The Recreation Ground, affectionately known as “The Rec,” is an iconic open-air sports ground nestled in the heart of the historic city of Bath, England. More than just a stadium, it is a quintessential part of the city’s identity and a pilgrimage site for rugby fans. With its unique riverside location and an atmosphere that is both intimate and electric on match days, The Rec is one of the most beloved venues in English rugby.
History and Design
The Rec’s history dates back to the late 19th century, with Bath Rugby Club having played there since 1894. Unlike modern, purpose-built stadiums, The Rec has a distinct character defined by its temporary stands and its location on public land by the River Avon. This creates a unique open-air feel, with the city’s famous Georgian architecture providing a stunning backdrop to the action on the pitch.
The ground has a temporary feel, as much of its infrastructure is erected for the rugby season and removed at the end. For many years, this included the removal of the East Stand to allow cricket to be played, with Somerset Cricket using the ground until 2011. This setup, while different from a permanent stadium, contributes to its historic charm and ensures it remains a central part of the city’s landscape. The stadium’s capacity varies depending on the specific configuration for a given season, but it provides an up-close and personal viewing experience.
Key Information
Official Name: The Recreation Ground (The Rec)
Location: Bath, England
Opened: Rugby has been played on this site since 1894
Capacity: Approximately 14,500
Primary Tenant: Bath Rugby (Premiership Rugby)
Address: Spring Gardens Road, Bath, Somerset, BA2 4DS, UK
Getting to the Recreation Ground
The Recreation Ground is centrally located and is easily accessible, especially by public transport.
- By Air: For visitors traveling from out of town, the nearest airport is Bristol Airport (BRS). From the airport, a frequent airport shuttle service (the A1 bus) runs to Bristol Temple Meads railway station, where you can catch a direct train to Bath Spa. The journey from the airport to Bath typically takes around 60-90 minutes.
- By Train: This is the most recommended way to get to the venue. The Rec is just a short 5-10 minute walk from Bath Spa railway station, which has direct train services from London Paddington and Bristol, as well as regular connections from other major cities.
- By Bus: Bath’s main bus station is located next to the railway station, providing easy access from both local and regional bus services.
- By Car & Parking: Driving to the city center on a match day is highly discouraged due to traffic congestion and extremely limited on-site parking. The city’s Park & Ride services are a much better option, with designated car parks on the outskirts of the city that connect directly to the city center via bus.
Tickets & Tours at the Recreation Ground
Bath Rugby Tickets
Tickets for Bath Rugby matches can be purchased through the official Bath Rugby ticket website. It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially for high-profile matches or derby games, as tickets can sell out quickly.
Tours
The Recreation Ground does not typically offer formal guided tours in the way a modern stadium does. However, the true experience of the ground is best appreciated on a match day, where you can feel the unique atmosphere and history for yourself.
Where to Stay Near the Recreation Ground
Staying in the heart of Bath is the best way to experience the city and provides the most convenient access to The Rec. The city center offers a vast range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to boutique guesthouses.
- Booking Tips:
- Plan Ahead: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially for popular match days or during peak tourist season, as Bath is a very popular destination.
- Check Transport: The city is highly walkable, so staying anywhere in the city center will likely put you within walking distance of the stadium and all the main attractions.
- Use Reputable Sites: Use well-known and trustworthy booking websites like TripAdvisor to find and compare accommodation options.
Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit
- Official Bath Rugby Website
- Visit Bath Tourism Website
- National Rail Enquiries
- Bath Park & Ride Information
We hope this guide helps you have an incredible experience at the Recreation Ground!
Last Updated on September 23, 2025 by Sports Tourist