The Best Areas to Buy a Short-Term Let in Bath

Renowned as one of the 35 best places to visit worldwide according to National Geographic and one of the top 10 most visited cities in the UK, Bath exudes an undeniable charm that captivates visitors from around the world.

Beyond its allure as a tourist destination, Bath also presents a unique opportunity for property investors seeking to enter the potentially lucrative short-term rental market. If you're considering investing in a holiday home in Bath, read our guide to find out more.

Why buy a short-term let in Bath?

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath was recently named the UK's best medium-sized city for a short break, according to the latest consumer champion survey from Which?

The roman city received top scores and was rated five stars for its cultural sights and tourist attractions. One visitor hailed Bath as "one of the top sites in the UK, indeed Europe," praising its architecture and historical points of interest, such as the well-preserved Roman baths, Pulteney Bridge, and the Georgian houses of the Royal Crescent.

It is a popular destination for international students, tourists and business travelers alike, with a mix of urban amenities and close proximity to Cotswolds, attracting a visitor economy of almost half a billion pounds annually.

With the benefits of short-term holiday lets versus long-term buy to lets, buying a holiday let in Bath offers a potentially robust investment opportunity for those looking to bolster their income.

The latest insights from our holiday letting outlook report has also found:

• An unprecedented demand for staycations, with average revenues increasing nationwide in 2023, up 71% versus pre-pandemic levels

• UK holiday lets earning an average annual income of £24,500 in 2023, vs £24,000 in 2022

• 50% of property owners are likely to buy another holiday let in the near future

Download the full report for more information

Where are the are the best areas to buy a short-term let in Bath?

When it comes to finding the perfect short-term let in Bath, Sykes has a portfolio of properties ranging from quaint cottages to elegant townhouses designed to suit every taste and budget. Property investors in the Bath region can expect to earn an average monthly revenue of £2,216, which can be optimised in response to demand.

Taking this into consideration, our property experts have identified the best places to buy a short-term let in Bath to help ensure the best return on investment.

1. Bath City Centre

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK, Bath experiences high demand for short-term accommodation. From natural hot springs and Bath Abbey to boutique shops, restaurants, and theatres, there is always something to do.

Bath city centre is renowned for its historic architecture, cultural attractions, and vibrant atmosphere. Investing in a short-term let in this prime location ensures that your property is at the heart of the action, attracting a stream of tourists and visitors.

Buying a short-term let in Bath can generate up to 30% more profit in comparison to long-term lets, with an average holiday let occupancy rate of 67%. The high demand for short-term accommodation translates to strong rental income potential for property investors.

2. Weston

The alluring suburb of Weston is renowned for its rolling hills, lush green spaces, and unspoilt countryside views, with good transport links to the surrounding areas of Bath and iconic landmarks including the Circus and Royal Crescent.

Weston benefits from the city's strong property market, which has historically shown steady progress. The area boasts numerous benefits, including its scenic location, close proximity to Bath's attractions, strong rental demand, historic charm and opportunity for capital growth.

Investing in Weston offers the potential for capital appreciation over time, making it an attractive option for buyers looking to build wealth through property investment.

3. Larkhall

The "trendy urban village" of Larkhall, as named in The Sunday Times 2015, exudes a bohemian spirit with plenty of independent cafes, boutique shops, local businesses.

Situated North East of the city, Larkhall offers good potential for short-term lets with its quirky gift shops, indie eateries, and vibrant atmosphere. The picturesque village provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

With its convenient location and appealing amenities, short-term lets in Larkhall have the potential to achieve high occupancy rates throughout the year. This can translate to reliable rental income for property owners, providing a steady return on investment.

4. Combe Down

Combe Down offers the perfect blend of rural tranquility and urban convenience. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, Combe Down is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, making it an ideal location for eco-friendly short-term lets.

From its historic stone cottages to its charming village pub, Combe Down has a sense of timeless beauty and tranquility. Visitors can discover hidden gems such as the picturesque Prior Park Landscape Garden or the tranquil woodland paths of Rainbow Wood.Investing in a holiday home in Combe Down can be a lucrative financial opportunity. With its proximity to Bath's tourist attractions and natural beauty, Combe Down is a popular destination for holidaymakers seeking a peaceful retreat.

5. Bathwick

Nestled along the banks of the River Avon lies the enchanting neighborhood of Bathwick. Renowned for its elegant Georgian architecture, verdant green spaces, and proximity to the city's historic attractions, Bathwick offers an idyllic setting to invest in a short-term rental. With its desirable location and attractions, Bathwick experiences high demand from tourists seeking short-term accommodation year round, which can help drive low-season bookings.

Whether you choose to rent out your property on a full-time basis or only during peak tourist seasons, there's a potential of strong occupancy rates and competitive rental yields, making your investment in Bathwick both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.

6. Twerton

Compared to more centrally located areas in Bath, Twerton offers a more affordable option for short-term let buyers. Property prices in Twerton tend to be lower, allowing investors to stretch their budget further and potentially benefit from reduced running costs.

As one of Bath's up-and-coming neighborhoods, Twerton holds significant potential for years to come. With ongoing investment projects aimed at enhancing the area's infrastructure and amenities, Twerton is poised for positive transformation and increased desirability.

By investing in a holiday home in Twerton now, you can capitalise on the neighborhood's future growth potential and potentially see a return on your investment as property values appreciate over time.

7. Widcombe

Boasting a unique blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and modern convenience, Widcombe offers an idyllic setting for those seeking to invest in a holiday home in Bath.One of Widcombe's most enchanting features is its riverside setting along the tranquil Kennet and Avon Canal. From picnicking in the greenery of Sydney Gardens, to admiring the panoramic views from Widcombe Hill, Widcombe offers a peaceful sanctuary for guests. As one of Bath's most sought-after neighborhoods, property values in Widcombe have shown steady appreciation over time, providing a lucrative opportunity for long-term growth on your investment.

Let Sykes help find a short-term let to buy in Bath

Whether you choose to remotely manage your short-term let or work with a holiday home management company such as Sykes, there are plenty of options to consider.

With Sykes, you'll have access to an extensive network of short-term lets for sale in Bath and the surrounding areas, where you can find the perfect property to match your unique investment goals and preferences.

The Bath property market is as diverse as it is dynamic, with a wide array of options available to investors looking to capitalise on the city's popularity as a tourist destination.

From bustling city centre apartments to tranquil countryside retreats, there is no shortage of opportunities for those interested in short-term letting. Sykes owners can also benefit from optimal pricing strategies with the help of our friendly property advisors.Utilise our Holiday Let Income Calculator to discover how typical earnings from short-term rentals in Bath stack up against those in other regions across the UK.