The Pump Room Restaurant

The Pump Room Restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including traditional British cuisine, modern European fare, and vegetarian and vegan options. The menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest local produce, but some of the signature dishes include the Pump Room Beef Wellington, the Roast Cod with Lemon and Caper Butter, and the Wild Mushroom Risotto.

In addition to the à la carte menu, the Pump Room Restaurant also offers a number of special dining experiences, such as afternoon tea, brunch, and private events. The afternoon tea is a particularly popular option, with a selection of delicate sandwiches, scones, and cakes served with a choice of tea or coffee.

The Pump Room Restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or simply to enjoy a delicious meal in a beautiful setting. With its elegant décor, attentive service, and exquisite cuisine, the Pump Room Restaurant is sure to impress even the most discerning diner. Visitors can drink the spa water from the fountain and listen to live music from the Pump Room Trio or resident pianist.

History

The Pump Room in Bath is a magnificent Georgian building that was once the heart of the city's social scene. It is located adjacent to the Roman Baths and was built in the late 18th century to provide a place for visitors to drink the healing waters.

The Pump Room is a truly elegant space, with soaring Corinthian columns, a glittering chandelier, and a marble floor. The focal point of the room is the spa fountain, from which visitors can still drink the mineral-rich water today.

In the Georgian era, the Pump Room was a popular gathering place for the upper class. Visitors would come to take the waters, socialize, and listen to music from the Pump Room Orchestra. The Pump Room was also a favorite haunt of Jane Austen, who featured it in several of her novels, including Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.

Tips for Visitors

Reservations and Timing

• Book Well in Advance: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for the famous Afternoon Tea, which is served in set sittings (e.g., 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM). Booking online is the easiest way to secure your preferred time.

• The Afternoon Tea is the Signature Experience: While they offer morning coffee and brunch, the most popular and celebrated service is the Afternoon Tea, complete with sandwiches, scones, and pastries.

• Consider a Package: The restaurant often offers the "Georgians to Romans Experience," which combines your meal at The Pump Room (Morning Brunch or Afternoon Tea) with entry to the adjacent Roman Baths. This is a convenient way to visit both attractions.

• Allow Enough Time: If you book the Roman Baths package, allow about 3.5 hours total (1.5 hours for dining, 2 hours for the Roman Baths visit).

Experience the Atmosphere

• Enjoy the Live Music: A key part of the experience is the ambience created by the resident Pump Room Trio or the pianist. They perform daily, adding a classical, sophisticated backdrop to your meal.

• Dress Smart-Casual: While there is no strict formal dress code, most visitors opt for smart-casual attire to match the elegant, historic setting (think of it as a nice lunch/brunch or a special occasion).

• Try the Spa Water: Don't leave without visiting the King's Fountain inside The Pump Room to sample a glass of the naturally warm, mineral-rich Bath spa water. Be warned—it has a unique, strong, earthy flavour!

• No Luggage: Large bags or luggage are not permitted in the restaurant or the Roman Baths. Plan to leave them at your accommodation or use a local storage service.

Practical Tips

• Dietary Requirements: The restaurant is known to be accommodating for dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.). Be sure to note any requirements when you book your reservation.

• Location: The Pump Room is located right next to the entrance of the Roman Baths.

• Check the Views: Look for the small balcony/corridor area linking The Pump Room and the Roman Baths gift shop for an elevated view into a section of the ancient bath complex.

Useful Links

The Pump Room Restaurant: Official Website (Opens in new window) General information about the historic venue, covering its history, dining options like brunch and afternoon tea, entertainment including The Pump Room Trio, booking a table, information on events, private hire, weddings, contact details, and accessibility information.

Facebook: Bath Abbey (Opens in new window)

Instagram: Bath Abbey (Opens in new window)

Roman Baths Essential tourist information for the adjacent Roman Baths, including what to expect from the Sacred Spring, the Great Bath, and the museum's artifact collection, alongside tips on timing your visit, ticket booking, using the audio guide, and advice on accessibility.