The Roman Baths: Ancient Spa and Living History in Bath
Step back 2,000 years at The Roman Baths, where ancient thermal waters and historic ruins create an unforgettable journey through Roman Britain.
The Roman Baths in Bath, England, offer a remarkable glimpse into ancient Roman life, featuring one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world. This historic site centers around natural thermal springs that have been revered for over two millennia. Visitors explore the stone ruins of the sacred spa complex, including the Great Bath, temple remains, and museum exhibits showcasing artifacts and Roman engineering. The adjoining Pump Room offers elegant dining in an 18th-century setting.
A brief summary to The Roman Baths
- Abbey Churchyard, Bath, BA1 1LZ, GB
- +441225477785
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred entry time and avoid queues, especially during peak seasons.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter, more atmospheric experience with softer light for photography.
- Take time to enjoy the Pump Room’s afternoon tea with live classical music for a taste of 18th-century Bath elegance.
- Allow at least two hours to fully explore the baths, museum, and surrounding historic architecture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Bath Spa railway station, it is a 15-minute walk through the city centre to the Roman Baths. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing several shops and cafes. No additional cost beyond train fare; train services run frequently from London and Bristol, with journey times between 1 to 1.5 hours.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Bath city centre with surrounding areas. The Roman Baths are served by multiple routes stopping near Abbey Churchyard. Bus travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on origin. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4 per trip, payable via contactless or bus pass.
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Car
Driving to the Roman Baths is possible but parking in central Bath is limited and expensive. Nearby public car parks offer hourly rates around £2-£4. The city centre is pedestrianised, so expect a short walk from parking areas. Traffic congestion is common during peak tourist season.
The Roman Baths location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Roman Baths
A Living Legacy of Roman Engineering and Spirituality
The Roman Baths stand as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural importance of Roman Britain. Built around natural hot springs, the site was originally a religious spa dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva. The Romans engineered a complex system of baths, pools, and temples that harnessed the thermal waters for healing and ritual purposes. Over centuries, the baths evolved but retained their spiritual and social significance, making them a unique archaeological and historical treasure.Architectural Grandeur and Archaeological Riches
Visitors to the Roman Baths encounter a striking ensemble of stone structures, including the iconic Great Bath, surrounded by colonnades and terraces. The site also features the remains of the Temple of Sulis Minerva and a museum housing thousands of artifacts such as coins, inscriptions, and Roman-era objects uncovered during excavations. The architecture reveals layers of history, from Roman foundations to medieval and Georgian additions, illustrating Bath’s continuous occupation and adaptation.The Thermal Waters: Nature’s Enduring Gift
The thermal springs beneath the baths have flowed for over 2,000 years, maintaining a constant temperature of around 46°C (115°F). These waters were believed to possess healing properties, attracting visitors from across the Roman Empire. Today, the water still steams visibly from the Great Bath, creating an atmospheric and sensory experience that connects visitors directly to the ancient past.The Pump Room: An 18th-Century Social Hub
Adjacent to the baths, the elegant Pump Room offers a refined setting for afternoon tea and light dining. Dating from the 18th century, this neoclassical building became a fashionable meeting place for Bath’s visitors and residents. The Pump Room continues this tradition, often featuring live classical music, and serves as a cultural complement to the ancient site.Visitor Experience and Educational Insights
The Roman Baths provide an immersive experience with multilingual audio guides, interactive exhibits, and detailed displays that bring Roman history to life. The site is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, with facilities to accommodate visitors of all ages. Guided tours and special events, such as summer evening openings with live music, enhance the atmosphere and deepen understanding of this world heritage site.Preserving a World Heritage Treasure
Located in the heart of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage City, the Roman Baths are carefully preserved and managed to balance public access with conservation. The site’s ongoing archaeological research continues to reveal new insights into Roman Britain. Its blend of natural wonder, architectural beauty, and historical significance makes it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Pump Room Restaurant
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Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Archway
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Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
0.1 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
0.1 km
Experience the rich history and delectable flavors at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum in Bath, where tradition meets taste.
The EASTGATE
0.2 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Monks Mill
0.2 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.
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
0.2 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
Bath Quays Waterside
0.4 km
A vibrant, sustainable waterside regeneration reconnecting Bath’s city centre with its historic river heritage and green public spaces.
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.
