Families looking for half term activities in Bath will find plenty to enjoy at the Roman Baths and the Victoria Art Gallery this February, with a mix of hands-on history and creative fun.
Step back in time at the Roman Baths
At the Roman Baths, children can travel back 2,000 years and discover the sights, sounds and stories of Roman Britain.
Families can explore the ancient site together, meet costumed Roman characters around the steaming Great Bath and enjoy free audioguides, including a lively children’s version narrated by Michael Rosen.
A free family trail encourages young visitors to search for clues, solve challenges and learn more about the people who once lived and worked at the Baths.
Throughout half term, free drop-in craft sessions run from Monday to Friday, with children creating decorations inspired by the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia.
For those keen to get hands-on, Archaeology Adventures runs from 16–20 February as a bookable add-on. Budding archaeologists can dig for replica Roman artefacts in a purpose-built trench and learn real excavation techniques. Sessions run each morning and cost £6 in addition to entry.
Families can also pick up an activity book filled with puzzles and games, join a guided tour for older children, or finish the visit with afternoon tea in the Pump Room.
Flexible family tickets offer good value, with children aged five and under going free and reduced tickets for ages 6–18. Booking online in advance saves £2 per person.
Get creative at the Victoria Art Gallery
Just a short walk away, the Victoria Art Gallery offers a packed programme inspired by Poster Power!, an exhibition celebrating 200 years of British poster design.
Families can explore bold Victorian playbills alongside striking modern graphics, while younger children enjoy an interactive area featuring a ride-on train inspired by classic railway posters and a cosy farm-themed zone.
Free children’s trails include a playful ‘find the letter’ challenge, encouraging families to look closely at fonts and typography across the exhibition.
School-aged children can also take part in a travel poster design competition, with winning entries from both primary and secondary categories displayed in the gallery.
From 18–20 February, Mini Makers: Bath it is! invites children to design their own Bath-themed posters using collage and stamps (£5 per session, booking recommended).
Free Create & Colour sessions run in the afternoons, offering relaxed drop-in creativity with pastels and poster designs.
The Upper Gallery remains free to visit and, during half term, hosts Art School… in a trail!, a Kids in Museums activity running from 14–22 February. Designed for children aged 9+, the trail encourages families to explore the collection through creative challenges, with an Art School sticker as a reward.
A great half term day out
Together, the Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery offer a varied and family-friendly programme designed to inspire curiosity and creativity.
Paul Roper, Cabinet Member for Economic & Cultural Sustainable Development, said, “Half term should always come with a dash of discovery and a sprinkling of fun, and The Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery deliver both in style.”
With the two venues only a short stroll apart, families can easily make a full and memorable day of it this February half term.
