The Black Fox, Bath

An unusual shaped pub, narrow at the entrance but opening out towards the bar due to the roads running either side of it. Whilst in the centre of Bath, it’s probably far enough off the tourist trails that most of the punters are local, and I suspect it may not appeal to many tourists anyway. There’s nothing wrong with it, but it’s definitely got a slightly alternative feel to it which won’t be for everyone. It’s clearly some time since it’s had a refurbishment, but some might argue that just adds to it’s character. However the loos were covered in graffiti and in dire need of some refurbishment. The paintwork on the ceiling is maroon and elsewhere there is still the curious shade of dirty brown that you used to find in many pubs before the smoking ban. It could also be described as dark and gloomy – the walls are mostly black wood panelling, and there was only fairly limited lighting. There is a downstairs area that I presume is used by the many bands that visit, going on the various posters around the walls. The pub makes much of the goblin theme with a large mural above the bar and numerous cobwebs, skulls, etc. dotted around. The barman seemed friendly enough. Beers on tap were Gem, Barnstormer and the seasonal Satan Claus from the Devilfish brewery. Ciders were Blackthorn and Bee Sting Pear cider along with Star Gazer and Fire Dancer from Lilley’s.

There arent that many Hogoblin pub left these days and most still exist, are a bit tired as this one is now looking. However to our surprise it was a pleasant multi storied corner pub with friendly staff on during our mid Saturday afternoon visit and the range of ales totalling five local ones attracted our attention. The Otter Head and the others including those from Bath Ales was a pretty good range. Glad we stumbnled across it on our way to other pubs that we normally do. Will definitely be back this way in future.