When we first drove by the Royal Victoria Park, the two boys immediately noticed the skateboard ramps. Teenagers were out in the pale sunshine giving their mothers cause to worry. (Thank goodness for helmets and elbow pads!)
Just as enticing to our kids, however, was a small rock wall, a giant rope climbing tower, slides, and a funky seesaw that went up and down and all around, like an amusement park ride. Let me tell you, it was glorious!
18th-century architecture, Roman baths, and famous writers be darned. This was the attraction the kids enjoyed the most in Bath. And this is where we spent a couple of our evenings.
On Sunday, this public park was basically empty and the restrooms were locked, but the gates were still open. By Monday afternoon, the park was inhabited by many local children out for a spot with their parents. The restrooms were then open and two older gents who looked like they worked for the park were there to look over things. Hot-air balloons are launched in a field nearby, so we saw several float serenely overhead near twilight.
Tip: The pub called The Hop and Pole across the street from the park does accept children in its courtyard garden. It might suit to go for a drink or dinner after play. After all, the park is free and works up an appetite!