The Royal Oak, Bath

I counted 11 hand pumps, of which nine were in use on my visit. There were quite a few dark and strong beers, but unfortunately I only had time for one, Art Brew Tempest Stout 4.8@, which was spot on. There were five other Art Brew beers plus two guests and a cider. The original small rooms of this very old building have been opened out into one, though there remains a cosy feel to the place, despite the bare boards. There's some eccentric art on the walls, a couple of fire places, a piano and (non-functioning) jukebox, though if you think that implies there was no background music, think again. One of my friends was disappointed that none of the Belgian fruit beers prominently advertised on a blackboard were available, and neither was there any brandy - and it was her birthday! So I've deducted a point from the seven I would otherwise have awarded.

Popular with the local CAMRA mob and, with a blackboard outside that reads "10 real ales, 3 ciders, 0 Fosters", you can see why. Inside, it's fairly basic and it's clear that they offer music nights. I just had time for one - an Art Brew "Hip Hop" if memory serves - which didn't slip down as easily as I'd hoped. With more time available, I'd have been more quite happy to investigate alternatives, however. Note for wheelchair users - probably not accessible. Don't know if there's another entrance, but there's steps up to the front door, and several more down to the toilets (which aren't the best you're ever going to encounter).

Official site of the Royal Oak, includes list of 10 guest ales - www.theroyaloak-bath.co.uk

Official site of the Royal Oak, includes list of 10 guest ales - www.theroyaloak-bath.co.uk