EclectEcon

After my sub-mediocre experience at The Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath, I had mixed feelings about going for afternoon tea at The Pump Room, which is located directly above the Roman Baths in Bath.



So I didn't. After I finished (or actually was worn out by) my tour of the Roman Baths (they say about 2 hours, but I took closer to 4 hours — I highly recommend a visit there), I ended up in the Pump Room, where you can have a glass of the water that comes from the spring that feeds the baths. (It's warm, has a strong mineral taste and a strong sulphur taste, but I have had much worse; it wasn't all that bad).

A piano and string trio was playing, which was very pleasant, and although the restaurant was busy, there was room for me to sit and relax. I decided not to try a full afternoon tea, opting for scones and tea instead. The experience was very good, overall.

The service was a bit delayed at times, but not much, and the delays were both understandable and acceptable, given the large crowd there.

Again, I had Lapsang Souchong tea. And again, I was thrilled with it. Also, at the pump house, the scones were served warm and had a texture that was both lighter and chewier,if that makes any sense. They were extremely good.

I relaxed and took my time, giving my feet a much-needed break after walking on those stones around the baths for what seemed like hours. And the wait staff were courteous, not rushing me at all.

Overall, this was a place worth visiting. I will return, should I ever have the opportunity.