🕯️ Witch Hunt: The Trials in Bath

Centuries ago, the waters of Bath were used for more than just healing… they were used to test the innocent. Many never resurfaced. During the European witchcraft trials of the 15th–17th century, a suspected witch was searched for the “teats” by which she fed her familiar, and these were considered sure signs of her guilt.

Bath’s streets harbour a dark past… where a single accusation could mean the end. Those deemed ‘witches’ were marched to the river, strapped to the infamous ducking stool, and submerged. In Bath, there is a hidden and very narrow cobble stone street called Slippery Lane.

A ducking stool used to stand by the river and this was where people, mostly women, were accused of witchcraft and plunged into the river Avon. If they drowned? Innocent. If they floated and survived? Guilty.

But the real horror? Some accusers stood to inherit the homes of their unfortunate neighbours.

Well reader… yes surprise, surprise … you guessed it, many never returned. Strangely, there were many accusers. Can’t think why.