The Royal Bath Hospital was opened in 1824 to provide spa treatment for the poor and was funded by public subscription. It was rebuilt in 1889 and closed in 1994.

Montpellier Baths and Gardens were laid out in 1835 by Joseph Thackwray, owner of Montpellier Gardens and the Crown Hotel whose grounds contained a number of sulphur springs.

John Williams, owner of the Cheltenham Pump Room, built the Victoria Baths in 1832 on the site of the Crescent Gardens. The New Victoria Baths were opened in 1871. The Council Chamber and Municipal Offices occupied the upper floors until their replacement by the present-day Municipal Buildings in 1931 on the same site.

The Royal Baths were erected between 1894 and 1897 and were extended in 1939. The Duke of Cambridge performed the grand opening ceremony on 3rd July 1897. The text around the cornice of the Entrance Hall reads:

’Ah! What avail the largest gifts of heaven when drooping health and spirits go amiss, how tasteless then whatever can be given, health is the vital principle of bliss, and exercise of health. Then in life’s goblet freely press the leaves that give it bitterness: Nor prize the healing waters less, for in thy darkness and distress new light and strength they give.’

From James Thompson’s The Castle of Indolence.

Elevation of Montpellier Baths: NYCRO1092

Sections of Montpellier Baths: NYCRO1093