Thermae Bath Spa Review: Everything You Need to Know to Visit in 2026

Looking to visit the Thermae Bath Spa? Here’s my complete Thermae Bath Spa review with everything you need to know to enjoy Britain’s only natural thermal spa — from a UK travel blogger.

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Right in the heart of Bath, you’ll find Thermae Bath Spa — the only place in the UK where you can bathe in natural thermal waters.

It’s easily one of the best things to do in England’s ancient Roman city, but if you’re going for the first time, it’s worth knowing a few things before you go.

Without further ado, here’s all the bits you need to know about visiting the Thermae Bath Spa for yourself. Shall we?

P.S. – Don’t forget my 2-day Bath itinerary once you’ve finished reading!

How to Visit the Thermae Bath Spa

The History of Thermae Spas in Bath, England

Bath’s natural hot springs have shaped the city for over two thousand years.

Long before spa days and rooftop pools, these thermal waters were central to life here — a source of healing, ritual, and community.

The Roman Beginnings (60-410 AD)

The story starts with the Romans, who discovered the springs around 60 AD and built an entire bathing complex around them, calling it Aquae Sulis.

They believed the mineral-rich waters held restorative powers and used them for both worship and wellbeing — a ritual that would define Bath for centuries to come.

Middle Ages and the Georgian Era

After the fall of the Roman Empire, the site evolved through different chapters. King Edgar was crowned in Bath in 973 AD, but it was the Georgian era that truly transformed the city’s fortunes.

By the 17th and 18th centuries, Bath’s hot springs were once again the centre of fashionable society. Elegant Georgian buildings rose around the baths, shaped by architect John Wood and his son, turning Bath into the graceful, symmetrical city we know today.

Present Day

Today, Thermae Bath Spa continues that story — honouring the city’s ancient heritage while reimagining it for modern life. You can still “take the waters,” just as people did thousands of years ago, though now with a rooftop view and a little more calm.

Getting to Thermae Bath Spa

Situated in the heart of the city at Hetling Court, you’ll be pleased to know the Thermae Bath Spa is just a 10-minute stroll from the Bath Spa Train Station.

If you’re travelling by car, there’s no on-site parking at the spa, but you can use one of Bath’s several city-centre car parks.

P.S. – The SouthGate car park is the closest.

Booking Your Thermae Spa Visit

All treatments and spa packages at Bath’s Thermae Spa can be pre-booked directly on Thermae Spa’s official website.

Given its popularity, advanced booking is highly recommended, particularly on weekends and holidays.

You’ll find a variety of packages here, from standard 2-hour spa sessions to Therapeutic Treatments and Twilight Packages built to fit every budget and preference.

What to Experience at the Thermae Bath Spa

Lucky for you, The Thermae Bath Spa offers dozens of wellness retreats to experience during your visit, here’s my favourites:

New Royal Bath – Main Spa

The heart of Thermae Bath Spa is the New Royal Bath.

Spend time in the stunning open-air rooftop pool with an impressive view of the city’s skyline, and mineral-rich water derived from the thermal springs.

Minerva Bath

Indoors you’ll find the rich Minerva Bath.

The luxurious and spacious indoor bathing space was named after the Roman Goddess of Health and Wisdom, featuring the largest thermal bath of its kind in the city, enhanced with grand columns and a flowing waterfall.

It also had a whirlpool and a special ‘lazy river’ for a rather soothing bathing experience.

Wellness Suite

The Wellness Suite offers unique experiences such as a Roman Steam Room, Georgian Steam Room, Ice Chamber, Infrared Room, and Celestial Relaxation Room.

Each room uses temperature contrasts and relaxing atmospheres to create a range of sensory effects (that are sure to leave you relaxed and pampered!).

Cross Baths

For a more intimate spa experience, visit the Cross Baths, named after the goddess Sul.

An additional cost will give you access to the private thermal waters, just across from the main Thermae Bath Spa site (great for group bookings or birthdays).

