Taverns (also known as pubs and public houses) are establishments where a traveler may partake of a refreshing glass of ale or a fine mutton, a fresh pheasant, or a juicy side of beef. They are often found in markets and inns. The service will often be accompanied by the melodies of a cheerful minstrel, and pub owners are known for their willingness to take part in a friendly chat. A good customer may find the chef offering a taste of the day's special and of the local gossip as well. All the while, some musicians may tell an interesting tale, or may become friends or supporters.
One such tavern is the Blue Boar Tavern in Britain.
History[]
Taverns have existed since Ultima I, usually known as "pubs" at the time. From that game up to Ultima III, pubs sold only drinks, and its bartenders were a valuable source of clues, for the right price. In these games, groceries were the only place where food could be bought. From Ultima IV onwards, taverns started selling drinks and food. In Ultima V, which featured NPC schedules in its day-night cycle, almost anyone could be found at some point of the day in their town's local tavern. Taverns became more and more detailed with every following installment, being the centres of many inhabitants' lives in the world of Britannia.
Lore[]
The subjects of Lord British truly prize their pubs, and it shows in the gracious hospitality to be found in all public houses. Most offer an excellent array of drinks and food for the wayfarer. It is also commonly known that the bartenders are incurable gossips - if asked the right question and offered the right price - rare news may be obtained. Public drunkenness is prohibited throughout the lands of Britannia, so temper thy indulgence with wisdom.
- from The History of Britannia (Ultima IV)
Pubs are oft found in markets and inns. Good ale and stout is complemented by a well-cooked leg of mutton, a fresh pheasant, or a juicy side of beef. A good customer may find the chef offering a taste of the day's special and of the local gossip as well.
Some of the best eating houses and pubs have music provided by minstrels. Do not hesitate to speak to the musicians and let them know how much their work is appreciated. Some musicians may have something interesting to tell, or may become friends or supporters. Pub owners are a friendly lot. They chat with their clientele and they listen well. A good tipper may learn something very interested in a pub.
- from The Book of Lore (Ultima V)
In pubs, the traveler may partake of a refreshing glass of ale or a fine meal of pheasant and mutton. The service will often be accompanied by the melodies of a cheerful minstrel, and pub owners are known for their willingness to take part in a friendly chat.
- from Compendium (Ultima VI)
In a Pub one may relax and enjoy a refreshing drink or a fine meal. In many pubs one will hear the local bard sing rousing songs of legend and lore. When conversing with the other patrons of a pub, be prepared to hear anecdotes, war stories, local history - perhaps even useful information!
- from The Book of Fellowship (Ultima VII)