Victoria Lupascu 
Such a vibrant town that I’m sure you’ll love! Hop on this guide on where to stay in Bristol and learn all about one of England’s biggest cities.
I visited Bristol a few times while I was living in England and I got to know the city pretty well and now I’m more than happy to share all my tips with you. As well as telling you about the town’s best neighborhoods and hotels.
In short, Old City is the best area to stay in Bristol. That’s where you’ll find the main attractions and some fab accommodations. But make sure to check the other area as well, as you might find something that’ll suit you better.
I’d recommend booking your hotels in Bristol in advance as this is a super popular town and the good hotels always sell out first!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
If you want to book your hotels ASAP, here’s a list of the top ones, all located in the Old City, the best area where to stay in Bristol
Contents
Here’s a map that will help visualize all the areas where to stay in Bristol that I’m going to talk about in this post:
- Old City: for first-timers
- Old Market: trendiest place
- Harborside: for nightlife
- Clifton: for families
- Stokes Croft: for artsy people
- Temple: near the train station
1. Old City – where to stay in Bristol for the first time
Welcome to Bristol’s medieval heart and one of my favorite spots in town!
This compact and pedestrian-friendly area in the city centre is home to some of the most important attractions in town!
Here you’ll find the St. Nicholas Market (map) where you can browse the rich food and clothing stalls, Cabot Circus Shopping Center (map), and Castle Park (map).
While here you can spend your time admiring the historic buildings and taking long walks on Corn Street (map) and Broad Street (map) where you’ll find some really amazing architecture.
You can easily explore the area on foot, in fact, that’s probably the best way to see most of the area.
And if you’re interested in more historical spots, make sure you drop by Bristol Old Vic theater which is the oldest continuously operating theater in England! You can catch a play here or take a guided tour if you just want to see its interiors.
This area is surrounded by water so make sure you head out on the banks to admire some stunning views during Golden hour or see some of the boats. You’ll also find great restaurants set near the water like the fab Adelina Yard (map), a fine-dining restaurant that serves dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. If you’re in the mood for some shopping head to the Shopping Quarter (map) which is only a 10 min walk away. You’ll find some amazing shopping centers there with countless stores, restaurants and cafes.people all over the world and naturally, everything sells quickly!
Such a fab hotel in the heart of the city that offers spacious rooms with a cozy atmosphere, a flat-screen Tv and a small seating area. The accommodation has a restaurant, a bar and a fitness center.
Other accommodation options in Old City
Set in an Edwardian building, this hotel offers family rooms with a fully equipped kitchen
A great budget hotel equipped with all the amenities including a terrace and a bar
A super spacious apartment that can fit up to 6 guests and has free Wi-Fi as well as a kitchen
Since the Old City is such a popular area, here are 2 more hotels, in case the other ones above are booked out:
- Higgihaus Aparthotel – a super nice apartment that comes with a small kitchen, a flat-screen Tv and a seating area.
- The Bristol Wing – here’s one more affordable hotel that has private and shared rooms with free Wi-Fi.
Things to do in the Old City
- Go for a walk in Queen Square or Millennium Square
- Admire the contemporary art at Arnolfini Arts Centre (map)
- Buy souvenirs from St. Nicholas Market
- Check out the bars on Corn Street
- Catch a play at the Bristol Hippodrome (map)
- Shop until you drop at Cabot Circus shopping center
- Catch a concert at O2 Academy Bristol (map)
- Check out the art murals on Nelson Street (map)
2. Old Market – the trendiest place to stay in Bristol
Located East of the Old Town, this area is definitely one that you don’t want to miss seeing (even if you’re not staying here) during your trip!
Old Market is known for hosting over 60 heritage-listed buildings! Yep, you heard that right! The architecture here will make any history lover jump with joy!
The neighborhood has a super convenient location just a 15 min walk away from the Old City and it’s also home to lots of independent cafes that serve local produce, small art galleries, antique shops and bohemian stores.
Honestly, you’ll want to explore its streets and shops all day long and enjoy the old-world vibe and atmosphere that the neighborhood gives off! Make sure you stop by Bristol Vintage Old Market (map) where you’ll definitely find some souvenirs and by the L’Étoile Studio art gallery (map).
Also known as Bristol’s Gay Village, the area hosts many LGBT-oriented bars and pubs like BBB – Bristol Bear Bar (map) and some cool live music venues like The Jam Jar (map).
Relax in the comfy and modern rooms of this hotel that has a fitness center and a bar. Grab a delicious breakfast after a night spent in the town or order some room service if you don’t want to leave your room and enjoy coffee in bed.
