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The Roman Baths

Things To Do In The Roman Baths

Top 10 things to do in The Roman Baths

1. Roman Baths Tour

Dive into the history of the ancient Roman world with a guided tour of the Roman Baths. Discover the well-preserved site that was once a place of social gathering, religious ceremony, and pleasurable bathing for the Romans. The Great Bath, the centerpiece of the site, is a stunning lead-lined pool filled with hot spring water. As you explore, you'll see the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple, and the fascinating Roman bath house. The museum houses artifacts found in the Baths, including coins and personal items, offering an insight into daily life in Roman Britain. Knowledgeable guides and audio handsets provide a narrative through the centuries of history that have unfolded here.

2. Torchlit Visit and Dinner Package

Experience the Roman Baths in a unique light with the Torchlit Visit and Dinner Package. After the daytime crowds have dispersed, you have the opportunity to explore the torch-lit surroundings of the Baths, creating a magical and mysterious atmosphere. Walk along the ancient pavements just as the Romans did nearly 2,000 years ago. After your enlightening tour, enjoy a sumptuous three-course dinner at the Roman Baths Kitchen, a contemporary restaurant located just a stone's throw from the Baths. This experience perfectly combines cultural immersion with culinary delight, making for an unforgettable evening in Bath.

3. Above and Below Tour

The Above and Below Tour is a special guided tour that offers a comprehensive view of the Roman Baths complex. It includes areas not usually open to the public. Visitors are taken underground to explore the labyrinth of passages and chambers beneath the Baths, where they can see the hypocaust system and learn how the Romans engineered their spa. The tour then proceeds above ground, to the terrace, where guests can enjoy stunning views over the Great Bath and discuss the architecture and historical context. This exclusive tour is a deep dive into the ingenuity of Roman engineering and architecture.

4. Fashion Museum Visit

Although not part of the Roman Baths, the Fashion Museum is a short walk away and offers a cultural juxtaposition to your historical visit. The museum celebrates fashion from the 16th century to the present day, showcasing a world-class collection of contemporary and historical dress. You can see exquisite examples of historical garments as well as pieces by modern designers. The exhibitions change regularly, ensuring that there is often something new to discover, and they often include activities such as the chance to try on historical clothing reproductions.

5. Spa Experience at Thermae Bath Spa

Complete your visit to Bath with a relaxing spa session at Thermae Bath Spa, where you can bathe in Britain's only naturally warm, mineral-rich waters just as the Romans did 2,000 years ago. The New Royal Bath is a fusion of glass, stone, light, and water, creating a special atmosphere in which to relax and enjoy a 2-hour spa session. The spa includes the indoor Minerva Bath, the open-air rooftop pool with breathtaking views of the cityscape, and the Wellness Suite with its range of thermal experiences. This modern-day spa experience connects you to the history of Bath as a spa town, providing both relaxation and insight into a tradition that spans millennia.

6. Children’s Audio Tour

The Children’s Audio Tour at the Roman Baths is designed to engage younger visitors with the fascinating history of this ancient site. The tour is aimed at children aged 7-11 and features characters that bring the stories of the Baths to life. Children can listen to the tales of Roman characters and their adventures, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Puzzles and interactive activities along the tour keep the young ones intrigued and involved. It's an excellent way for families to explore the Roman Baths together, with content that is tailored to a younger audience's interests and learning styles.

7. Bath Walking Tour

Join a Bath Walking Tour to discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the city beyond the Roman Baths. Led by knowledgeable local guides, these tours explore the beautiful streets and highlight key attractions such as the Royal Crescent, the Circus, Pulteney Bridge, and Bath Abbey. The tour delves into the architecture, people, and events that have shaped Bath into the World Heritage Site it is today. You'll learn about the city's Roman origins, medieval heritage, and its transformation into a Georgian spa town. This activity complements a visit to the Roman Baths, providing historical context and a broader understanding of Bath's cultural landscape.

8. Georgian Tea Room Experience

Located within the elegant Pump Room, adjacent to the Roman Baths, the Georgian Tea Room offers a refined dining experience echoing the regency era. Visitors indulge in a traditional afternoon tea with a variety of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of sweet pastries and cakes. While enjoying your tea, you can also listen to the live music played on the Pump Room's grand piano, which further enhances the genteel atmosphere. This experience is not just about the flavors of the fine teas and the culinary delights; it's also about stepping back in time and savoring the elegance and social rituals of the Georgian period.

9. Bill's Bath Discovery Card Tour

The Bill's Bath Discovery Card Tour is a special initiative allowing Bath residents to explore their city's attractions, including the Roman Baths, for free. The cardholder can access various sites and enjoy tours at no cost, as part of the community’s privilege. While the Roman Baths are fascinating to tourists, this program encourages locals to connect with their heritage. Although the card is not available to general visitors, it's an important aspect of the Roman Baths' commitment to community engagement. Those eligible for the card can join this special tour to delve even deeper into the story of their own city.

10. Sulis Minerva Bath

The Sulis Minerva Bath is a special feature within the Roman Baths complex, named after the merging of the local Celtic deity Sulis with the Roman goddess of wisdom, Minerva. This bath was one of the most sacred pools, and visitors today can view the site where ancient worshipers would have congregated. Though it's mainly a viewing experience, the setting allows visitors to quietly contemplate the spiritual significance of the site to the Romans and Celts alike. You'll witness the ancient Gorgon’s Head that adorns the Temple of Sulis Minerva and can ponder the religious practices that took place here over millennia.

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