Museum of Bath at Work
Step into Bath’s working past through immersive workshops and exhibits in a historic 18th-century Real Tennis Court.
The Museum of Bath at Work presents over two millennia of Bath's industrial and commercial heritage through authentically reconstructed workplaces, including a Victorian soft drinks factory, a cabinet maker’s workshop, and a Bath Stone mine. Housed in a historic 1777 former Real Tennis Court, the museum offers immersive exhibits, free audio guides, and a charming gift shop, providing a unique perspective on the city's working-class history.
A brief summary to Museum of Bath at Work
- Julian Rd, Bath, BA1 2RH, GB
- +441225318348
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Saturday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings or later afternoons to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed experience.
- Take advantage of the free audio guides to fully appreciate the detailed exhibits and machinery.
- Check the museum’s schedule for daily talks and machinery demonstrations to enhance your visit.
- Use public transport or cycle, as the museum encourages sustainable travel and has secure bike stands.
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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Bus
Several bus routes serve stops near the museum on Julian Road and Lansdown Road, including numbers 700, 20C, 2, 6, 7, 79, and 620. The Lansdown Park and Ride also stops nearby. Typical travel times from Bath city centre range from 10 to 20 minutes, with regular service throughout the day. Single fares cost approximately £2-£3 GBP.
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Walking
The museum is a 10 to 15-minute walk from Bath city centre, through mostly flat urban terrain. The route is accessible and suitable for all mobility levels, making it an easy and pleasant stroll.
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Cycling
Cyclists can reach the museum easily via dedicated cycle paths from central Bath. Secure bike stands are available at the museum entrance. Cycling times from the city centre are about 5 to 10 minutes.
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Car
While the museum has no dedicated parking, nearby public car parks such as Charlotte Street are available. Parking fees vary but typically range from £1.50 to £3.50 per hour. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport or cycle due to limited parking and traffic in the area.
Museum of Bath at Work 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 Museum of Bath at Work
A Living Chronicle of Bath’s Industrial Legacy
The Museum of Bath at Work immerses visitors in the city's rich industrial and commercial past, spanning more than 2,000 years. Unlike typical museums focused on art or social history, it delves deeply into the actual working lives of Bath’s residents. The museum is housed in a remarkable 1777 former Real Tennis Court, a historic building that adds architectural significance to the experience. Its galleries showcase a variety of trades and industries that shaped Bath, from Roman times through to the 20th century.Authentic Reconstructed Workplaces
Central to the museum’s appeal are its meticulously recreated workplaces. Visitors step into a bustling Victorian soft drinks factory complete with operational machinery, a cabinet maker’s workshop demonstrating traditional furniture-making techniques, and even a Bath Stone mine exhibit that reveals the city’s quarrying heritage. These reconstructions are not static displays; many machines can be switched on, bringing the sights and sounds of Bath’s industrial past vividly to life.Thematic Exhibits and Unique Artifacts
Beyond the workshops, the museum features displays on local businesses such as J.B. Bowler’s ironmongers and Stothert & Pitt crane-makers. Notable artifacts include the famous 1914 Horstmann car and an 1851 Bath Chair, each telling stories of innovation and daily life. The Hudson Gallery hosts rotating exhibitions developed with community input, ensuring fresh perspectives and ongoing engagement with Bath’s heritage.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Visitors receive free audio guides that enrich the narrative of each exhibit, enhancing understanding and engagement. The museum is designed with accessibility in mind: level access is available via a rear entrance, a wheelchair lift serves the upper gallery, and seating is provided throughout. A disabled-accessible toilet is located near the main display floor. The intimate size of the museum allows for a focused and personal exploration of Bath’s working history.Events, Education, and Community Engagement
The Museum of Bath at Work hosts a lively program of events including guided tours, children’s activities, machinery demonstrations, film screenings, and talks. These offerings deepen visitors’ connection to Bath’s industrial narrative and provide educational opportunities for all ages. The museum also supports local cultural initiatives and competitions, fostering community involvement.Location and Amenities
Situated just a 10-15 minute walk from Bath city centre near the Royal Crescent and Victoria Park, the museum is easily accessible by foot, bus, or bicycle, with secure bike stands available. While it does not have its own car park, nearby parking options exist. On-site amenities include a gift shop with unique local products and a self-service hot drinks machine. Visitors can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere supported by knowledgeable and friendly volunteer staff.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Royal Crescent
0.4 km
Georgian perfection in stone: 150 metres of architectural harmony overlooking Bath's parkland landscape.
Royal Cres
0.4 km
Experience Bath’s Royal Crescent, a stunning Georgian crescent with iconic Ionic columns, historic charm, and sweeping parkland views.
