[Synchronised swimmers from Bath University putting on a show at last night’s Thermae Bath Spa celebrations]
It was several years late in opening and cost rather more than was estimated to build, but ever since 2006, when the Thermae Bath Spa complex welcomed its first customers, more than five million people have enjoyed bathing in Britain’s only natural mineral-rich thermal waters – here in the centre of our city.
We’ve been enjoying the benefits of three hot springs for two thousand years and more.
Around 1.3 million litres a day bubble up from deep underground – heated by high-temperature rocks. Water that originally fell as rain thousands of years ago.
Thermae Bath Spa draws water from the springs and attracts something like 230,000 guests a year to enjoy the experience of bathing in such mineral-rich pools.
I was invited to join in celebrations to mark its 20th anniversary, an event that brought together many of the people who helped create one of Bath’s most popular tourist destinations.
Unfortunately, Nick Grimshaw, the man whose architectural practice designed this amazing mixture of ancient and modern buildings, died in September 2025.
He was also responsible for the Eden Project in Cornwall and the International Terminal at Waterloo.
There was lots going on around us last night, but I did manage to ‘corner’ Colin Skellett, CEO of the YTL Group UK, who run the spa, for a quick word.
Yes celebrations welcome and right to note Nick Grimshaw and others involved.
It was a hard slog pulling that off and I’m sorry you did not mention Heritage lottery funding which was conditional on local people stumping up funds.
Many many local people should be congratulated on their crucial investment.
Hilary Fraser
Labour elected councillor on Spa Project Committee
I have been using the Cross bath ( part of the Thermae Bath Spa)since the Royal mineral Hospital , so long ! I manage my chronic condition with my weekly visit, the staff are charming and I’m pleased to say it works. Congratulations to all !