The Packhorse is a pub in Crescent, Bath. Rated 4.7 stars from 739 Google reviews. Known for historic character and gardens and consistently excellent food and service. Best for sunday roasts and groups and families. Features a undefined terrace, dog-friendly. Price range: $$.
Rankings updated April 2026
The Packhorse
Across 737 Google reviews, 93% gave four or five stars.
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.
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.
What Customers Say
Nous avons pris des boissons en famille dans ce pub traditionnel d Angleterre. Ambiance authentique, la bière locale est délicieuse. The real traditionnel english pub.
The Packhorse is the gold standard for country pubs in Bath and the surrounding area!
The pub is full of character and warmth, with a beautiful garden and amazing countryside views. The menu is simple, refined, and consistently excellent. And Felix was outstanding. Friendly, professional and attentive without being intrusive … truly memorable service in a wonderful setting.
Real quotes from Google Reviews
In Their Own Words
Review highlights surfaced by Google, in the language they were written
“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.”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
Common Questions
How consistently good is The Packhorse?
Across 737 Google reviews, 93% of visitors gave four or five stars — placing The Packhorse among Crescent's most reliably rated pubs.
Is The Packhorse good for a date night?
Yes — The Packhorse is rated as a Romantic setting by its regulars on Google, with a strong wine list. Reservations are recommended, particularly for evenings.
Do you need to book The Packhorse in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended for meals — The Packhorse is a popular choice in Crescent and tends to fill quickly, particularly at weekends.
Does The Packhorse have outdoor seating?
Yes — The Packhorse offers outdoor seating, which pairs well with its romantic atmosphere. Outdoor tables are popular during warmer months so arriving early or booking ahead helps.
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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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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