The Rec has to be one of the top places to watch a game of rugby in the world. The ground is wonderfully placed beside the River Avon, with the old buildings and Abbey of the historic city watching over the action.
The largest stand in the ground is the Wadworth 6X stand on the West side of the ground, which offers covered seating to the rear and uncovered seating at the front. This stand doesn't quite run the length of the pitch, but at the South end there is an additional small covered stand known as the Centurion Stand.
GETTING THERE
By Car
Bath is easily accessed from Junction 18 on the M4 for those travelling from the east or west, or from the M5 for those coming from the north or south. The only parking available at the ground is a limited number of disabled spaces. Alternatively, there are a number of car parks in and around the city or free park and ride facilities that will be easier on the wallet.
Bath Spa railway station is a short walk from the ground. Regular services operate to destinations including London Paddington (90 minutes), Cardiff (70 minutes) and Southampton (90 minutes).
Bristol Temple Meads station is 15 minutes away by rail, where you can connect with services to other destinations across England. National Rail Enquiries has a useful journey planner for more details.
Bristol International Airport
Bristol Airport is your first option as it is only 20 miles from Bath. Scheduled services operate to Aberdeen, Belfast (International), Cork, Dublin, Edinburgh, Glasgow (International), Knock, Newcastle, Paris (CDG), Rome (Fiumicino) and Toulouse, with both Easyjet and Ryanair having a presence here. From the airport, take a shuttle bus to Bristol Temple Meads Station and then the train onwards to Bath.
DRINKING
In The Ground
The Clubhouse Bar at the Rec opens about two hours before kick-off and continues serving after the match. It is a good place to gather and meet the local fans, whilst there are plenty of other bars dotted around the stadium too.
Before/After the Game
There are plenty of places in Bath to grab a drink, with a few recommendations below. Make sure to try some of the excellent local cider when in the West Country!
- The Boater is the nearest option to the Rec and as a result is very popular with supporters for a pre-match pint or meeting place. It also has an outdoor area so can handle the big crowds.
- The Old Green Tree on Green Street is a tiny, but a great pub not far from the ground.
- Also situated close to the ground, The Pig & Fiddle is a real rugby pub in a real rugby city, with memorabilia adorning the walls and live sport shown on TV. It also has an outdoor section that is great on warm days.
SLEEPING
With the ground so close to the City Centre, you can take your pick from a wide range of B&B’s and hotels. Due to the high volume of tourists, you may find some places insist on a two night minimum stay on weekends and it can be quite expensive - prices are similar to what you might expect in London.
Alternatively, Bristol is only 15 minutes away by rail and will offer more affordable accommodation, but make sure you leave plenty of time to check out Bath before or after the game.
MAKE A TRIP OF IT
Bath is a great place to spend a weekend, particularly for those who enjoy their history. The main attractions are the Roman Baths that give the city its name, the Gothic Bath Abbey and the architecture in general. You can easily explore the streets on foot, or take a guided walking or bus tour. When you're done with sightseeing, there are plenty of great pubs and restaurants to keep you amused.
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