Archaeologists uncover rare 18th-century cold bath under Bath Assembly Rooms

Excavations reveal structure that may be one of a kind below building that was used for range of leisure activities

The therapeutic value of ice baths or cold water immersion were recognised long before wellness gurus and celebrities extolled them on social media. Even the Romans were fond of a dip in the frigidarium.

Now it has emerged that the men and women of 18th-century Bath could visit their local assembly rooms for an icy plunge, alongside indulging in other leisure and pleasure pursuits.