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This is very pretty. It's not as impressive as Westminster or anything, but it's spectacular architecture, not overrun with people (or wasnt the day I was there). They were working very hard to maintain it, which i appreciated. They do have two different admissions. One with a tower tour. It sounded cool but i couldn't make it work in my schedule. It was hourly on either the hour or half hour, i cant recall which. One of the employees was sure to point out an American connection when he realized i was American. I appreciated his effort to make a relevant connection. There were a lot of beautiful nooks and some unique designs that I enjoyed seeing. Altogether a good use of time. I probably spent less than an hour here, but theres a museum on the lower floor that i could have spent a lot more time in. If you toured the tower and really pored over the material, it could be a 3 hour visit.
OMG... Bath, England--where history, architecture, and a good soak in the past come together! My day visit to this UNESCO World Heritage city felt like stepping into a Jane Austen novel, but with Wi-Fi. First, a bit of history (don't worry, it's the fun kind): Bath dates back to the Romans, who thought, "Why not build a spa town around these thermal springs?" And they did. The original Roman Baths are still there, and though I resisted the urge to take a plunge myself, the sheer scale of the ancient complex is awe-inspiring. Speaking of awe, Bath Abbey stands tall and proud, a Gothic masterpiece that's been around since 1499. It's hard not to be impressed by the intricate stonework and stunning stained glass windows. If walls could talk, these would probably whisper tales of coronations, burials, and maybe the occasional town gossip. But Bath isn't just living in the past--today it's a vibrant city filled with quaint shops, lovely Georgian architecture, and cafes that call your name like an irresistible British accent. Whether you're here for the history, the culture, or just to walk around and pretend you're in a BBC period drama, Bath delivers a wonderful experience. And if you ever fancy a dip in modern-day luxury, just like the old Romans, the Thermae Bath Spa is ready and waiting. Cheers to a perfect day in one of England's finest gems!
This is the first church I have been asked to pay an admission. And the only Catholic Church where Christ is not on a cross anywhere. There are over 1500 parishioners buried here some with the story of their life. Many quite inspiring and mention their dispositions and good manners. There is a small museum in the basement and a small shop on exit. There is a free walking tour in the afternoon. A different type of experience.
We entered on 2 Oct around 1 PM. We paid and entered and were originally ecstatic that a service was going on. But, I quickly realized that the service masquerading as a Christian service was a pagan celebration of Gaia. As a Christian that holds the Bible as from the ultimate authority, the sermon discussing economies, favoring Marxism over Capitalism (definitely not found in Scripture), and with a display specifically celebrating the pagan god Gaia as we entered (they had a large billboard highlighting Gaia as you entered and had a massive globe 40 foot in the center of the church) were really distracting. The pagan celebration really ruined the experience of visiting the church. If you are a devout Christian, you may experience non-Christian areligious teaching by people wearing collars (clergy). Beware. I'm sure there is great architecture, but the large globe celebrating Gaia was blocking much of it.
This is another stunning church with incredible history and architecture! I spent a lot of time here taking it all in and meditating in the beautiful setting. It was amazing to see all the obituaries for people from hundreds of years ago and reading their stories. I also loved that they have a spot where you can write a prayer and leave it there.
Bath Abbey is a beautiful gothic church founded in the 7th century. This has been a place of worship for well over 1000 years. It is "a moment of stillness in the beating heart of a vibrant city" they say, which I think describes the Abbey quite perfectly. Entrance is free, but donations are suggested. Guided tours and Tower tours are also available for a fee. Upon entering, you'll be captivated by the awe-inspiring architecture. The incredible stone fan vaulting above the Abbey dates from the early 1500s and was restored in the 1700s. It's just amazing how they were able to achieve all the intricate details in those days. Such delicate work, truly done by master craftsmen. What particularly piqued my interest were the red Victorian chandeliers hanging high above. The details were absolutely gorgeous and I found it interesting that they were updated to energy efficient, LED lighting, but still managed to maintain their old world charm. The stained glass artwork is not to be missed either along with the handcrafted Victorian oak pews. There is much to be discovered within the Abbey and you could spend quite a few hours here admiring all the monuments and memorials, taking a tower tour, and visiting the gift shop. I would have loved to take a tower tour and get a birds eye view of Bath, but we were on a tight schedule. Overall, this is a must visit when you're in the city of Bath. It's grand, it's beautiful (inside and out), it's a work of art!
For the many experiences here in Bath that are not free, aka all the museums, it was nice for the church to be free to visit. It actually reminded me of Westminster Abbey quite a bit with all of its tombstones carved into the walls and floorboards. The inside was absolutely beautiful too with its glass-stained windows filled with pictures that tell the history of the UK. The outside architecture is beautiful too as you can see it from all different parts of Bath. I think if you want to go upstairs you do need to pay extra for it but it shouldn't be that expensive. Also, since its in the center of the city, its easy to just pop in and out of there when you are bored of the places around it. Highly recommend!
Bath Abbey is one of the great examples of English Perpendicular Gothic, notable for, among other things, its elaborate fan vaulting for the ceiling. It is very interesting and the fan vaulting here is definitely worth the visit. The abbey is free but one may also pay to take a guided tour of the roof and tower. This is fascinating, the tour guide interesting and friendly. It includes time inside the roof, as well as on top, in the clock area, and on top of the tower. When we went, they did not allow advance booking, so it was first-come, first-serve. We went right away in the morning and booked the first tour which was to start not long after. Before we left, we heard them telling people arriving that the tours were already booked up for the whole day. The abbey was founded in the 7th century but the current building dates mostly from the 16th century with some 19th century additions in the same style. The abbey is also notable for being (in is prior structure) where King Edgar was crowned King of the English in 973, an event commemorated in a stained glass window.
Stunning piece of history and beautiful inside & out. Set in the heart of Bath, it is such an amazing landmark to see. What's interesting about the Abbey, is the more you look at it, the more little details start to become apparent, such as angels climbing ladders on each side of the front. Definitely a must when visiting Bath.
Bath Abbey is located in a square right next to the Famous Roman Baths - and stands majestically in the centre of the historical part of Bath, a must see for sure. Bath Abbey is a parish church of the Church of England and former Benedictine monastery in Bath, Somerset, England. Founded in the 7th century, it was reorganised in the 10th century and rebuilt in the 12th and 16th centuries; major restoration work was carried out by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the 1860s
Founded in uhmm a long time ago. Typically seen as one of the top sites of Bath. Free to enter, but donations encouraged and suggested at £5. Apparently it costs £30,000 per week just to maintain the building. It's a very grand looking church. In the town center next to the Roman baths. Pay extra to go up to the top.
One of the top sights in Bath. It's a beautiful abbey. I recommend taking the tour and going to the top to get fantastic views of the city. It's well worth the money.
Wow! What an amazing gothic church. I definitely enjoyed wandering through the church (after paying the tour fee...which may have been optional but the church lady frowns made me realize I better pay). The tomb markers are lovely as is the soaring roof. Interestingly since I went to a few Anglican churches while I was in England, this was the only one that I had someone come up and offer religious pamphlets, not really proselytizing but it was unusual. There is a gift shop but it was unimpressive.
6 months ago
During our brief visit to Bath, we toured the Abbey. The grounds of the Abbey have a 1300 year history with establishment of a convent. The current building was built in 1499 in a Gothic style with additions and repairs made through time. The fan vaulted ceiling (added in the 1500's) is beautiful. Over 3000 people are buried in the floor of the Abbey but the actual number of markers are 891. An additional 635 memorials line the walls of the Abbey, telling stories of the people of Bath. I was touched reading these stories. The Abbey, like many others in the U.K., suffered extensive damage during the Reformation. The monks were dispelled during that time and the Abbey became a local Church of England restored by the people of Bath. The building suffered damage again during the bombing Blitz of WWII and required restoration. Very little of the stained glass is original. Admission to the Abbey was £9. An audio tour is available and a pamphlet with tour stop information. For £18, a guided tour of the tower is available, but we didn't have time for that tour. In the basement is a small museum that houses the chronology of the site and some artifacts. A gift shop featuring local goods is accessible to all visitors. On the outside of the building, damage by vandalism to many of the figures over the doors is apparent. The building has endured through some tough times. I hesitate to mention the minor presence of modern clutter throughout the Abbey. For me, the clutter distracted from the history of the building. But the church is active for worship by local residents. The Abbey is well worth a visit if you like history and architecture. Plan an hour plus and wear comfortable walking shoes. Photos are allowed. Restrooms are available. read more
