The Roman Baths are one of Britain’s only natural hot springs and among the most well-preserved Roman spas in the world. Explore the excavated bathing pools, check out ancient artifacts that have been gathered from the site and try a sip of the springs’ mineral waters.
The Romans constructed this complex of bathhouses over the city’s three springs, where the water is naturally heated to a temperature of 115 F (46 C). In ancient times, visitors would come here to relax, socialize and even drink the spring waters to cure all kinds of illnesses and ailments. The baths were abandoned after the fall of the Roman Empire and were later restored when bathing became fashionable again toward the end of the 18th century. Note the lovely Georgian buildings encircling the complex, which were added during this revival period.
Be sure to see the Great Bath, located at the centre of the complex. This bath was once covered with a barrel-vaulted roof, but it’s now open-air and surrounded by 19th-century pillars and statuary. It’s still filled with steaming mineral water and you’ll often see characters dressed in Roman costumes walking around during the afternoon, just as the real Romans once did. Stop by in evenings during the summer to see the bath illuminated by torches.
Don’t miss the intriguing museum, which exhibits various artifacts that have been uncovered at the baths. Look for the striking gilt bronze head of Sulis Minerva as well as models that recreate the complex’s ancient layout.
Adjacent to the bath complex, you’ll find the neoclassical Pump Room, which once hosted functions for socialites during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, you can enjoy a champagne afternoon tea or sample the bath’s mineral water in the restaurant that now occupies this space.
The Roman Baths are open daily, with hours varying by season. The baths can be quite busy during peak times, so try to visit early on a midweek morning if you want to avoid crowds. The admission fee includes an audio guide, which is available in eight different languages. The baths are within walking distance of Bath Spa train station.
