Date published: 2026-11-03 | Category: Heritage
[ Coins from the Chew Valley Hoard, image © South West Heritage Trust]
One of the most significant treasure discoveries ever made in England will go on display at The Roman Baths next year. Opening in January 2027, Chew Valley Hoard: Coins, Kings & Conquest will feature an unprecedented collection of coins from the turbulent years immediately following the Norman Conquest, marking the first time the treasure has gone on public display outside London. The exhibition is presented in partnership with South West Heritage Trust, which acquired the Chew Valley Hoard for the nation thanks to major funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Art Fund.
The exhibition marks a milestone for The Roman Baths, becoming its first temporary spotlight exhibition and launching Bath & North East Somerset Council's 2027 programme with one of England's most important treasure discoveries.
The Chew Valley Hoard consists of 2,584 silver coins dating from around AD1066-68, a pivotal moment in English history when power shifted from Harold II to William the Conqueror. Buried for safekeeping during this period of upheaval, the hoard is the largest coin hoard ever discovered from the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest.
The exhibition at The Roman Baths is part of a dynamic two-year community engagement programme led by the South West Heritage Trust to widen public access to this remarkable archaeological discovery. Through coins and special objects from The Roman Baths collection, visitors can uncover the story of the hoard, explore what it reveals about a period of conquest and change, and discover the important role Bath's own mint played in the city’s history.
The exhibition forms part of the British Museum's Bayeux Around Britain programme, supported by WorldQuant, and will be accompanied by a programme of talks and activities offering visitors the chance to delve deeper into one of the defining periods of English history.
Councillor Paul Roper, Bath & North East Somerset Council, said:
"The Roman Baths is one of the country's great heritage destinations, and the Chew Valley Hoard is one of the most important treasure discoveries made in England in recent decades. Bringing them together creates a rare opportunity for residents and visitors to experience a nationally significant exhibition in Bath.
As the first temporary exhibition at The Roman Baths, Chew Valley Hoard: Coins, Kings & Conquest marks an important milestone for the site and launches Bath & North East Somerset Council's 2027 programme of events and experiences. Together, they celebrate the city's remarkable heritage while reflecting the Council's ongoing commitment to culture, learning and discovery."
Sam Astill, South West Heritage Trust Chief Executive, added:
“The exhibition at The Roman Baths is a special opportunity to share this nationally significant discovery. Through our partnerships with The Roman Baths and The British Museum we are bringing the remarkable story of the Chew Valley Hoard to life for audiences across the UK and look forward to opening our landmark exhibition at The Museum of Somerset in 2027.”
The exhibition is the first highlight in a year of special experiences at The Roman Baths, one of the UK's leading heritage attractions, managed and cared for by Bath & North East Somerset Council.
The programme will also begin the countdown to Sulis Minerva 300, marking 300 years since the discovery of the iconic Head of Sulis Minerva. Celebrations throughout 2027 will explore the story of Bath's patron goddess and the discovery that sparked interest in the city's Roman past, ultimately leading to the uncovering of the temple and bathing complex seen today. A programme of events, workshops and experiences will celebrate the enduring legacy of the goddess, the sacred spring and one of Bath's most significant archaeological discoveries.
Visitors will also be able to experience the site in new ways. New Private Guided Tours will offer groups of up to ten people the opportunity to explore The Roman Baths with a dedicated guide, providing a more personal insight into the stories of the sacred spring, temple and bathing complex.
Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the year, with trails, hands-on activities, costumed characters and special holiday events helping younger visitors engage with the stories of Roman Bath.
Managed by Bath & North East Somerset Council, The Roman Baths welcomes visitors from around the world and plays a central role in the city's cultural life. The 2027 programme reflects the Council's commitment to making culture and heritage accessible to everyone, bringing nationally significant objects and new experiences to Bath while creating fresh reasons for residents and visitors to return throughout the year.
To celebrate the launch of the new season, visitors who book to visit The Roman Baths during November and December 2026 can take advantage of a special return offer, allowing them to revisit for just £1 during January and February 2027. The promotion offers the perfect opportunity to experience Chew Valley Hoard: Coins, Kings & Conquest and enjoy the site in a different season.
Chew Valley Hoard: Coins, Kings & Conquest is at The Roman Baths from 8 January to 14 March 2027. Admission to the exhibition is included with entry to The Roman Baths.
Tickets for 2027 are available to book now at www.romanbaths.co.uk