Welwyn Roman Baths, Ancient Roman bath complex in Welwyn, England
Description
Welwyn Roman Baths is an ancient Roman bath complex with separate chambers designed for cold, warm, and hot bathing experiences. The facility operated using a sophisticated heating system called a hypocaust, which circulated warm air beneath the floors and inside the walls to maintain different temperatures throughout.
History
The baths were built in the 3rd century as part of a villa complex near a major Roman road through the region. This timing reflects when wealthy Romans were investing in grand domestic architecture and personal amenities in this part of Britain.
Culture
Bathing was a central part of Roman daily life, and this complex shows how such facilities served as social gathering places where people from the community would spend time together. The layout reveals how the Romans understood the rituals and pleasures associated with water, heat, and personal care.
Practical
The site is located beneath a modern highway and protected by a steel vault, which allows visitors to safely explore the ancient structures without concern for the road above. Access is gained through an entrance at ground level where visitors descend to view the remains.
Did you know?
The remains are encased in a protective steel vault built directly beneath a busy highway, creating an unusual combination of ancient history sheltered by modern engineering. This innovative solution allows visitors to step back into Roman times while remaining safely below the traffic above.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Welwyn).
Digswell Viaduct
1.6 km
Digswell House
1.1 km
Sherrardspark Wood
2.1 km
The White Horse Public House
2.9 km
Mardley Heath
2.6 km
Stanborough Reedmarsh
2.1 km
Singlers Marsh
1.1 km
Parish Church of St Mary
474 m
Church of St Peter
1.9 km
Parish Church of St Giles
3.2 km
Church of St Michael and All Angels
3.2 km
The Parish Church of St John
1.2 km
The Wellington Inn Hotel
467 m
The Goat Public House
2.9 km
The Nabisco Shredded Wheat Factory
3.1 km
Garden City Cinema
2.6 km
(Guessens) Milestone On Pavement Abutting Front Wall Near North End Of Range
543 m
South Portal Of Welwyn Tunnel 300 Metres North Of Welwyn North Station
1.3 km
Milepost By Road Outside Hollard's Farm
2.3 km
The Pond House
3 km
Milepost
1.9 km
Milepost Just North Of Fulling Mill Lane
718 m
The George And Dragon Restaurant
3 km
Milepost
458 m
Milepost, Codicote Road, Great North Road, opposite jct with Brockswood Lane
2.8 km
Codicote War Memorial
3.2 km
Templewood School
2.1 km
Milestone, Codicote Road, Great North Road, at jct with Brockswood Lane
2.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes