There’s something very British about indulging in afternoon tea, and The Pump Room in Bath provides a setting for an afternoon tea that could have been plucked straight from a Jane Austen novel.
We had the pleasure of booking an afternoon tea at The Pump Room Restaurant whilst visiting Bath, and it’s an experience we are eager to share with you.
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The Pump Room Afternoon Tea Video
Check out our video from our visit to The Pump Room.
video
Don’t forget to check out our post about all the things to do in Bath!
Situated next door to the ancient Roman Baths, The Pump Room Bath is a venue steeped in history, dating back to the 1700s.
History
They would bathe in the hot springs at the historical Roman Baths during ancient times. By the late 17th century, the Georgians began drinking the mineral-rich water.
The Pump Room’s spa fountain used to be the hotspot for Georgians. They’d come to the city for the water, thinking it would cure all their aches and pains.
The famous British writer Jane Austen featured the Pump Room in her books, ‘Northanger Abbey’ and ‘Persuasion’ and Charles Dickens mentions the famous waters in ‘The Pickwick Papers’.
Now known as The Pump Room Restaurant. You can take a seat, enjoy sweet treats at your table and listen to the famous Pump Room Trio or Resident Pianist fill the building with delightful music. While you enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch, or traditional afternoon tea.
Enter through the turnstile doors into this historic building. There is a lot of history when you first walk in, so arrive a little early to give yourself time to read more about it!
Kings Spring Water Fountain
The drinking spa waters are pumped from the King’s spring water fountain, which still sits inside the pump room restaurant with a view over the historic Roman Baths.
Here, amidst the Corinthian columns and the excellent musical accompaniment of the Pump Room Trio, visitors have, for centuries, enjoyed the health benefits of the spa water — a tradition that continues today.
The spa’s mineral-filled water fountain is an intriguing sight. I recommend a sip before your meal if you want to try it. I tried it after, and it left an undesirable metallic taste in my mouth! In the winter months, the hot spa water is used to heat the building
Afternoon Tea
The Pump Room Restaurant offers an exquisite selection of savouries, sandwiches, and sweets, each delicately prepared to tantalise your taste buds.
Menu
Here is a picture of the menu to show you what to expect; you can also add a starter if required. We certainly didn’t need one, it is very filling!
The image shown is for one person; as you can see, there is plenty there!
Pastry and Cake Selection – Top Layer
- Fruit Tarte
- Triple Layer Chocolate Torte
- Lemon Meringue Tarte
- Apple Crumble Cake
Scones Selection – Middle Layer
- Fruit Scone
- Buttermilk Scones
- Clotted Cream and Jam
Savoury Finger Food Selection – Bottom Layer
- Mini Cottage Pie
- Rarebit with Chutney
- Prawn Cocktail with Marie Rose Sauce
Sandwich Selection – Served on a Side Plate
- Cream Cheese, Chive and Cucumber
- Smoked Salmon and Caviar
- Egg and Cress
- Ham and Mustard
This meal belonged to Luke, and he relished every bite of it! I (Kay) had the gluten-free afternoon tea.
Gluten-Free Afternoon Tea Selection
Fear not, my gluten-intolerant friends, The Pump Room caters splendidly with a similar selection suited for your dietary needs.
There was no menu for the gluten-free afternoon tea, causing some concern about what I’d get.
I was pleasantly surprised by how they ensured I felt part of the afternoon tea experience.
I was impressed with all the gluten-free options, especially the scones and the apple crumble. They were delightful!
They also have Pescatarian, Vegetarian, Dairy-free, Nut-free and Vegan options.
Childrens Menu
We didn’t have our children with us, but they offer a child afternoon tea or a high tea, including pizza and an ice cream sundae.
Drinks
The afternoon tea includes a pot of tea or a filter coffee. These include complimentary refills. Choose from their house tea selection.
- Assam English Breakfast
- Darjeeling
- Earl Grey
- Ceylon Tea
Other Drink Choice
They have more drinks available. Here are some of their other drink offerings.
- Ale
- Lager
- Cider
- Champagne
- Sparkling Wine
- Prosecco
- Fruit Juices
- Fizzy Drinks
- Water
- Specialist Coffees
- Herbal Teas
We added a delicious glass of English sparkling wine to our package on booking.
Cocktails
Don’t forget to check out the cocktails they offer!
Breakfast
They also provide a morning sitting option at 10:00 am or 10:15 am for Breakfast, where guests can enjoy a slice of cake or cheddar scones with tea or coffee.
Brunch
How about indulging in their delightful brunch menu, featuring a variety of warm breakfast options with poached eggs and a toasted muffin, available from 10:00 am. Check the breakfast/brunch availability online.
Pianist or The Pump Room Trio
Every day, there is live music played whilst you eat; we had a resident pianist who played beautifully.
I want to return to see The Pump Room Trio, founded as the Pump Room Orchestra by Master of Ceremonies Beau Nash in the 1700s.
Service
We were greeted with warm smiles and a welcoming atmosphere and shown to our seats by a member of staff, who continued to look after us during our visit to the pump rooms. He was extremely attentive and ensured our experience was nothing short of perfect.
The kitchen staff took great care in preparing the meals. The food was beautifully presented and tasted delicious.
Our Review
Upon entering the grand venue, the large royal room with high ceilings, Roman columns and traditional furnishings set the stage for a regal afternoon tea.
The highlights are the harmonious blend of flavours, delicious pastries, and the historical ambience that can only be captured in a venue like The Pump Room. The resident pianist added a layer of serenity to our already luxurious afternoon.
Your booking gives you 1 hour 30 minutes, plenty of time to sit and enjoy the atmosphere. £38.50 is not the cheapest afternoon tea, but you pay for the beautiful venue and an experience, not just food. We found no fault with the restaurant; it exceeded expectations in every aspect.
Location
The Pump Room Restaurant’s entrance is next door to the Roman Baths.
Map
Address
The Pump Room Restaurant
Stall Street
Bath
BA1 1LZ
Parking
The Pump Room Bath, doesn’t have parking.
There are plenty of spaces available in the numerous car parks in Bath.
Booking
Booking at The Pump Room is essential, and you prepay for your meal too. Extras can be ordered and paid for on the day.
They offer two to three booking times: 12 pm and 2 pm daily, and on some days, there is also a 4 pm seating. We recommend double-checking the schedule as it may vary. The Pump Room occasionally has events or special occasions to enjoy.
You can book The Pump Room Restaurant easily online; they also offer a Roman Baths and Pump Room package.
Dress Code
The Pump Room Restaurant does not enforce a dress code. I suggest opting for a smart-casual dress. Feel free to dress comfortably, but adding a hint of sophistication would suit the moment!
More Places to Eat in Bath
After indulging in the historical wonders and serene landscapes of Bath, you will need some good food.
Ivy Bath
The Ivy offers a dining experience that blends sophistication with comfort. Check out our restaurant review for The Ivy Bath.
Sally Lunns
Another place steeped in history and with its own museum, visit Sally Lunns for breakfast or lunch.
We thoroughly enjoy afternoon tea at our local Tea Room, Mrs Salisbury’s in Maldon, Essex.