Bath Named the World’s Best Place to Visit in 2025 by New York Times

One of the UK’s most historic cities has just been crowned the world’s top destination for 2025. Bath, known for its stunning Georgian architecture and rich history, has earned a spot on The New York Times’ prestigious annual list of the “52 Places to Go” this year.

So, why is Bath taking the top spot? The Times explains that each year, it carefully considers why a particular place deserves to be highlighted. Is there a special event or anniversary? New attractions? A fresh vibe? For 2025, the answer is simple: the city is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the birth of one of England’s most beloved authors, Jane Austen.

Though Austen was born in Steventon, Hampshire, Bath played a crucial role in her life and work. It was here she spent much of her time, writing novels that would go on to define the Regency era. To mark the milestone, Bath is hosting an exciting lineup of events throughout the year, and fans of Austen’s works have a perfect excuse to visit.

The celebrations include everything from grand Regency-style balls to talks, plays, and special tours. The Jane Austen Centre will be a hub for these events, with a particular highlight being its Grand Regency Costumed Promenade. And if that’s not enough, the city is also organizing the Jane Austen Country Fair in July, a Persuasion ball on May 31, a Sanditon ball on June 28, and a special birthday ball on December 13 to honor Austen’s legacy.

Other events include historical talks by experts like Jane Worsley, as well as a retelling of Pride and Prejudice at the Theatre Royal Bath. Additionally, No. 8 College Street, where Jane spent her final days, will open its doors to the public for the first time, offering a rare glimpse into her life.

Kathryn Davis, the managing director of Visit West, also pointed out how the Netflix series Bridgerton has brought a younger, more diverse crowd to the city. The show’s popularity has sparked a renewed interest in the Regency era, with themed events like musical Bridgerton tours taking visitors through filming locations around Bath.

If you’re planning a visit, Bath has no shortage of accommodation options, from the stylish No.15 by Guesthouse, a boutique hotel with others in Brighton and York, to the newly refurbished Francis Hotel, which recently underwent a £13 million restoration.

Travel writer Jo Kessel, who recently visited Bath on a Jane Austen-themed trip, shared her experience: “A perfect starting point is the Jane Austen Centre on Gay Street. There, costumed actors from Sense and Sensibility and Persuasion showed me how to wear Empire Line gowns. Even Mr. Wickham from Pride and Prejudice made an appearance, despite being a notorious charmer, and helped me with my outfits!”

Kessel also explored Austen’s former home at 4 Sydney Place and strolled through nearby Sydney Gardens, where Austen is known to have promenaded. For those keen to immerse themselves further, the free In the Footsteps of Jane Austen audio walking tour is a must. It takes you around Royal Crescent, Gravel Walk, and the Pump Room—iconic spots in Austen’s Bath.

With all these exciting events and the charm of its historic streets, Bath is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in 2025, offering both a deep dive into the world of Jane Austen and a vibrant modern atmosphere that continues to captivate visitors.