Bath Waiters' Race returns to the Royal Crescent for second edition

The Bath Waiters’ Race returned for 2026 with a burst of energy, drawing crowds, cameras, and plenty of competitive spirit as over 30 teams from across Bath took to the Royal Crescent to celebrate the launch of Bath Restaurant Week.

Image: Bath Waiter's Race 2026, credit Beata Cosgrove Photography

The atmosphere was buzzing, with supporters lining the route and coverage from BBC and ITV capturing every moment. Teams from restaurants, cafés, bars, and hotels brought their A‑game, balancing trays and showing off the talent that keeps Bath’s hospitality scene thriving.

Winners

• 1st Place — The Bird Bath
• 2nd Place — The Elder Restaurant
• 3rd Place — Emberwood
• Best Dressed — House of Frankenstein

Alex Peters, Bath BID Board Director and Director of Bath Pizza Co and Green Park Brasserie, summed up the spirit of the day:

“It’s really important to celebrate the sector. These teams from restaurants, bars, and cafés do a phenomenal job. Raising their profile and acknowledging their work — and the city itself — matters. Bath’s landscape has changed massively over the last 10 to 15 years, with independents, groups, and smaller chains shaping the scene. Having a showpiece like this to kick off Bath Restaurant Week is something we’re really proud of.”

The 2026 race not only showcased skill and personality, but also shone a spotlight on the people who make Bath’s hospitality industry exceptional in support of Hospitality Action. Donations are continuing.