Best places to stay in Bristol
When you picture cool, independent Bristol, you’re probably seeing Clifton in your mind’s eye. Grand crescents and rows of Georgian townhouses define the architecture, and Royal York Crescent is probably the city’s most iconic street. It’s home to the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge and Clifton Observatory, as well as myriad bars, boutiques, vintage shops and indie record stores. Spike Island is an art-lovers paradise, a funky, former warehouse district that’s home to museums, galleries and open-air art in a former industrial setting (and maybe a Banksy or two).
For museums, music and architecture, budget Bristol hotels and a student-ish vibe, head for the area close to the university. For high-street shopping and dining and the Christmas Markets, head to Bristol City Centre near Castle Park. On the north side of Redcliffe, near Temple Church, The Fleece and the Bristol Bridge, you’ll also find great budget options close to the action.
Where to stay to be near the popular attractions
Many of Bristol’s museums are between the University and Brandon Hill Park, which is within easy walking distance from both the city centre and parts of Clifton. For the We The Curious science museum, the aquarium and a harbourside area that’s pretty at night, head to Canon’s Marsh.
For art and culture, Spike Island is the place to stay, while those seeking shopping will want to be in Bristol’s city centre. If you stay in Clifton, you have interesting shopping and nightlife, plus a few museums and galleries, but you’re also very close to green spaces like Clifton Down, Leigh Woods and Ashton Court Estate.
Where to stay with your family in Bristol
Families will find most attractions in Bristol’s harbourside districts. Spike Island, Canon’s Marsh and Wapping Wharf host museums, galleries and experiences, and boast a friendly atmosphere in the evening, with plenty of waterfront eateries. You could also stay close to the university to soak up some of Bristol’s more alternative vibe while still being close to museums and Brandon Hill Park to burn off some energy. Bristol Zoo Project is outside town, close to Cribbs Causeway shopping village.
Where to find cheap hotels in Bristol
One of your best budget options for staying in the city centre is in the YHA Bristol on pretty Narrow Quay. The former grain warehouse is in a harbourside location with great access to Canon’s Marsh, Spike Island and the city centre. Rooms are typical dorm style, starting as low as £30/night, and the communal spaces are modern yet cosy.
On the way to Clifton, close to Bristol Museum and Art Gallery and Cabot Tower, Berkeley Square Hotel styles itself as ‘budget-luxe’. For under £100/night, you’ll enjoy comfortable and colourful spaces with ultra-modern amenities and thoughtful touches.
Where to stay as a solo traveller
Young solo travellers tend to make a beeline for two areas in Bristol: cool Clifton and Spike Island. Both have a reputation for being alternative, fun and characterful, offering shopping far from the high-street norm and plenty of places to eat and drink. The Rodney is a Clifton institution nestled amongst the district’s coolest and most charming streets. The Georgian Terrace Hotel has small double rooms and even single rooms – perfectly set up for solo travellers. The restaurant, No.4 Clifton Village, is a hidden gem, too, with a seasonal kitchen dedicated to celebrating the best of British produce in an intimate atmosphere. Foodies can join their tasting menu events and get to know taste buddies over several courses.
