The Roman Bath, York: Built On An Ancient Roman Bath House

The Grade II listed Roman Bath in York was built above an ancient Roman bath house, built around 71 AD.

The astonishing roman remains were discovered during construction of the current pub, which was built in 1929–31 to replace an older inn.

The excavations revealed an additional stone building of Roman date, some standing nearly three metres high.

It is thought that these structures marked the other end of the baths.

The ancient bath house appears to have catered to the military personnel stationed in Eboracum (Roman York).

Situated within Eboracum's fortress, established in the 1st century AD to accommodate a legion of approximately 5,000 soldiers, evidence such as tiles found at the bath house site bearing the insignia of specific legions suggests potential construction by the Ninth Legion.

The last documented activity of the Ninth in Britain dates back to AD 108.

Additionally, baths dating from the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD have been unearthed at Tanner Row, across the River Ouse, likely serving York's civilian population.

Today, the Roman remains in the pub can be visited - part of the building has been turned into he Roman Bath museum.

Here, you’ll be able to discover what life was like for the soldiers who lived and worked here and why a visit to the Baths was so important.

The small museum is below ground, accessed through the Roman Bath pub, and shows remains of the baths with Roman artefacts and replica articles of everyday life.

There are fascinating, and often humorous, facts and figures about Roman life in York scattered about the museum on placards, and visitors can view armour, weapons, and Roman tiles up close.

You can view tiles found on the site, some of which clearly show the signs of nails from the sandals of Romans who had trodden upon them before the tile had hardened after being made.

Tiles appear to show the seal of the 9th Roman legion, who founded the city of Eboracum in 71 AD.

There is also a "Dressing Up Corner" where children (and adults) can dress in Roman costumes, including togas, military helmets, and sandals.

Interestingly, finds discovered during excavations reveal that the Roman soldiers who frequented the bath house were fond of board games - and probably gambling.

Carved objects resembling playing pieces for backgammon and chess were unearthed.

What to expect inside the pub itself

This interior of the pub looks fabulous.

It features an island style serving bar with great decor and furnishings, including wall art depicting scenes of Roman citizens using the famed Roman baths.

Outside, meanwhile is a small beer garden, perfect for a chilled afternoon in the sun.

Most evenings, the pub also host live music events, from talented local artists to renowned acts.

They also overnight accommodation with a range of rooms to choose from - but be aware that the rooms are close to the live music, so it can get noisy at times!

Someone who recently visited the establishment said: “There is a surprising amount to learn about the Romans when in the York area, the baths culture in Roman times and military history of the Romans in York.

”The remains you can see are good as well and the man who runs it very knowledgeable about the era. It is quirky being under a pub. For only £3.50 you really should add it to your visit when in York.”

Another person added: “The museum beneath the pub is run by four expert volunteers with heaps of passion for the baths and their history.

”The attendant gave us a fascinating overview of the baths' history and how it came to be discovered completely by chance.”

The Roman Bath pub is located on the northern side of St Sampson's Square, just off Davygate and Church Street.

Get your ticket in the bar and descend the steps down into the world of 4th-century York!

Roman York

Roman York, known as Eboracum during the Roman era, was a significant military and civilian settlement in Britannia.

It served as the capital of the Roman province of Britannia Inferior.

Eboracum was established by the Romans in AD 71, and it became a major centre for trade, administration, and military operations in northern Britain.

The city boasted impressive fortifications, including a fortress built to accommodate a legion of soldiers, likely around 5,000 men.

It was strategically located at the intersection of several important Roman roads, making it a vital hub for communication and commerce.

In addition to its military importance, Roman York was also a centre of cultural and social activity.

The city featured public buildings such as temples, markets, and amphitheaters, reflecting its status as a hub of Roman civilisation in Britannia.

Eboracum was also the site of significant historical events, including the proclamation of several Roman emperors and important military campaigns against northern tribes.

The city's prosperity and influence extended beyond its walls, with evidence of Roman villas and rural settlements in the surrounding countryside.

Roman York's legacy endured even after the decline of Roman rule in Britain, as elements of its infrastructure and culture persisted into the medieval period and beyond.

Today, the archaeological remains of Roman York continue to fascinate and inform scholars and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into the rich history of this important Roman city in Britain.

If you’d like to visit the Roman Bath House, the address is: 9 St Sampsons Square, York, Yorkshire, England, YO1 8RN.

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