Are York and Bath Must-See Destinations or Overrated Tourist Traps?

As I plan my upcoming trip at the end of June into early July, I’m torn on a couple of potential destinations: York and Bath. Both cities are slightly off my intended route, but I’m drawn to the idea of spending a few nights outside of London to escape the city’s steep costs.

I’ve been eyeing an express train that can whisk me from London to York in about two hours. York is often touted as “the most medieval city in England,” with a plethora of historic sites reflecting that era. Travel bloggers rave about it, yet I’ve come across some opinions suggesting it might not be worth the detour. Given this mixed feedback, I’m wondering if it justifies the trek, especially since it’s the most remote stop on my itinerary.

After potentially soaking up York’s history, my plan is to head south to Nottingham, which is particularly exciting due to a nearby Black Sabbath concert. Since accommodations were sparse in Birmingham, Nottingham was a natural choice. Regardless of my decision about York, I’ll indeed be traveling north of London. On my return trip, I also intend to visit Oxford, so there are intriguing stops along the way.

Now, onto Bath—this city has been on my radar, but I find myself hesitant. While it’s renowned for its Roman ruins and charming aesthetics, I can’t shake the feeling that it may not resonate with my interests. My previous experiences in spa towns have shown me that they cater primarily to a demographic seeking relaxation and refinement, rather than the medieval or ancient history that captivates my attention. I doubt I’d feel at home sipping high tea at the Pump Room, especially in my usual heavy metal attire!

Considering I have previously explored much of London and have visited cities like St. Albans, Windsor, and Salisbury (not to mention Stonehenge), I’m curious to hear your thoughts. Is Bath truly a gem worth carving out time for in my itinerary? Or would my time be better spent elsewhere in England, particularly in locations that align more closely with my historical interests?

I welcome any additional suggestions or insights you might have. Thank you!