Bath Abbey is a magnificent parish church reflecting the values of the people for centuries.
Located in a central square, Bath Abbey commands attention. Interestingly, this site of a Christian convent during the Saxon era, is across the square from the Roman era baths and their temple to Minerva.
Inside, the fabulous west window completed in 1894 depicts the first stories in the Bible.
At the other end, the Great East Window of 1873 illustrates the life of Jesus in 56 scenes.
We walk around atop the gravestones of hundreds of people. One stone, is a memorial to the 1,000 years of English monarchy 973 to 1973 - King Edgar to Queen Elizabeth II.
King Edgar was the first king of all England. The King Edgar Window depicts his crowning here at the Saxon monastery.
Looking up we see an elegant fan vaulted ceiling.
There are chapels around the church inviting visitors and locals to pray and meditate. As you enter the Priory Birdie chapel, there is a stunning statue of Mary.
Chapels
Inside the church-
The church has added an underground section, which includes a museum with hands on activities for children. The work of the stone masons is incredible.
It’s Easter week so, the church tells the story of Jesus final week.
Outside Bath Abbey
The Rebecca Fountain named for Rebecca in the Old Testament and erected in 1861 to promote abstinence from alcohol.
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A view of the Bath Abbey Tower
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A close up of one of the two ladders on either side of the large doorway. They represented Bishop Oliver’s dream like Jacob’s ladder to heaven. Some suggest the angels on the ladder represent ascending based on humility but notice, some angels descend.
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Notes
There are toilets and a gift shop at the end of the tour route.
There is a fee to enter for a tour.
It is an active church where visitors are welcome.
It is no longer an abbey but the old name continues to be used for this parish church.
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Notes
The photos are mine and were taken April 17-18, 2025.
Images
Readers are free to use my pictures provided you reference this blog post.
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