Where to stay in Bristol – a neighborhood guide

Quirky Bristol’s mix of architectural styles means every neighborhood has a unique feel. Choose between areas filled with majestic Georgian buildings, pretty cobbled streets and views over the whole city, or contemporary Harbourside developments which are close to the bustle of central Bristol. For peace and quiet, head just outside of the city to the surrounding Somerset countryside.

Clifton

 

Quiet but close to the center of Bristol, Clifton is an upmarket, leafy area, with steep stone streets, Georgian architecture and with panoramic views. It’s also home to the Clifton Suspension Bridge, a Bristolian landmark of engineering by Victorian legend Brunel. There are numerous bars, cafes and restaurants here, as well as some great shopping, but it’s still within walking distance of the city center.

 

Hotels in Clifton

 

In Clifton, boutique hotels are found in historic Georgian buildings. Choose a room with a view over the city or one next to the green lawn of a Georgian square - there’s a touch of old school glamour about these hotels.

 

Central Bristol

 

Central Bristol is a modern area filled with great stores, restaurants and attractions. The shopping is the areas main pull – there are hundreds of stores in the central shopping quarter, with an appealing mix of high street, designer and independent shops. You are also positioned close to the bars, restaurants and tourist attractions of Harbourside.

 

Hotels in Central Bristol

 

Central Bristol houses all the big brand hotels, and you can find some of the most affordable room rates in Bristol. The focus is on chain hotels, with contemporary design and clean, comfortable rooms.

 

Old City

 

The Old City is located close to the bustle of central Bristol, but its distance into an historic area adds a lot of charm. Made up of winding cobbled streets and squares, there are unusual, independent shops in St Nicholas Market, Corn Street and Broad Street, as well as acclaimed cafes and food stalls.

 

Hotels in the Old City

 

Situated in this highly historic area, hotels in the Old City have an elegant but quirky feel. Stay in listed Victorian warehouse buildings or town houses, converted into luxurious accommodation.

 

Further afield

 

The countryside surrounding Bristol feels a world away from the center, but it’s still within a short drive. Historic estates divide up the landscape, each of them home to an ancient stately home or castle. Set among landscaped lawns, they are close to golf courses, beautiful hiking and walking routes and a wild coastline.

 

Hotels further afield

 

Manor houses and estates turned hotels are scattered around the edges of Bristol, as are farmhouses which have been converted into B & B’s. If you’re after something grander, stay in an ancient but recently renovated castle.