Beckford's Tower and Museum

Beckford's Tower is a 47-meter-high Neoclassical structure on Lansdown Hill near Bath with two chambers at its base, a spiral staircase, and a viewing platform. The building offers views over Bath and the surrounding Somerset landscape.

William Beckford commissioned architect Henry Goodridge to build this tower in 1827 as a retreat for his books and art collections. The site later replaced an earlier pleasure garden and became an important landmark of the region.

The museum inside displays the personal collections of William Beckford, featuring furniture, artwork, and objects from his life. Visitors can see the belongings of this wealthy author and art enthusiast.

Reaching the viewing platform requires climbing 154 steps, so visitors should expect some physical effort. Access is available through guided tours during opening hours.

Next to the tower sits a Victorian cemetery where Beckford himself is buried. This burial ground replaced the original pleasure garden that once occupied the location before the tower was built.

Location: Bath and North East Somerset

Inception: 1827

Architects: Henry Goodridge

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Height: 47 m

Website: https://beckfordstower.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 51.40656,-2.37885

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:52