🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Bath, United Kingdom, my home for several months. This picturesque city has stolen my heart with its stunning Georgian architecture, natural hot springs, and rich cultural heritage. Bath is a haven for remote workers who crave a unique blend of history, wellness, and creativity. With a Nomad Score of 74/100, it’s no wonder why many digital nomads flock to this charming city. The high Safety Index of 7347/100 and excellent Nature Score of 90/100 make it an attractive destination for those seeking a peaceful and inspiring environment.
Bath’s compact size and walkability make it easy to explore on foot, and its proximity to London (just a 1.5-hour train ride) provides convenient access to a major hub. As a Bath digital nomad, you’ll enjoy the city’s relaxed atmosphere, which is perfect for focusing on work and personal projects. The local community is warm and welcoming, with a thriving food scene and plenty of cultural events to attend. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or wellness, Bath has something to offer.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Bath, there are several areas that stand out for digital nomads. Here are my top recommendations:
- Central Bath: This area is perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action. You’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as easy access to the city’s main attractions. Rent prices are around £900-£1,200 per month (approximately $1,200-$1,600 USD) for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Larkhall: This charming neighborhood is located just a short walk from the city center and offers a more laid-back atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as a weekly farmers’ market. Rent prices are around £800-£1,100 per month (approximately $1,000-$1,400 USD) for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Walcot: This historic neighborhood is known for its stunning Georgian architecture and picturesque streets. It’s a bit further from the city center, but still within walking distance. Rent prices are around £700-£1,000 per month (approximately $900-$1,300 USD) for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Bathwick: This area is located just across the river from the city center and offers stunning views of the city. It’s a bit more residential, but still has plenty of amenities, including a supermarket and several restaurants. Rent prices are around £600-£900 per month (approximately $800-$1,200 USD) for a one-bedroom apartment.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Bath can be relatively high, especially when it comes to rent. However, with some careful budgeting, it’s possible to live comfortably in this beautiful city. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:
- Rent: £900-£1,200 per month (approximately $1,200-$1,600 USD) for a one-bedroom apartment
- Food: £30-£50 per week (approximately $40-$65 USD) for basic groceries
- Transport: £20-£30 per month (approximately $25-$40 USD) for a bus pass
- Coworking: £100-£200 per month (approximately $130-$260 USD) for a desk at a coworking space
- Internet: £20-£30 per month (approximately $25-$40 USD) for a basic internet plan
Overall, the cost of living in Bath can range from £1,500-£2,500 per month (approximately $2,000-$3,300 USD), depending on your lifestyle and accommodation choices.
Internet & Coworking
Bath has a relatively fast internet speed of 45 Mbps, making it easy to stay connected and productive. There are several coworking spaces in the city, including:
- The Guild: A modern coworking space with plenty of natural light and a relaxed atmosphere. Desk prices start at £100 per month (approximately $130 USD).
- Bath Coworking: A community-driven space with a range of amenities, including meeting rooms and a kitchen. Desk prices start at £150 per month (approximately $200 USD).
- The Hub: A vibrant coworking space with a focus on creativity and innovation. Desk prices start at £200 per month (approximately $260 USD).
Some popular cafes for working remotely include:
- The Boston Tea Party: A cozy cafe with plenty of natural light and a relaxed atmosphere.
- The Green Rocket: A vegan cafe with a focus on sustainability and community.
- Society Cafe: A modern cafe with a range of specialty coffee drinks and a comfortable seating area.
Bath has a growing digital nomad community, with several meetups and events throughout the year. Some popular groups include:
- Bath Digital Nomads: A Facebook group for remote workers and digital nomads in Bath.
- Bath Coworking Community: A group for members of the city’s coworking spaces.
- Bath Tech: A meetup group for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs.
Some popular events include the Bath Digital Festival, which takes place every autumn, and the Bath Literature Festival, which celebrates the city’s rich literary heritage.
Culture & Lifestyle
Bath is a city that’s steeped in history and culture, with plenty of opportunities to explore and learn. Some popular attractions include:
- The Roman Baths: A ancient Roman site that’s one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
- The Royal Crescent: A stunning example of Georgian architecture that’s home to several museums and galleries.
- The Holburne Museum: A museum that showcases a range of art and artifacts, including works by Gainsborough and Zoffany.
The food scene in Bath is also thriving, with plenty of independent restaurants and cafes serving up delicious local cuisine. Some popular spots include:
- The Pulteney Arms: A historic pub that serves up traditional British fare.
- The Green Park Brasserie: A modern restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes.
- Demuths: A popular restaurant with a focus on vegetarian and vegan cuisine.
When it comes to dating and nightlife, Bath has a relatively low-key scene, but there are still plenty of opportunities to meet new people and have fun. Some popular spots include:
- The Bell: A historic pub that’s popular with locals and visitors alike.
- The Canary Gin Bar: A trendy bar that serves up a range of craft gins and cocktails.
- The Komedia: A comedy club that hosts a range of live events and performances.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to ensure that you have the correct visa to live and work in the UK. The UK offers a range of visa options, including the Tier 2 visa for skilled workers and the Tier 5 visa for temporary workers. However, there is no specific digital nomad visa available in the UK.
If you’re planning to stay in the UK for an extended period, you may need to apply for a visa extension or a settled status. It’s essential to check the UK government’s website for the latest information on visa requirements and regulations.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips for living and working in Bath as a digital nomad:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card from a range of providers, including EE, Vodafone, and O2. Prices start at around £10-£20 per month (approximately $13-$25 USD).
- Transport: Bath has a comprehensive public transport system, including buses and trains. You can purchase a bus pass for around £20-£30 per month (approximately $25-$40 USD).
- Safety: Bath is a relatively safe city, but it’s still essential to take precautions, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Weather: Bath has a temperate climate, with mild winters and cool summers. Be sure to pack accordingly, with layers for the cooler months and sunscreen for the warmer months.
