The Pump Room
Elegant Georgian dining overlooking the Roman Baths, with classical music and a taste of historic spring water.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
The Pump Room
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Elegant Georgian dining overlooking the Roman Baths, with classical music and a taste of historic spring water.
"The ambiance is great! The high ceilings and classical music really add to the ambience."
🎯 Book Afternoon Tea Early
Secure your spot for the popular Jane Austen Afternoon Tea by booking well in advance. :ticket:
✨ Dress Smart-Casual
Elevate your experience by dressing in smart-casual attire to match the elegant ambiance. :dress:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jane Austen Afternoon Tea
The Pump Room
Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea experience inspired by Jane Austen, complete with themed cocktails and treats.

Live Pianist
The Pump Room Dining Area
Enjoy the enchanting ambiance created by a live pianist playing classical music, enhancing your dining or tea experience.

Roman Baths Views
Overlooking the Roman Baths
Savor your meal or tea while enjoying picturesque views of the ancient Roman Baths, a truly unique setting.

King's Fountain Spring Water
The Pump Room
Taste the mineral-rich spring water directly from the King's Fountain, a historic ritual offered at the venue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Times
Dress Code & Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Afternoon Tea Early
Secure your spot for the popular Jane Austen Afternoon Tea by booking well in advance.
:ticket:✨ Dress Smart-Casual
Elevate your experience by dressing in smart-casual attire to match the elegant ambiance.
:dress:Pump Room question
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
The live pianist adds a magical touch; savor the classical melodies during your visit.
:musical_note:💧 Taste the Spring Water
Don't miss the chance to sample the historic King's Fountain spring water.
:droplet:What am I even trying to do in this room? [I'm on Day 11]
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Afternoon Tea Early
Secure your spot for the popular Jane Austen Afternoon Tea by booking well in advance.
:ticket:✨ Dress Smart-Casual
Elevate your experience by dressing in smart-casual attire to match the elegant ambiance.
:dress:🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
The live pianist adds a magical touch; savor the classical melodies during your visit.
:musical_note:💧 Taste the Spring Water
Don't miss the chance to sample the historic King's Fountain spring water.
:droplet:📸 Capture the Views
The views of the Roman Baths are stunning; have your camera ready for memorable photos.
:camera:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Pump Room for its breathtaking Georgian ambiance, enhanced by live classical music and stunning views of the Roman Baths. The Jane Austen Afternoon Tea is a popular highlight, offering a delightful experience, though some find the food itself to be standard. The historical setting and overall atmosphere are frequently cited as the main draw, making it a memorable visit for many.
"Went for the tea menu at 12 noon. The atmosphere was great! The high ceilings and classical music really add to the ambience. Huge applause to the pianist who played for an hour! The music was so so good!
The tables are spaced out very well too, so it made the experience very private. We felt that the green pea savoury bites were super good, wished there were more! Scones were pretty standard. And the raspberry shortbread dessert bite was super good!
Jane Austen tea was really good! Tasted like earl grey with earthy notes and a tinge of rooibos flavour at the end.
You can get a glimpse of the Roman Baths from the pump room too!"
Gwen
"The afternoon tea experience was enjoyable. I did find the setting a bit crowded, and the other guests tended to the T-shirt wearing type. Nonetheless, the service was good and the food was excellent. The Pump Room is beautiful and imbued with history."
Anthony Smith
"I booked a Jane Austen Afternoon Tea for a party of 4 midweek and we loved every minute of the experience! From the entrance all the way to our table the service and staff were outstanding. The live music was a great touch. The menu looked good, but I have to admit, the food and drinks were not AS delicious as some of the other tea times that we’ve had. The Darcy cocktail sounded so promising but was a bit too bitter and flat. What you are paying for is definitely the ambiance and location. You feel like you’re sitting in a room full of so much rich history that I would’ve paid 2x more for this feeling. You’re also able to taste the spring water from the King’s fountain in this tea room. We loved it very much and would certainly book again."
Revekka Brukh Hughes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pump Room is located in the heart of Bath, adjacent to the Roman Baths. It's easily accessible by foot from Bath Spa train station, which is about a 10-minute walk away. Numerous bus routes also serve the city center.
While there isn't dedicated parking for The Pump Room, several public car parks are available nearby, such as the SouthGate Shopping Centre car park. It's often recommended to use public transport or walk if possible due to Bath's city center restrictions.
Yes, you can visit The Pump Room for dining or afternoon tea without purchasing a ticket for the Roman Baths. However, you can enjoy views of the Baths from within The Pump Room.
Taking the train to Bath Spa station is a convenient option, as it's centrally located. If driving, be aware of potential traffic and parking challenges in the city center.
