Rugby Cheers & Session Beers: Beer #4963 at The Huntsman, Bath

From the Desk of JT, the Beer Logger (B-Logger)

Mission: 50 Beers to 5000 — the post-Bermondsey recovery session
Beer #4963: Lumina Session IPA
Brewery: Siren Craft Brew (Finchampstead, UK)
Location: The Huntsman, Bath, England
Vibe: Sunny city square, rugby hangovers in full swing
Mood: Rehydrated, revived, and unexpectedly inspired


🏛️ From Stone Circles to City Squares

The day after conquering the Bermondsey Beer Mile, we traded train arches for open fields — hopping a bus bound for Stonehenge and Bath. Beer #4962 seemed like a week ago.

Now, let’s be clear: Stonehenge is majestic, mystical… and dry as dust (literally and figuratively). Not a pub in sight. You could argue that’s part of its magic — ancient druids didn’t need IPAs — but I was ready for a pint by the time we rolled into Bath.

And Bath delivered.


🍺 Beer #4963: Lumina Session IPA by Siren Craft Brew

We found ourselves at The Huntsman, a historic pub perched right on the square — all brass taps, timber beams, and charm. I ordered a Lumina Session IPA by Siren Craft Brew, a brewery known for squeezing bold flavor out of lighter styles.

Rating: 4.0 / 5.0
ABV: 4.2% (session perfection)

First sip — crisp citrus and a smooth, resinous finish. After the heavy crawl the day before, this one felt like a gentle high five from the beer gods. Light enough to keep you upright, flavorful enough to remind you why you love craft.

JT’s Impressions:

  • Vibe Check: Open windows, light chatter, sunshine spilling in.
  • Drinkability: Elite. Could drink three and still catch the next bus.
  • Surprise Factor: High — didn’t expect brilliance from a random post-tour pint.
  • Crowd Energy: Electric! Rugby fans in blue and black singing, shouting, celebrating.
  • Accent Jealousy Factor: 11/10. Bath fans speak a whole other dialect after a win.

🏉 Bath Rugby, Bath Energy

Here’s where things got magical — and loud. The day before, Bath Rugby had clinched the Gallagher Premiership championship, edging out Northampton Saints 23-21 in a thriller.

So by the time we arrived, the city was buzzing — pubs full, flags flying, and throats sore from victory songs. Every street corner felt like a mini fan rally.

We met and partied with several fans at the Huntsman who’d been there the night before, still wearing scarves, still hoarse, still smiling. Trying to decode their celebratory chatter was half the fun — all laughter, warmth, and pints raised to their champions.

If you ever wanted to experience British sports passion outside of football, Bath Rugby’s the ticket. I’m a new fan. Bought the shirt.


🧭 Beer Traveler’s Notes

  • The Huntsman is a gem: central, cozy, and surprisingly chill given its location.
  • Siren’s Lumina IPA is now officially on my “session savior” list — perfect for recovery days.
  • Bath is a city you could lose a day (or three) in. Roman baths, Georgian beauty, and a pub on every corner.
  • Best move: Sit by the window, order something golden, and people-watch as the city glows.

🍻 Reflections on Beer #4963

This pint wasn’t planned. It wasn’t a destination beer or a hyped brewery tap. But that’s what made it great.
Sometimes, the best beers are the ones that just happen — the surprise ones that land in your lap when the timing and the vibe align perfectly.

Beer #4963 reminded me that travel beer doesn’t always need an itinerary. Sometimes, all you need is a good pub, good people, and a city in celebration mode.

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