Date published: 2025-02-05 | Category: Heritage
Looking for the perfect family day out this February Half Term? Step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating (and sometimes gross!) world of Roman life at The Roman Baths and get creative with hands-on crafts at Victoria Art Gallery.
Councillor Paul Roper, Cabinet Member for Economic & Cultural Sustainable Development, said: “The Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery offer a wonderful mix of education, creativity, and fun for families this February Half Term. Whether it’s discovering the quirks of Roman life, getting hands-on with crafts, or enjoying a special afternoon tea in the Pump Room, there’s something for visitors of all ages to enjoy. We’re excited to welcome families to make lasting memories together.”
Experience Roman Life Like Never Before
Embark on a time-travelling family adventure at The Roman Baths and delve into the strange and sometimes weird side of life in Roman Britain. Discover surprising facts you won’t find in history books, from gross toileting habits and yucky makeup ingredients to unappetising snack choices. Explore the ancient site to unearth the icky truth and meet costumed Roman characters who bring history to life with quirky stories and fascinating (sometimes gross) facts.
The Roman Baths is a must visit for young history hunters of every age. The child-friendly audio guide offers an exciting journey through the Baths, packed with fun and sometimes gross facts about Roman life – and a trail with Hoot the Owl is a great way to inspire imaginations. From Monday to Friday over the half term, kids can discover the ancient story of King Bladud and get hands-on with free arts and crafts sessions to make a pig bookmark. Plus, for just £5, families can pick up a fun-packed activity book from the Welcome Desk, filled with puzzles, games, and hilarious facts about Roman Britain.
For older children, aged 12 and up, there’s the opportunity to take a deeper dive into Roman history with a guided tour (£6 per person). These tours uncover hidden secrets and fascinating details about life during Roman times, offering a perfect experience for curious teens eager to learn more.
From children’s books on Roman Britain to squeaky rats and wooden snakes, The Roman Baths Shop is the perfect place to find a unique memento of the day. For the grand finale, indulge in a delicious afternoon tea in the elegant Pump Room Restaurant. Savour a tempting selection of sandwiches, cakes, and scones, with a glass of bubbles for the grown-ups. It’s the perfect treat to complete your day of exploring.
This February Half Term, make memories that will last a lifetime with fun activities, shared experiences, and loads of fascinating facts for the whole family. Book your tickets today and experience history like never before.
Get Creative at Victoria Art Gallery
Half term is the perfect time to get creative at Victoria Art Gallery. The whole family can discover the secrets of Georgian Bath in the latest exhibition Mirror of Mirth: Satire in Georgian Bath and marvel at the entertaining works of Tom Rowlandson and John Nixon.
Younger visitors can enjoy a free animal-spotting trail, colouring activities, dressing up, and a recreated Georgian print shop. From Tuesday to Friday, 10.30am–2pm, hands-on family craft sessions will give children the chance to make and decorate a fan fit for a Georgian ball, while learning about the secret language of fans.
Plan Your Visit
The Roman Baths is open from 9am – 6pm (last entry 5pm) daily. Craft sessions take place 10am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 4pm every day from Monday 17 – Friday 21 February.
Victoria Art Gallery is open from Tuesday - Sunday, 10.30am-5pm (last entry 4.30pm). FREE Craft sessions take place 10.30am – 2pm from Tuesday 18 – Friday 21 February.
Family tickets are available, and entry to both The Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery is free for Bath and North East Somerset Council residents with a Discovery Card.
For more information and to book your tickets visit www.romanbaths.co.uk and www.victoriagal.org.uk
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