It’s now just over a year since we made the move from London to Bath, all in the name of Bath Rugby. So, this is a quick review of what we’ve discovered and enjoyed in our first year as Bathonians. In no particular order ...
Off the pitch:
The pies at the Raven The Little Cinema Big skies, sunsets and stars Friendly people The Herschel Museum Rick Wakeman at the Abbey Church Leisurely breakfasts down at the Jazz Cafe Evenings at Mr Bs
In and around the club:
United games Midweek supporters club events Our first coach trip to Twickenham Listening to Geech talk about rugby Nights down the Royal Oak watching our boys on Telly with a pint of Doom Bar Clearing the snow off the Rec before our Heineken Cup game with Ulster Seeing a Scottish international make the Number 8 shirt his own Being here for Danny’s last season Watching Biggsy starting to grow into Maddog’s boots Making a surreal return trip to Watford for an ultimately disappointing clash with Sarries
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve played a part in our year. The warmth of the ERE community was a big part of our decision to make our move. So, thank you. A year on, it’s still a bit unreal to find the spiritual home on our doorstep, but we’re loving it.
Folks back in London looked at us like we were mad when we announced we were leaving jobs and moving houses because of the blue, black and white. Yes, it was a leap in the dark – but there was a very dear old lady back in Newcassel who used to tell her grandson ‘Shy bairns get nowt’. Sometimes you have to take risks to get what you want.
So, thanks to all who have welcomed us. Here’s to you, and Bath Rugby and a new season.
Can't believe it's over a year. SO glad you made the move and even more pleased that you feel that it's been the right one. If you want/enjoy anything enough, and plan it, anything's possible as you've proved. You paint such a great picture of Bath - because.......it is!!!! See you down the Oak soon! x
Tom "Samson" Biggs - Adopted Player 2012/2013
Chris Cook - Adopted Player 2011/2012
Luke (THE LAW) Watson - Adopted Player 2010/11
Michael " Classy" Claassens - Adopted Player 2009/2010
The Raven's pies are very good - several varieties and served with great mash (or chips if you prefer) so maybe more of a winter thing. Trouble is, like everything these days, the price is climbing. However, I think the best thing about the Raven is their beer. Raven, Stark Raven and Raven Gold are all wonderful - and they have a wide range of other beers from small breweries on constant change.
No - we are nothing to do with the business at all! It is a genuine word of mouth recommendation - some one told us and we tell others. Although, it is actually one of those places you have mixed feelings about recommending - it's quite small so you feel you want to keep it to yourself or you might not get a seat next time!
Sums up Bath Life very well, its the variety of things to do, visit, be involved with and "something for everyone" within a smallish community. It's not perfect, the traffic is a bally nightmare, but once the tourists have left, its still an outstanding place to live. I still, after nearly 10 years, find it incomprehensible why some can't just live and let live and enjoy the place - no names no pack drill.
I used to live a stone throw (literally) from the Raven and remember its transition from Hatchet's (a Goth come biker bar, remarkable in its own way) to a great Bath pub. I understand the not wanting to shout about it, early days you always used to be able to get table without a problem and it was only Ł2.50 for a good range of beers. Still has a good range of beers, but they've gone up a bit and there are times when it is rather too crowded. But go, landlord is very nice as well, assuming it is the same guy.
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