Join in with the University's 60th anniversary celebrations

This October, the University of Bath is officially 60 years old, but we're beginning our celebrations early. Here's how you can join in.

It all started in 1966

On 25 October 1966, Queen Elizabeth II signed the Charter that established Bath University of Technology. In 1971, we officially became the University of Bath, and we've never looked back. Sixty years on and, in 2026, our outstanding education for curious and ambitious minds, top graduate prospects and high impact research have never been more important.

But, while we eagerly look ahead to shape the next 60 years, we're taking this opportunity to celebrate the University's big birthday with a series of events and activities running up to October. And, we want you, our dedicated and talented colleagues, to be part of it. Here's what we have planned, so far.

60th Anniversary University Staff, Friends and Family Day

Mark Sunday, 31 May in your calendars; we're inviting existing and former colleagues, their friends and family and our closest neighbours to visit the east of campus for a day of fun. Roll up, roll up for:

taster sessions and games in the Sports Training Village
a funfair for all ages (including some rides for younger children)
refreshments
an exhibition celebrating 60 years of the University in the Lime Tree

Activities and refreshments are free of charge for University staff, their friends/families, former staff and local residents.

NOTE: Booking links for this event are now closed. Please remember to show your Eventbrite tickets on the day to collect your free refreshments

Adelard events

We’re marking our 60th anniversary with a new series of lectures and panel conversations named in honour of Adelard of Bath, the influential 12th‑century natural philosopher. The programme draws on our heritage and future focus to showcase bold ideas that can shape the next 60 years of the University’s contribution to society, reflecting our commitment to curiosity, global knowledge exchange and evidence‑led debate.

By bringing Adelard’s story to the fore, we celebrate the legacy of the man often described as “England’s first scientist” and highlight Bath’s deep scholarly roots. Working with partners including the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, Bath Festivals and Bath Digital Festival, we’re convening thinkers whose ideas span science, society and public policy, with a focus on our core research themes: health, digital and sustainability.

Our next Adelard Lecture: Outrage + Optimism: A Live Conversation, with Christiana Figueres

Further information

60th Anniversary Celebration

Join colleagues from across the University on Wednesday 21 October as we come together to celebrate our 60th anniversary and look ahead to our future: Celebrate our 60th Anniversary