Join us for an enlightening Club talk prior to our Club draw on Thursday 7th December at 6pm and discover the intriguing history of Roman Spas, where the Roman settlement of Aquae Sulis transformed from a steamy marshland into a significant Roman religious and spa complex. Surprisingly, the existence of Roman bathing remained concealed until 1865 when the enthusiastic antiquarian Major Davis unearthed it, embarking on years of excavation.
Drawing on eight years of insider knowledge, Michael Claydon will serve as your guide through what is now acclaimed as the best-preserved Roman remains north of the Alps.
Born in North Devon in 1952, Michael’s career began in managing local authority multipurpose entertainment centers. In the 1970s, he spent seven years as the theatre manager of the Northcott Theatre in Exeter, followed by a brief stint at the Royal Opera House in London.
In 1983, he crossed paths with American Bob Parsons, who was restoring a derelict country house in the Cotswolds. Michael Claydon joined forces with Bob Parsons to contribute to the project, and following Parsons’ passing in 2000, Michael remained involved until his retirement in 2011.
In 2014, he joined the Bath Heritage Services Team at the Roman Baths, concluding his dedicated service in May 2022.
Please note, all Club Talks are free but this special one includes a complimentary glass of fizz.