SouthGate Bath Launches Stunning Summer Installation Celebrating Nature and the River Avon

SouthGate Bath has just unveiled its brand-new summer installation, and it’s a showstopper!

Suspended above St Lawrence Street, a breathtaking “river in the sky” canopy now flows overhead, offering a spectacular visual tribute to Bath’s natural beauty and the iconic River Avon.

This creative celebration, developed in partnership with Bath & North East Somerset Council, takes inspiration from the 2025 Bath Festival of Nature and its theme of Water. The installation is also influenced by the Bath River Line, which is a local project that connects green spaces and walking routes along the Avon as it winds through the city.

A Celebration of Local Nature and Local Talent

The canopy is crafted from sustainable fabric and balsam wood, with plans already in place to repurpose the materials after summer wraps up. Some will be donated to Bath College for future projects, while others will be reused in upcoming installations.

Adding a beautiful personal touch, local artist Julie Starks worked with pupils from three local schools; St Martin’s Garden Primary, St Michael’s Junior Church School, and Roundhill Primary, to create willow fish sculptures that are now suspended as part of the display. The result is a magical overhead scene that blends creativity, education, and environmental awareness.

Educational Fun for All Ages

Families can follow a river-themed floor trail illustrated by Bath-based artist Marian Hill. Along the way, discover facts about the local ecosystem, spot native species, and scan QR codes for extra information and ideas on how to get involved in protecting our waterways.

And don’t miss the giant fish-shaped recycling point in SouthGate Place! Designed to collect used plastic bottles, this clever installation is a striking (and practical) reminder to reduce plastic waste and look after our natural world.

Local Leaders Celebrate the Launch

Guy Henderson, Centre Director at SouthGate Bath, shared:

“This year, we are proud to use our summer installation to shine a light on the River Avon and the vital natural environment that surrounds our beautiful city.

The ‘river in the sky’ is a striking centrepiece that will offer our visitors a moment of reflection and inspiration, as well as an opportunity to get involved in protecting our local environment. We’re delighted to be partnering with Festival of Nature and Bath and North East Somerset Council on such an important initiative.”

Councillor Sarah Warren, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Bath and North East Somerset, added:

“I would like to say thank you to SouthGate Bath, the Festival of Nature and everyone involved in the creation of this striking installation, particularly the pupils from St Martin’s Garden Primary School, St Michael’s Junior Church School and Roundhill Primary school who created the willow fish featured in the overhead canopy.
“The display will encourage visitors to reflect on the city’s waterways, celebrate the work we are doing to enhance the natural habitats along the Bath River Line and highlight the council’s vision of being Nature Positive.”

Visit This Summer

The installation will remain in place throughout the summer, offering a perfect backdrop for sunny strolls, family fun, and beautiful photo opportunities.

Don’t forget to share your snaps on social media using #SummerAtSouthGate, tagging
@SouthGateBath on Facebook and @southgate_bath on Instagram.

Plan your visit and explore everything SouthGate has to offer at: www.southgatebath.com