The Packhorse is a pub in Crescent, Bath. Rated 4.7 stars from 742 Google reviews. Known for historic character and gardens and consistently excellent food and service. Best for sunday roasts and groups and families. Features a terrace, dog-friendly. Price range: $$.
Rankings updated April 2026
The Packhorse
Across 737 rated reviews, 93% gave four or five stars.
| Rating | 4.7★ |
| Reviews | 742 |
| 1-star share | 1.5% |
| Best for | Solo dining |
In Their Own Words
Review highlights surfaced by Google — shown in English, with the original beneath
“Did I mention the most helpful staff and super friendly service? .”
“Great food, good selection of beers, lovely garden area to eat on a sunny day”
“But awful roasts, especially for the price - dry, overdone meat and soggy veg.”
About The Packhorse
The Packhorse is a community-owned historic pub in the Crescent area of Bath, celebrated for its warmth, character, and consistently excellent food. Reviewers consistently praise the "wonderful olde-worlde ambience" and beautiful countryside gardens—a natural draw after walks in the surrounding area. The kitchen delivers refined pub fare: handmade pies, mushroom lasagne, bavette steak, and roasts with proper Yorkshire puddings earn particular mention. Staff are repeatedly singled out for genuine friendliness and attentiveness; service feels personal without being intrusive. The pub stocks a good selection of beers (including zero-alcohol options) and maintains a solid wine list. Live music sessions—including jam sessions on alternate Thursdays—add to the convivial atmosphere. Dogs are welcome, families thrive here, and the venue accepts reservations (essential on busy Sundays). Free Wi-Fi and accessible facilities round out the offering.
The Packhorse has a dual personality — intimate and romantic enough for a quiet dinner, with live music meaning evenings can take on a different energy entirely.
In the last 90 days, The Packhorse has drawn 13 substantial written reviews (50+ characters of genuine feedback) — recent momentum that is one of the signals behind its place on the hot list.
What Stands Out
Historic character and gardens
Multiple reviewers highlight the 'beautiful old pub + gardens', 'gorgeous garden with countryside views', and 'wonderful olde-worlde ambience' that hasn't changed in decades.
Consistently excellent food and service
Reviewers praise 'food well cooked, great care taken with detail', 'handmade pie, mushroom lasagne, burger' all loved by groups, and staff like Maxwell and Felix described as 'outstanding', 'friendly, professional and attentive'.
Great beer selection and live music
Noted for 'good selection of beers, including zero alcohol' and live jam sessions 'apparently every second Thursday', adding to the community pub atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Reservations
Reservations RecommendedContact
The Old Vicarage, 1 Old School Hill, South Stoke, Bath BA2 7DU, United Kingdom
+44 1225 830300Visit WebsiteView MenuAmenities
☀️Outdoor
Frequently Asked Questions about The Packhorse
Yes—it's popular for solo dining. The casual, cosy atmosphere and friendly staff make it welcoming for one person, whether you're settling in at the bar or claiming a table. Free Wi-Fi is available if you want to linger.
Absolutely. Dogs are allowed, and the beautiful garden makes it a pleasant spot for you and your pet to enjoy a pint or meal together.
Highly recommended, especially for Sunday roasts and evenings. Reviewers note the pub gets busy and booking ensures you get a table, though walk-ins are welcome if space permits.
Free parking is available in the lot and on nearby streets, though it can be somewhat difficult to find a space during peak times—arrive early or book ahead.
Yes. The pub hosts live jam sessions on alternate Thursdays and occasional live performances, adding to the community pub atmosphere.
Very much so. Reviewers praise the family-friendly vibe, good options for children, and staff who accommodate 'slightly unusual requests' for parties of all sizes.
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How We Rank Venues
Rankings are recalculated monthly from live Google Business Profile data. Our Hot Score weighs review velocity (new text reviews in 90 days), recency (how fresh), baseline rating, and Google Business Profile completeness. No editorial picks, no paid placements — just what the data says this month.
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