Circus, Bath

Built between 1754 and 1768, the Circus is a 200-metre-long street of townhouses in the city of Bath with a luscious garden space in the centre. Not to be confused with a modern circus, the name derives from Latin, meaning circle; for the buildings form an oval. Designed by John Wood the Elder, who also worked on the Roman Baths, the building is inspired by Stonehenge. The reason for this was John Wood believed Bath to be the centre of Druid activity. Three months into the project, however, John would unfortunately die in Bath and never see the building completed. His son, John Wood the Younger, continued his father’s efforts so today his legacy could live on.

The beautiful mix of Doric, Roman, and Corinthian architecture attracts thousands of modern tourists. It was also popular when constructed. Famous painter Thomas Gainsborough (1727-1788), known predominantly for his portraits, lived in number 17, and made use of the space for a portrait studio.

Admiral Sir Richard Bickerton, a naval officer who fought in the Napoleonic wars, also lived in the Circus at the start of the 19th century. During the Blitz of Bath in 1942, the Circus was damaged, along with the Royal Crescent (designed by John Wood, the Younger) and several houses were destroyed. Not wanting to lose John Wood’s vision, the houses were rebuilt in the original style. The Circus is a must see attraction of any tour of Bath.