1 year ago
The Bath Abbey is still an active church that is still quite popular with many people and they also do online services. I have heard of this place a long time ago and have been here three times on different occasions and I always feel like there is so much history and also calmness here. The area is beautiful and the building is a wonder. read more
Officially, they call it the Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. You can find exquisite columns of honey-gold stone, striking stained-glass windows, and incredible fan vaulting ceilings. Located just next to the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey is hard to miss when you are wandering around the beautiful city centre. The history of this sacred place stretches as far back as Anglo-Saxon times, and it is still a working church. Bath Abbey allows visitors to book the Tower Tour and climb all 212 steps of its tower to see the clock face, the bells, and the fan-vaulted ceiling from the other side. There's so much history. With Bath Abbey starting out in Saxon times, being built as a Norman cathedral, was dissolved by Henry VIII, before being rebuilt again later as an Abbey. The Abbey is centrally located in the town, facing the Pump Rooms across a wide-flagged square. There is another square to one side of the Abbey, which is a pleasant place to sit and listen to the buskers and performers who perform there every day. Roman bath- cute souvenir shops, tearooms, and shopping center- everything is nearby read more
2 years ago
This is very pretty. It's not as impressive as Westminster or anything, but it's spectacular architecture, not overrun with people (or wasnt the day I was there). They were working very hard to maintain it, which i appreciated. They do have two different admissions. One with a tower tour. It sounded cool but i couldn't make it work in my schedule. It was hourly on either the hour or half hour, i cant recall which. One of the employees was sure to point out an American connection when he realized i was American. I appreciated his effort to make a relevant connection. There were a lot of beautiful nooks and some unique designs that I enjoyed seeing. Altogether a good use of time. I probably spent less than an hour here, but theres a museum on the lower floor that i could have spent a lot more time in. If you toured the tower and really pored over the material, it could be a 3 hour visit. read more
OMG... Bath, England--where history, architecture, and a good soak in the past come together! My day visit to this UNESCO World Heritage city felt like stepping into a Jane Austen novel, but with Wi-Fi. First, a bit of history (don't worry, it's the fun kind): Bath dates back to the Romans, who thought, "Why not build a spa town around these thermal springs?" And they did. The original Roman Baths are still there, and though I resisted the urge to take a plunge myself, the sheer scale of the ancient complex is awe-inspiring. Speaking of awe, Bath Abbey stands tall and proud, a Gothic masterpiece that's been around since 1499. It's hard not to be impressed by the intricate stonework and stunning stained glass windows. If walls could talk, these would probably whisper tales of coronations, burials, and maybe the occasional town gossip. But Bath isn't just living in the past--today it's a vibrant city filled with quaint shops, lovely Georgian architecture, and cafes that call your name like an irresistible British accent. Whether you're here for the history, the culture, or just to walk around and pretend you're in a BBC period drama, Bath delivers a wonderful experience. And if you ever fancy a dip in modern-day luxury, just like the old Romans, the Thermae Bath Spa is ready and waiting. Cheers to a perfect day in one of England's finest gems! read more
3 years ago
This is the first church I have been asked to pay an admission. And the only Catholic Church where Christ is not on a cross anywhere. There are over 1500 parishioners buried here some with the story of their life. Many quite inspiring and mention their dispositions and good manners. There is a small museum in the basement and a small shop on exit. There is a free walking tour in the afternoon. A different type of experience. read more
We entered on 2 Oct around 1 PM. We paid and entered and were originally ecstatic that a service was going on. But, I quickly realized that the service masquerading as a Christian service was a pagan celebration of Gaia. As a Christian that holds the Bible as from the ultimate authority, the sermon discussing economies, favoring Marxism over Capitalism (definitely not found in Scripture), and with a display specifically celebrating the pagan god Gaia as we entered (they had a large billboard highlighting Gaia as you entered and had a massive globe 40 foot in the center of the church) were really distracting. The pagan celebration really ruined the experience of visiting the church. If you are a devout Christian, you may experience non-Christian areligious teaching by people wearing collars (clergy). Beware. I'm sure there is great architecture, but the large globe celebrating Gaia was blocking much of it. read more
