Museum of Bath at Work
Step into Bath's working past! Explore reconstructed Victorian factories, workshops, and a historic mine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Museum of Bath at Work
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Bath's working past! Explore reconstructed Victorian factories, workshops, and a historic mine.
"An authentic and enjoyable museum showcasing Bath's rich commercial history."
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll want a couple of hours to fully explore the reconstructed workplaces and exhibits.
🤝 Friendly Volunteers
Staff are often volunteers, so be patient and appreciative of their knowledge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Victorian Soft Drinks Factory
Reconstructed Workplace
Step back in time to a bustling Victorian soft drinks factory, complete with authentic machinery and atmosphere.
Furniture Maker's Workshop
Reconstructed Workplace
Witness the intricate craft of furniture making in a detailed recreation of a traditional workshop.
Bath Stone Mine
Reconstructed Workplace
Descend into the fascinating world of Bath's stone mining heritage in this immersive exhibit.
Real Tennis Court
1777 Real Tennis Courts
Experience the history of tennis on one of the world's oldest and most authentic Real Tennis courts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Immerse Yourself in History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll want a couple of hours to fully explore the reconstructed workplaces and exhibits.
🤝 Friendly Volunteers
Staff are often volunteers, so be patient and appreciative of their knowledge.
☕ Coffee Corner
There's a small self-serve coffee area for a quick break.
🚶♀️ Easy to Find
Just a short walk from Bath city centre, making it convenient to visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll want a couple of hours to fully explore the reconstructed workplaces and exhibits.
🤝 Friendly Volunteers
Staff are often volunteers, so be patient and appreciative of their knowledge.
☕ Coffee Corner
There's a small self-serve coffee area for a quick break.
🚶♀️ Easy to Find
Just a short walk from Bath city centre, making it convenient to visit.
💡 Interactive Displays
Some machinery can be switched on to see it in action!
🎾 Tennis History
Don't miss the 'On Court' exhibition about the history of tennis in Bath.
👗 Try on Clothes
You might get a chance to try on historic clothing!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Museum of Bath at Work for its authentic and immersive reconstructions of historical workplaces, offering a unique glimpse into Bath's industrial past. The interactive machinery and the historic Real Tennis courts are frequently highlighted as engaging features. While generally well-received, some guests have noted inconsistencies in staff helpfulness and clarity regarding activities.
"An excellent museum that shares the rich commercial history of Bath. The founding of this museum dates to a key time (mid 70s) in industrial heritage preservation in the UK. As a museum curator/manager/trustee and accreditation mentor I found this to be an authentic and enjoyable museum. If you’re in Bath, living or visiting, please visit and support.Great volunteer on reception when I visited on 30th July at 1pm. 😀"
Dominic R
"Fantastic museum just a few minutes' walk from the city centre.
Staff are friendly, helpful, and informative.
The museum has a vast collection of artefacts from former Bath Businesses, laid out in a spacious informative way like workshops would have been at the time.
You can switch on some of the big equipment and see it spring to life.
It's fascinating to see what was going on in the past and the quality craftsmanship.
There is even a little self-serve coffee area.
Lovely museum, I went just after it opened, so it was quiet for me to amble along in peace.
It was definitely worth a visit to compare what the workers were up to after visiting the Georgian Splendour of the City."
Stuart Johnson
"An interesting visit to the Museum of Bath at Work earlier today, definitely worth visiting! 🤔 🏛 👍"
James Bant
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located just a few minutes' walk from Bath city centre. It's easily accessible on foot from most central Bath attractions.
While there isn't dedicated parking at the museum, there are several public car parks within walking distance in Bath city centre. Consider using the SouthGate Shopping Centre car park or the Charlotte Street car park.
Yes, Bath has a central bus station and train station, both within a short walk of the museum. Many local bus routes also stop near the city centre.
Information on accessibility can vary. It's best to contact the museum directly to inquire about wheelchair access, especially given the historic nature of some exhibits.
Use a map app on your phone or ask locals for directions to the city centre. It's situated near the historic Real Tennis courts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, and it's always best to check the official museum website for the most up-to-date information on ticket costs.
Booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Check their website for online booking options.
Opening hours can change seasonally. It's crucial to check the museum's official website for their current operating hours before your visit.
Look out for potential discounts for students, seniors, or families. Some reviews mention issues with incorrect pricing, so double-check your bill.
