Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey, also known as Bath Abbey Church or the Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, is located in the city center of Bath. It is a landmark of Bath and hosts the Bath International Music Festival and many other major events. The site was also where the first king of England was crowned.

Bath Abbey was originally built in the 8th century and was reconstructed in 1499 by Bishop Oliver, renowned for its magnificent stained glass windows and fan-vaulted ceiling. It earned the nickname "Lantern of the West" due to its numerous windows. In the heritage vault museum (₤2.5) located in the crypt on the south side of the church, visitors can learn about the abbey’s history and its connections with Georgian high society.

Upon entering Bath Abbey, the most striking feature is the magnificent stained glass window on the eastern side, which depicts 56 scenes from the life of Jesus, chronicling his birth through to his crucifixion at age 33. The west side illustrates the story of how God appeared to Bishop Oliver King in a dream, instructing him on how to build the church, along with images of angels ascending a ladder to heaven.

The courtyard in front of the abbey (Abbey Church Yard) often features street performers, as well as vendors selling small goods.

Address: 12 Kingston Buildings, Bath, UK

Website: http://www.bathabbey.org/

Opening Hours:

April–October: Mon–Sat 9:00–18:00, Sun 13:00–14:30 and 16:30–17:30; Shop and museum Mon–Sat 10:00–17:30, no entry to the museum after 17:00

November–March: Mon–Sat 09:00–16:30, Sun 13:00–14:30 and 16:30–17:30; Shop and museum Mon–Sat 10:00–16:30, no entry to the museum after 16:00

Transport: Located east of the Roman Baths in Bath