UK Day 9: The baths in Bath

The next morning, I went out to see the Roman baths. There's not all that much to say about them; they are very impressive, and the size and scope is much larger than what is currently at display. The sophistication of the old Romans never ceases to amaze me.

You go through a fairly modern entrance on an otherwise busy tourist street and arrive at a plaza. Bath Abbey is at the other end of it.


The actual baths are hidden behind (and below) a large 18th century building.


Looking down into the main pool from above.


It is lined with 18th century versions of Roman statues.


Complete with SPQR.


With the abbey as backdrop.


Info panel about the source of the baths:


Model of what they think the place looked like in Roman times:




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The original pool had a roof, so birds couldn't defecate freely into the water, much unlike today. Also, the direct sunlight has given growth to green algae in today's water.


The tradition of wishing wells go far, far back in history and even the old Romans would give their offerings to their deities a watery grave.


Ducts would lead water in and out of various parts of the complex, carrying hot or cold water.


Small canals were even chiseled out in the floor.


At pool level. They had some live actors in flowing garments at one end and I exchanged a little banter with one of them, greeting him with "salve" and stating that I was a traveler from "Ultima thule".


This large, metal face of Minerva has been found in the ruins.


Due to the effin Corona situation, there were parts of the baths that were closed off, but that you could still see & photograph.




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Afterwards, I had the great satisfaction of checking out a day early from my hotel and telling them in detail exactly what was wrong with the room. I also took care to mention that I had nothing but good things to say about the personnel at the reception, but that I had already booked lodgings at my next destination.

In Tewkesbury, I found both the hotel and its tiny parking lot just fine and this hotel was a traditional English hotel, just like they're supposed to be. Except the rooms were actually quite spacious, including the bathroom. Downstairs was an Italian restaurant accessible through the reception area and I stuffed face there that evening.

Garlic bread for starters:


And duck for dinner: