Families searching for an unforgettable day out this summer can step into an extraordinary world at The Roman Baths, where a new partnership with award-winning AQUILA Magazine has inspired a playful, puzzle-packed adventure full of storytelling and hands-on fun, offering 2,000 years of history in one legendary day out.
Running throughout the school holidays from 18 July- 31 August, The Roman Baths Summer Quest: Reverse the Curse in partnership with AQUILA is a new family experience, at the heart of a lively programme of activities designed to spark curiosity and imagination. From interactive challenges to creative crafts and archaeological discovery, there’s something to capture every interest – where ancient history meets adventure, creativity, and family fun.
A brand-new adventure, created with AQUILA Magazine
Developed in partnership with AQUILA, the magazine for inquisitive young minds, the Summer Quest invites families to experience the Roman Baths in a completely new way.
Set among the ancient stones and steaming waters of this remarkable historic site, the quest draws inspiration from the real Roman practice of writing curse tablets, but with a playful twist. Instead of casting a curse, families must work together to lift one.
As they explore, adventurers follow a trail of clues through the Baths, tackling puzzles, cracking codes, and uncovering surprising stories about Roman life. The result is a hands-on, minds-on experience designed for children aged 7+ and their grown-ups, combining history, humour, and just the right level of challenge.
Against this backdrop, history becomes something you don’t just see, but experience together.
Those who successfully complete the quest will unlock a three-month digital subscription to AQUILA Magazine, extending the spirit of curiosity long after the visit ends.
Amanda Hart, Director of Archaeology at the Roman Baths, said:
“Working with AQUILA Magazine has been a brilliant way to bring something a bit different to The Roman Baths this summer. Reverse the Curse turns a visit into a real adventure, full of puzzles, surprises, and stories that families can experience together. Combined with all our hands-on activities, it makes for a fantastic, memory-making day out.”
Freya Hardy, Editorial Director at AQUILA magazine, said:
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with such a fabulous team at The Roman Baths, and really quite honoured to be bringing a little bit of AQUILA silliness to one of England’s most important and fascinating ancient sites.”
Dig deeper with Archaeology Adventures
The Summer Quest is just one part of a packed summer programme. For children who love getting hands-on, Archaeology Adventures sessions offer the chance to step into the shoes of a real archaeologist.
Taking place on weekday mornings between 23 July and 28 August, these engaging sessions invite young explorers to dig into a specially designed excavation trench, uncover replica Roman artefacts, and learn how archaeologists identify and record their finds.
Free creative fun all summer long
Alongside the quest and archaeology sessions, families can drop in for a series of free craft activities inspired by Roman festivals and traditions.
From shimmering sea creature mosaics during Neptunalia, to woven decorations for Lammas, imperial masks celebrating Augustus, paper roses for Rosalia, and colourful harvest mobiles for Vinalia, there’s something new to try each week.
Running from 2-4pm on selected dates, these relaxed, family-friendly sessions are perfect for children aged 4+ and offer a fun, creative way to engage with the stories of the Roman world, all included with admission.
Make a full day of it
With so much happening throughout the day, the Roman Baths offers far more than a quick visit this summer – it’s the place for a legendary day out. Families can wander around the iconic Great Bath, take on the quest, get hands-on with activities, and pause to enjoy moments of creativity and discovery along the way.
Whether it’s digging into archaeology in the morning, crafting in the afternoon, or solving clues all day there are plenty of ways to shape a visit that suits your family, all within one of the UK’s most extraordinary historic settings, where 2,000 years of history come to life.
Councillor Paul Roper, Bath & North East Somerset Council, said:
“The Roman Baths is one of our most iconic attractions, and this fantastic summer programme gives families even more reasons to visit. From the new AQUILA partnership to the hands-on activities and creative experiences, it’s a brilliant way for children and adults alike to explore the city’s heritage together while enjoying a fun and rewarding day out.”
Great value for families
Family tickets offer up to 50% savings compared to standard admission, making it easier than ever to enjoy a full day packed with history, adventure, and creativity.
