Archaeological excavations beneath Bath Assembly Rooms have uncovered Roman artefacts, expanding evidence of Roman occupation and revealing previously inaccessible historical layers.

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• Archaeologists excavating beneath Bath Assembly Rooms in Somerset uncovered Roman ditches, pottery, coins, glassware, animal bones and roof tiles.
• Almost 60 fragments of Roman pottery were recovered from one ditch, alongside glass vessels, three Roman coins and a limestone tessera.
• A fragment of a Roman military helmet was among the notable discoveries, providing further evidence of military involvement in Bath’s development.
• Archaeologists said the discoveries suggest Roman occupation may have extended beyond the currently visible remains of the ancient city.
• The excavation has raised the possibility that additional Roman remains could survive beneath neighbouring Georgian streets and other inaccessible areas.
• The finds also included 18th-century objects such as a clay pipe and wig curlers, offering evidence about later visitors.
• The discoveries were made during a £20 million refurbishment project at Bath Assembly Rooms, which is scheduled to reopen in 2027.
• The excavation provides a rare opportunity to investigate archaeological deposits beneath a major historic building that were previously inaccessible.
• Researchers said the findings highlight how multiple historical periods can remain preserved beneath Bath’s modern streets and buildings.
• The project combines evidence from Roman and later periods, offering a broader view of Bath’s changing urban history.