For decades, The Recreation Ground – affectionately known as “The Rec” – has been one of rugby’s most iconic venues.
Tucked right in the heart of Bath, its character and charm have made it a special place for fans.
But after years of waiting, the old ground is finally about to step into the 21st century.
Plans that were first submitted back in 2018 have now been approved, paving the way for a brand-new 18,000-capacity stadium.
That’s an upgrade from the current 14,500, and it comes with the promise of modern facilities, cutting-edge technology, and experiences unlike anything fans have seen before.
From Shaky Stands to Sleek Design
Gone will be the wobbly scaffolding that has long propped up parts of the stadium.
In its place, permanent stands will rise – designed by architects who have worked on major projects at Tottenham Hotspur’s stadium and Wimbledon.
The Rec’s transformation is not just about size; it’s about creating an arena that combines tradition with innovation.
Bath Rugby want the ground to remain intimate and authentic, while also giving fans the benefits of modern stadium technology.
Bringing Augmented Reality to the Stands
Club CEO Tarquin McDonald is eager to push boundaries.
He’s already exploring ways to integrate augmented reality into the matchday experience.
“Everyone has a smartphone now,” McDonald explained.
“Fans should be able to point their phones at a player and instantly see stats, videos, even their heart rate in real time.”
Bath are in talks with tech firms to bring these ideas to life.
Imagine holding up your phone to track the speed of Henry Arundell’s run or the exact height of a kick as it sails through the posts.
It’s the kind of feature that could make The Rec one of the most advanced stadiums in European rugby.
Protecting Tradition While Moving Forward
Despite these changes, Bath are determined to keep the soul of The Rec intact.
They’ve even enlisted heritage consultant Kay Elliott, who helped restore Blackpool Tower, to make sure the stadium’s unique character isn’t lost.
McDonald stressed the importance of keeping what makes the ground special: the closeness to the players, the atmosphere, and that feeling of community that has always defined rugby in Bath.
A Fresh Take on Matchday Hospitality
The redevelopment also promises to improve hospitality options, something The Rec has been limited by in the past.
Bath plan to offer everything from premium suites to “general admission plus” experiences, complete with quicker service, better food, and cashless ordering via app.
“We want to give fans choice,” said McDonald.
“From a fantastic pint to a high-end dining experience, and even behind-the-scenes access.”
Bath are also considering partnerships with top local restaurants and guest chefs, making matchdays feel more like a city-wide celebration.
Riverside Dreams Beyond Rugby
The club is looking at Fulham’s Craven Cottage for inspiration.
With its riverside setting, Bath want to transform The Rec into a year-round destination, not just a rugby venue.
Plans include a riverside brasserie, conference spaces, and facilities that can operate 365 days a year.
Activating the riverside, McDonald believes, is a huge opportunity for both the club and the city.
A Stadium Built for International Rugby
Another big ambition is to bring top-level international rugby to Bath.
Currently, The Rec isn’t equipped to host major tournaments like the Women’s World Cup.
The new stadium, however, will meet international standards and could even stage World Club Cup fixtures.
Bath want to make sure the city isn’t just on the domestic rugby map, but also on the global one.
Keeping Rugby at the Heart of Bath
One thing the club won’t compromise on is location. Relocating to an out-of-town site was never an option.
For McDonald, keeping rugby in the centre of Bath is essential.
“This is a rugby town,” he said. “When Bath Rugby play, the whole city comes alive.
It’s more than sport – it’s about community.”
The new stadium will be phased in while the team continues to play at The Rec, ensuring supporters remain part of the journey every step of the way.
What Happens Next?
The final hurdle is government authorisation, which Bath are waiting on before construction can officially begin.
Once that’s cleared, work will start – though the club is careful not to pin down exact timelines just yet.
But one thing is certain: when the new Rec opens its doors, it won’t just be a stadium.
It will be a symbol of tradition meeting innovation, a hub for the community, and a proud home for Bath Rugby for generations to come.