The origins of Bath 's parks are diverse: Sydney Gardens was developed as a pleasure ground in the late eighteenth century, with entertainments, swings (not permitted on Sundays), and a labyrinth of which Jane Austen wrote 'It would be pleasant to be near the Sydney Gardens. We could go into the Labyrinth everyday'.

Royal Victoria Park was created in 1814 to enhance the attractions of Bath as a tourist resort, and was a nationally renowned arboretum. Later the Botanical Gardens were added when a large collection of rare plants was bequeathed to the committee. Hedgemead Park was the result of a disastrous speculation that led to the collapse of 135 houses in 1881. Henrietta, Alexandra and Alice Parks were laid out amongst housing as Bath grew.

Together these parks provide Bath with a valuable resource which can be enjoyed by resident and visitor alike.