Bath Record Office is currently closed but we are planning a safe reopening. Although we are closed for research appointments, we are able to respond to enquiries by email, phone or post.
Explore Bath's world heritage
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One of the best preserved Roman remains in the world.
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A world-class collection of contemporary and historical dress.
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Bath's public art museum housing paintings, sculpture and decorative arts.
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Stunning and historic venues for hire in the heart of a World Heritage city.
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Collecting and keeping safe historical records relating to Bath.
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The City of Bath is designated with UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
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Promoting and assisting film-making in Bath & North East Somerset.
What was life like for a Victorian workhouse schoolmaster? Find out by reading his diary!
Born in Bath in 1830, William Winckworth trained as a teacher and taught in various schools in London before returning to Bath at the end of 1855. He applied for the post of schoolmaster at the Bath workhouse, and was asked to attend for an interview on 2 January 1856.
His diary for 1856 starts with this interview and goes on to chronicle in detail the events of his professional and private life day by day throughout the year. The diary provides a fascinating insight into life in the workhouse and in Bath at the time, as well as presenting us with a picture of Winckworth himself.
Read a transcript of the diary.
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