A Visitor's Introduction to The Roman Baths, Bath

Why Visit the Roman Baths?

The Roman Baths are not only a remarkable example of ancient engineering but also a window into the everyday life and beliefs of Roman Britain. The complex is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, archaeology lovers, and those interested in ancient civilisations. It provides a rare opportunity to see a well-preserved Roman bathhouse in its original location, with the added bonus of being set within the beautiful and historic city of Bath. The baths are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for their historical and architectural significance.

The attraction is also family-friendly, with interactive exhibits and costumed characters that help bring Roman history to life. Moreover, Bath’s thermal springs remain a unique feature, allowing visitors to learn about the city’s long-standing association with health and wellness.

The Roman Baths Highlights

1. The Great Bath: The centrepiece of the Roman Baths is the Great Bath, a large, open-air pool fed by natural hot springs. The pool, lined with lead and surrounded by ancient stone pavements, would have been the focal point for Roman visitors, where they could relax and socialise. Today, visitors can walk around the bath, admire its still-working geothermal spring, and imagine the grandeur of the complex in its heyday. The bath is particularly atmospheric in the early evening when it is illuminated by torchlight.

2. The Sacred Spring: The Sacred Spring was the heart of the Roman Baths complex and is where natural hot water, at a temperature of around 46°C (115°F), emerges from deep underground. The Romans believed this spring was a sacred site, associated with the goddess Sulis Minerva. The spring is still active today, and visitors can see the steaming water as it flows into the bath complex. The area around the Sacred Spring was a place of religious significance, where offerings and prayers to the goddess were made.

3. The Temple of Sulis Minerva: The Roman Baths complex was not only a bathing site but also a place of worship. The temple dedicated to Sulis Minerva, a unique Romano-Celtic deity, was one of the most important religious structures in Roman Britain. Although much of the temple is now in ruins, its foundations and several artifacts remain on display. The temple’s great altar and the famous gilded bronze head of the goddess Minerva are particular highlights, reflecting the religious devotion of the people who visited this site.

4. The East Baths and West Baths: In addition to the Great Bath, visitors can explore the East and West Baths, smaller sections of the complex that were used for hot and cold bathing. These rooms provide insight into the Roman practice of communal bathing and the various stages of the Roman bath experience, including heated rooms (caldaria) and cold plunge pools (frigidaria). These spaces would have been bustling with activity as bathers moved through the different rooms to cleanse and relax.

5. The Roman Drainage System: The Roman Baths are a testament to Roman engineering prowess, and one of the most impressive features is the original Roman drainage system, which still carries excess water from the baths into the nearby River Avon. Visitors can see the ancient channels and appreciate the complexity and durability of the Roman design. This system ensured that the baths functioned efficiently for centuries and continues to operate today.

6. Roman Artifacts and Exhibits: The museum within the Roman Baths houses a wide range of Roman artifacts discovered during excavations. These include coins, jewellery, pottery, and inscriptions that provide insight into the daily lives of those who visited the baths nearly 2,000 years ago. Notable exhibits include the “curse tablets,” which were written by visitors asking the gods to punish wrongdoers, offering a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and superstitions of the time. The museum also features models and reconstructions to help visitors visualise how the baths and temple would have appeared during the Roman era.

7. Costumed Interpreters: To enhance the visitor experience, the Roman Baths employ costumed interpreters who interact with guests as ancient Romans. These actors help bring history to life by explaining the customs, rituals, and day-to-day activities of people who would have used the baths. They offer a fun and engaging way for visitors, particularly families, to immerse themselves in the history of the site.

8. The Pump Room: Adjoining the Roman Baths is the historic Pump Room, a grand Georgian building that has been a social hub in Bath since the 18th century. Visitors can stop by the Pump Room to taste the mineral-rich water from the hot springs, which has been used for its purported health benefits for centuries. The Pump Room also houses an elegant restaurant where guests can enjoy traditional afternoon tea, making it an ideal spot to relax after exploring the baths.

Roman Baths Facilities

The Roman Baths provide a range of visitor facilities to enhance the experience:

Audio Guides: Available in multiple languages, the audio guides provide an informative and engaging tour of the site, with options for both adults and children. The guides offer insights into the history of the baths, the engineering behind the site, and the role it played in Roman society.

Gift Shop: The Roman Baths gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, books, and locally produced goods. Visitors can purchase Roman-themed gifts, historical books, and items related to Bath’s spa heritage.

Café and Restaurant: The Pump Room Restaurant, located adjacent to the baths, is a popular spot for refreshments. Visitors can enjoy meals, snacks, or afternoon tea while overlooking the historic site.

Accessibility: The Roman Baths have made efforts to ensure that as much of the site as possible is accessible to visitors with disabilities. There are lifts to certain areas, ramps, and accessible restrooms, though the historic nature of the site means that some parts are more difficult to access.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: The Roman Baths are open year-round, with longer opening hours during the summer months. Typical hours are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the last entry an hour before closing. During peak times, such as summer or special events, the baths may remain open later, and evening visits can be particularly atmospheric with the baths lit by torchlight.

Admission: Admission to the Roman Baths is paid, with discounts available for children, students, and seniors. Family tickets are also available. Due to the popularity of the site, it is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Getting There: The Roman Baths are located in the heart of Bath, making them easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the city. Bath is well-connected by train, with regular services from London and other major cities. The baths are also accessible by bus, and there are several car parks within walking distance.

Nearby Attractions

The Roman Baths are located in the centre of Bath, a city renowned for its Georgian architecture, Roman history, and cultural significance. Visitors can easily explore several other nearby attractions:

Bath Abbey: Located next to the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey is a stunning Gothic church with a rich history. Visitors can tour the abbey and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.

Thermae Bath Spa: Modern-day visitors can experience the waters of Bath in a new way at the Thermae Bath Spa, where natural thermal waters are used in rooftop pools, steam rooms, and spa treatments.

The Royal Crescent: A short walk from the Roman Baths, the Royal Crescent is one of Bath’s most iconic landmarks. This curved row of Georgian townhouses is a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture.

The Jane Austen Centre: Bath was home to the famous author Jane Austen, and the Jane Austen Centre offers a look at her life in the city and the influence of Bath on her work.