Background
Founded by the Romans as a thermal spa, Bath became an important centre of the wool industry in the Middle Ages. UNESCO says that in the 18th century, under George III, it developed into an elegant town with neoclassical Palladian buildings, which blend harmoniously with the Roman baths.
The Romans built baths and a temple at Aquae Sulis around AD 60 on England's only hot springs. The Georgian city of the Royal Crescent, the Circus, the Pump Room and the Assembly Rooms was laid out by John Wood the Elder and his son, with Beau Nash presiding over its social life; Jane Austen lived here in the early 19th century. Wikipedia counts over 6 million visitors a year.
- c. 60The Romans build the baths and temple of Aquae Sulis
- 7th c.Bath Abbey is founded
- 1705–1761Beau Nash presides over the spa's social life
- 18th c.John Wood lays out the Circus and the Royal Crescent
- 1987Inscribed as World Heritage
Find Your Way Around
The main parts of the site, in the order most visitors see them
- 1Roman BathsThe Great Bath and the museum; buy ahead or come early, with a free audio guide.
- 2Bath AbbeyThe fan-vaulted abbey next to the baths.
- 3Royal Crescent and the CircusThe Georgian terraces, with No. 1 Royal Crescent as a museum.
- 4Pulteney BridgeThe bridge lined with shops over the weir.
- 5Thermae Bath SpaSwim in the hot spring water on a rooftop.
- 6Assembly RoomsRegency ballrooms and the Fashion Museum.
Know Before You Go
From Wikivoyage and the GoGo guides
Roman and Georgian Bath
From the GoGo Bath guide · Open the Bath Guide ›
- 09:00Roman Baths2 hrsThe steaming Great Bath.
- 11:15Bath Abbey45 minThe fan vaults.
- 14:00The Circus45 minJohn Wood's circle.
- 15:00No. 1 Royal Crescent75 minA Georgian house museum.
- 16:30Pulteney Bridge and Weir45 minThe bridge of shops.
Best Time to Visit
Best months: Jun–Sep.
Typical highs
Climate: NASA POWER
Pair It With
Other World Heritage sites nearby, by distance
