Cross Bath

## Overview The Cross Bath is one of Bath's historic hot springs, located in the heart of the city of Bath, Somerset, England. Fed by the same geothermal source as the famous Roman Baths, the Cross Bath is a natural thermal spring where water rises at approximately 40°C (104°F) from deep within the earth — one of only a handful of naturally hot springs in the United Kingdom. The site has been used for bathing for centuries. The spring takes its name from a medieval cross that once stood nearby, and the bath has a long association with healing and ritual. In the 17th century, Mary of Modena, wife of James II, reportedly visited the Cross Bath, and her subsequent pregnancy was attributed to the curative powers of the waters. The current building dates from the early 18th century and was designed by architect Thomas Baldwin, though the structure has been extensively renovated in modern times. Today, the Cross Bath operates as an open-air thermal bath housed within an elegant, contemporary enclosure that blends sensitively with the surrounding Georgian architecture. The mineral-rich waters of the Cross Bath are part of the same geothermal system that supplies the nearby Thermae Bath Spa and the ancient Roman Baths. The water is believed to contain over 42 different minerals, including calcium, sulphate, and trace amounts of iron, which give it its characteristic warmth and slightly mineral taste. Historically, the waters have been considered therapeutic and were used for centuries as a remedy for various ailments. ## Directions 1. The Cross Bath is located in central Bath, on Bath Street, just a short walk from the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. 2. From Bath Spa railway station, head northwest along Manvers Street, then turn left onto York Street. Continue onto Stall Street and then onto Bath Street — the Cross Bath will be on your left. 3. GPS coordinates: 51.3807, -2.3613. 4. The site is well signposted within the city centre. Parking in central Bath is limited; the Southgate car park or park-and-ride services are recommended. ## What to Expect The Cross Bath is a paid-access hot spring experience, typically available for private hire or small group sessions. Visitors can soak in the naturally heated thermal waters within a beautifully restored open-air pool. The modern enclosure features curved glass and Bath stone, creating an intimate and atmospheric bathing space that is open to the sky. The water temperature is comfortably warm, generally around 40°C (104°F), making it suitable for relaxing year-round — even on cooler English days, the natural heat of the spring keeps the water inviting. The pool is relatively small and intimate compared to the larger rooftop pool at the adjacent Thermae Bath Spa, which makes it a popular choice for special occasions and private events. Booking in advance is strongly recommended, as sessions are limited and the bath is a popular attraction. Access is managed through Thermae Bath Spa, and visitors should check current opening times and pricing before visiting. Towels and robes may be available for hire. The surrounding area offers plenty of cafés, restaurants, and historic sites within easy walking distance, making a visit to the Cross Bath an excellent addition to a day exploring the city of Bath.