Bath is an elegant city full of traditional heritage, contemporary culture, green spaces, and a few surprises. From its historic origins to the colourful characters that brought the city to life, there’s a lot more to Bath than meets the eye. 

Bath may be famous as the Roman spa town of Aquae Sulis, but human activity around the hot springs dates back as far as 8000 BC! While the Roman Baths may be the hub of the city’s spa heritage, much of Bath as we see it today is thanks to the Georgian innovators who designed iconic parts of the city’s architecture such as the Royal Crescent and the Circus. 

Bath is also home to a vibrant contemporary cultural scene, with theatre, comedy, live music, and festivals all over the city throughout the year. Its setting amongst lush green English countryside, along with the city’s many green spaces, makes Bath a wonderful place to explore the great outdoors.

History and Heritage

As well as being a vibrant and thriving twenty-first-century city, Bath is a living museum. History and heritage line the city’s streets, with every footstep revealing compelling cultural attractions and astonishing architecture. It’s why Bath is the only city in the UK designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with its unique second inscription at part of UNESCO's Great Spa Towns of Europe.

Find out more about Bath’s history and heritage

Bath’s Famous Residents

Ever since its legendary beginnings, Bath has been home to a cast of colourful characters; from Anglo-Saxon royalty to an eighteenth-century dandy, these extraordinary historical figures each helped shape the city into what it is today. It is well known that Jane Austen lived in Bath and used the city as a setting for some of her novels, but Bath has been home to many more impressive residents over its long history.

Learn about Bath’s famous residents

Fascinating Facts

Think you know all there is to know about Bath? The city’s long and rich history means there is always something new to learn about Bath’s lesser-known moments through the centuries, from the UK’s first farmers market to the invention of plasticine.

Explore more facts about Bath

What Does Water Mean to Bath?

From ancient thermal springs to tranquil places to enjoy water in and around the city, and from modern day spas and spa hotels to tasting the mineral water, Bath’s history is closely tied to water. The city's second UNESCO inscription as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe is testament to the importance of the waters in Bath's heritage.

Dive in to Bath’s connections with water