Roman Baths
It was the Romans that first took advantage of the rare natural hot springs in Britain, although it is possible that many people used to go to the hot springs long before the development of Rome. For a time, the ancient Roman baths were regarded as the best in all of the empire, but the middle ages saw them fall into disrepair.
In 1702, an ailing Prince George paid a visit to the city and the baths regained their popularity as a therapeutic retreat. As the city underwent renewed development in the late 18th century, the ruins of the old Roman settlers were unearthed and restored.
Visitors today can tour the seven ancient baths and the magnificent Georgian Pump House which offers a taste of its mineral waters to those who are feeling adventurous. The lead-lined Pump House contains the hot spa water and it used to be kept in a vast hall that was 40 metres high, making it one of the largest buildings constructed at that time.
Address: Stall Street; Post code: BA1 1LZ
Telephone: (01225) 477 785
E-mail: museum_enquiries@bathnes.gov.uk
Website: www.romanbaths.co.uk
Opening time: Daily 9am to 10pm (July and August); otherwise 9.30am to 5.30pm.
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