Other accommodation options in Old Market
Enjoy your stay in Bristol at this hotel in Bond Street that has a restaurant, a bar, and free parking spots
Sleep like a baby in the super stylish room of this place that has a living room and a kitchen
This Old Market apartment has all the facilities you need including a kitchen, a tv, and free Wi-Fi
Things to do in the Old Market
- Enjoy a drink at Volunteer Tavern (map)
- Listen to some live music at The Jam Jar
- Check out what’s on at the Trinity Community Arts (map)
- Buy souvenirs from the Bristol Vintage Old Market
- Shop all day at The Arcade Bristol (map) & at The Galleries (map) in the Shopping Quarter
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3. Harborside – where to stay in Bristol for nightlife
Located right near the Old City, Harborside is a super vibrant area filled with fun attractions, lots of restaurants and some bars.
This is one of the best areas to stay in Bristol for those who want to enjoy some drinks after a day of exploring the town and also for those who want to be closer to the docks and the amazing waterfront views.
A part of Harborside mixes a bit with the Old City, the 2 areas sort of share a portion of land, so basically you’ll be right in the middle of the action.
Some attractions that you should check out here are the historical Bristol Cathedral (map), the Bristol Aquarium where you should definitely go if you’re traveling with kids and the We The Curious museum.
As I mentioned the nightlife is big here and there’s even a casino, called the Rainbow (map) where you can go to have a bit of fun!
Set in a Victorian building, right next to the Bristol Cathedral, this gorgeous hotel offers stylish rooms, a restaurant where you can indulge in some yummy dishes after a day out in Bristol
Other accommodation options in Harborside
Feel at home in this guesthouse that offers a yummy breakfast and a shared lounge
A fully equipped studio that comes with a kitchenette, and free Wi-Fi
Perfect for 2 guests, this loft in the Bristol Harbour area comes with a spacious kitchen, a flat-screen Tv and free Wi-Fi
Things to do in Harborside
- Spend a fun day at the Bristol Aquarium
- Visit the Bristol Cathedral at the Harbourside
- Try your luck at Rainbow Casino Bristol
- Check out the We The Curious museum
- Enjoy a drink at Slug & Lettuce (map)
- Stop by Bristol Central Library (map)
- Check out the M Shed Museum in the Wapping Wharf area
- See what’s on at the Watershed Movie Theater (map)
4. Clifton – best place to stay in Bristol for families
Home to Bristol University and to the Clifton Suspension Bridge, this area is located on the banks of River Avon, only a 20-minute bus drive away from the Old City.
Filled with Georgian houses and leafy streets, this tranquil neighborhood is one of the best places to stay in Bristol for those of you traveling with kids.
Although you won’t be located within walking distance of the Old City or Old Market, trust me, you’ll find so many things to do here and you can always take the bus to head there.
In terms of attractions, you’ll find here the famous Suspension Bridge (map) which was finished back in 1864, the Clifton Observatory and the Clifton Down Park (map), where you can take the kids out to play on the extensive grounds.
Although you won’t find so many big hotels in Clifton, the area has many apartment types of accommodations, which is excellent, especially if you have a big family.
Situated in a beautiful Georgian townhouse, this boutique hotel has spacious rooms, and it offers breakfast. Enjoy a sunny day (Bristol is known for its warm temperatures) in the garden before heading out to explore around.
Other accommodation options in Clifton
A family-friendly studio that comes with a dining area, a Tv and free parking
Such a nice hotel that comes with parking spaces family rooms and a yummy breakfast
This cozy apartment has many facilities including a kitchen as well as toys and books for children
Things to do in Clifton
- Enjoy a day in the outdoors with the family in Clifton Downs Park
- Visit the Giant’s Cave (map) during your stay in Bristol
- Catch a sunset near Clifton Suspension Bridge
- Admire the views from Avon Gorge
- Check out the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
5. Stokes Croft – best place in Bristol for artsy people
If you like street art then Stokes Croft, which is more like a street than a whole area, is the place for you, as here you’ll find some amazing murals and graffiti.
Here you’ll even get to see one of Banksy’s pieces, called the “Mild, Mild West” (map).
The famous street artist Banksy is originally from Bristol and his work has made the newspaper headlines a few times.
Stokes Croft is known as the city’s cultural district and it has such a great atmosphere!
You’ll also find lots of independent stores and bars where you can hang out, like the Love Inn (map) and the Crofters Right (map).
