SAVOUR & S I P
The Bath House AS THE POPULAR PUB UNDERGOES AN UPDATE, WE PAY A VISIT TO DISCOVER WHAT’S NEW REVIEW
e may have restaurants and cafes aplenty in Cambridge, but proper, traditional pubs are
becoming vanishingly rare here – as they are up and down the country. On a national level, the situation is so dire that it’s estimated around 30 pubs are closing per week in Britain – a rate that would mean their complete demise within 20 years or so. That should be enough to tell you it’s a case of use it or lose it with our community boozers – so we wholeheartedly recommend getting out for a pint and a bite whenever you can (no hardship for you, and it could help secure the future of your beloved local!) Happily, your options once again include the Bath House – a long-standing city centre favourite, which has recently reopened following an extended closure. The historic Bene’t Street property has undergone a six-figure refurbishment – and it’s immediately obvious that the money has been put to good use, creating a classy look that retains the cosy pub charm while bringing the space right up to date. The rustic beams, leather armchairs and panelling remain, revived with a sleek palette of rich teals, olives and gold, while a luxuriously revamped bar sits proudly at the centre. “It’s a much more contemporary design,” enthuses general manager Rafal. “It’s more modern, comfortable and inviting, and we’re excited to show
A CLASSIC REBORN A six-figure refurbishment has breathed new life into this city centre favourite
As well as a decor refresh, the Bath House food and drink offering has enjoyed a makeover, too. Must-tries include the pub’s own Bath House Ale and the Apple Dog (Copper Dog whisky and freshly juiced Granny Smith apple served over ice). Designated drivers and non-boozers have a nice choice as well, with soft tipples from the likes of hip indie brand LemonAid. To eat, you can expect classic comfort food – with a few
visitors The Loft, our newly created,
private bookable space upstairs, where we can host a whole range of celebrations, as well as business meetings.” Rafal and his team hope to breathe new life into this much- loved watering hole,
A CLASSY LOOK WITH COSY CHARM
healthy options thrown in. We went for the fish and chips, which came with a mound of thick- cut, chip-shop-style potatoes and succulent cod fillet, in a crisp, golden beer batter. We
It may have slipped off your radar over the past few years, with so many shiny new eateries in Cambridge vying for our attention, but if you’re after a cosy, friendly atmosphere, and a traditional pub experience, the Bath House is well worth a second look. If you need another reason to visit, mains start at a truly bargainous £7.99 – we reckon you’d be hard pushed to find a more reasonably priced meal out in Cambridge city centre. greeneking-pubs.co.uk
providing a casual daytime experience with lunch and coffee, as well as a fun, high-energy nightspot – offering a “proper contemporary British pub, smack bang in the middle of the city”. Part of the Greene King group, the revamp comes ahead of its sister site – the Prince Regent – reopening with a sleek new look, set to be unveiled any day now.
also tried the perfectly roasted half chicken, served with gorgeous, rosemary-salted fries and a big pot of smoky, tangy barbecue sauce. On the side, as a nod to health, we shared a ‘super green salad’ packed with grains, veg and doused in a delicious, minty lemon dressing. The pies, which come with a rich beef gravy and buttery mash, are top of my list for next time.
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