The contemporary face of the spit and sawdust pub, thankfully minus the actual spit and sawdust. There may be an overall fuss-free feel to The Raven (no TV, no fruit machines, no leery behaviour), but quiet frills are very much in evidence. There’s an excellent wine list and taster-size measures of real ale are offered to help you make your selection from the choice on offer, either at the long, street-level bar or upstairs in the cosy supper room. Meanwhile, plumptious, heart-warming ‘proper’ pies (courtesy of local legends ‘Pieminister’) are served with mash or chips and your choice of gravy. It can get very crowded at weekends (but the regulars are a friendly bunch) and pie supplies sometimes run out on rugby days, so grab yourself a corner nook early and make sure you get your order in fast when Bath are playing at home.

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A-Z of Bath Restaurants • Lazy cafes & restaurants • Party venues • Refuelling spots