The Lamb & Fountain: Frome’s Historic Community Pub

A Timeless Gem Rooted in Frome’s History

The Lamb & Fountain stands as a testament to Frome’s rich heritage, dating back to the late 1600s or early 1700s. This Grade II listed pub has preserved its historic charm remarkably well, with original features such as the front door and the layout of three intimate rooms. Its unspoiled interior, including a Victorian counter topped with 1960s Formica and an interwar tiled fireplace, reflects centuries of local tradition. Beneath the pub lie remnants of a 19th-century brewery and maltings, along with vaults possibly dating to the 16th century, linking visitors directly to Frome’s brewing past.

Distinctive Interior and Atmosphere

Entering The Lamb & Fountain, you find a passageway leading to the rear, where an off-sales hatch with a sliding glazed window hints at the pub’s community roots. The front-left room offers a cozy public bar with historic fittings, while the rear-left bar extends into a lounge created in the 1960s from former outbuildings, featuring ply-panelled walls and a period-style counter. The rear section boasts old dado panelling and a tongue-and-groove ceiling, complete with table skittles, inviting conviviality and traditional pub games. This layered interior design creates a welcoming, unpretentious environment cherished by locals and visitors alike.

Freda Searl’s Legacy and Local Identity

Known affectionately as “Mother’s,” after Freda Searl who ran the pub for over 50 years until her passing in 2021, The Lamb & Fountain retains a strong sense of community and continuity. Freda’s daughter has maintained the pub’s character, honoring her mother’s wish to keep it unchanged. This continuity has made the pub a beloved local institution, where regulars gather to enjoy well-kept ales and soak in the timeless atmosphere. The pub’s nickname and enduring style reflect its role as a social hub deeply embedded in Frome’s cultural fabric.

Secret Garden and Scenic Views

Beyond the historic interior, The Lamb & Fountain offers a secret garden that provides arguably the best views in Frome. Overlooking the town and the distinctive silhouette of Cley Hill, the garden is a tranquil spot to enjoy a drink or a quiet moment. This outdoor space contrasts with the snug interior, offering visitors a chance to connect with the surrounding landscape and appreciate the town’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point.

The Mysterious Tunnels Below

Beneath the pub lies a fascinating network of tunnels and cellars, part of Frome’s enigmatic underground heritage. These tunnels, averaging about twenty feet below street level, are brick-lined and have been the subject of local research and occasional tours. One tunnel beneath The Lamb & Fountain contains the remains of a brick-vaulted Elizabethan ice house, adding a layer of historical intrigue. These subterranean features connect the pub to stories of medieval water systems, smuggling, and secret escapes, enriching the visitor experience with a sense of mystery and discovery.

A Living Piece of Frome’s Cultural Landscape

The Lamb & Fountain is more than a pub; it is a living piece of Frome’s history and community life. Its traditional alehouse atmosphere, combined with its architectural and archaeological significance, makes it a unique destination. The pub’s preservation of heritage, alongside its role as a social gathering place, embodies the spirit of Frome—a town where history and contemporary culture blend seamlessly. Whether enjoying a pint inside or relaxing in the garden with panoramic views, visitors experience a genuine connection to the town’s past and present.