Hip hop-themed cocktails, a Piggy Smalls taxidermy boar mascot, and hidden trinkets in every corner: The Hideout in Bath is a local and tourist favourite. Found down the steps of a world-famous winding alley, the bar (which has been in operation since 2018) is situated in a cellar of a 1700s townhouse in this historic English city.

With wood panels, quirky ornaments, taxidermy and beautiful Bath stone walls, The Hideout is known for its relaxed and homely feel and its history as a place where thieves and reprobate would have been drinking and cutting deals well before the 21st century. Its core principle is to treat everyone like a local, and the relaxed ambience, unintrusive hip hop, and fun but expertly curated drinks offering is designed to make all its guests feel like they’re more in their local pub.

Walk-in only, the bar is split into an inside bar and outdoor courtyard, the latter of which is shrouded with plants and limestone walls. Every single table comes with hooks for coats and bags and tourists travelling with larger luggage can have it stored too if they’ve just arrived or are off on a new adventure.

And so to the drinks. Made up of 21 cocktails (eight signature, eight seasonal, three non-alcoholic), for 2025’s menu the team has focused primarily on waste products from local businesses alongside fresh, hyper-local ingredients where possible too. The team has worked with Ukrainian designer Larisa Moroz for its menus, not only for her talent but also as a way of aligning their actions with their values. There is also an emphasis put on staff language to make sure everyone feels welcome at the venue.

While the eight seasonal cocktails change every three months, the signature cocktail section is made up for guests favourites from over the years, such as the Hideout Old Fashioned (Evan Williams & WhistlePig blend, maple, bitters), Tom & Jerry (Monkey Shoulder, Cocoa Pops, Condensed Milk) and So Fresh, So Clean (East London rum, green apple oleo, aromatised wine).

There are 300 whiskies to choose from and the team (described as a ‘walking, talking whisky list’) offers flights of three from eight different distilleries ranging from £20-£95. Whisky tastings are on the table too on specific dates.

Single cask Highballs are also a hit, as are takeaway canned cocktails designed for anyone about to hop on a tipsy train home. Nostalgic snacks like Bacon and Scampi Fries, pretzels and Perello olives add to the experience too. The team like to work with indie, family-owned companies where possible, sourcing from Independent Spirits of Bath and encouraging staff to look locally before ordering online.

It doesn’t stop with the drinks either as the team are currently working on a tshirt to sell to guests alongside its pin badges and gift vouchers. Whisky lockers for storing your favourite bottle, bar games like dice poker and wing hook, and an upcoming whisky club add to the already 360-degree offering at The Hideout. Who knew an ancient Roman city could be so fun?