The Scallop Shell
This family-run restaurant is known as the place to go for the best fish and chips in Bath. Located on Monmouth Place, they first opened in 2015 as an independent fish and chips restaurant and seafood grill. Because they buy their catch fresh from the coastal markets, the main menu changes daily, so there are always exciting new options to try aside from the classic lightly-battered cod and hand-cut chips with homemade sides. The Scallop Shell is a must-visit for seafood in Bath, and popular enough that you may need to call ahead and reserve a table during busy times.
The Architect
A traditional pub restaurant serving fresh food, cask ales and wine, The Architect is the perfect place to enjoy some typical English food and drink, including but not limited to: lamb shoulder, Bakewell tart and draught beer. Aside from the excellent fare, the attraction of this restaurant lies in its elegant decor and scenic surroundings. It is located on Orange Grove, on the ground floor of the Empire Hotel which is a beautiful Grade 2 listed building dating back to 1899, and has a terrace that looks out over stunning views of Bath Abbey and Pultney Bridge.
The Stable Bath
If you’re in Bath, hungry and thirsty, and fancy a pizza and a pint – there’s only one place to go. The Stable’s speciality is handcrafted sourdough pizzas, and they offer an extensive selection of West Country ciders and craft beers. One of their best-sellers is the Cider Tasting Board, which gives you a selection of five tasty 1/3 pint ciders. Just a few minutes’ walk from the Roman Baths and Thermae Spa, the restaurant overlooks the leafy green of Kingsmead Square, and has both indoor and outdoor seating. They even have gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options.
Pieminister
Just like it says in the name, Pieminister sells pies. Award-winning, gourmet savoury pies, made by the Bristol-based company with a focus on sustainability and supporting British farmers. Their traditional pies are made with ethically sourced ingredients such as free range British meat, but there’s also plenty of choice for vegetarians, vegans and those on a gluten free diet. Situated on Westgate Street, it’s the perfect place for a warm, filling meal with tasty sides like cheesy mash, smoky baked beans and house slaw. With reasonable prices, hearty portions and 2 for 1 cocktails all day every day, go to Pieminister for the best British pie you could ask for.
Sally Lunn’s
One of the most iconic edible souvenirs in Bath is the “Sally Lunn Bun”, a type of brioche bread that has been served in the city for over three centuries. Located on North Parade Passage in the oldest house in Bath, Sally Lunn’s Eating House still serves this tasty delicacy to locals and tourists alike, made according to the original recipe from 1680. Visitors can enjoy a traditional English lunch in their historic tearoom, or buy bread to take home as a treat, then visit the Kitchen Museum to learn more about the story of both the bun and its maker, Sally Lunn. In busy periods, there is also the Bath Bun Teashoppe nearby.
Pubs and Places to Drink
No trip to a British city would be complete without a visit to some of the local watering holes – and in Bath, there are many traditional old English pubs to choose from. If you’re looking for drinks and a meal, head to the Raven, an independent pub known for their cask ales and pies. Or, to be spoilt for choice, take a walk down to Trim Bridge, where you can find Fidel Rum Bar and the Bath Gin Bar. And finally, if you’re looking for a place steeped in history, seek out the Saracen’s Head, the oldest pub in Bath dating back to 1713 with charming wooden floors, riverside dining options, and regular events including quizzes, comedy nights and live music.
Fudge Kitchen
As one of the most traditional English sweet treats, fudge is the perfect souvenir to bring home from Bath. The Fudge Kitchen is extremely central, located directly opposite the entrance to the Roman Bath Museum and a stone’s throw from Bath Abbey. Here, you get delicious handmade fudge, made in small batches with only the finest natural ingredients using a 200-year-old recipe. As a self-proclaimed “Theatre of Fudge”, the fudgeteers like to put on a show by preparing the fudge on slabs in full view of their customers! They offer free samples of any flavour so you can try before you buy, then pick your favourite. It lasts for 2 to 3 weeks unrefrigerated after purchase, so you can enjoy it even after you leave Bath behind.
