Roman in origin, then restored by the Anglo-Saxons, and later strengthened in the High medieval period, the walls formed a complete circuit, covering the historic core of the modern city, an area of approximately 23 acres (9.3 ha)[2] including the Roman Baths and medieval Bath Abbey.

Bath's first defensive walls were built by the Romans in the 3rd century CE to surround their settlement of Aquae Sulis.

[3] By the 10th century CE, the Anglo-Saxons had established a fortified burh (borough) known as Acemannesceastre within the ruins of the former Roman town.

[4] As the burh was located at the northern edge of the kingdom of Wessex, it would have guarded against neighbouring Mercia, which was part of the Danelaw in the 10the century CE.

The North and South Gates within Bath's walls were both decorated with a number of statues, including the legendary King Bladud and Edward III.