Overview

The Bath Assembly Rooms were the meeting place for public entertainment in the 18th century, and continue to be used today. The Ball Room is the largest space, and was used for dances and conversation. The Octagon Room's shape was suited to card playing amongst the menfolk, while the women often retired to the tea room. An additional card room was added at the back, which now serves as a bar area. Costumes of the kind worn here in the 18th century, as well as many other fashions old and new, are housed in the Museum of Costume on the lower floor of the building; admission is charged to see the museum.