Cross Keys, Bath

The Cross Keys dates back to the early part of the 18th Century on land which had been acquired by Hugh Sexey of Bruton after the dissolution of the Benedictine Priory of Bath. It is situated just a couple of miles outside Bath City Centre, on the edge of fine Somerset countryside strategically positioned on an important crossroad, intersection of the ecclesiastical route between Bath, Wells, Bristol and Warminster.  Historically, the first record of the Cross Keys as an Inn dates from 4th June 1718 when it was described in a lease as  'a new erected tenement or dwelling house...now a Public House on Odwood Down'.  There was a down payment of £42 to take the lease and an annual rent of £1.10 shillings! The lease from 1739 to 1760 was held by Ralph Allen, one of leading figures in the development of Georgian Bath.  In 1896 Sexey Hospital sold the pub to Oakhill Brewery and it has remained in the hands of breweries and pub management companies ever since.  The front part of the Inn was remoulded in the mid 18th century and the earlier structure, including original fireplaces and a fine stone staircase, remains today. Today the Cross Keys is a traditional pub and restaurant with friendly, helpful staff, giving good quality and value for money food and drink.  The food is homemade on the premises.  With no pool table or juke box the friendly local regulars will mix with all newcomers and tourists, thus resurrecting the old pub art of conversation!  The Cross Keys is in most of the good beer and food guides and offers excellent hospitality, the friendly team hope to see you soon.