Bath is well known for its strong education offering, and for families seeking a residential education option, the city and surrounding area also provide access to several established boarding schools. These schools combine academic study with structured pastoral care and a supportive living environment for pupils.
This page offers a brief overview of boarding schools in Bath to help families understand how boarding works and whether it may suit their circumstances. For a complete overview of all education options in the city, see our guide to the best schools in Bath.
What is a boarding school?
A boarding school is a school where pupils live on site during term time, either full-time or for part of the week. Boarding is most commonly offered from age 11 onwards, though some schools in Bath offer boarding for prep school children from age seven.
Boarding schools typically offer:
- Structured daily routines
- Supervised accommodation and pastoral support
- Access to academic, sporting, and cultural activities beyond the school day
Almost all boarding schools in Bath are fee-paying private schools. One notable exception is Beechen Cliff, a state-funded senior boys’ school (ages 11 to 18) in Bath that offers boarding alongside day places.
Types of boarding available in Bath
Many boarding schools in Bath offer flexible arrangements designed to fit around family life, including flexi, weekly, and traditional full boarding.
Full boarding Bath
Where pupils live at school during term time, returning home for exeat weekends, half term, and school holidays
Weekly boarding Bath
Pupils live at school during the week, from Monday to Friday, returning home for weekends, half term, and school holidays
Flexi-boarding Bath
Offering occasional overnight stays, often a great option for younger children or when families need greater flexilibility
Boarding school options in Bath and nearby
Several independent schools in Bath and the surrounding area offer boarding as part of their provision, with most combining day and boarding pupils within the same academic environment.
Boarding schools within or close to Bath include a mix of co-educational and single-sex options, with boarding typically offered alongside day places rather than as a standalone pathway.
Beechen Cliff
Boarding for ages 11–18 | Boys (state school)
Downside School (near Bath)
Boarding for ages 11–18 | Co-educational
Kingswood School
Boarding for ages 11–18 | Co-educational
Monkton Combe School
Boarding for ages 7–18 | Co-educational
Prior Park College
Boarding for ages 11–18 | Co-educational
Royal High School Bath (GDST)
Boarding for ages 11–18 | Girls
Stonar School (near Bath)
Boarding for ages 9–18 | Co-educational
Westonbirt School (near Bath)
Boarding for ages 9–18 | Co-educational
For detailed information about boarding schools in Bath, including age ranges and admissions processes, see our guide to private schools in Bath. You may also find the following guides useful:
Families comparing day and boarding education may also find our guide to secondary schools in Bath helpful.
Boarding schools Bath: Frequently asked questions
What are the best boarding schools in Bath?
Bath is home to several highly regarded boarding schools, including Kingswood School Bath, Prior Park College, Royal High School Bath, and Monkton Combe School. Each offers a mix of strong academics, extracurricular activities, and supportive boarding environments. However, the ‘best boarding school’ will depend on your child’s individual needs.
Are there good boarding schools in Bath, UK?
Yes, Bath is known for having some of the UK’s most prestigious boarding schools, combining academic excellence with a safe, historic setting that’s popular with both UK and international families.
How many boarding schools are there in Bath?
There are several well-established boarding schools in and around Bath, including co-educational, girls-only, and sixth form colleges offering boarding options.
How much do boarding schools in Bath cost?
Fees typically range from around £12,000 to £15,000+ per term depending on the school, age group, and boarding type.
Are there affordable boarding schools in Bath?
Some schools offer scholarships, bursaries, or flexible boarding options, which can help reduce overall costs.
What ages do boarding schools in Bath accept?
Most boarding schools in Bath accept pupils from around age 11 to 18, although some offer earlier entry, often from year 5, when a child is around the age of nine or 10.
Is Bath a good place for boarding school?
Yes, Bath is considered an excellent location due to its safety, strong education reputation, and inspiring historic surroundings, making it attractive for both UK and international students.
Are there girls-only boarding schools in Bath?
Yes, Royal High School Bath is a leading girls-only boarding school offering both day and boarding education.
Are there co-educational boarding schools in Bath?
Yes, schools like Kingswood School Bath and Prior Park College are co-educational and offer boarding options.
What is boarding life like in Bath schools?
Boarding schools in Bath typically offer structured routines, pastoral care, extracurricular activities, and a strong sense of community, helping students develop independence and confidence.
Do boarding schools in Bath offer flexible or weekly boarding?
Yes, many schools provide flexible, weekly, or full boarding options to suit different family needs.