Live Music Series Revives Historic Atmosphere at Bath’s Roman Baths

In a bold initiative to merge cultural heritage with contemporary entertainment, Bath’s iconic Roman Baths will host a series of live music events this summer, aptly named the Summer Lates series. Running from July 21 to August 31, 2025, this program will feature an array of live performances and DJ sets, showcasing genres such as disco, funk, gospel, and jazz, transforming the historic space into a vibrant community gathering point on weekends.

The Roman Baths, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history dating back to Roman Britain, are set to embrace a new identity as a venue for evening entertainment. Amanda Hart, the director of archaeology at the Roman Baths, emphasized that this initiative is an experiment aimed at attracting a diverse audience. "We would like people to experience the baths in a different way and maybe attract a slightly different audience – visitors who wouldn’t necessarily come to the baths," Hart stated during a recent press briefing.

Historically, the Roman Baths served as social hubs where music and entertainment likely played a role. Although definitive evidence of live music in ancient Roman times is lacking, Hart suggests that music was integral to the bathing experience, akin to the lively atmosphere described by the Roman philosopher Seneca the Younger. In his letters, Seneca vividly recounted the noise and chaos of public baths, highlighting the social significance of these venues.

The Summer Lates series is designed to evoke this spirit while maintaining a “subtle, ambient” atmosphere rather than a raucous party scene. The program includes performances by notable artists such as Hayden Thorpe, the former frontman of the band Wild Beasts, and Americana group Our Man in the Field. Additionally, local DJs like Lauren Beavis and Oli Ackroyd will bring their unique sounds to the historic site.

Kevin Guy, the leader of the Bath and North East Somerset council, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, "We’re continuing that tradition in a bold and contemporary way. It reflects our ongoing commitment to sharing Bath’s heritage in ways that are creative and relevant."

The initiative represents a significant shift in how cultural heritage sites can engage with modern audiences, blurring the lines between history and contemporary entertainment. The baths will extend their opening hours, staying open until 10 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, while offering a pop-up bar and torch-lit ambiance to enhance the experience.

As the Summer Lates series unfolds, it may redefine the perception of Bath’s Roman Baths, reinforcing their role as a community gathering space while honoring the historical significance of the site. This unique blend of past and present invites both locals and tourists to reconnect with the rich tapestry of Bath's cultural heritage, suggesting that even ancient sites can adapt to modern times in innovative ways. The continued interest from the public and the potential for future events could pave the way for similar initiatives in other historical venues across the UK and beyond.