Pass the Keys Blog

What Hosts Should Be Telling Their Guests in Bath: A Complete Communication Guide for Exceptional Stays

Written by Pass the Keys Bath | Feb 24, 2026 9:29:17 AM

In a destination like Bath, guest satisfaction depends just as much on communication as it does on the property itself. Visitors arrive expecting history, relaxation, and a seamless travel experience - but many challenges guests face stem from unfamiliarity with how the city works.

High-performing hosts understand that their role goes beyond providing accommodation. They act as local experts, helping guests navigate the property, the city, and the experiences that make a stay memorable. Clear, thoughtful communication not only reduces questions and problems but also consistently leads to stronger reviews.

Below is a detailed guide to what hosts should be telling guests - and when - to create an outstanding stay in Bath.

1. Before Arrival: Setting Expectations Early

The pre-arrival stage prevents the majority of guest issues. Guests should arrive feeling confident, not confused.

Hosts should communicate:

Arrival and access details

  • Exact address and postcode
  • Step-by-step directions from train stations or main roads
  • Entry instructions with photos where possible
  • Check-in times and contact details

Bath’s historic layout can be confusing, so clarity reduces travel stress immediately.

Parking and transport guidance

Parking is one of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors.

Explain clearly:

  • Whether parking is included
  • Nearby long-stay car parks
  • Park-and-ride options
  • Walking distances to the property
  • Taxi availability

Setting expectations early prevents frustration before the stay even begins.

Property expectations

Many Bath properties are historic buildings.

Prepare guests for:

  • Narrow staircases or multiple floors
  • Period features such as uneven flooring
  • Older heating systems
  • City-centre noise levels

Guests are far more understanding when informed in advance.

2. Check-In Day: Helping Guests Settle Quickly

The first hour of a stay strongly influences reviews.

Hosts should provide:

  • WiFi details
  • Heating and hot water instructions
  • Appliance basics
  • Waste and recycling guidance
  • Emergency contact information

Keep instructions simple and accessible rather than overwhelming guests with long manuals.

3. Explaining How to Use the Property Comfortably

Many guest messages arise from uncertainty about everyday features.

Proactively explain:

  • Heating controls and timers
  • How long hot water takes to replenish
  • Window ventilation in older buildings
  • Smart TV or streaming setup
  • Locking procedures when leaving

Clear instructions reduce late-night questions and help guests relax quickly.

4. Local Area Guidance: Turning a Stay Into an Experience

Guests increasingly expect hosts to provide local insight - not just accommodation. The most successful hosts offer curated recommendations that help visitors experience Bath like locals.

Key attractions hosts should recommend

Encourage guests to plan visits thoughtfully rather than rushing between sights.

  • The Roman Baths - suggest booking tickets in advance and visiting early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Bath Abbey - recommend tower tours for views across the city, noting stair access.
  • Royal Crescent - best enjoyed early morning, followed by a walk through Royal Victoria Park.
  • Thermae Bath Spa - advise booking rooftop spa sessions ahead, especially for sunset visits.

Providing timing advice alongside recommendations makes guidance genuinely useful.

5. Restaurant Recommendations Guests Truly Appreciate

Visitors often struggle to choose where to eat, particularly during busy weekends. Hosts who recommend reliable options save guests significant time and disappointment.

Strong recommendations hosts can share:

  • The Scallop Shell - relaxed dining ideal after sightseeing.
  • Sotto Sotto - popular romantic restaurant; advance booking essential.
  • The Circus Restaurant - refined local dining near major landmarks.
  • Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House - famous local experience; best visited early to avoid queues.

Adding booking advice or quieter visiting times makes recommendations feel personalised rather than generic.

6. Cafés and Relaxed Local Spots

Guests often value smaller, local recommendations most because they feel authentic.

  • Colonna & Small's - excellent speciality coffee stop before sightseeing.
  • Society Café - relaxed brunch option popular with locals.

These suggestions help guests experience Bath beyond major tourist routes.

7. Things To Do Beyond Sightseeing

Encourage slower experiences that balance busy attractions.

Hosts should suggest:

  • Scenic walks along the River Avon
  • The Bath Skyline Walk for countryside views close to the city
  • Performances at Theatre Royal Bath
  • Easy countryside day trips or canal walks nearby

Experiential recommendations often appear in guest reviews, increasing perceived value.

8. Helping Guests Avoid Common Visitor Mistakes

Proactive advice prevents avoidable frustrations.

Hosts should warn guests that:

  • Bath becomes very busy on weekends.
  • Restaurants frequently require reservations.
  • The city is hillier than expected.
  • Many streets are pedestrian-only.
  • Large luggage can be challenging in historic buildings.

Simple tips - like recommending comfortable walking shoes - significantly improve guest comfort.

9. During the Stay: Support Without Intrusion

Guests want reassurance, not constant messaging.

Best practice:

  • Send a short check-in message after the first night
  • Offer help with bookings or recommendations
  • Respond quickly to issues
  • Provide emergency contacts clearly

Balanced communication builds trust while maintaining privacy.

10. Before Checkout: Ending the Stay Smoothly

Clear checkout guidance prevents last-minute stress.

Include:

  • Checkout time reminder
  • Key return instructions
  • Waste disposal guidance
  • Heating or appliance instructions
  • Taxi recommendations for departures

A calm departure leaves guests with a positive final impression.

Why Professional Communication Makes the Difference

Delivering consistent, high-quality guest communication requires time, structure, and local knowledge. Professional hosting ensures guests receive accurate guidance at every stage of their stay.

With Pass the Keys, hosts benefit from professionally managed guest messaging, curated local recommendations, and responsive support that enhances guest experiences while protecting property performance. This structured approach helps properties achieve stronger reviews, repeat bookings, and long-term success in a competitive market like Bath.

FAQ

What information matters most to guests before arrival?

Clear arrival instructions, parking guidance, and realistic expectations about the property and location have the biggest impact.

Should hosts provide restaurant and activity recommendations?

Yes. Guests highly value local insight, especially when it includes booking advice and insider timing tips.

How detailed should local guides be?

Concise but practical - focus on quality recommendations with helpful context rather than long lists.

Does communication really affect reviews?

Absolutely. Most negative feedback results from unmet expectations, which clear communication prevents.

How often should hosts communicate during a stay?

Typically three key moments: pre-arrival, shortly after check-in, and before checkout - with responsive support available throughout.