Welwyn Roman Baths

Welwyn Roman Baths is located under the A1 motorway just north of Welwyn Garden City in Hertfordshire. The baths were a small part of the Dicket Mead villa which was originally built in the 3rd century AD.

Who would have thought as you drive over the A1 that there is a 3rd-century bath complex underneath it? They are protected by a steel vault and are open to the public. The baths were first discovered in 1960 by a local archaeologist who saw Roman tiles protruding from the bank of the River Mimram.

To protect the baths the archaeologists had to complete their excavations and come up with a plan to protect them. This resulted in the steel vault lying nine metres beneath the motorway. The entrance is by way of a tunnel into the bank that supports the motorway.

Today half of the bath complex is on display along with an exhibition of finds that were uncovered during excavations. You look down on the baths from a raised walkway. One of the most interesting finds was the skeleton of a woman. It is possible that she was a ritual human sacrifice, a community outcast or a foreigner. She was just 4’11”. It’s certainly a unique place to visit.

Further Information Welwyn Roman Baths

Is there food and drink available?

There is no on-site cafe.

What are the main things to do?

Located under the A1 the baths were a small part of the Dicket Mead villa which was originally built in the 3rd century AD. There are toilets nearby.

What are the ticket prices?

Adults £5, children aged 2-16 £1.50.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.

Is there parking?

There is free parking. The car park is located off Hertford Road at the entrance to the venue.

When are they open?

They are open every Saturday and every weekday afternoon (1-4 pm) during Hertfordshire School Holidays w/c 24 October, with some closure over winter. Please visit their website for up-to-date information.