The Roman Baths

Beneath the modern street level lies one of the best-preserved Roman religious spas in the world. Hot mineral water — over a million litres a day — still rises from the Sacred Spring and flows into the Great Bath, just as it did when the Romans built the complex for the goddess Sulis Minerva.

Highlights

• The Great Bath, lined with forty-five sheets of Roman lead
• The gilt-bronze head of Sulis Minerva
• Curse tablets asking the goddess to punish thieves
• Costumed characters on the terrace in summer

"The steam rising off the water on a cold morning is unforgettable." — a (fictional) happy visitor

Visiting tips

Book a timed ticket online and arrive early or late in the day to avoid queues. The audio guide is included and has a dedicated children's track.