The Friends of Bath Abbey has been in existence for over 70 years. Our members are from a wide range of backgrounds and ages. Most live in the Bath area, but some live in other parts of the United Kingdom or overseas. All share the same aim and interest - to help preserve and enhance the Abbey's magnificent architecture and ornaments for the pleasure and enjoyment of present and future generations.
We foster friendship and fellowship among our members by hosting a varied programme of events and activities throughout the year. During 2022 these included two lunches, a visit to Winchester Cathedral and Winchester College, and a lecture on the Abbey's current and previous Patrons. The Friends provide a link for those who would like to stay in touch with the life of the Abbey but do not worship there regularly.
The Friends work closely with the Parochial Church Council (PCC). While the Friends are not involved in routine maintenance, they play a major role in embellishments, restoration work and refurbishment. These have included cleaning the East Front, installing the angels in the Quire Screens, refurbishing the chandeliers and creating the new south-west porch. More recently, The Friends (both collectively, and as individuals) have financially supported The Footprint Project.
Oberammergau 2022
A group of 32 Friends enjoyed a wonderful visit to Austria and “Oberammergau 2022”. The high spot of the week in the Tyrol was visiting Obergammau and witnessing a spectacular and moving performance of the Passion Play.
In this photograph the group are being introduced to the glorious scenery around Moesern by Harry, the McCabe Tour Guide, who was with them for the whole trip.
The Friends Executive Committee
This comprises the Rector (as President), the Chairman (who is appointed by the Rector), the Treasurer and 9 Friends (all elected at the Annual General Meeting) and up to 5 representatives of the Parochial Church Council (PCC). The Secretary is appointed by the Committee, which normally meets four times a year to plan projects and events.
President: The Rector, The Revd Canon Guy Bridgewater
Treasurer & Membership Secretary: Mr Brian Webber
Tel 01225 469722, brianwebber3@outlook.com
Secretary: Mr Jeremy Key-Pugh
Tel 01225 427525, JKey-Pugh@bathabbey.org
How to Join
The subscription rates are:
- Individual Member - £15 per annum
- Joint Members - £25 per annum
- Life Member - £200
- Joint Life Members - £300
To join, please download, complete and sign the Membership Form. Then send it to: Brian Webber, Treasurer & Membership Secretary of The Friends of Bath Abbey, c/o Abbey Office, 9 Kingston Buildings, Bath, BA1 1LT
For further information about The Friends, please contact Jeremy Key-Pugh, Secretary of The Friends, see contact details above.
On joining The Friends, you will be entitled to a one-off benefit from the Abbey of two free Tower Tours (worth £20) and thereafter a discount of 10% off any purchases from the Abbey shop.
