The Circus - Bath's Iconic Georgian Architectural Masterpiece
An 18th-century Georgian masterpiece in Bath, blending classical architecture with rich Masonic and Druidic symbolism in a perfect circular design.
The Circus in Bath is a remarkable 18th-century architectural landmark designed by John Wood the Elder and completed by his son. This Grade I listed circular ensemble of townhouses features intricate Palladian design inspired by the Roman Colosseum and prehistoric stone circles. Its central garden, surrounded by three curved terraces, is steeped in symbolism including Masonic and Druidic motifs, making it a unique cultural and historic highlight in Bath.
A brief summary to The Circus - Bath
- Bath, BA1 2ET, GB
- +441225466020
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Stand in the center of The Circus to experience its unique echo effect and admire the symmetrical architecture from all angles.
- Look closely at the stonework to spot Masonic symbols, acorns, serpents, and other intricate details reflecting John Wood's interests.
- Visit nearby Queen Square and Gay Street to see the key-shaped layout formed with The Circus, highlighting its Masonic significance.
- Explore the central garden area, once a reservoir, now a peaceful green space with mature plane trees.
- Discover the history of famous residents like Thomas Gainsborough and William Pitt who once lived in The Circus.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Number 20 or 21 bus from Bath city center, which runs frequently every 10-15 minutes. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes and stops within a 5-minute walk of The Circus. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3 one way.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Bath Spa railway station, then enjoy a 25-minute walk through the historic city streets to The Circus. The walk is mostly flat and accessible, passing many other landmarks.
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Taxi
A taxi from Bath Spa station to The Circus takes around 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fare ranges from £6 to £10.
The Circus - Bath location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Circus - Bath
Architectural Vision Rooted in Antiquity
The Circus was conceived by John Wood the Elder, a visionary architect who sought to transform Bath into a neoclassical cityscape inspired by Imperial Rome and ancient British heritage. Construction began in 1754 but Wood died shortly after, leaving his son John Wood the Younger to complete the project in 1768. The design draws heavily on the Roman Colosseum’s tiered classical orders, arranged inwardly in a perfect circle rather than an amphitheatre’s outward-facing form. The diameter of the Circus was deliberately matched to that of Stonehenge’s inner circle, reflecting Wood’s fascination with Druidic culture and prehistoric stone circles.Symbolism and Masonic Influence
The Circus is richly adorned with symbolic stonework, including acorns, serpents, and nautical motifs, many of which are linked to Freemasonry and Druidic lore. The acorns crowning the parapets are believed to honor the Druids, whom Wood regarded as ancient architects of sacred British sites. The Circus, Queen Square, and Gay Street together form a key shape when viewed from above, a potent Masonic symbol. This layering of meanings imbues the site with a spiritual and cultural depth beyond its architectural grandeur.Design and Layout of the Circular Ensemble
The Circus consists of three equal curved terraces of Grade I listed townhouses arranged around a central circular garden, which was originally a reservoir for the houses. Over time, this reservoir was replaced with a grassy area planted with mature plane trees. Each of the three entrances to the Circus faces a curved segment, ensuring that visitors are greeted by an elegant façade whichever way they enter. The central green space offers a tranquil oasis amid the urban setting, enhancing the site's charm and livability.Historical Residents and Cultural Legacy
Over the centuries, The Circus has been home to many notable figures. The celebrated 18th-century portrait artist Thomas Gainsborough lived and worked at number 17, using it as his studio. Politician William Pitt the Elder also resided here, as did more recent celebrities such as actor Nicholas Cage. The Circus has witnessed Bath’s evolution from a Georgian spa town to a modern cultural hub, maintaining its status as a prestigious address and architectural treasure.Restoration and Preservation
During World War II, The Circus suffered damage in the 1942 Bath Blitz but was carefully restored to its original style. Today, it stands as a protected heritage site, exemplifying Georgian urban planning and architectural artistry. Its preservation ensures that visitors can continue to experience the grandeur and symbolism envisioned by the Woods.Experiencing The Circus Today
Visitors to The Circus can stand in the center to appreciate the harmonious proportions and intricate stone details up close. The circular layout creates an unusual acoustic effect where sounds echo dramatically. This, combined with the elegant façades and leafy central garden, makes The Circus a captivating destination for architecture enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Royal Crescent
0.2 km
Georgian perfection in stone: 150 metres of architectural harmony overlooking Bath's parkland landscape.
Royal Cres
0.3 km
Experience Bath’s Royal Crescent, a stunning Georgian crescent with iconic Ionic columns, historic charm, and sweeping parkland views.
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
0.4 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
Marlborough Buildings
0.4 km
Georgian elegance in a Grade II listed terrace, where Bath's architectural ambition meets refined 18th-century townhouse design.
Green Park Station
0.5 km
Historic railway station turned vibrant market hub offering fresh local produce, unique crafts, lively eateries, and cultural events in Bath.
The EASTGATE
0.6 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The Pump Room Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Archway
0.6 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
In and Beyond Bath
0.7 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Bath with personalized tours from In and Beyond Bath, your expert local travel guide.
Bizarre Bath
0.7 km
Experience the quirky and humorous side of Bath with Bizarre Bath, a unique attraction that blends comedy with captivating local history.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
0.7 km
Experience the rich history and delectable flavors at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum in Bath, where tradition meets taste.
Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
0.7 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
North Parade, Bath
0.7 km
Experience the historic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of North Parade, Bath, where Georgian architecture meets the charm of the River Avon.
Monks Mill
0.7 km
Discover Monks Mill, a rare medieval watermill ruin nestled in Bath’s picturesque Parade Gardens, echoing centuries of monastic industry and wool trade heritage.
Chapel Arts Centre
0.7 km
Discover the lively spirit of Bath at Chapel Arts Centre, where live music meets a cozy café atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Museum of East Asian Art
0.1 km
Explore 7,000 years of East and Southeast Asian art in Bath’s unique Georgian townhouse museum.
Georgian Garden
0.1 km
Step into Bath’s Georgian Garden, a serene, historically restored 18th-century town garden nestled between iconic Georgian landmarks.
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
0.1 km
Step into the elegant world of Georgian Bath at the Assembly Rooms, a historic hub of dance, music, and society since 1771.
Beau Nash
0.1 km
Discover exquisite antique furniture in Bath’s historic district at Beau Nash, where timeless craftsmanship meets elegant heritage.
Fashion Museum Bath
0.1 km
Discover centuries of style and culture at Bath’s Fashion Museum, soon reopening in a stunning new city-centre home.
Bartlett Street Antiques Centre
0.2 km
Discover over fifty dealers’ treasures in Bath’s largest antiques centre, where history and craftsmanship meet in a vibrant, historic setting.
Antiques in Bath
0.2 km
Explore Bath’s largest antiques centre with over fifty expert dealers offering fine art, jewellery, vintage collectibles, and timeless treasures.
Victoria Falls Adventure Golf
0.2 km
An enchanting 18-hole adventure golf course in Bath, blending scenic gardens and playful challenges for all ages.
Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein
0.2 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley and Frankenstein in this immersive museum experience in the heart of historic Bath.
Bath Independent Shops
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s vibrant independent shops at Fountain Buildings, where craftsmanship meets Georgian charm in a unique shopping enclave.
The Jane Austen Centre
0.2 km
Step into Regency Bath and explore the life, legacy, and world of Jane Austen at this immersive Georgian townhouse museum and tea room.
No. 1 Royal Crescent
0.2 km
Step back into Georgian elegance at No. 1 Royal Crescent, Bath’s iconic townhouse museum showcasing 18th-century aristocratic life in stunning detail.
Royal Avenue Bath
0.2 km
A peaceful, tree-lined promenade in Royal Victoria Park with live music, café comforts, and stunning views of Bath’s historic landmarks.
Milsom St
0.2 km
Elegant Georgian street in Bath famed for upscale shopping, vibrant dining, and lively courtyards at Milsom Place.
Museum of Bath at Work
0.3 km
Step inside Bath’s industrial past with interactive workshops, historic machinery, and immersive exhibits in a unique 18th-century setting.
Essential places to dine
The Circus Restaurant
0.1 km
Classic Georgian charm meets seasonal European cuisine in a warm, relaxed setting between Bath’s iconic Circus and Royal Crescent.
Woods Restaurant
0.1 km
Family-run modern British bistro with French technique and locally sourced ingredients, opposite Bath's Assembly Rooms.
Crescent Restaurant & Bar Bath
0.1 km
A cozy, family-run restaurant near Bath’s Royal Crescent serving fresh, seasonal dishes with local ingredients in a warm, inviting setting.
Henry's Restaurant Bath
0.1 km
Intimate Georgian fine dining celebrating seasonal British cuisine with worldly influences and zero-waste principles.
Olive Tree Restaurant
0.2 km
Bath’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, where seasonal British ingredients shine in inventive, multi-course tasting menus beneath the Queensberry Hotel.
Clayton's Kitchen
0.2 km
Modern British fine dining in a Georgian townhouse, where seasonal ingredients and refined technique create memorable meals.
Comptoir+Cuisine
0.2 km
A cozy French bistro in Bath serving refined tapas-style dishes with quirky charm and attentive service.
The Ivy Bath Brasserie & Garden
0.3 km
Sophisticated British dining with seasonal flair, elegant interiors, and a charming garden in the heart of historic Bath.
The Salamander - A Great British Pub.
0.3 km
Intimate Georgian pub serving locally sourced British classics and Bath Ales in Bath's historic city centre.
La Terra
0.3 km
Contemporary Italian fine dining rooted in family tradition, impeccable sourcing, and warm hospitality in Bath's city centre.
Ole Tapas
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Bath’s historic city centre.
Montagu's Mews
0.3 km
Contemporary British fine dining in a Georgian setting, where seasonal ingredients and technical mastery meet genuine hospitality.
Boho Marché
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Moroccan-Mediterranean fusion cuisine in Bath’s eclectic Boho Marché, where bold flavors meet whimsical décor.
