The Grapes

An old Bath building

The building has 17th-century fabric behind an early 18th-century front, making it a rare survival from before John Wood reshaped the city. Upstairs, the first-floor function room has a fine ribbed plaster ceiling dated 1683, bearing the arms linked to the Earl of Bath. Ask to see it if the room is free.

What's on the bar

There are three changing cask ales, usually from local breweries such as Kettlesmith and Frome, alongside wine on tap and real cider. As a freehouse it is not tied to a brewery, so the range rotates. It was a finalist for Best City Pub in the Great British Pub Awards 2022. The beer range changes often, so ask at the bar what is on.

Music and more

Music is a big part of the week, with regular blues, jazz and traditional Irish folk nights plus monthly skiffle and ticketed gigs. Life drawing classes also run on some evenings. It is dog friendly, and there is street seating at the front. The Roman Baths and Thermae Bath Spa are a couple of minutes away, so it is an easy stop after sightseeing.

Highlights

• Grade II* listed, with 17th-century fabric
• 1683 plaster ceiling in the first-floor room
• Three changing local cask ales
• Regular live blues, jazz and folk

Good to know

• Dog friendly.
• The first-floor function room can be hired.
• Accommodation for small groups on the upper floors.

Frequently asked questions