Roman Baths were built between the 1st and 4th centuries AD and were centred around the natural hot springs that rise up from the ground here at a constant temperature of 46.5 � Celsius (116 � Fahrenheit).

Today you can see the Roman Baths in the form of the Roman Baths Museum, located in the Abbey Courtyard.

The centre piece of the complex is the superb Great Bath, with its adjacent Circular Bath where the bathers would cool off. These formed the basis of the Roman Baths, and you can still see the original Roman paving around the baths.

You can also see the remains of the temple of Minerva, and the more recent King’s Bath which dates from the 12th century.

As well as the baths themselves, the museum contains an excellent selection of Roman coins and jewellery that have been found at the site.

And there are also some superb examples of Roman sculpture including the massive gorgon’s head that once stood over the entranceway to the baths.

Taped commentaries are available, which are well worth it for they are very informative and allow you to walk around the baths at your own speed.

The Roman Baths are open daily but times vary according to time of year so do check in advance. Admission costs around �or adults.

It is worth noting that this is a very popular attraction so you should expect crowds - especially during the summer months and at weekends.