Many museums offer family tickets. Inquire directly with the museum or check their website for details on family packages.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore reconstructed workplaces like a Victorian soft drinks factory, furniture maker's, and a Bath Stone mine. You can also see the 1777 Real Tennis courts.
Yes, some of the large equipment can be switched on to see it in action, offering an engaging experience.
The museum occasionally hosts special exhibitions, such as the 'On Court' display about the history of tennis in Bath.
Photography policies can vary. It's generally advisable to check for signage or ask staff if photography is permitted, especially without flash.
Yes, the museum has a shop that sells a variety of items, often related to Bath's history and crafts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum has a small self-serve coffee area for refreshments. For full meals, you'll find numerous cafes and restaurants in the surrounding city centre.
Typically, museums prefer that you don't eat inside the exhibition areas. There might be designated areas for picnics, or you can enjoy your food outside the museum.
Bath city centre is packed with dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, offering a wide range of cuisines.
The museum offers a self-serve coffee option.
While the museum itself has limited food options, the surrounding area is very family-friendly with many dining choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the detailed reconstructions of workshops, the unique machinery, and the historic Real Tennis courts. The 'On Court' exhibition also offers visual interest. 
Tripod usage is often restricted in museums to prevent damage to exhibits and to allow for visitor flow. It's best to check the museum's photography policy.
Yes, the reconstructed machinery offers great photographic subjects. Try to capture them in action if possible, or focus on the intricate details.
Always look for signage regarding photography. Flash photography is usually prohibited as it can damage artifacts.
Visiting during quieter times, like weekday mornings, will allow you to take photos without many people in the background.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to check for any children's activity trails upon arrival, as some visitors found information about these wasn't readily available. Be mindful of signage regarding touching exhibits, as some families have encountered stern warnings. However, with a little guidance, children can appreciate the craftsmanship and ingenuity of past industries. The museum's location is also convenient for a family day out in Bath.
🏛️ History Buffs
The inclusion of the 1777 Real Tennis Courts adds another layer of historical significance, appealing to those interested in the history of sport and leisure. The museum's commitment to preserving authentic working environments makes it a truly unique and valuable resource for understanding Bath's multifaceted heritage beyond its famous Georgian architecture.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
It offers a fascinating contrast to Bath's more famous Georgian splendours, providing insight into the lives of the people who built and sustained the city. The interactive elements and the chance to see reconstructed workshops in action make it a memorable stop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bath's Industrial Heritage
The museum's collection spans over two thousand years of working life, but its most striking exhibits focus on the Victorian era. Visitors can step into a reconstructed soft drinks factory, a cabinet maker's workshop, and even a Bath Stone mine. These aren't just static displays; many of the large pieces of machinery can be switched on, bringing the sounds and feel of a bygone era to life. This immersive approach is frequently praised by visitors for its authenticity and educational value.
Beyond the workshops, the museum also houses the 1777 Real Tennis Courts, one of the oldest and most authentic courts of its kind in the world. This offers a fascinating glimpse into a historic sport and its place within Bath's social fabric. The museum's commitment to preserving these working environments makes it a standout attraction for anyone interested in industrial heritage and the everyday lives of people in the past.
The Real Tennis Experience
Visiting the courts provides a window into a sport that was once popular among royalty and aristocracy. The unique architecture of the court, with its sloped ceilings, ledges, and penthouses, is designed to create unpredictable ball trajectories, making the game incredibly strategic and challenging. While you might not see a match every day, the presence of these courts adds a distinct layer to the museum's exploration of Bath's diverse history.
For those interested in sports history or simply curious about unique heritage sites, the Real Tennis Courts are a must-see. They stand as a testament to Bath's multifaceted past, extending beyond its famous Georgian architecture to encompass its sporting and recreational life.
Community Insights and Visitor Experiences
However, some reviews point to areas for improvement. A few visitors have reported issues with staff professionalism and clarity, including instances of being overcharged or receiving unhelpful explanations for activities like children's trails. There have also been comments about a lack of clear signage regarding what visitors can and cannot touch, leading to negative interactions.
Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment leans towards the museum being a worthwhile visit, especially for those interested in industrial heritage. The 'On Court' exhibition and the chance to try on historic clothing are also noted as enjoyable aspects.
+1 The museum's unique focus on Bath's working past sets it apart and offers a different perspective from the city's more famous Georgian attractions. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit