Emma Historic looking hostelry with modern touches
Located a short walk from Bath Spa Railway Station and the main attractions of Bath, such as the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey, you will find the olde world setting of The Griffin Inn. I love the ‘honey’ colour of the buildings in Bath, they seem to glow in the sun welcoming you into the city, and just a block from here is Queen Square, where you can admire the Grade 1 listed Georgian houses in a compact park setting. A little but further away, but still within walking distance, you will find another two famous architectural spots, The Circus and The Royal Crescent, to complete this Georgian triptych.
The building here dates back to 1730 with low beams and thick stone walls giving an insight into the history of the building. I really liked the colour palate, the yellows and teal matched with the beautiful stone of the exterior. Inside, at the front there is a bar, while at the rear there is a dining area and a separate snug-type room which I can verify is an ideal spot for a cider after checking in!
Speaking of drinks, there are a wide selection on offer with local ciders and real ales on offer alongside lagers, wine, cocktails, whisky, spirits, soft drinks and low and no alcohol drinks, phew. The food menu looked amazing, but unfortunately during our one night stay, we had already booked dinner at The Mint Room. Here is a look at the example menu from when we visited.
Onto the accommodation – our room was on the first floor, up a small staircase above the bar,. It was surprisingly spacious given the age of the building with muted colours, a comfortable looking bed, and absolutely no noise from the bar below. Our room had a coffee machine, bottled water, kettle, biscuits, TV, Wi-Fi, a classic styled digital radio, hairdryer, fan and toiletries in the ensuite shower room.
Unfortunately, there is no air-conditioning available but there was a small fan in the wardrobe, however it was one of those combination heat/cool devices, which wasn’t really strong enough to help with the air circulation. This would be my only minus for this room. The shower room was clean with a large mirror, and came with plenty of towels and toiletries, and the water pressure was good.
Due to the pub not opening until 12, there isn’t a breakfast service, however there is an abundance of cafe’s and coffee shops nearby.
Verdict
Cosy and comfortable room which had everything we needed for a short stay. The mattress and pillows provided an enjoyable sleep and we didn’t notice any noise from downstairs. Staff were friendly, helpful and informative about the city of Bath. A good nights sleep, in comfortable surroundings.
Book a room at The Griffin Inn Bath
Click here to book a room on The Griffin Inn website.
Where
The Griffin Inn, Monmouth St, Bath, BA1 2AP
How to get there
From the M4 exit from junction 18 which will take you onto the A46. Continue along the A46, following signs for Bath for approximately eight miles. On reaching a major roundabout turn right onto the A4 and follow signs for a mile leading to the city centre. Go straight over at the traffic lights and then across the mini-roundabout onto George Street. On reaching the end of the road turn left onto Gay Street which will lead onto Queen Square. Take the first left into Princes Street immediately after the Francis hotel which sits prominently on Queen Square. The Griffin Inn is situated at the lower end of this street on the right. You may stop and drop your bags off here.
Public Transport Directions
Bath Spa train station and the bus station is around half a mile from the Griffin Inn. From the bus or train station head west on Dorchester Street towards Railway Place. Turn right at St James Parade. Continue down St James Parade then turn right at Hot Bath Street. Turn left at Westgate Buildings. Slight left at Monmouth Street and the Griffin Inn is on your right.
