A neo-classical folly and museum on Lansdown Hill above Bath, built for William Beckford in the 1820s - museum, belvedere views, and a short diversion near the southern end of the Cotswold Way.
Beckford's Tower rises on Lansdown Hill just north of Bath - a neo-classical folly commissioned by the writer and collector William Beckford and designed by Henry Goodridge, completed in 1827. Intended as a library, retreat, and belvedere, the stone tower still crowns the ridge above the city; from the upper levels the view takes in Bath, the Avon valley, and the surrounding hills. The building is Grade I listed and is now cared for by the Beckford Tower Trust / Bath Preservation Trust as a museum that explores Beckford's complicated legacy, including the wealth he drew from plantations worked by enslaved people.
The museum sits on the first floor (stairs only), and the tower climb itself is 154 steps to the Belvedere. Opening is seasonal and typically limited to weekends and bank holidays - confirm current hours, tickets, and accessibility before you go. Parking on site is scarce; Lansdown Park & Ride (bus 31 from central Bath) or the uphill walk from the city (about 45 minutes) are the usual approaches. The address is Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 9BH.
For Cotswold Way walkers the tower is a natural half-day around the southern finish: the trail reaches Bath on the Cold Ashton to Bath stage, and Lansdown Hill / Bath Racecourse country sits close to the northern approaches into the city. Combine a visit with Abbey Churchyard and the Roman Baths, or fold the tower into a Lansdown circular. Practical details and booking are on the Beckford's Tower website.
Stay in Bath.