Marlborough Buildings
0.5 km
Georgian elegance in a Grade II listed terrace, where Bath's architectural ambition meets refined 18th-century townhouse design.
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
0.6 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
The EASTGATE
0.7 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The Pump Room Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Green Park Station
0.8 km
Historic railway station turned vibrant market hub offering fresh local produce, unique crafts, lively eateries, and cultural events in Bath.
In and Beyond Bath
0.8 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Bath with personalized tours from In and Beyond Bath, your expert local travel guide.
Archway
0.8 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
0.9 km
Experience the rich history and delectable flavors at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum in Bath, where tradition meets taste.
Monks Mill
0.9 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.
Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
0.9 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
0.9 km
Experience the historic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of North Parade, Bath, where Georgian architecture meets the charm of the River Avon.
Sydney Gardens
0.9 km
Explore the lush beauty and historical charm of Sydney Gardens, a tranquil park in Bath perfect for leisurely strolls and serene picnics.
City Sightseeing Bath Hop On Hop Off
0.9 km
Discover the best of Bath with City Sightseeing's flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour, exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems at your own pace.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Museum of East Asian Art
0.2 km
Explore 7,000 years of East and Southeast Asian art in Bath’s unique Georgian townhouse museum.
Museum of Bath Architecture
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s architectural heritage through immersive exhibits and a detailed city model in a historic chapel setting.
Fashion Museum Bath
0.2 km
Discover centuries of style and culture at Bath’s Fashion Museum, soon reopening in a stunning new city-centre home.
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
0.2 km
Step into the elegant world of Georgian Bath at the Assembly Rooms, a historic hub of dance, music, and society since 1771.
The Circus - Bath
0.3 km
Discover The Circus, Bath’s iconic Georgian circle blending classical architecture, druidic symbolism, and Masonic mystery in a stunning urban masterpiece.
Bartlett Street Antiques Centre
0.3 km
Discover over fifty dealers’ treasures in Bath’s largest antiques centre, where history and craftsmanship meet in a vibrant, historic setting.
Beau Nash
0.3 km
Discover exquisite antique furniture in Bath’s historic district at Beau Nash, where timeless craftsmanship meets elegant heritage.
Antiques in Bath
0.3 km
Explore Bath’s largest antiques centre with over fifty expert dealers offering fine art, jewellery, vintage collectibles, and timeless treasures.
Bath Independent Shops
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s vibrant independent shops at Fountain Buildings, where craftsmanship meets Georgian charm in a unique shopping enclave.
Georgian Garden
0.3 km
Step into Bath’s Georgian Garden, a serene, historically restored 18th-century town garden nestled between iconic Georgian landmarks.
No. 1 Royal Crescent
0.4 km
Step back into Georgian elegance at No. 1 Royal Crescent, Bath’s iconic townhouse museum showcasing 18th-century aristocratic life in stunning detail.
Milsom St
0.4 km
Elegant Georgian street in Bath famed for upscale shopping, vibrant dining, and lively courtyards at Milsom Place.
Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein
0.4 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley and Frankenstein in this immersive museum experience in the heart of historic Bath.
Royal Avenue Bath
0.4 km
A peaceful, tree-lined promenade in Royal Victoria Park with live music, café comforts, and stunning views of Bath’s historic landmarks.
Victoria Falls Adventure Golf
0.4 km
An enchanting 18-hole adventure golf course in Bath, blending scenic gardens and playful challenges for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Olive Tree Restaurant
0.1 km
Bath’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, where seasonal British ingredients shine in inventive, multi-course tasting menus beneath the Queensberry Hotel.
Henry's Restaurant Bath
0.2 km
Intimate Georgian fine dining celebrating seasonal British cuisine with worldly influences and zero-waste principles.
Woods Restaurant
0.3 km
Family-run modern British bistro with French technique and locally sourced ingredients, opposite Bath's Assembly Rooms.
The Circus Restaurant
0.3 km
Classic Georgian charm meets seasonal European cuisine in a warm, relaxed setting between Bath’s iconic Circus and Royal Crescent.
Hudson Steakhouse
0.3 km
Experience expertly aged steaks and Victorian charm in Bath’s beloved Hudson Steakhouse, where tradition meets refined dining.
Crescent Restaurant & Bar Bath
0.3 km
A cozy, family-run restaurant near Bath’s Royal Crescent serving fresh, seasonal dishes with local ingredients in a warm, inviting setting.
Clayton's Kitchen
0.4 km
Modern British fine dining in a Georgian townhouse, where seasonal ingredients and refined technique create memorable meals.
Comptoir+Cuisine
0.4 km
A cozy French bistro in Bath serving refined tapas-style dishes with quirky charm and attentive service.
Montagu's Mews
0.4 km
Contemporary British fine dining in a Georgian setting, where seasonal ingredients and technical mastery meet genuine hospitality.
