The new Bath World Heritage Centre opened to the public in early May, and celebrates Bath’s unique cultural offering as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and gives an insight into what makes the city so special.
Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the World Heritage Centre is a springboard for visitors to Bath and local people to engage with the city’s culture, history and heritage and explore popular Bath landmarks as well as lesser-known places around the city.
Councillor Dine Romero, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Communities and Culture at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “The World Heritage Centre will provide something we’ve never had before in the city: a central place for visitors and residents to find out about Bath’s special status as a World Heritage Site. It will inspire people to go out and discover the city’s heritage, from spotting hidden details in the Circus and Royal Crescent, to learning about the extravagant funfairs that took place in Sydney Gardens, or finding out how Romans placed curses on their enemies. We can’t wait to open the doors to the public.”
The Centre features a host of interactive exhibits and displays designed to inspire, excite and inform. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers are on hand to answer questions and help people make the most of their visit. There are free walking trails and guides to help visitors to the city explore all it has to offer.
A new mobile app is also available for download. Packed with fun features, trails, quirky facts and a GPS map, the app allows people to build bespoke itineraries based on their preferences. When a destination within in the WHS is visited, augmented reality characters and stickers can be collected allowing visitors to take the ultimate selfie or create fun pictures with family and friends.
The World Heritage Centre is part of the Archway Project, supported by the Heritage Fund thanks to National Lottery players, which also includes a brand-new Roman Baths Clore Learning Centre for pre-booked school and community groups, and a new Roman Gym at the Roman Baths.
Stuart McLeod, Director, England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We’re thrilled to see the World Heritage Centre opening following £5 million funding thanks to money raised by National Lottery players. This state-of-the-art centre is part of the Archway Project and will offer a new learning experience for the local community and visitors to discover more about the fascinating history of this beloved World Heritage Site.”
Located in 10 York Street, Bath BA1 1NH, the World Heritage Centre will be open Monday to Sunday and will be free to enter. Find out more about the World Heritage Centre here: www.bathworldheritage.org.uk/worldheritagecentre