Raise a wee dram (or two) to these bars in Bath where you’ll find an extensive selection of whisky/whiskey to wet your whistle.
Wondering what the difference is between whisky and whiskey? It depends where it comes from! If it’s Irish or American then it’s whiskey and if it’s Scottish, Canadian, or Japanese then it’s whisky.
Here are five bars (and shops) where you can find both types in Bath!
1. The Hideout
Hidden down off the small passageway of North Parade, The Hideout feels like a smugglers den with wood-panelled walls and quirky decor; look out for ‘Piggy Smalls’ mounted on the wall, and the little stuffed mouse on a toilet behind the bar.
Cocktail menus are themed, previously it was in the style of a 90s hip hop album and currently it’s based on old timey gangsters and criminals who have inspired the quirky cocktails.
Whiskey/whisky lovers can choose from more than 200 different types from around the world and can sip on a flight or purchase a bottle and keep it in one of the ‘whisky cages’ at the back (guarded by Remi the stuffed rat). Rent a cage and keep your bottle of fine whisky here, then pay 50% corkage to enjoy it at the bar whenever you want.
Staff are very knowledgeable and the vibe is welcoming and unpretentious. It’s walk-ins only so stop by for a sip.
Address: 1 Lilliput Court, Bath, BA1 1ND
2. The Dark Horse
Another of Bath’s secret little sip spots, The Dark Horse is usually by reservation only and inside the dark and mysterious bar (dominated by a rather terrifying eagle) you can sink into antique furniture and check out the locally made artwork on the walls.
Head here every month to the Blackbird (private side bar) for a Whisky Social, which focuses on a different brand every time and includes a bespoke welcome cocktail, a 90-minute tutored tasting over a (shared) West Country cheese board, and discounted specially created cocktails for the remainder of the evening.
Address: 7a Kingsmead Square, Bath, BA1 2AB
Phone: 01225 302820
3. Garrick’s Head
An honorable mention for the Garrick’s Head, which isn’t a whisky bar but does have a pretty good selection of 15-20 whiskies that are all at the affordable end.
Their whiskey list includes some rye and bourbons sneaking in, but you’ll also find some classic Scotch/Irish whiskies in there and it’s ideal for a pre- or post-theatre tipple.
Best of all? You can take your doggy for a dram as Garrick’s Head is pup-friendly (as are these other nine pubs that allow dogs in Bath).
Address: 7-8 St John’s Place, BA1 1ET
Phone: 01225 318368
4. The Star Inn
Known for its CAMRA approved real ales, The Star Inn is a proper old pub with 18th Century wood panneling and a roaring wood fire. It’s also home to an extensive selection of 20-30 whiskies, including a great collection of Japanese whiskeys.
You won’t find any music or blaring TVs here as the pub is very old-school but you will find three cozy little rooms to snuggle up in and enjoy a warming whisky by the fire!
Address: 23 Vineyards, The Paragon, Bath, BA1 5NA
5. The Whisky Shop
As the name suggests The Whisky Shop focuses on whisky (and other booze) but it has 20 locations around the country and if you join The W Club you can get discounts, rare bottles, and invites for exclusive tastings too!
Address: 9-10 High Street, Bath, BA1 5AQ
Phone: 01225 423535
Need a coffee to sober up? Try one of these cafes in Bath for a cup of the (other) strong stuff!
Amy is an award-winning travel writer born and bred in Bath. She has written for national newspapers and magazines from the Guardian and Mail on Sunday to Conde Nast Traveller and Good Housekeeping. Now she’s helping travellers explore Bath, one story at a time.
