Beckford’s Tower and Museum stands on Lansdown Hill, on the edge of Bath. Built for William Beckford in 1827, the tower is known for its spiral staircase, views across Bath and the surrounding countryside, and a museum about Beckford’s life and collection. Inside, you can see furniture made for the tower alongside paintings, prints and other objects. Lansdown Cemetery surrounds the site and includes Beckford’s grave. It’s a rewarding stop for architecture, local history and a walk with a view.
A tower built for Beckford
Beckford’s Tower was built in 1827 for William Beckford, a writer and collector. It was a retreat for him and a place to house his collection of art and rare books. The tower is the only surviving example of his architectural work.
Beckford’s wealth came from his family’s connection to Jamaican sugar plantations and enslaved people. That history is part of the story told at the museum, alongside his life as a writer, collector and patron of the arts.
The museum and the climb
The museum occupies the two-storey building at the tower’s base. Its collection includes furniture made for the tower, as well as paintings, prints and objects that relate to Beckford’s life and interests.
The spiral staircase leads up through the tower to the lantern, where the views take in Bath and the surrounding countryside. Reaching the lantern involves a long climb, and access to the top is by a separately booked tour. The staircase and the tower’s architectural details are part of the visit as much as the view.
Lansdown Cemetery
The tower is surrounded by Lansdown Cemetery, which occupies part of Beckford’s former landscaped grounds. Beckford was the cemetery’s first burial after it was established following his death. His grave is among the grounds’ points of interest, and a path leads towards the grotto.
The cemetery adds a quieter outdoor element to a visit focused on the tower and museum. Access to the tower and museum is not step-free, so visitors who need step-free routes should plan around that limitation.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Beckford’s Tower and Museum?
It is on Lansdown Road, on the edge of Bath, at the top of Lansdown Hill.
What can you see inside Beckford’s Tower and Museum?
The museum has furniture made for the tower, paintings, prints and objects relating to William Beckford. The tower’s spiral staircase leads towards the lantern.
Do you need to book the lantern tour?
Yes. The lantern tour requires a separate booking in addition to standard access.
Is Beckford’s Tower and Museum step-free?
No. There is no step-free access to the tower or museum.