The Pump Room is generally accessible, with efforts made to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. It's advisable to contact them directly to discuss specific requirements.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For afternoon tea, especially the Jane Austen Afternoon Tea, booking in advance is highly recommended due to its popularity. For general dining, reservations are advised but walk-ins may be accommodated if space is available.
The Pump Room typically serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Prices for afternoon tea can vary, with special packages like the Jane Austen Afternoon Tea potentially costing more. It's recommended to check their menu or website for current pricing.
While there isn't a strict formal dress code, many visitors dress in smart-casual attire to match the elegant and historic ambiance.
Yes, you can visit The Pump Room for drinks, including cocktails and their signature tea blends, without necessarily having a full meal or afternoon tea.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Pump Room offers a menu featuring breakfast, lunch, and a renowned afternoon tea. Dishes often include modern British cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Many visitors find the Jane Austen Afternoon Tea to be a worthwhile experience for the ambiance, history, and unique setting, even if the food itself is considered standard by some.
The Pump Room typically offers options for various dietary needs, including vegetarian choices. It's advisable to inform them of any specific dietary requirements when booking or ordering.
The spring water is naturally warm and has a distinct mineral taste, often described as earthy. It's a unique experience to taste water that has been flowing for thousands of years.
Yes, The Pump Room offers a selection of cocktails, including themed ones like the Darcy cocktail, alongside other beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand interior with its high ceilings and chandeliers, the views overlooking the Roman Baths, and the beautifully presented afternoon tea are all excellent photo opportunities.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, especially to capture the ambiance and views. However, professional photography or filming may require prior permission.
Daytime visits offer natural light that enhances the grandeur of the room and the views of the Roman Baths. Evening visits can offer a more intimate, candlelit atmosphere.
Yes, you can capture excellent photos of the Roman Baths from the windows of The Pump Room, offering a unique perspective.
While personal photography is usually fine, be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive flash photography, especially during performances by the pianist.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking for lunch or an earlier afternoon tea slot to better suit children's schedules. The spacious seating arrangements can also be helpful. While not a typical 'kid-friendly' venue with play areas, the unique historical atmosphere and the visual appeal of the Roman Baths views offer a memorable outing for families looking for something a bit different.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Opt for the Jane Austen Afternoon Tea for a particularly charming and memorable date. The carefully crafted menu and the historical backdrop provide a unique and luxurious experience that couples often rave about. It’s a place to linger, savor the moment, and create lasting memories.
✈️ Day-Trippers to Bath
Consider a leisurely lunch or an afternoon tea to break up your day of exploration. It's a chance to relax in a beautiful setting and enjoy some quality food and drink before continuing your adventures. Booking ahead is advisable, especially if you're visiting on a weekend or during peak tourist season.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ambiance: History Meets Elegance
This historical setting is not just for show; it's intrinsically linked to the Roman Baths next door. Guests can enjoy views of the ancient hot spring, and even sample the mineral-rich waters from the King's Fountain. This unique connection to Bath's Roman heritage adds a layer of depth to the dining experience, transporting visitors back in time.
While the elegance is a major draw, some reviews note a mix of guest attire, from formal to casual. However, the overall feeling is one of refined enjoyment, where the setting itself is a significant part of the attraction.
Afternoon Tea: A Signature Experience
While the food is generally well-received, some reviews suggest that the true value lies in the ambiance and location. The combination of the historic setting, live music, and the unique opportunity to sip tea while overlooking the Roman Baths creates an unforgettable experience. Even if the culinary aspects are not considered the absolute best by some discerning palates, the overall package of atmosphere, service, and historical context makes it a highly recommended treat.
It's crucial to book this experience in advance, as it's a sought-after activity. The service is consistently praised for being outstanding, contributing to the feeling of being well-cared for during your visit.
The Roman Baths Connection
Beyond the visual connection, The Pump Room allows guests to actively engage with Bath's thermal waters by sampling the natural spring water from the King's Fountain. This water, rich in minerals and naturally heated, has been a draw for centuries and offers a taste of history. This integration of the Roman Baths experience into the dining venue makes The Pump Room more than just a restaurant; it's an extension of the historical site itself, offering a multi-sensory journey into Bath's past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit