The Bath World Heritage Centre in York Street recently celebrated its first anniversary, bringing together staff and volunteers to mark the occasion.
Staff and volunteers celebrate the first anniversary of Bath World Heritage Centre | Photo © B&NES Council
With support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the centre serves as a gateway for individuals to connect with Bath’s culture, history, and heritage.
It provides an opportunity to explore well-known Bath landmarks, as well as discover lesser-known places throughout the city.
Since its opening on 9th May 2022, the centre has welcomed over 72,000 visitors.
Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader, Bath & North East Somerset Liberal Democrat Group, said: “It has been wonderful to welcome so many people to the World Heritage Centre during its first year.
“Our staff and volunteers have enjoyed sharing their knowledge of Bath and helping people discover the city’s unique heritage, from spotting hidden details in the Circus and Royal Crescent, to learning about the extravagant funfairs that took place in Sydney Gardens.”
People from all backgrounds have walked through its doors, including locals seeking to learn about the heritage on their doorstep, as well as international visitors from countries like India, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.
The centre offers an array of interactive exhibits and displays designed to engage, educate, and inspire visitors.
Professor Barry Gilbertson, Chair of the City of Bath UNESCO World Heritage Site Advisory Board, said: “We have been determined to increase awareness of our two World Heritage Inscriptions, the reasons for the Inscriptions in 1987 and 2021, and the importance of World Heritage to Bath’s economy.
“72,000 visitors in our first year of opening is an amazing achievement. By comparison, that number is very close to the capacity of Old Trafford stadium in Manchester!”
Staff and volunteers are readily available to answer questions and assist visitors in maximising their experience.
Free walking trails and guides are provided to help guests explore all that the city has to offer, and a specially designed mobile app adds an element of fun to the visit.
Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “It’s fantastic to hear that the first year of the Bath World Heritage Centre has been so successful.
“Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, we were able to support creating an engaging learning experience that shares the fascinating history of Bath to locals and tourists alike. Its success is a testament to the team.
The centre’s team of 52 volunteers has collectively contributed an impressive total of 2,237 hours to the World Heritage Centre.
Many of these volunteers also lend their time to other roles within the city, such as serving as Mayor’s Honorary Guides, Bath Welcome Ambassadors, and volunteering at Bath Abbey and the Victoria Art Gallery.
As a designated World Heritage Site, Bath stands alongside iconic places like the Taj Mahal and the Great Wall of China as one of the world’s most culturally significant sites.
Recently, the city attained a second listing as one of the ‘Great Spa Towns of Europe’, making it the only city in the UK to feature twice on the World Heritage List.
