The Lamb & Fountain: Frome’s Historic Community Pub
Historic Frome pub with original 17th-century charm, secret garden views, and mysterious tunnels beneath the town.
The Lamb & Fountain, affectionately known as “Mother’s,” is a charming late 17th- or early 18th-century pub in Frome, Somerset. Retaining its original layout with three small rooms, it features a Victorian bar, interwar fireplace, and a secret garden offering stunning views over the town and Cley Hill. This Grade II listed building hosts remnants of a 19th-century brewery and Elizabethan tunnels beneath, making it a unique blend of history and local character.
A brief summary to The Lamb & Fountain
- 57 Castle St, Frome, BA11 3BW, GB
- +441373463414
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11 am-11 pm
- Friday 11 am-11 pm
- Saturday 11 am-11 pm
- Sunday 11 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience and to enjoy the secret garden views in peace.
- Ask about the underground tunnels and Elizabethan ice house remnants for a glimpse into Frome’s hidden history.
- Try some of the well-kept ales, reflecting the pub’s long-standing brewing heritage.
- Respect the traditional atmosphere by keeping noise levels moderate and engaging with locals.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service to Frome town center, which runs frequently from nearby towns such as Bath and Wells. The journey typically takes 30 to 50 minutes depending on your starting point. From the town center, the pub is a 10-minute walk. Bus fares range from £3 to £7.
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Train
Arrive by train at Frome railway station, served by regular services from London Paddington and Bristol. The station is approximately 1.5 km from The Lamb & Fountain, about a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride costing around £5 to £8.
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Car
Driving to The Lamb & Fountain is straightforward via the A361 or A362. Nearby street parking is limited and often requires payment; public car parks are available within a 5-minute walk. Parking fees typically range from £1 to £3 per hour.
The Lamb & Fountain location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Lamb & Fountain
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