This is another stunning church with incredible history and architecture! I spent a lot of time here taking it all in and meditating in the beautiful setting. It was amazing to see all the obituaries for people from hundreds of years ago and reading their stories. I also loved that they have a spot where you can write a prayer and leave it there. read more
Bath Abbey is a beautiful gothic church founded in the 7th century. This has been a place of worship for well over 1000 years. It is "a moment of stillness in the beating heart of a vibrant city" they say, which I think describes the Abbey quite perfectly. Entrance is free, but donations are suggested. Guided tours and Tower tours are also available for a fee. Upon entering, you'll be captivated by the awe-inspiring architecture. The incredible stone fan vaulting above the Abbey dates from the early 1500s and was restored in the 1700s. It's just amazing how they were able to achieve all the intricate details in those days. Such delicate work, truly done by master craftsmen. What particularly piqued my interest were the red Victorian chandeliers hanging high above. The details were absolutely gorgeous and I found it interesting that they were updated to energy efficient, LED lighting, but still managed to maintain their old world charm. The stained glass artwork is not to be missed either along with the handcrafted Victorian oak pews. There is much to be discovered within the Abbey and you could spend quite a few hours here admiring all the monuments and memorials, taking a tower tour, and visiting the gift shop. I would have loved to take a tower tour and get a birds eye view of Bath, but we were on a tight schedule. Overall, this is a must visit when you're in the city of Bath. It's grand, it's beautiful (inside and out), it's a work of art! read more
4 years ago
For the many experiences here in Bath that are not free, aka all the museums, it was nice for the church to be free to visit. It actually reminded me of Westminster Abbey quite a bit with all of its tombstones carved into the walls and floorboards. The inside was absolutely beautiful too with its glass-stained windows filled with pictures that tell the history of the UK. The outside architecture is beautiful too as you can see it from all different parts of Bath. I think if you want to go upstairs you do need to pay extra for it but it shouldn't be that expensive. Also, since its in the center of the city, its easy to just pop in and out of there when you are bored of the places around it. Highly recommend! read more
3 years ago
Bath Abbey is one of the great examples of English Perpendicular Gothic, notable for, among other things, its elaborate fan vaulting for the ceiling. It is very interesting and the fan vaulting here is definitely worth the visit. The abbey is free but one may also pay to take a guided tour of the roof and tower. This is fascinating, the tour guide interesting and friendly. It includes time inside the roof, as well as on top, in the clock area, and on top of the tower. When we went, they did not allow advance booking, so it was first-come, first-serve. We went right away in the morning and booked the first tour which was to start not long after. Before we left, we heard them telling people arriving that the tours were already booked up for the whole day. The abbey was founded in the 7th century but the current building dates mostly from the 16th century with some 19th century additions in the same style. The abbey is also notable for being (in is prior structure) where King Edgar was crowned King of the English in 973, an event commemorated in a stained glass window. read more
Stunning piece of history and beautiful inside & out. Set in the heart of Bath, it is such an amazing landmark to see. What's interesting about the Abbey, is the more you look at it, the more little details start to become apparent, such as angels climbing ladders on each side of the front. Definitely a must when visiting Bath. read more
Bath Abbey is located in a square right next to the Famous Roman Baths - and stands majestically in the centre of the historical part of Bath, a must see for sure. Bath Abbey is a parish church of the Church of England and former Benedictine monastery in Bath, Somerset, England. Founded in the 7th century, it was reorganised in the 10th century and rebuilt in the 12th and 16th centuries; major restoration work was carried out by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the 1860s read more
Founded in uhmm a long time ago. Typically seen as one of the top sites of Bath. Free to enter, but donations encouraged and suggested at £5. Apparently it costs £30,000 per week just to maintain the building. It's a very grand looking church. In the town center next to the Roman baths. Pay extra to go up to the top. read more
Wow! What an amazing gothic church. I definitely enjoyed wandering through the church (after paying the tour fee...which may have been optional but the church lady frowns made me realize I better pay). The tomb markers are lovely as is the soaring roof. Interestingly since I went to a few Anglican churches while I was in England, this was the only one that I had someone come up and offer religious pamphlets, not really proselytizing but it was unusual. There is a gift shop but it was unimpressive. read more
What a beautiful church. The architecture, the stained glass, and the largeness of it, really makes you admire it. You can walk around freely and take pictures and say a prayer. There's a small gift shop where you exit out of. read more