Treatment Packages at Thermae Bath Spa

A range of packages are also available at the Thermae Bath Spa from massages, to facials, body wraps, and more.

Rejuvenate with a Hot Stone treatment, unwind with the Bamboo Massage, or opt for one of their Roman-inspired pampering sessions.

P.S. – Keep in mind all treatments will need to be booked in addition to your 2-hour spa session which you can do so here.

Springs Café at Thermae Bath Spa

Photo Courtesy of Thermae Bath Spa

Catering to all Thermae Bath spa-goers is the lovely Springs Café.

The cafe offers a range of wholesome, delicious light meals, salads, snacks, and drinks to complement your relaxation experience, with an emphasis on fresh and locally-sourced ingredients — making it the perfect end to your spa day.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Thermae Spa

practical tips for visiting thermae bath spa

Changing and Locker Rooms

During your visit you’ll get your own locker as well as private changing rooms onsite.

No Phones Allowed

To respect members privacy there’s no phones allowed in the Thermae Bath Spa and personal photography is not permitted.

Once you enter the spa, you’ll be asked to lock your phone in a designated pouch for the duration of your visit.

P.S. – I came as media before the spa opened to the public, hence the photos!

Booking in Advance

Given the popularity of the Thermae Bath Spa, it’s always best to book in advance, which you can do directly via their website.

If possible, aim to visit during off-peak times (usually weekdays) for a quieter experience.

Other Bits to Remember:

Swimwear must be worn in all spa facilities
Lockers are provided to store belongings, so there’s no need to carry bags around
Towels, robes, and slippers are provided to all spa guests
All spa sessions and treatments should be booked in advance
The minimum age of entry is 16

Thermae Spa Bath FAQ

💭 Can you swim in the hot springs in Bath?

Absolutely! That’s exactly what you’ll do at the Thermae Bath Spa.

💭 How much does Thermae Bath Spa cost?

Costs vary depending on your selected package or experience, but sessions start from £40.

💭 When is the Thermae Bath Spa open?

The Thermae Bath Spa is open 9am – 9pm every day.

💭 Who owns Thermae Bath Spa?

The building is owned by the Bath and North East Somerset Council and operated by YTL Hotels.

💭 How do you book Thermae Spa in Bath?

To book the Thermae Spa in Bath, visit their official website.

💭 What temperature should a Bath Spa Thermae be?

Around 34 ºC (93 º F) — it’s divine.

💭 How does Bath Thermae Spa work?

The thermal spa works by harnessing the healing properties of the city’s natural thermal waters, including bathing pools, steam rooms, and a range of therapeutic treatments. All for you to enjoy during your visit!

💭 What is the best time of day to visit Thermae Bath Spa?

For less crowds a mid-week morning would be best!

💭 Does Thermae Bath Spa have parking?

The Thermae Bath Spa does not have dedicated parking facilities on-site. However, there are nearby car parks available within walking distance, such as the SouthGate car park.

💭 Can you just turn up at the Bath Thermae Spa?

There are a few walk-in sessions available each day but given they’re so limited it’s best to just book in advance.

💭 Do they provide slippers at Thermae Bath Spa?

There’s slippers for sale upon arrival, and you’ll be provided a towel and robe for your visit.

💭 Is Thermae Bath Spa worth it?

I personally found the Thermae Bath Spa 100% worth it. Between the uniqueness of the thermal waters and relaxing facilities, it’s a great thing to do in Bath and fabulous for a day retreat in the Cotswolds.

💭 Can you stay at Thermae Bath Spa?

The Thermae Bath Spa does not provide accommodation directly. However, there are many hotels within walking distance, such as Hotel Indigo – Bath.

A special thanks to Thermae Bath Spa for facilitating our visit to produce this article!

Thanks for reading my Thermae Bath Spa Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!

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Happy travels,

Thermae Bath Spa Review: Everything You Need to Know to Visit in 2026

How to Visit the Thermae Bath Spa