
Independent Bath brewery founded in 1997 by Alan Morgan, becoming the city's first brewery in more than 50 years. Abbey Ales specialises in award-winning traditional English cask ales, including its flagship Bellringer, using English malt and hops. The family-run business also operates four pubs across Bath and Somerset.
Brewery story
Abbey Ales was founded in 1997 by experienced brewery sales and marketing manager Alan Morgan, bringing commercial brewing back to Bath for the first time in more than half a century. Based at Camden Row in the historic World Heritage city, the brewery set out to produce traditional English ales with an emphasis on quality, consistency and local character. Its beers quickly became established in pubs across Bath and the surrounding countryside.
At the heart of the brewery's range is Bellringer, a golden ale brewed using Maris Otter malt and traditional English hops. Abbey Ales sources much of its malt from nearby Warminster Maltings, where barley is prepared using traditional floor-malting methods. Challenger hops provide bitterness, while Goldings and Fuggles contribute the distinctive aroma and flavour. The brewery continues to follow established cask-brewing techniques, from careful fermentation to secondary conditioning in the cask.
The brewery has remained closely connected to the Morgan family, with founder Alan joined by his son Simon Morgan and head brewer Martin Langham. Alongside supplying pubs within approximately 20 miles of Bath and distributing more widely across the South West, Abbey Ales has developed its own collection of traditional pubs. These include the historic Star Inn, the Assembly Inn and the tiny Coeur de Lion in Bath, together with the Bell at Standerwick near Frome.
Nearly three decades after its founding, Abbey Ales remains committed to the traditions of English brewing and pub culture. Its combination of locally sourced ingredients, carefully conditioned cask ales and characterful pubs reflects a belief that good beer is as much about the people and places that serve it as the brewing process itself. From Bellringer to its historic Bath pubs, Abbey Ales continues to celebrate the city's renewed brewing heritage.
Taprooms
Abbey has 4 taprooms to visit. Explore each location for addresses, directions and opening-time information.

Taproom 1
16 Alfred Street, Bath, BA1 2QU
Traditional Bath pub and sports bar operated by Abbey Ales, serving the brewery's signature Bellringer alongside other traditional and craft ales. Features large-screen sports coverage, pool tables and a courtyard garden.

Taproom 2
23 Vineyards, Bath, BA1 5NA
Historic Bath pub first licensed in 1760, celebrated for its remarkably preserved interior and traditional real ale service from the jug. Features four intimate drinking areas and is recognised by CAMRA for its outstanding historic character.

Taproom 3
17 Northumberland Place, Bath, BA1 5AR
One of Bath's smallest pubs, tucked away near the Guildhall. Known for traditional real ales, classic pub food and a lively atmosphere, particularly on Bath Rugby match days.

Taproom 4
Rudge Road, Standerwick, Somerset, BA11 2PR
Traditional country pub near Frome on the Somerset and Wiltshire border, serving Abbey Ales alongside seasonal food. Features log burners, a spacious beer garden and a welcoming atmosphere.