Bath is an ancient city with a surprisingly young church. Although there has been an Abbey here since 676 AD (King Edgar was even crowned here in 973 AD), the present church owes its origins to Bishop Oliver King, who began its rebuilding in 1499. The work was abruptly interrupted by the dissolution in the 1540's, so the last of Britain's great mediaeval churches was finally consecrated only in 1616. Its enormous perpendicular windows gave it the nickname 'the Lantern of the West', but in truth elements such as the nave roof were quick additions to complete the church. Its restoration in 1864 finally saw these elements finished to their original design, under the sure hand of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. The result is a feast of perpendicular architecture, with spectacular fan vaults and those huge panel windows. This is not to everyone's taste - it has been likened to a mediaeval greenhouse - but the central space is nevertheless awe-insipring. A lovely quirk is the carving on the west front, depicting the dream which supposedly led Bishop King to rebuild the church in the first place: two stone ladders, with angels climbing up and down, to and from heaven. Proof, if proof were needed, of British eccentricity, even in matters of religion... read more
12 years ago
Such a beautiful Abby and the tour was informative & fun. The tour guide was all serious and proper, typical Brit, but she was nice. It just sucked that the rain dampened the merriment of the day. The copy of the Magna Carta was a sight to behold. It is in the best condition of the only 4 surviving copies left. I'm glad I got to see it even though I can't read Latin. I love old architecture and this 1 is damn old. Next stop: Westminster Abby... read more
3 years ago
What a gorgeous Abbey; inside and out! I love going to Catholic churches or Abbey and join the mass or prayer whenever I go travel since I am a Catholic myself. I got the senses of calmness when I was joining the evening prayer after all day city tour. It was the perfect thing to do to end my busy day. I would like to come back if I have another change to go to Bath again! read more
4 years ago
Summer was amazing!!!! I hope you get her as a tour guide. But whether you do or not, this is a great church/abbey to visit. A lot of history and architecture to marvel at. I would highly recommend the tower tour as you get additional in depth history of the abbey and a great view from additional rooms and towers. Also, ask for summer. read more
15 years ago
A lovely building with a nice interior, it would be hard to imagine skipping the place if you're visiting Bath simply because it's right in the center next to the Bath and it towers over the rest of the city. While historic and beautiful, it's not as memorable as many of the other large religious buildings I visited. read more
16 years ago
4 years ago
17 years ago
If you've not seen it before, Bath Abbey is always most certainly worth a visit. It's an impressive structure in many lights, but best in the summer sun or under the floodlights they highlight it with at night - which actually makes it look a little bit like a spectre or ghostly floating building. Of course, if you've come from far away to see this structure, be sure to go inside and witness the splendour inside - it seems like a Tardis, actually, being much bigger inside than you would imagine. Often there are choir and orchestral performances dotted throughout the year, so timing your trip with one of these is a wise move. read more
12 years ago
You cannot miss Bath Abbey upon entering the downtown area of Bath. It is right next to the Ancient Bath ruins. On our Saturday visit in November, the square was crowded with people going here and there. The Abbey was a much welcomed sanctuary from the noise and busyness of the day. When we entered the Abbey we walked into a gift store area. The admission was free, donations welcomed. You do need to keep your bags with you at all times. We forgot a bag in one of the pews, and someone started screaming on a loud speaker! The interior of the Abbey is as impressive as the exterior. It's hard to find the right words, and the pictures don't do the space justice. It was well lighted with many windows and high ceilings. We were able to do a self guided tour on our own and just wander at our leisure. There are many ornate tomb markers on the walls, and floor markers. Bath Abbey's official name is the Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, Bath. Originally this was founded in the 7th century as a Benedictine monastery, but is now an Anglican parish church. The church has been rebuilt a couple of times, the latest being in the 16th century, and restored in 1860. One of the interesting facts for architecture buffs, is that it is the largest example of perpendicular gothic architecture in the West Country. Definitely worth a stop to check it out if you are in Bath. read more
13 years ago
10 years ago
I love the city of bath, England, architecture is beautiful , I love to see Old churches and abbeys in Europe & what a beautiful Abbey in bath, I love the light on the building and the gothic architecture of the Abbey. A must see when you are in England. Enjoy the Photos. read more
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