Côte Bath
0.3 km
Stylish French brasserie in Bath’s historic Milsom Place, serving seasonal modern classics with vegan and gluten-free options in a charming courtyard setting.
Corkage Bath
0.3 km
Award-winning wine bar and restaurant serving creative Mediterranean small plates in a charming Bath city-centre setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BIBICO
0.2 km
Discover timeless, ethically made women’s fashion at BIBICO, Bath’s pioneering boutique for sustainable and artisan-crafted clothing.
Grace & Mabel Ltd
0.2 km
Discover timeless British and European fashion with a sustainable focus at Grace & Mabel, Bath’s family-run boutique gem.
Fat Giraffe Gifts
0.2 km
Discover unique, handcrafted wooden gifts with a sustainable heart at Bath’s welcoming Fat Giraffe Gifts on Milsom Street.
Vinegar Hill
0.2 km
Discover quirky gifts and unique homewares in the heart of Bath’s historic Milsom Street at Vinegar Hill.
House of Fraser
0.3 km
Historic department store blending heritage and modern retail in the heart of Bath’s shopping district.
Boho
0.3 km
Discover Boho, a stylish ladies' clothing boutique on Broad Street, Bath, blending bohemian flair with attentive service in a historic setting.
Milsom Place
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Georgian shopping and dining oasis nestled within tranquil courtyards on fashionable Milsom Street.
The Yellow Shop
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique accessories in Bath’s creative Walcot Street at The Yellow Shop.
Always Sunday
0.3 km
A vibrant Bath boutique blending vintage charm, artisan homewares, and creative community spirit in a colorful, maximalist setting.
Jigsaw
0.4 km
Elegant ladies’ fashion and accessories boutique offering refined style and attentive service in the heart of Bath’s historic Old Bond Street.
Anthropologie
0.4 km
Discover Anthropologie Bath: vibrant women's fashion and unique home décor in a stylish boutique at the heart of historic New Bond Street.
Vintage Abs Bath
0.5 km
Discover authentic vintage clothing and accessories in Bath’s charming Upper Borough Walls at Vintage Abs, a haven for fashion lovers.
Firefly Vintage Bath
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage gems and timeless style at Firefly Vintage Bath, a cozy boutique for curated vintage clothing in the heart of Bath.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.5 km
Discover playful Scandinavian design and affordable creative gifts at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Bath’s vibrant Union Street.
Wadswick - Bath
0.5 km
Discover authentic British country lifestyle and designer clothing in a historic boutique on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Circo - Cellar Bar
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s elegant cellar bar with a circular centerpiece, Michelin-starred cocktails, and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
Bath Stag & Hen
0.2 km
Tailored stag and hen party planning in Bath’s historic George Street, blending vibrant nightlife with expert local service for unforgettable celebrations.
Slug & Lettuce - Bath
0.2 km
Lively cocktail bar and British restaurant in Bath with stylish interiors, a secluded garden, and celebrated bottomless brunch experiences.
Mandalyns Bath
0.2 km
Bath’s oldest gay bar, Mandalyns offers vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife with drag shows, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere in historic Fountain Buildings.
Revolution Bath
0.2 km
Lively cocktail bar in Bath’s city centre offering creative drinks, American-inspired eats, and vibrant nightlife until the early hours.
Hall & Woodhouse Bath
0.3 km
Historic multi-floor pub and restaurant in Bath offering classic ales, diverse menu, and rooftop city views.
Walcot House
0.3 km
A stylish fusion of historic charm, seasonal dining, craft cocktails, and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Bath’s Walcot Street.
The Botanist Bath
0.3 km
A botanical haven in Bath blending historic charm, seasonal menus, award-winning cocktails, and live music across three vibrant floors.
The Bath Distillery Gin Bar
0.4 km
Discover Bath’s historic gin revival in a vibrant Georgian bar with exclusive small-batch gins and expertly crafted cocktails.
Saint James Wine Vaults
0.4 km
Authentic Bath pub blending historic charm with vibrant live music and creative community spaces.
Belushi's Bath
0.4 km
A lively sports bar and live music venue in Bath offering great food, cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere near the city’s historic heart.
The Old Green Tree
0.4 km
A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
Fidel Rum Bar
0.4 km
Discover Bath’s cozy rum sanctuary with expert cocktails, a global rum collection, and a warm, inviting atmosphere at Fidel Rum Bar.
Vino Vino
0.5 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed wine and cocktail bar in Bath with artisan sharing plates and a vibrant al fresco terrace.
Coeur De Lion
0.5 km
Discover Bath’s smallest pub, Coeur De Lion, where cozy charm meets local ales and simple, tasty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sub 13
0.2 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Zero / Zero
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Lomah
0.3 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
Komedia
0.5 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
0.9 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
The Tub
2.7 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Motion
16.3 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Dare to Club
16.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Loco Klub
16.7 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Thekla
17.4 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Popworld - Bristol
17.7 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
17.7 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Lakota
17.8 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
PRYZM
17.8 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
