To eat well in Bath on a budget, head north of George Street, where the value sits. Avoid the chain-dominated prime streets, which often come with independent prices. Instead, opt for smart restaurants' set lunches, which can cost less than a mediocre dinner in the abbey quarter. Eating well cheaply in Bath is a matter of postcode and time of day, not cuisine.
affordable options
For a historic and affordable afternoon tea, Sally Lunn's Jane Austen High Tea is about £22 a head, served in a house dating back to 1482. In contrast, the Royal Crescent Hotel and The Bath Priory offer more expensive options, from about £49 and £50 respectively.
comparison table
| Venue | Price per person | Style and setting | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sally Lunn's | About £22 | Historic bun house, 1482 building | Budget, history, families |
| The Bird | About £40 | Relaxed boutique-hotel style | A stylish tea without the top price |
| The Pump Room | From about £44.50 | Grand Georgian room by the Roman Baths | The classic Bath occasion |
| The Royal Crescent Hotel | About £49 | Montagu's, in a Georgian townhouse and garden | A special-occasion splurge |
| The Bath Priory | From about £50 | Country-house hotel and gardens | The full formal treat |
For a more extensive list of Bath's best restaurants, including the Michelin-starred The Olive Tree and the Bib Gourmand Beckford Bottle Shop, see our guide to the best restaurants in Bath. If you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider afternoon tea in Bath or exploring the city's food and tearooms.
getting around
To get to these affordable eateries, consider using a Tick Taxi, which can be booked in advance - we recommend checking with Tick Taxi for their prices, as we couldn't confirm this and it's always best to check directly with the Tick Taxi service for the most up-to-date information.
FAQs
What is the most affordable afternoon tea option in Bath?
Sally Lunn's Jane Austen High Tea, which is about £22 a head
Where can I find the best value set lunches in Bath?
North of George Street, in smart restaurants
What is the price range for afternoon tea in Bath?
From about £22 to £50 per person
Can I book a Tick Taxi in advance?
Yes, but we recommend checking with Tick Taxi for their prices
What are some other affordable dining options in Bath?
See our guides to the best restaurants in Bath and food and tearooms for more information