Minibus Taxi Hire Roman Baths

Check out the beauty of Bath on a guided tour, with a driver. Uncover the history of this captivating city from the baths to the breathtaking Bath Abbey. There's an abundance of sights and activities to experience. Let us accompany you in luxury and comfort as you explore the beauty and heritage of the city in our vehicles.

Looking to enjoy a drink with a meal, at one of Bath's bars or restaurants? Say goodbye to parking woes by opting for drivers services allowing you to fully relish your time in Bath. 

Whether you're a traveller. Simply craving a touch of luxury Scotland Minibus Hire caters to all your needs with quotes. Reach out to us today for information.

Located at the edge of the Cotswolds Bath is a Regency treasure. The city, crafted from a buttery stone, is rich in history and allure. Delve beyond the time of Jane Austen two centuries to discover a more ancient Roman heritage.

The Romans, an empire of the world, arrived in Britain in AD43 following Emperor Claudius's triumphant conquest. Bath, known as Aquae Sulis, then quickly developed. It held significance for the Romans with the natural hot spring being an extra. Explore the history of some of Europe's preserved Roman remains in the north before taking a plunge into today's cold frigidarium at the Baths.

The Romans were already familiar with baths when they arrived in Britain having constructed bathhouses as early as the 3rd century BC, possibly inspired by the Ancient Greeks. Although Roman hygiene practices differed from modern standards, the primary purpose of bathing was for cleanliness and social interaction.

Aquae Sulis was chosen by the Romans for its spring believed to be a connection to the Underworld and a site of reverence. Adjacent to these baths stood a temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva. Visits to the baths were part of life for many serving both spiritual purposes. Discoveries from excavations include offerings like jewellery, pottery, inscriptions and numerous coins left behind at the bathhouse and temple complex.

Remnants of the temple complex can still be observed at the Roman Baths in Bath today. A portion of a pediment dating back to the century AD remains preserved. Unearthed in 1790 this pediment once towered 15 metres above the temple entrance and has fueled discussions due to its depiction; while traditionally associated with figures, like gorgons this particular carving portrays a distinctly male figure sporting a moustache.

Today the Roman Baths offer an insight into the lives of ancient Romans, in the town and throughout Britain. Despite its exterior, a visit to the site can easily span hours.

Upon arrival visitors are greeted with a view from the terrace overlooking the Great Bath. Adorned with 19th century statues of figures this vantage point gives a tantalising preview of what lies. Moving on guests can step up to the waters edge at the Great Bath where costumed characters add a touch and delight young visitors.

The tour continues with a visit to the spring, which's visible through a towering window. This natural hot spring was once revered for its healing properties. Dedicated to Minerva as a place of worship where offerings of coins, wishes, curses and prayers were made. Many intriguing messages from eras can still be observed.

The Temple and Temple Courtyard were parts of the Baths sacred spaces. The Temple has origins dating back to the century and remained in use until 391 AD when Emperor Theodosius shut it down following Christianity's rise as the state religion. In the Temple Courtyard informative videos provide insights into what this historical site looked like in its prime and how it served its purpose.

Visitors can also check out the bronze statue of Minerva here. Additionally, there's a museum that delves into the lives of Roman residents, in Bath along, with an old drainage system utilised as an overflow mechanism. Surrounding the Grand Bath are saunas, pools, warm baths and dressing rooms for visitors to enjoy.

Getting to the Roman Baths – Bath

The Roman Baths can be found in the heart of Baths downtown area. If you're driving you can reach Bath via the A4 and A36 roads, about a 40 minute drive from Bristol and 2.5 hours from London via the M4. For those opting for transportation various bus lines like 94, 752, UCB, X79, X84, X85 and X88 make stops at Bath Abbey located a quick 2 minute walk from the baths. Additionally, Bath Spa train station is conveniently situated a 6 minute stroll away and provides connections to London and the Southwest region. 

Ticket & Pricing Information

You can buy tickets for the Roman Baths either online or at the ticket counter when you arrive. The prices vary, with adults at £27 students and seniors at £26 and children aged 6 to 16 at £19.50. Kids under 6 get in for free.

Additionally, there are discounts offered if you purchase a ticket with attractions in Bath, like the Fashion Museum or No.1 Royal Crescent.

Opening Times

• 1 January – 9 February 2024

Monday to Friday: 10  am – 6  pm (last entry 5  pm)

Saturday and Sunday: 9 am – 6 pm (last entry 5 pm)

• 10 February – 18 February 2024

9 am – 6 pm (last entry 5 pm)

• 19 February – 29 February 2024

Monday to Friday: 10 am – 6 pm (last entry 5 pm)

Saturday and Sunday: 9 am – 6 pm (last entry 5 pm)

• 1 March – 28 March 2024

9 am – 6 pm (last entry 5 pm)

• 29 March – 1 April 2024

9 am – 8 pm (last entry 7 pm)

• 2 April – 19 July 2024

9 am – 6 pm (last entry 5 pm)

• 20 July – 31 August 2024

9 am – 10 pm (last entry 9 pm)

• 1 September – 31 December 2024

9 am – 6 pm (last entry 5 pm)

The Roman Baths are open daily, with the exception of December 25th and 26th.

FAQs

• How were the Roman baths kept warm?

The Roman Baths maintained warmth through a heating system known as hypocausts. This system involved circulating air, from furnaces beneath the floors and through the walls to heat the water in the baths.

• Is it possible to bathe in the Roman Baths today?

No bathing in the Roman Baths is not allowed nowadays. However, visitors have the opportunity to experience a soak at the modern Thermae Bath Spa, which boasts natural thermal waters and indulgent spa treatments.

• Did Romans use soap at the baths?

Romans did not use soap in the way we do today. They relied on a combination of oil and a tool called a strigil for cleansing their skin. The oil was applied to their skin. Then removed along with dirt and sweat using the strigil.

• Were there areas for men and women at the Roman Baths?

Yes, similar to bathhouses of that era there were sections for men and women, at the Roman Baths. This arrangement provided privacy and respected cultural norms concerning nudity. Nevertheless, there were spaces where individuals of both genders could socialise together.