Green Spaces and Nature

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Bath named world's best for Green Spaces and Nature

Friday, 24 April, 2026

Bath has been named the best place in the world for green spaces and nature by Time Out and Intrepid Travel, based on a global survey of 24,000 residents.

Outranking cities such as London and Edinburgh, Bath has earned this green-fingered title for its stunning pockets of green space and vast natural landscapes.

Bath Spa University itself is very fortunate to have multiple sites in Bath, located amongst these green spaces. Newton Park is set against the backdrop of rolling hills and endless fields, while spaces like Locksbrook and Oldfield Park Theatre Workshop are a mere stone’s throw away from rivers and parkland.

Speaking about the results of the survey and what it means to BSU, Sustainability Manager Ripley Hill-Nixon said:

“BSU is lucky to call Bath its home,, and this news proves what we already knew; we have a beautiful green city to enjoy! We're happy to benefit from all of Bath’s lovely open green spaces, and to look after a few of our own. Biodiversity and environmental stewardship are key focuses of our Sustainability Strategy, and we're proud to contribute to our city's open green spaces, especially at our lovely Newton Park campus where we provide homes to endangered species and prioritise sustainable forestry.”

Sustainability, conservation and appreciation of green spaces are firmly embedded into BSU’s culture. Not only do these themes blend into teaching practices, but these now globally recognised parks, riversides and landscapes often provide a haven for students to relax, decompress and socialise with friends.

Andrew Grant, BSU Honorary Doctorate recipient and founder of Grant Associates, commented on the news on the Grant Associates website, saying:

“This is fantastic recognition for Bath and its landscape setting. What makes Bath special is not just the quantity of green space, but the way the city and its surrounding hills, rivers and parks are experienced as one connected landscape. Bath is a true landscape city, shaped by its setting and defined by its connection to nature – and it’s great to see that recognised on a global stage.

He continued:

“These landscapes aren’t just a backdrop, they are fundamental to Bath’s identity and to everyday life here. Looking after them is critical to the city’s future. Over many years, there has been a strong commitment to protect, enhance and better connect these natural assets – from the River Avon corridor to the wider Cotswold landscape. That long-term thinking is now being recognised globally. Cities that invest in landscape are investing in their future. Bath shows how heritage, ecology and everyday life can come together to create something genuinely world-class.”

Following on from being named by The New York Times as the top place to visit in 2025, this further recognition for the city of Bath cements its place in hearts and minds, both nationally and internationally.

Want to start your own journey in one of the greatest cities in the world? BSU’s range of courses could unlock the door to your next chapter.