Bath Abbey has been the centre for Christian faith in the UNESCO City of Bath for more than 1300 years. The Footprint Project ensures that it remains so for future generations, through repair and conservation work and much-needed new facilities.

The £19.3 million programme of restoration, building works and interpretation will help to secure the Abbey’s physical future and improve its accessibility, sustainability, hospitality, and service to the city, as well as providing flexibility for worship.

Within the Abbey, the main focus was the repair and conservation of the historic floor, whose stones include more memorials than any other church or cathedral in the UK. Extensive archaeological works uncovered c. 56,000 artefacts, adding to the story of the Abbey and the city. The relaid floor reveals this magnificent floor for the first time in 150 years. 

The low carbon underfloor heating system uses waste heat from the City’s natural thermal springs to provide much improved thermal comfort and a welcoming environment inside the Abbey.

Beneath the Abbey, in the Grade I listed historic pavement and adjacent Grade II listed Georgian terrace, new spaces have been created that will serve the Abbey and those who work in it. This included the repair of the Georgian buildings, but also creating a series of unexpected spaces for education, administration and a bespoke rehearsal studio for the 60-strong Abbey choir.

The Bath Abbey Footprint project helps to protect the internationally significant historic buildings for future generations, reduce their environmental impact and facilitate their ongoing relevance.