Water, History and Style

New edition of the story of Bath's World Heritage Site status

With informative and lively text by Bath scholar Dr Cathryn Spence Water, History & Style explains the significance of UNESCO’s award in the context of Bath’s economic, social and architectural history.

In December 1987 UNESCO bestowed its greatest honour on Bath when it declared the city a World Heritage Site for its outstanding cultural heritage – including its natural thermal spa waters – and landscape setting. Bath was one of the first ten sites to be recognised in the United Kingdom and received its award along with Blenheim Palace, Hadrian’s Wall and the Palace of Westminster.

Published to coincide with the 25th anniversary of Bath’s inscription as a World Heritage Site, Water, History & Style is a celebration of Bath’s Outstanding Universal Values. With informative and lively text by Bath scholar Dr Cathryn Spence Water, History & Style explains the significance of UNESCO’s award in the context of Bath’s economic, social and architectural history. The 25 locations and themes are richly illustrated with a wealth of fascinating historic images representing Bath’s six millennia of human history.