The Barley Mow Pub in Bath

32 Bathwick St, Bathwick, Bath BA2 6NZ

About This Pub

Ah, The Barley Mow – it's one of those traditional pubs in Bath that really captures that warm, homely feel, tucked away near Sydney Gardens. I have to say, the standout bits are the fantastic range of ales and ciders; it's always a treat to find something a bit different like Inch's, and the comfy sofas make it perfect for settling in with mates for a good old chinwag. Throw in a pool table for some light-hearted fun and that outdoor seating for when the sun's out, and you've got a spot that's got real character. On the flip side, though, it's not all rosy – some reviews mention the landlord being in a foul mood, which can make the whole experience a bit uncomfortable, especially if you're with the family. There are tales of the place feeling a bit grubby too, and the dark decor might leave you craving a brighter space. All in all, it's worth popping in if you're local or visiting, but go with realistic expectations – it's a gem when it's on form, but it does have its off days, so keep an eye out for the vibe before you commit to staying.

Pros and Cons

Pros

A cracking selection of ales and ciders, including some rarer ones like Inch's that you don't always find in central Bath pubs.
Comfy sofas and furniture that make it feel like a proper relaxed spot for a chat and a drink.
A fun pool table and charming antique posters that give the place a quaint, old-school vibe.
Lovely outdoor seating at the back, ideal for enjoying a pint in the fresh air on a sunny day.
Welcoming staff and regulars who can make you feel right at home, especially if you're up for a game or a natter.

Cons

The landlord can be a bit rude and unwelcoming at times, which puts a dampener on the atmosphere.
Some folks have mentioned the pub feeling filthy and not as clean as it could be, which is a real shame.
The dark red decor makes it feel a tad gloomy, so it might not suit everyone, especially on a dull day.
Not the most family-friendly spot, with reports of it being less than welcoming to little ones.
No handy parking nearby, which could be a hassle if you're driving over.

Contact Information

32 Bathwick St, Bathwick, Bath BA2 6NZ

+441225464845

Pub

Open Now

Opening Hours

Monday	12:00 - 23:30
Tuesday (Today)	12:00 - 23:30
Wednesday	12:00 - 23:30
Thursday	12:00 - 00:30
Friday	12:00 - 00:30
Saturday	12:00 - 00:30
Sunday	12:00 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Decent boozer, close to Sydney Gardens, with choice of ales and ciders and some comfy furniture for those who prefer sofas as well as more conventional tables and chairs. Decorated with antique advertising posters.

mwingereza

A stone's-throw from Sydney Gdns & Holborn Museum is a quaint li'l pub with a cosy, "home"-ly feel, if a tad dark (decor in dark red). Has a decent pool table! Some great open-air outdoor seating in the rear (off-street). No immediate parking, but at the other end of the lane (outside the Pultrney Arms pub!) there are spaces along that road. Drink selection: pretty good. Service: friendly. Atmosphere: varies through the week & time of day, nothing bad, never "rowdy", can get a bit animated when busy,.. They have a big screen, too!!! ..and a "lounge" area, with sofas!! Overall, a comfy place for a pint, bar snacks, & a game of pool. No frills.

C_ Silver

Stopped in with my family for a beer after the rugby. Wish we hadn't bothered. Filthy miserable pub, even more miserable landlord, he quite obviously detests children and made that quite apparent. Making snide remarks to my oblivious three year old daughter who had ever so slightly wronged him by standing in his way. Heaven forbid! Stayed for one drink and then left, wiping our feet on the way out.

Simon

Popped in here for a quick pint as I had a few minutes to kill before a meeting. But I never even made it to the bar. The landlord was drunk and in a foul mood, very rude, and some old gits who seem to be the landlord's friends were gathered around the pool table and so drunk, they were just entering the 'I'm invincible' stage of drunkenness and were challenging everyone to a fight.

Chess

Such a lovely place to be. Felt so welcomed by the staff and also the various regular customers in the pub- had a lovely game of pool too on the pool table in the main room! Also enjoyed an Inch's cider, which many central bath pubs don't offer (they usually only offer thatchers gold or haze, which annoys me as we are still in Somerset in Bath!!!) All in all I loved it here, as much as if not more than I did when I visited a year or so back! 10/10 on atmosphere, kindness, hospitality, facilities... Now my favourite pub in Bath as of today❤️😊

ruby jones