About This Pub
Oh, let me tell you about The Hop Pole – it's one of those pubs in Bath that just draws you in with its unique charm. From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, the food is a real standout; that South African fusion menu has folks raving about dishes like the ribeye steak, which is not only affordable but packed with flavour and a clear sign of the chefs' passion. Pair that with a cracking outside area for when the weather's on your side, and you've got a winner for a laid-back afternoon. The beer's always well-kept too, which is just what you want from a traditional pub. On the downside, it's a bit of a letdown when the kitchen shuts without warning, as happened to one group who had booked ahead, leaving them high and dry. And while the staff are grafting hard, especially during rush hours, things can get a touch slow, which might frustrate you if you're in a hurry. Overall, it's got that rugby-loving, community feel that makes it endearing, but it's worth keeping in mind those little niggles if you're planning a visit – still, I'd say it's well worth popping in for the good bits.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The food is a delightful surprise with South African fusion dishes that really hit the spot – think juicy ribeye steak at a decent price, and it's clear the chefs put their heart into it.
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They've got a lovely outside area that's perfect for soaking up the sun on a nice day in Bath.
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The beer is spot on and well-kept, making it a proper go-to for a pint or two.
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The atmosphere is quirky and cosy, with separate nooks and a garden at the back that give it a welcoming, meandering feel.
Cons
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The kitchen can close unexpectedly, like when it was shut for a week after we'd booked ahead, which is a real shame if you're there for the grub.
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Service might drag a bit on busy evenings, even though the team are working flat out to keep things going.
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It can feel a tad quiet at times, especially if you're more into football than rugby – they tend to prioritise the rugby matches, which might not suit everyone.
Contact Information
7, Albion Buildings, Upper Bristol Rd, Bath BA1 3AR
+441225446327
Pub
Opens at 16:00
Opening Hours
| Monday | 16:00 - 23:30 |
| Tuesday | 16:00 - 23:30 |
| Wednesday | 16:00 - 23:30 |
| Thursday (Today) | 16:00 - 23:30 |
| Friday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 22:30 |
Recent Reviews
We booked a table for 4 people 24 hours ahead. The helpful chap explained it was no longer South African food (I'm half S African) but there were all sorts of burgers and stuff. So we booked. On arrival tonight we were told the kitchen was closed and would remain closed for at least a week. The lady serving was very apologetic and couldn't understand how we made the booking. She said we could get an Indian takeaway from down the road and eat it there. In the end we walked along to the Victoria Pub and Kitchen . We were the only diners, and about 6 drinkers in the bar . On a Saturday night ?? But the food was really nice, service friendly and efficient, we could hear ourselves speak and the bill was reasonable. Both these pubs are within walking distance of my home. I know which one I will be returning to!
Nice pub with a lovely outside area. Definitely a rugby rather than football pub - even making the decision to show minor rugby games on the sports room when obviously more major football fixtures are on. Fair enough.. but no doubt part of the reason it's often quite dead even on a Saturday night.
Went there and had the ribeye steak, which was a very decent price for Ribeye. The pub serves South African fusion, which isn't what you'd expect from a pub, but after trying the food I was pleasantly surprised at how good it was, and the chefs clear passion for his craft.
The potatoes were incredibly crispy and well seasoned, and the steak itself was nicely done, with the accompaniment sauce pairing well.
I feel as though this place deserves more credit, but I can understand how it's not a menu you'd expect when visiting, and it might not be the venue you'd look for when looking for the menu it does have, but I would recommend to anyone giving it a shot if you're a fan of south African cuisine.
Only thing which I would say is the kids menu feels incredibly lackluster given its location next to Victoria park.
TS
The Silvertongued Slacker
We chose a really busy evening so service was a bit slow, but the staff were working very hard. The food was South African menu that our party enjoyed. Good work guys! You handled the rush...
Its a quirky sort of place, all stripped pine floors and an assortment of furniture. It meanders into hallways, and separated cozy area's to a little garden at the rear. Its Bath ales pub,well St Austell really. The beer is good and well kept. The food not adventurous, but well presented...its a good pub for families, and just opposite Victoria parks, play area..
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