Bath, renowned for its historic charm and cultural heritage, prepares for another influx of tourists this summer after being named the most overcrowded tourist city in the UK. In light of rising visitor numbers, discussions about introducing a tourist tax or tightening visitor controls have surfaced as potential ways to manage demand and enhance experiences. However, many locals, as reflected in responses from Somerset Live readers, strongly oppose additional charges, viewing tourists as the essential “lifeblood” of the city.
A tourist tax, typically levied per night on accommodation, is a common measure in popular European destinations aiming to sustain high visitor volumes. The funds generated often support public services used by tourists—such as waste management and transport—or help maintain and improve the attractions drawing them in.
Tino van der Woude, Operations Manager at Abbey Hotel Bath, highlighted tourism’s economic significance, saying: “Tourism in Bath contributes significantly to the retail sector, food and beverage businesses, and accommodation providers. This sector’s strength encourages further investment in infrastructure, amenities, and the preservation of Bath’s heritage, which benefits both residents and visitors.”
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He also stressed the importance of sustainable tourism management: “While tourism is crucial to Bath’s economy and heritage, the challenges associated with large visitor numbers must be proactively addressed. A balanced strategy focusing on quality, sustainability, and effective management is essential rather than simply encouraging ever-increasing numbers without considering consequences.”
Local sentiment on the impact of tourists is mixed. One anonymous resident told The Express: “Tourists can be a nuisance—they’re slow walkers, sometimes rude, and overcrowd the city center. However, they are the reason we enjoy such a high quality of life in Bath. I work in the restaurant industry, and my partner in money exchange; without tourists, our businesses wouldn’t survive.”
SomersetLive reporter Phoebe Hobbs shared a thoughtful perspective, dissociating tourism from the city’s housing challenges: “I don’t blame tourists for Bath’s housing issues; the root cause lies in a profit-driven housing market that needs regulation. I love tourists because they appreciate my city. From my experience, most are polite and friendly, eager to explore and connect with local cultures. Tourism is a fundamentally human desire—a longing to understand and experience the world.”
Other UK cities face similar pressures from tourism, but Bath’s locals largely favor maintaining visitor numbers. Commenter SomersetStephen remarked, “Tourists are the lifeblood of Bath. You might not always like your customers, but you do your best for them because they support you.”
However, some residents express frustration. Commenter Jjh4 described a recent experience: “Going to the theatre was difficult with the crowds, and finding a place to eat before heading home was impossible. It’s unfortunate not to be able to spontaneously enjoy the city as a local.”
Others, like the user Villageidiotscommittee, take a pragmatic view: “Tourists are inconvenient, but they keep our businesses alive. Complaining about them while benefiting from their money is contradictory. Many critics don’t travel themselves and thus behave like tourists when they do.”
Planning around visitation peaks is a strategy some support. Paniloco noted, “Locals learn to avoid the busy city center during peak tourist times and enjoy quieter spots on the outskirts, making the most of the city year-round.”
Meanwhile, Onlooker 2 proposes shifting focus: “The solution lies in attracting higher-end tourists, limiting day-tripper coach spaces, and regulating takeaway outlets to balance the city’s atmosphere.”
As Bath faces another busy summer, the question remains: should the city introduce a tourist tax or take other measures to ease pressure on locals, or is maintaining vibrant tourism part of Bath’s identity and economy? The debate continues in the community and beyond.