Key facts
| Address | Spring Gardens, Bath, BA2 4DS |
| Capacity | 14,500 seats |
| Build Date | 1894 |
Description
The Recreation Ground, which is also referred to as the Rec, is located in Bath, the UK. It is used for recreational purposes mainly by the local people.
The very first Bath rugby match was held at the ground in 1884. Today, about 1/4 of the Recreation Ground is used by Bath Rugby during the union season. The ground capacity is enough for 14,500 people. The East Stand is temporally installed during the rugby season to provide more places. During the summer, the stand is removed to provide a bigger pitch that is needed for cricket games.
The cricket pitch is mainly used by the local cricket players. The eastern area of the ground is often used by the following local clubs: Croquet Club, Hockey Club, Quidditch Club, and Drama Club. The ground is used for tennis games. Pitches are suitable for non-professionals teams to play football, lacrosse, and volleyball.
Over many years, the Recreation Ground was at high risk of flooding from the River Avon, and that is why an alleviation scheme in case of the flood was created in the 1960s. Anyway, this did not eliminate the risk completely, and that is why the Rec can still suffer from flooding. When it heavy rains, the ground becomes extremely boggy.
FAQ
The Recreation Ground, often called “The Rec,” has a long history dating back to the 18th century. However, it began to be used regularly for rugby in the late 19th century. Bath Rugby Club has been playing their home games at the Rec since 1894.
The name “Recreation Ground” comes from its original purpose as a public space for recreation and leisure activities. It was initially used for various sports and community events before becoming primarily associated with rugby.
The Recreation Ground has a capacity of approximately 14,500 for rugby matches. This includes a mix of seated and standing areas.
The primary tenant of the Recreation Ground is Bath Rugby, a professional rugby union team that competes in Premiership Rugby, the top division of English rugby union.
One of the most notable features of the Rec is its picturesque location. The stadium offers stunning views of Bath Abbey and the surrounding cityscape, making it one of the most scenic venues in English rugby.
While primarily used for rugby, the Rec has hosted other events in the past, including cricket matches and community events. However, its use for non-rugby events has been limited in recent years due to agreements with local authorities and residents.
