His grave lies in the grounds of Beckford’s Tower, the retreat he constructed on Lansdown. He spent his last 22 years as a recluse in Bath, living at 20 Lansdown Crescent and 1 Lansdown Place West. It is unclear exactly what happened but Beckford was ostracised by society and went into self-imposed exile on the Continent, helping later to put Portugal on the tourist map. William Beckford (1760-1844), one of the richest men in England due to his family’s connection with slavery, was involved in the Powderham Castle scandal in 1784, when he was reported to have been found in compromising circumstances with the younger William “Kitty” Courtenay. This guest article by local historian and Gay West member Robert Howes is a great introduction to the people and places connected to the city’s LGBTQ+ past – from the eighteenth century to the present day.įind more ways to mark LGBT+ History Month in Bath here. It’s the perfect time to reflect on the stories and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people here in Bath. February is LGBT+ History Month, a chance to shine a spotlight on the achievements and experiences of the community as well as promote diversity and equality.