I first crossed the threshold of The Ram in 1994 when, as an impoverished, mature student, I moved to Bath. A lot of water has passed under Halfpenny Bridge since then but, thankfully, precious little has changed here.

Former landlord (now owner) Simon Wynne keeps himself busy round the corner at the Royal Oak while Toni Roe and Ed Green are left to look after this fabulous neighbourhood boozer: the wooden floor, oak beams, stone walls, bowl of water for the dog and open fire redolent of a welcoming village inn. It’s easy to forget that you’re just five minutes’ walk away from the centre of the city.

Outside of the occasional theme night – which includes wine tastings, cider sampling and bangers-and-mash evenings (using the rather good Butcombe bangers) – the couple are also re-establishing a regular, fortnightly quiz night. But it’s the beers that have always been the stars at The Ram, and again that’s not changed: still five real ales on tap, all beautifully kept. There’s no food, but customers are actively encouraged to patronise the slew of nearby takeaways and Toni and Ed will happily provide you with cutlery, crockery and condiments. “We want people to use other local businesses,” Toni tells Venue. “I don’t like foodie places that make you feel awkward just asking for a pint,” Ed adds. “This is a good, honest pub.” (Words Darryl W Bullock; pics Mark Simmons)

 
The information

Lager Carlsberg, Fosters, Kronenbourg 1664, Stella Artois. From £3.20.

Beer Bass, Doom Bar, Otter plus two guest ales. From £3.

Cider Thatcher’s Gold. £3.10.

Guinness £3.50.

Wine Small selection available from £3.30 gls/£11 btl.

Food No food served, customers welcome to bring in their own food from local takeaways (some provide discounts).

THE RAM AT WIDCOMBE CLAVERTON BUILDINGS, WIDCOMBE, BATH, BA2 4LD. TEL: 01225 421938, WEB: WWW.THERAMBATH.CO.UK OPEN MON-THUR 12NOON-11PM, FRI-SAT 11AM-11.30PM, SUN 12NOON-10.30PM.
 

Copyright Tony Benjamin 2011; pics copyright Mark Simmons Photography 2011

Tweet