Romans, Kings and The City of Bath's Culture

Bath is a city with nearly two thousand years of history. Designated as a UNESCO heritage site, it was founded around 1 AD by the Romans. The first settlers used the thermal springs as spas and as time went by the city developed into an important city for the wool industry. Then in the 1700s, it was transformed by several kings into a city famed for literature and art. In this article, we’ll discuss the role of gambling through time as the city underwent its transformations.

Present day Bath

Before looking at the history of gambling in the city, we’ll compare it to the present day. In Bath, the online gambling industry provides multiple options for gamblers to spend their money. An example of an online casino is MrQ which offers over 900 money slots, different table games as well as megaways and roulette. MrQ, along with other gambling companies, offers gamblers in Bath the chance to play casino games just like their predeccesors of hundreds of years before.

At the time of writing there are no land-based casinos in the city. Century Casino was the last open establishment but that has closed its doors. Those in Bath who would prefer to gamble in a bricks and mortar casino need to travel to nearby city, Bristol, which has more in-person casino options. This lack of in-person gambling is in stark contrast to times gone-by

Roman times

The Romans are famous for their gambling. Ammianus Marcellinus, a Roman soldier and a historian described a type of ‘gambling mania’ that was prevalent across social classes at the time. Citizens enjoyed betting on chariot racing, gladiators as well as playing games similar to the ones in existence now with dice or boards. Excavations have taken place in England and uncovered board game pieces belonging to Roman times while in Bath there is evidence of a cock fighting ring at Timber Ring, a popular gambling pastime.

The 1700 and 1800s

During these centuries, Bath was a popular destination for London’s elite classes. It was a city they went to in order to relax, socialise and gamble. Popular games included cribbage, still known today, and Ombre and the basset.

At a time when medicine was not as effective or widely available as it is today, doctors had to think of alternative methods to cure their patients. One such method was to suggest patients focus on other pursuits to take their minds off their sickness.

Bath may not have land-based casinos to live up to its heritage as a popular place for gambling, however there are still online options for those who live in the city. With a city built around Roman ruins, as well as newer infrastructure dating back to the 1700s, taking a walk around the city will remind you of centuries gone by. Times when in-person gambling was an important part of society and way to socialise.