The Circus
About
The Circus is Bath’s most iconic historic landmark, originally known as King’s Circus. Designed by the renowned architect John Wood the Elder and completed by his son John Wood the Younger in 1768, the structure is a perfect example of Georgian symmetry. Its three curved sections of Grade I listed townhouse form a continuous circle, a clever play on geometry that, when viewed from above, creates a distinctive masonic symbol and an echo of Stonehenge’s diameter. Over the centuries, the Circus has hosted celebrated figures such as portraitist Thomas Gainsborough, who lived at No 17, and film star Nicholas Cage. Today visitors can stroll through the curved terraces, admire the stonework embellished with serpents, acorns and nautical motifs, and appreciate the Echo Room where your words are said to reverberate throughout the piazza. The site is a must‑visit for architecture enthusiasts, history lovers and anyone keen to experience Bath’s unique blend of heritage and charm.
Highlights
- Architectural Masterpiece
- Unique Masonic Symbol
- Historical Residents
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and Autumn, when the weather is mild and touristic crowds are lean
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour