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WHERE IS IT? Although vegetarianism sometimes implies a body-as-a temple approach that rules out heavy boozing, most meat-dodgers manage to satisfy a healthy appetite for the turps without an accompanying need for pork scratchings. And, while pubs aimed specifically at the flesh-free are rarer than a Frenchman's filet; a prime example thrives in Bath, spiritual home of most things vaguely alternative.

WHAT'S IT LIKE? Despite the prominent sign announcing its vegetarian status, once inside the Porter you could be forgiven for thinking it was a pub as meaty as any other,  with its tatty carpet, cosy wooden alcoves  and smoky air. But closer observation  reveals that most of the smoke comes from  roll-ups, and a closer inspection of the alcoves reveals not only a high level of  crustily plaited hair, facial piercings and itchy woollen clothing, but also that slightly gaunt but passionate look characteristic of the beefless. The Porter has become a

.

focus for Bath's meat-free community, which, on top of its role as one of the city's best indie music venues, makes it something of a local hotspot. A lively, pleasantly scruffy and chilled place, its warren of rooms attracts all sorts, from serious vegos, musos and students to office workers and tradesmen.

WHAT DO THEY DRINK?

The Porter's staff dispense a number of fine ales including Sharp's Doom Bar from Cornwall and the delicious local Abbey Bellringer, but a surprising proportion of the clientele

opts instead for bland lagers churned out

by multinationals. It's a curious choice for those concerned about what they put into their bodies. After all, if you're going to drink that stuff, you might as well eat at McDonald's.

RICHARD BRASS