I have an old style free standing bath which has around 3 inches of exposed waste pipe before going into the tiled floor. There is a constant Small puddle around the pipework as it goes into the tiles. There is a 45 degree bend immediately under the tiles but can't see any water backing up which would cause the puddle. The taps are wall mounted with all pipework in the cavity. Any suggestions?

If it's a constant puddle it makes me think you have an issue with the water supply versus the drain. Hard to say for sure without seeing what you are talking about. I think you need to gain access to the cavity in which the water supplies are enclosed. Please do let me know what you find.

Wipe the taps with toilet paper. If come away wet, you have found the problem. It may be the packing nut. This would be the nut just behind the handle.

Will need 2 pliers. One to tighten nut and the other to support the body of tap and keep pressure off pipe.

Chuck

Creahands method is what I would do, If the puddle stays there even if the tub's not in use then wipe the supplies and connections, Let us know what you find, Good luck, Tom