Henrietta Park
0.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Henrietta Park in Bath, a serene escape filled with beautiful gardens and lush greenery perfect for relaxation.
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
0.6 km
Discover the timeless beauty and historical significance of the Bath Assembly Rooms, a stunning example of Georgian architecture and social culture.
The Circus
0.6 km
A breathtaking Georgian circle of townhouses blending classical design with ancient symbolism in the heart of Bath.
Museum of Bath Architecture
0.6 km
Explore Bath’s architectural evolution from medieval roots to Georgian grandeur in a compact, richly detailed museum setting.
No. 1 Royal Crescent
0.8 km
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Georgian architecture and history at No. 1 Royal Crescent, a heritage museum in the heart of Bath.
The Royal Crescent
0.8 km
Georgian perfection in stone: 150 metres of architectural harmony overlooking Bath's parkland landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bath's Historic Venues
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Experience elegant Georgian dining and historic charm with live classical music overlooking Bath’s iconic Roman Baths.
Best of Bath Walking Tours
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Discover Bath’s Georgian elegance and rich history on an engaging small-group walking tour led by expert local guide Bob Andrews.
Bath Ghost Tours
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Experience the haunted history of Bath with Bath Ghost Tours, where chilling tales meet captivating storytelling in a stunning city.
Bath World Heritage Centre
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Discover Bath’s rich heritage and UNESCO status through interactive exhibits, expert guidance, and immersive walking trails at the city’s cultural hub.
Bath Walking Tours
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Explore Bath’s rich history and stunning architecture on expert-led walking tours from Abbey Courtyard.
Fudge Kitchen Ltd - Bath
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Discover Bath’s artisan fudge haven where tradition, creativity, and quirky charm blend into every creamy bite.
Marshal Wade's House
0.1 km
A rare early 18th-century Palladian townhouse in Bath’s historic heart, blending classical elegance with rich heritage and modern comfort.
Elton House
0.1 km
Experience Georgian grandeur and modern comfort in the heart of Bath’s historic city centre at Elton House.
The Crystal Palace, Bath
0.1 km
Experience the charm of Bath at The Crystal Palace, a historic pub offering delicious food, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bath Abbey
0.1 km
Discover Bath Abbey’s breathtaking Gothic architecture, centuries of history, and vibrant spiritual life in the heart of historic Bath.
The Giant Plane Tree
0.1 km
A majestic 18th-century London plane tree offering a serene and historic oasis at the heart of Bath’s Abbey Green.
North Parade, Bath
0.1 km
Discover North Parade, Bath’s elegant Georgian street blending historic charm with scenic riverside views in the heart of this UNESCO city.
The Cross Bath
0.1 km
Experience the timeless healing waters of Bath’s historic Cross Bath, a Georgian thermal spa steeped in ancient legend and royal tradition.
The Corridor Bath
0.1 km
Step into one of Britain’s oldest shopping arcades: a graceful 1825 covered promenade of independent boutiques, cafés, and elegant Georgian–Victorian architecture in the heart of Bath.
Bizarre Bath
0.1 km
Experience Bath’s quirkiest comedy walk blending street theatre, local antics, and laughter in a lively 90-minute evening stroll.
Essential places to dine
Bill's Bath Restaurant
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A vibrant British restaurant in central Bath, perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner near the Theatre Royal and Bath Abbey.
OAK Restaurant
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Discover OAK Restaurant in Bath: exquisite vegetarian small plates crafted with local, seasonal ingredients in a cozy, historic setting.
Tagine Zhor
0.1 km
Experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality of Morocco in the heart of Bath at Tagine Zhor, a vibrant and authentic Moroccan dining destination.
Jars Meze
0.1 km
Authentic Greek meze and Mediterranean warmth in Bath's most intimate family-run taverna.
Browns Bath
0.1 km
Classic British brasserie dining in Bath’s historic Old Police Station with seasonal menus and handcrafted cocktails.
Yak Yeti Yak
0.2 km
Authentic Nepalese cuisine and Himalayan hospitality in a vibrant basement gem.
Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Bath at Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant.
Joya Italian Steakhouse
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant Italian steakhouse where you grill your own premium hot stone steak in a lively riverside setting.
Bonghy Bo
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant Asian fusion scene with Bonghy Bo’s eclectic menu and intimate, stylish setting.
Noya's Kitchen
0.2 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese home cooking in a charming Grade II listed Georgian setting in the heart of Bath.
Thai Balcony Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Thai dining with a charming balcony view in the heart of Bath’s vibrant Seven Dials district.
Sotto Sotto
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic vaulted cellar setting beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Raphael Restaurant
0.2 km
A relaxed, wine-focused restaurant in a Georgian townhouse, serving modern British dishes with seasonal, local ingredients in the heart of Bath.
Las Iguanas - Bath
0.2 km
Experience bold Latin American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Bath’s lively Seven Dials district.
Turtle Bay Bath
0.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean jerk flavors and tropical vibes in the heart of historic Bath at Turtle Bay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pinkart
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Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local artistry at Pinkart, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of historic Bath.
Jacks of Bath
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Discover authentic Bath souvenirs in a charming boutique nestled in the historic Abbey Churchyard, perfect for unique gifts and keepsakes.
Fancy That of London
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Charming Bath gift shop in historic Abbey Chambers offering Bath-themed treasures and warm, personal service near Bath Abbey.
The Roman baths shop
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Discover unique Roman-inspired gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Bath’s historic city center.
Bluebells of Bath
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Discover unique gifts and stylish home decor at Bluebells of Bath, a charming independent shop in the heart of historic Bath.
Beats Of Bath
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Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Bath’s historic Cheap Street at Beats Of Bath.
Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath
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A beloved independent bookshop in Bath offering rich literary selections, live author events, and a welcoming atmosphere daily until late evening.
Hauslife
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Discover unique artisan homewares and gifts in a warm, inviting boutique nestled in Bath’s historic Abbeygate Street.
The Silver Shop Of Bath
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s longest-established silver jewellery shop, offering unique gifts and expert craftsmanship in a charming historic setting.
Bath Retro Store
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Discover quirky gifts and nostalgic treasures in Bath Retro Store, a charming independent shop nestled in historic Abbey Green.
Nām
0.1 km
Discover unique art and scents in a cozy Bath boutique offering distinctive homewares to inspire your living space.
Orange Grove Gifts and Souvenirs
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Discover unique treasures and local crafts at Orange Grove Gifts and Souvenirs in the heart of Bath, a must-visit for every traveler.
Wood & Burr
0.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and wooden puzzles at Wood & Burr, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of historic Bath.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.1 km
Discover playful Scandinavian design and affordable creative gifts at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Bath’s vibrant Union Street.
Hidden Store Bath
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Discover ethically made artisan gifts and homewares that celebrate Bath’s rich heritage and creativity in a warm, curated boutique setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Bath
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A stylish and spacious wine bar on Bath’s historic High Street, blending modern comfort with vibrant city energy.
The Hideout
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Discover Bath’s hip-hop inspired whisky bar nestled in a historic cellar, blending quirky charm with expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming vibe.
Sleight Magic Bar
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s only magic bar, where captivating close-up illusions meet expertly crafted cocktails in a vaulted cellar setting.
ArtBar
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A stylish cocktail bar and art gallery in Bath’s historic Abbey Hotel, blending creative ambiance with refined drinks and local charm.
Coeur De Lion
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s smallest pub, Coeur De Lion, where cozy charm meets local ales and simple, tasty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Grapes
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A historic Bath pub blending traditional charm with lively music, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city’s heart.
Juno Bar and Kitchen
0.2 km
Lively central Bath bar serving craft beers, bold burgers, inventive cocktails, and a buzzing social scene with pool and music.
Fidel Rum Bar
0.2 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
0.2 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed wine and cocktail bar in Bath with artisan sharing plates and a vibrant al fresco terrace.
The Dark Horse
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s moody, intimate cocktail bar with inventive drinks, warm service, and a hidden underground charm.
The Bath Distillery Gin Bar
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s historic gin revival in a vibrant Georgian bar with exclusive small-batch gins and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Old Green Tree
0.3 km
A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
Belushi's Bath
0.3 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 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.
Opium Bar
0.3 km
Discover vintage charm and expertly crafted cocktails in Bath’s secretive vaults beneath Grove Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Komedia
0.2 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
0.3 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
Zero / Zero
0.4 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Sub 13
0.5 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Lomah
0.6 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
The Tub
2.3 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Motion
16.8 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Dare to Club
16.9 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Loco Klub
17.2 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
17.9 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
18.2 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
18.2 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
PRYZM
18.3 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Lakota
18.3 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
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
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
