Hop Pole, The

You could drive past The Hop Pole and miss it completely because of its understated exterior. This friendly pub is located on Upper Bristol Road, right opposite Bath's Royal Victoria Park and connoisseurs of such matters have been known to describe the spacious and lovingly restored beer garden adjoining the restaurant as a country pub in the heart of elegant Bath. At The Pole, they serve quality beers, well kept cask ales and wines that cater to varied tastes.

The Hop Pole is also known for its tasty food, with fresh deep-fried whitebait and aioli, homemade chicken liver pate served with Melba toast and onion marmalade as starters. For mains, you could try grilled Barbary duck breast on a parsnip rosti with a mulled blackcurrant sauce or beer battered fish and chips.

The pub excels in making simple dishes like goats' cheese and asparagus tart taste surprisingly good.  One of the Marshfield Farm ice creams and sorbets provides a simple conclusion to the meal. The cheery buzz makes dining at The Hop Pole, even more memorable.