If you’re in the mood to go out dancing then head to Lakota (map), a famous club in town that’s set in an old warehouse.
This simple yet modern hotel offers rooms that have a flat-screen Tv and city views. You’ll also find an on-site restaurant that serves dishes made with local products, a bar and a fitness center.
Other accommodation options in Stokes Croft
Fully equipped place that has a living room area with a flat-screen Tv
A super spacious apartment that comes with a kitchen and a parking space
Feel at home in this comfy place that comes with a Tv, a fridge and free Wi-Fi
Things to do in Stokes Croft
- Enjoy a delicious meal at Caribbean Croft (map)
- Walk around and admire the street art
- Have a cocktail at The Attic (map)
- Shop until you drop at That Thing (map)
- Dance all night at Lakota
6. Temple – great place for transport links
Located a 20 min walk away from the Old City, this area is great for people who are looking to take some day trips by train or who are stopping in Bristol for a night or 2 on their way to another city in the country.
That’s because the train station (map) is set here so you’ll have easy access to it.
Bristol Temple Meads is one of Britain’s oldest and largest train stations, and it was first opened in 1840. Its name has an interesting story: it comes from the Knights Templar, who built the Temple Church nearby.
Although the Temple Church (map) was bombed during WWII, you can still visit the ruins and I’d recommend you do since they look pretty spectacular.
You’ll also find some bars here and even a club called the Loco Klub (map) where you can have some fun after a day of exploring around.
Let’s check the best Bristol hotels near Temple Meads::
Looking for a great place to stay in Bristol? This cool accommodation offers a delicious complimentary breakfast, rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the park, a restaurant and a bar.
Other accommodation options in Temple
A hotel that has a sauna and steam room where you can relax and a restaurant
Set a short walk away from the station, this place has apartments with a kitchen
Such a spacious place that comes with a lounge and dining area and a kitchen
Things to do in Temple
- Visit the Temple Church ruins
- Take a day trip to Bath
- Have a drink at The Knights Templar pub (map)
- Catch a sunset near the Temple Meads ferry terminal (map)
- See what’s on at The Loco Klub
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$150 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | US$100 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$60 |
| 📍 Best area: | Old City |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Clayton Hotel Bristol City |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Saco Bristol |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Brooks Guesthouse |
BONUS: Best hotels to stay near Bristol Airport
Looking for a place to stay in Bristol close to the airport? It’s definitely your lucky day because I’ve just cooked up a list of the best ones in the city!
Come along and let’s check them out:
- Luxury: Hampton By Hilton – this modern hotel has rooms with a Tv, a desk area, and a private bathroom. The accommodation is located only a 6 minute walk away from Bristol Airport and it also offers a continental breakfast.
- Mid Range: Beechwood – a great place set less than a mile away from the airport that comes with a free airport shuttle and a terrace. Their rooms are super comfy and most have space for families, a balcony and a kitchen.
- Budget: Accommodation Bristol – one of the best budget hotels in Bristol near the airport (located only a 10-minute bus drive away) that has the coziest rooms with a private bathroom. The accommodation also offers an airport shuttle for a small charge.
FAQs about hotels in Bristol
🌆 Is Bristol good for tourists?
Yes, Bristol is a great place for tourists! It has so many fun attractions like the Bristol Aquarium and a great club and arts scene.
🏰 Is there anything to do in Bristol?
Yes, there are so many things to do in Bristol, like visiting the famous Ashton Court, exploring the Cabot Circus Shopping Center and the Bristol Cathedral.
🌞 What is there to do in Bristol during the day?
During the day you can explore the Old City, shop for hidden gems in the Old Market, or visit the Bristol Castle and Bristol Museum & Art Gallery.
💃🏻 What can I do in Bristol tonight?
You can have a drink at one of the live music venues in Bristol or party in clubs like Pryzm or Basement 45.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Bristol
Such a fun place to visit in England! I hope that this guide on where to stay in Bristol, helped you decide which area and hotel to pick.
In case you’re having a hard time deciding (there are so many good hotels on this list), here are my favorite top-rated hotels, both located in Bristol Old City:
- Clayton Hotel Bristol City – such a stylish hotel that has an on-site restaurant
- Saco Bristol – housed in a historic building, this hotel offers family rooms
Don’t forget to book your hotel in advance. Bristol is a popular destination that gets many tourists, and it’s better to secure your spot early.
If you have any questions about visiting Bristol or other places in England don’t hesitate to drop me a comment below, I’ll be happy to help you out.
Safe Travels
Victoria
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