London to Bath by Free Bus | Concessionary Pass Route

About This Route

London to Bath by free local bus is a rewarding day trip for ENCTS pass holders. The route travels west through Berkshire, Wiltshire, and into Somerset — passing through Reading, Newbury, and Chippenham before arriving in Bath. The journey takes around 3 hours with 2–3 changes. Bath's compact city centre is easily walkable from the bus station.

🪪 Concessionary Pass (ENCTS) Guidance

Your ENCTS pass is valid on all local scheduled services along this route. Reading Buses, First West of England, and Stagecoach West accept concessionary passes. Note: the X90 Oxford Tube and National Express services to Bath are NOT free — you must use local scheduled services.

How to Travel This Route

London (Reading) → Newbury

🚌 Reading Buses / First ⏱ ~1 hr

Newbury → Chippenham

🚌 Stagecoach X31 ⏱ ~45 min

Chippenham → Bath

🚌 First X32 / Faresaver ⏱ ~30 min

Stops & Nearby Attractions

📍 London (via Reading)

Take a train to Reading, then connect to westbound local bus services.

Museum

Reading Museum

Home to a full-size replica of the Bayeux Tapestry. Free admission.

Park

Forbury Gardens

Victorian public garden in Reading town centre. Free entry.

Shopping

The Oracle Shopping Centre

Shopping and dining by the River Kennet. Free to browse.

📍 Chippenham

Easy interchange point for the final leg into Bath.

Museum

Chippenham Museum

Free local history museum in the town centre.

Nature

River Avon Walk

Pleasant riverside walk along the Avon from Chippenham town centre. Free.

Historic

Market Place

Traditional market town square with independent shops. Free to explore.

📍 Bath

Your destination. Bath Bus Station is a 5-minute walk from the city centre.

Architecture

Royal Crescent

Iconic Georgian crescent — free to walk along and photograph. No.1 Royal Crescent has a small museum.

Cathedral

Bath Abbey

Magnificent Gothic abbey in the heart of Bath. Free to enter the grounds.

Landmark

Pulteney Bridge & Weir

One of only four bridges in the world with shops on both sides. Free to walk across and view the weir.

Travel Tips

Start from Reading for the smoothest western connection — train or First Bus from London.
The First X32 service connects Chippenham directly to Bath.
Visit the Roman Baths early (book ahead) — they're the main attraction.
The Jane Austen Centre and Victoria Art Gallery are free or low cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get from London to Bath on a free bus pass?

Yes, via Reading and Chippenham using ENCTS local services. The journey takes around 3 hours with 2–3 connections. You cannot use National Express or the Oxford Tube — these are coach services not covered by concessionary passes.

How long does London to Bath take by local bus?

Around 3 hours total, travelling via Reading and Chippenham. It's a comfortable day trip — arrive mid-morning and return by late afternoon.

Is the Roman Baths free with a bus pass?

The Roman Baths has an entry charge (around £20). However, Bath is full of free attractions including Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey grounds, Pulteney Bridge, and the city's Georgian streets.

🏛️ London to Bath