Ravenglass Roman Bath House

Discover the Ravenglass Roman Bath House

Welcome to the Ravenglass Roman Bath House, a remarkable relic of Britain’s ancient past nestled in the scenic landscape of Cumbria. As one of the tallest surviving Roman structures in northern England, this site offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of the Romans who once occupied the bustling port of Ravenglass. English Heritage manages and preserves the site, emphasising its significant archaeological and historical value.

Explore an Ancient Roman World Heritage Site

The Ravenglass Roman Bath House, known locally as Walls Castle, dates back to the 2nd century AD. It was part of a larger Roman fort known as Glannoventa, which played a crucial role in the defence and administration of the region during the Roman occupation. The fort itself housed a garrison of a thousand soldiers, emphasising its military significance. The bathhouse was strategically located northeast of the fort, catering to military and civilian needs. The bathhouse served as a place for rest, relaxation, and socialisation, reflecting the importance of public bathing in Roman culture.

What to See

Today, visitors can explore the remarkably well-preserved remains of the baths, the roman wall stands at an impressive height of nearly 4 meters— one of the tallest surviving Roman sites in northern England and some of the tallest Roman wall remains in Britain.

The structure offers a clear view of the various rooms, including the hot bath, warm bath, and cold plunge, as well as the furnace area that heats the water. The thick stone walls and surviving arches evoke the grandeur of Roman engineering and architecture. It is also one of the tallest Roman structures surviving in northern Britain.

A Journey Through Time

As you wander through this ancient site, you’ll be stepping back nearly 2,000 years to a time when Roman soldiers and civilians alike would have used these facilities. The bathhouse not only served hygienic purposes but was also a social hub where people gathered to relax, exercise, and discuss the affairs of the day.

The surrounding area is steeped in history as well. Ravenglass, the only coastal village within the Lake District National Park, was an important military and trading port during Roman times, strategically located on the route between Hadrian’s Wall and the southern parts of the Roman Empire. It was also a significant regional supply point for the northwest, facilitating the transport of goods, particularly lead, from Lake District mines. The Roman road connecting Ravenglass to the fort at Ambleside played a crucial role in these supply chains. Northern Britain, with its enduring legacy of Roman engineering and infrastructure, was a vital region during the Roman occupation.

Visitor Information

• Location: The Ravenglass Roman Bath House is just a short walk from the charming village of Ravenglass, accessible via a scenic path that takes you through the beautiful Cumbrian countryside. The baths are signposted from the main car park in town, indicating its proximity to this parking area.
• Opening Hours: The site is open year-round, with free entry. The bath house is an outdoor site, so we recommend checking the weather before your visit.
• Parking: Free parking is available in Ravenglass Village, where the bathhouse is a pleasant walk away.
• Facilities: As the bathhouse is an outdoor site, there are no on-site facilities, but nearby Ravenglass offers various amenities, including cafes, shops, and restrooms.

Plan Your Visit

Immerse yourself in the history of Roman Britain by visiting the Ravenglass Roman Bath House. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique day out in the Lake District, this ancient site provides a fascinating insight into the past and a tranquil escape into nature. The Ravenglass Roman Bath House is part of the World Heritage Site known as the Frontiers of the Roman Empire.

For more detailed historical context, you can explore the Wikipedia page on the Ravenglass Roman Bath House(LINK 1), which provides further insights into its significance during the Roman era.

Visit us today and walk in the footsteps of the Romans!