In the 18th century, Bath evolved from a health-oriented spa town into the most fashionable resort in England. People came not just to bathe in and drink the thermal waters, but also to have a good time. Entertainment abounded, much of it musical. Superstar musicians of the day performed in the Assembly Rooms, and a resident band delighted visitors to the Pump Room, as they still do to this day.
This walking tour, led by a qualified Blue Badge tour guide, will focus on places where music filled the air in Georgian times – the Assembly Rooms and Pump Room, as well as theatres, churches and pleasure gardens. The tour will highlight some of the era’s A-list performers, including child prodigy violinist George Bridgetower, and organisers of the city’s musical programmes such as William Herschel.
Music, of course, has played a key role in Bath’s cultural life through to the present day. Look no further than the city’s many festivals, its buskers, and Robbie Williams performing in front of The Royal Crescent this June. The tour will also cover contemporary music venues that have hosted very famous bands, from the legendary Moles to Bath Pavilion. You’ll also hear about musicians with local connections, among them Tears for Fears and Peter Gabriel.
Start: outside No1 Royal Crescent (BA1 2LR)
Finish: outside the Holburne Museum (BA2 4DB)
Duration: two hours
Distance: around 1.5 miles
Suitable for wheelchair users: Yes
Gentle-paced walking, on pavements, with frequent stops.
Organised by Fred Mawer Tours (www.fredmawertours.co.uk).
Meet outside No1 Royal Crescent
