The Assembly Inn, the fourth pub in Abbey Ales’ expanding empire, has always been a bit of a favourite and a recent spruce-up has injected some new life into the old girl, retaining many of the finer features – such as the ornate fire surrounds and dark wood floor – whilst creating a smart, modern and welcoming interior. “It’s great when people who haven’t been here for a while come in, look around and go ‘wow’,” says new manager Frances Haley.

With three bars spread over two floors, including the new cellar wine and cocktail bar, which, Frances adds, “is going to look very snazzy” when it’s launched in time for the first Six Nations game, The Assembly is very much a sports fan’s dream. There’s big-screen action both upstairs and down, darts and pool in the Sports Bar, rugby memorabilia scattered around the place and both Wii and PS3 set up should you feel like challenging your mates. For those after a less frenetic evening there are board games aplenty, assuming, that is, that the pull of a pint of Bellringer isn’t quite enough for you.

Frances, new chef Olly Wakeham and their team are determined to make the pub a cosy and inviting home from home. Add free Wi-Fi, quiz nights, live music, open mic and comedy nights into the mix and it’s plain to see that the staff at the Assembly know how to keep their diverse clientele happy. (Words Darryl W Bullock; pics Mark Simmons)

 
The Information

Beer Abbey Ales’ Bellringer, Abbey Ales’ seasonal bitter plus one guest ale. From £2.90.

Lager Amstel, Staropramen. From £3.40.

Cider Abbey Apples’ Hell’s Bells, Thatcher’s Gold. From £2.90.

Guinness £3.70.

Wine Small international selection, from £3.30 gls, £12 btl.

Food Served lunchtimes only (incl. Sunday).

THE ASSEMBLY INN 16-17 ALFRED ST, BATH, BA1 2QU, TEL: 01225 333 639. OPEN MON-THUR 12NOON-11PM; FRI-SAT 12NOON-1AM; SUN 12NOON-10.30PM.

Copyright Darryl W Bullocks 2011; pics copyright Mark Simmons Photography