City heritage sites to reopen
With restrictions easing, visitors will soon be able to explore Bath’s history by visiting its heritage sites and museums.
Bath Preservation Trust has announced new opening dates for its four attractions, with increased safety measures, such as the rule of six on guided tours.
The trust’s Director of Museums, Claire Dixon, said: “After such a long time closed, it is so exciting to be able to welcome visitors back to our museums.
“Each one represents an important time in Bath’s history and bears testimony to the astonishing people who came to live in this beautiful and significant part of the world.
“Georgian Bath was founded on being a popular tourist destination and with this in mind, the entire team here is doing its utmost to ensure that today’s visitors are every bit as welcome and guaranteed of a memorable experience in 2021, as they were in the 18th and 19th centuries.”
Here’s when each attraction is opening, and what it will offer:
■ Herschel Museum of Astronomy – Open May 19, from Wednesday to Sunday each week.
Visitors can walk through the home of William Herschel, a world-famous astronomer who observed new planets in the 18th century.
A new audio tour has been launched for adult visitors, with stories about how the Herschel family lived and worked in Bath. It will explore their contributions to science and music in the city.
There is also a new audio-visual guide for children which includes a visual tour from members of the Herschel family.
■ Beckford’s Tower – Open by appointment from May 17.
William Beckford’s 120-foot tower is situated just over a mile from the city centre and offers spectacular views. It was built in the mid-1820s and housed Beckford’s library and art collection.
Visitors can book a guided or self-led tour around the tower and museum, which is home to original furniture, paintings and objects from the 19th century.
You will also have chance to climb the tower and experience the views of the city and surrounding landscape.
■ Museum of Bath Architecture – Open by appointment from May 17.
The Museum of Bath Architecture helps visitors learn more about the history of Bath’s buildings. You can also learn about Bath’s Roman history and how it became a Unesco World Heritage destination.
Visitors can look at a scale model of Bath as well as videos and paintings of the city’s most famous buildings, which you can then visit with just a short walk. ■ No.1 Royal Crescent – Open from June 2.
When it reopens, No.1 Royal Crescent will offer a new immersive experience to allow visitors to experience Georgian Bath. It will use actors, digital projections and sound to bring the house to life.
You can explore the house including the dining room, parlour, grand staircase and servants’ quarters.
More information and tickets to all of the attractions can be found online at www.bathpreservation-trust.org.uk