Celebrate World Heritage Day in Bath on Saturday 12 April with a free day of family-friendly activities running from 11am to 3pm in the World Heritage Centre, Bath Abbey, and Bath Medical Museum. This annual event highlights why Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bringing the city’s remarkable history to life through interactive experiences and guided walks.
This year’s celebration embraces the theme ‘Water is Best’—exploring the hot springs that have shaped Bath’s history and identity for over two millennia. Some of Bath’s great heritage organisations will be taking part including The Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Bath Preservation Trust, the National Trust, and Victoria Art Gallery, offering free activities for all ages:
- The Roman Baths will showcase how the Romans tamed the springs, with opportunities to handle real archaeological finds.
- Bath Abbey will host fun family STEM activities and, for guided tours, open up its usually hidden plant room to reveal its eco-friendly heating system powered by the city’s hot spring water.
- Bath Medical Museum will explore how Bath’s hot and cold springs built a thriving medical and tourist industry.
- Bath Preservation Trust will be getting in the Georgian spirit with a have a go sedan chair activity.
- Bath Record Office will share stories of the springs and invite visitors to “Ask an Archivist”.
- Victoria Art Gallery will display Pump Room paintings and invite visitors to create watery worlds with watercolours.
- The Museum of Bath at Work will demonstrate the fizzy art of bottling bubbles.
- Saltford Brass Mill Project will reveal the history of the most complete surviving 18th-century mill in the Avon Valley.
- Cleveland Pools will tell the story of Bath’s recently restored Georgian lido.
- Bath-Alkmaar Twinning Association will celebrate the city’s Dutch connection since 1945.
- The National Trust will share watery wonders and help children make badges.
- Bath Jewish Burial Ground will highlight the stories of Jewish visitors who came to Bath for their health.
- The Adelard Group will shine a spotlight on Adelard of Bath—England’s first scientist.
Guided walks led by the Mayor of Bath’s Honorary Guides will take visitors around the Spa Quarter and beyond, with a rare chance to see Bath Abbey’s cutting-edge sustainable heating system in action. Or start your visit at the World Heritage Centre to pick up a map or download the free app, to head out and explore the city.
Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the city, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this celebration of Bath’s world-renowned heritage.
All activities are free and no booking is required.
To find out more, visit www.bathworldheritage.org.uk.
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