Take a look under floors

If you want a sneak peak at the essential repair work that has been taking place at Bath Abbey over the past few months this is your chance. Don a hard hat and join an experienced guide for a special behind the scenes tour of the once-in-alifetime Footprint project. Tours run at various times from Thursday 13 to Saturday 15 September and will be free during Heritage Open Days giving you the opportunity to watch a team of engineers, conservationists and builders work alongside staff and volunteers to save the historic floor from collapse. Ollie Taylor, head of interpretation, learning and engagement, said: “The Abbey floor is unique; it is made up of 891 memorial stones, more than any other church in the country, but there’s no getting away from the fact that it is collapsing. “The focus of our Heritage Open Days tours will be the restoration of the Abbey floor, which is a major conservation project in its own right. “All the stones will be lifted from the floor, the surface beneath repaired, and the stones relayed.” He added: “It is a rare chance to visit parts of the Abbey that are now off limits to the public, and discover just why there are so many stones, why the floor is collapsing, and the complex work carried out to repair the floor as part of Footprint, as well as some of the things the team of archaeologists have found out along the way.” As the Footprint building work and floor repairs progress from the East end of the Abbey to the nave and other areas, there are plans to offer visitors behind-the-scenes tours more regularly. Tours are suitable only for those over 16 years of age. Those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. As protective clothing and footwear will be provided and must be worn throughout the tour, booking is essential on 01225 422462 or office@bathabbey.org. Places must be booked by midday on September 5.