham.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nottingham Expensive? and Is Bath Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Bath?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bath. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Bath, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.