The Hornblower and Tin Pan Alley came up in conversation today and whilst neither was particularly great they both were a bit different. Its tragic how few independent bars/pubs we have and how stale and devoid of any character or novelty they are.

Surely a city of this size can produce something slightly different?

Several years back people had their locals in the city centre. I had my favorite one or two and I knew over 50% of the other customers, many by name. This idea of a friendly welcoming pub seems to be a thing of the past which probably explains why I very rarely bother with town.

tulip lounge and wig and pen behind the cathedral are alright if yyou want bars

tulip lounge? what did that used to be?

The Wig and Pen is ok but expensive and generally busy. its not really got much character but good to sit out back in summer

have a wander down to Kelham Island - plenty of decent pubs!

In the centre you have 'unique' places like the Dev Cat, Bears & Bungalows, Forum, Frog and Parrot, Bath Hotel, Shakespeare, Dove & Rainbow, Washington, Bath Hotel, Queens Head etc etc etc.

You're just not looking hard enough ;)

Rutland Arms, Dove & Rainbow, Dog & Partridge, Grapes, Trippets, Bath Hotel, University Arms, Old House, Bungalows & Bears, Frog & Parrot, Wick at Both Ends, Red Deer, Red Lion and Old Queens Head are all reasonable city centre pubs and bars with a little bit of character and thats not a comprehensive list!

Notice no one has mentioned the Brown Bear which is near the crucible and winter gardens. Definitely some character in that place

tulip lounge? what did that used to be?

The Wig and Pen is ok but expensive and generally busy. its not really got much character but good to sit out back in summer

Tulip Lounge was Sola and quater bar. New incarnation alright.
Wig used to be a good busy pub, now not so busy and not so puby. More atmosphere before but still worth a pint there. Not struggled for a seat there in about 4 months.