Organ talk and tour
Bath Abbey, 9 Kingston Buildings, BATH, Somerset, BA1 1LT
There have been eight different organs in Bath Abbey since 1634. The current one was made in 1997 by Klais of Bonn and restored by that company in 2023. It has over 4000 pipes, 4 manuals and pedals and 62 stops. The complicated workings sit over 9 metres above the Abbey floor and it has mechanical action with electronic coupling. The Abbey hosts a large number of organ recitals throughout the year which offer the chance to enjoy some stunning music while watching the organist perform live via a video screen.
Tuesday 10 September
12.30 – 12.50 Organ demonstration for visitors (fully accessible, on the Abbey floor)
1.00 – 1.45 Organ recital by the Abbey's Director of Music, Huw Williams
Special tour of Organ loft (NB up high, narrow and steep stairs; please wear sensible footwear):
1.45 – 2.15 max 10 (book a place in person at the Abbey from 12.15 on the day)
2.15 – 2.45 max 10 (as above)
Saturday 14 September
3.00 – 3.20 Organ demonstration for visitors (fully accessible, on the Abbey floor)
Special tour of Organ loft (NB up high, narrow and steep stairs; please wear sensible footwear)
3.30 – 4.00 max 10 (book a place in person at the Abbey from 2.45 on the day)
4.00- 4.30 max 10 (as above)
Timings & Tours
- Tuesday 10 September:
- 1230 – 1250 Organ demonstration for visitors; 1300 – 1345 Organ recital; Tours of Organ loft: 1345 – 1415 & 1415- 1445
- Saturday 14 September:
- 1500 – 1520 Organ demonstration for visitors; Tours of Organ loft 1530 – 1600 & 1600 - 1630
Location & directions
Bath Abbey, 9 Kingston Buildings, BATH, Somerset, BA1 1LT
- Contact on day:
- Polly Andrews
- Telephone number:
- +441225303319
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Book on day
- Booking conditions:
- 'Backstage' tours of the Organ loft are bookable on the day in person at the Abbey entrance from 1215 (10th Sept) and 1445 (14th September).
Accessibility details
Organ demonstration for visitors and recital are fully accessible for all as they are on the Abbey floor. Tour of the Organ loft is 9 metres above the Abbey floor, up narrow, steep stairs; please wear sensible footwear. Tour is open to children of 8+ years with a parent/carer.
Additional information
- Max no of people per tour:
- 10
- Est. tour duration:
- 0 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
