Hot-foot from their big hit at the nearby King William, Charlie and Amanda Digney have set about converting and renovating one of Bath's most famous boozers (originally a townhouse bolthole belonging to Georgian dandy, Beau Nash). It's now part of the Theatre Royal complex (and a starting point for 'ghost walks'), so there are plenty of pre- and post-show deals on offer.

Inside, the décor has been pared down to basics with old mirrors, brass chandeliers and a hotch-potch of furniture; there are real ales from independent breweries to drink, and the kitchen wears its patriotic heart on its sleeve with a menu that is packed with gutsy, big-hearted dishes. Comforting pea and ham soup, boiled bacon with black-eyed beans and mint sauce, ox tongue with green lentils are typical; even that traditional (and rarely encountered) porcine delicacy, Bath chaps puts in an appearance. As you might expect, desserts push the nostalgia button with rice pudding, trifle and apple pie.

If you simply want something to nibble in the bar, the kitchen can oblige with salt beef sandwiches or sausages with green tomato chutney. Wine drinkers are well served by a list that leapfrogs from one country to another; plenty of gluggable stuff is available by the glass.

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Gastro pub / Modern British

Lunch: 12.00 – 2.30pm
Dinner: 5.30 - 10.00pm (9.00pm Sun)

Visa, Master Card, American Express

• Pre theater meals
• Alfresco dining
• Private parties