The Ivy Bath Brasserie & Garden
0.5 km
Sophisticated British dining with seasonal flair, elegant interiors, and a charming garden in the heart of historic Bath.
Côte Bath
0.5 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.
The Salamander - A Great British Pub.
0.5 km
Intimate Georgian pub serving locally sourced British classics and Bath Ales in Bath's historic city centre.
La Terra
0.5 km
Contemporary Italian fine dining rooted in family tradition, impeccable sourcing, and warm hospitality in Bath's city centre.
Ole Tapas
0.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Bath’s historic city centre.
Boho Marché
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Moroccan-Mediterranean fusion cuisine in Bath’s eclectic Boho Marché, where bold flavors meet whimsical décor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BIBICO
0.3 km
Discover timeless, ethically made women’s fashion at BIBICO, Bath’s pioneering boutique for sustainable and artisan-crafted clothing.
The Yellow Shop
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique accessories in Bath’s creative Walcot Street at The Yellow Shop.
Fat Giraffe Gifts
0.4 km
Discover unique, handcrafted wooden gifts with a sustainable heart at Bath’s welcoming Fat Giraffe Gifts on Milsom Street.
Grace & Mabel Ltd
0.4 km
Discover timeless British and European fashion with a sustainable focus at Grace & Mabel, Bath’s family-run boutique gem.
Boho
0.4 km
Discover Boho, a stylish ladies' clothing boutique on Broad Street, Bath, blending bohemian flair with attentive service in a historic setting.
Vinegar Hill
0.4 km
Discover quirky gifts and unique homewares in the heart of Bath’s historic Milsom Street at Vinegar Hill.
Milsom Place
0.5 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Georgian shopping and dining oasis nestled within tranquil courtyards on fashionable Milsom Street.
House of Fraser
0.5 km
Historic department store blending heritage and modern retail in the heart of Bath’s shopping district.
Always Sunday
0.5 km
A vibrant Bath boutique blending vintage charm, artisan homewares, and creative community spirit in a colorful, maximalist setting.
Jigsaw
0.6 km
Elegant ladies’ fashion and accessories boutique offering refined style and attentive service in the heart of Bath’s historic Old Bond Street.
Anthropologie
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover unique vintage gems and timeless style at Firefly Vintage Bath, a cozy boutique for curated vintage clothing in the heart of Bath.
TILLIUS
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts in TILLIUS, a charming boutique nestled on Bath’s iconic Georgian Pulteney Bridge, blending history with distinctive finds.
Wadswick - Bath
0.6 km
Discover authentic British country lifestyle and designer clothing in a historic boutique on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mandalyns Bath
0.3 km
Bath’s oldest gay bar, Mandalyns offers vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife with drag shows, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere in historic Fountain Buildings.
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.
Slug & Lettuce - Bath
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and British restaurant in Bath with stylish interiors, a secluded garden, and celebrated bottomless brunch experiences.
Bath Stag & Hen
0.4 km
Tailored stag and hen party planning in Bath’s historic George Street, blending vibrant nightlife with expert local service for unforgettable celebrations.
Circo - Cellar Bar
0.4 km
Discover Bath’s elegant cellar bar with a circular centerpiece, Michelin-starred cocktails, and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
Revolution Bath
0.4 km
Lively cocktail bar in Bath’s city centre offering creative drinks, American-inspired eats, and vibrant nightlife until the early hours.
Saint James Wine Vaults
0.4 km
Authentic Bath pub blending historic charm with vibrant live music and creative community spaces.
Henrietta Restaurant, Bar & Garden
0.5 km
Elegant dining and classic Afternoon Tea in a charming historic villa with a tranquil garden terrace in the heart of Bathwick.
Hall & Woodhouse Bath
0.5 km
Historic multi-floor pub and restaurant in Bath offering classic ales, diverse menu, and rooftop city views.
The Botanist Bath
0.5 km
A botanical haven in Bath blending historic charm, seasonal menus, award-winning cocktails, and live music across three vibrant floors.
Belushi's Bath
0.5 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
0.5 km
A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
The Bath Distillery Gin Bar
0.6 km
Discover Bath’s historic gin revival in a vibrant Georgian bar with exclusive small-batch gins and expertly crafted cocktails.
Opium Bar
0.6 km
Discover vintage charm and expertly crafted cocktails in Bath’s secretive vaults beneath Grove Street.
Fidel Rum Bar
0.6 km
Discover Bath’s cozy rum sanctuary with expert cocktails, a global rum collection, and a warm, inviting atmosphere at Fidel Rum Bar.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Sub 13
0.3 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
0.4 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Komedia
0.7 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
0.9 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
1.1 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
The Tub
2.6 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
17.7 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
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Educational
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
