Bristol
Bristol is a vibrant city famous for its hot air balloons (keep looking up!), colourful houses, legendary cider and famous icons like Banksy, Cary Grant and the infamous pirate Blackbeard. Its a city thats rich in history and brimming with creativity, its a city that’s as quirky as it is cool.
This city has been home to us for years, and we can’t wait for you to see why.
A crash course in the local language for out-of-town guests
“Cheers Drive”
This isn’t a weird way to toast a bus driver—well, actually, it sort of is. In Bristol, “Cheers Drive” is how you say thank you to anyone giving you a lift, be it in a car or on a bus. Drop it casually and instantly blend in like a local.
“Gert lush”
No, this isn’t a posh hand cream. In Brizzle (that’s what the cool kids call Bristol), “gert lush” means something is absolutely amazing. Whether it’s the sunset over the Clifton Suspension Bridge or the booze we’ve carefully chosen, it’s all gert lush.
“Alright, my lover?”
Hi there, how are you?
“Tidy”
That’s great/awesome (and a compliment to your wedding outfit).
“Scrumpy”
The stronger, slightly mysterious cousin of regular cider. Handle with care.
“Where’s It To?”
You might hear this when someone’s asking where something is. Confusing, we know. But just roll with it and answer like you understood perfectly. Example:
Local: “Where’s the hotel to?”
You: “It’s down the road, by the gert lush pub on King Street.”
Local: Impressed nod.
If you are making a weekend of it, below are some of our favourite things to do:
Visit Clifton Village to see the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. We highly recommend viewing it from the terrace of The White Lion pub ;). If it’s raining, head to The Albion, our cosy local pub!
Walk along the harbour and visit the SS Great Britain while taking in the views of the colourful harbourside.
Harbourside walk – The harbour is a flat 5k walk, perfect for a pub crawl with some cracking scenery. Our favourite thing to do is grab a cider to go from The Cottage and sit on the steps outside watching the water sports (Ed likes to laugh when people fall in). Most bars on the harbour offer takeaway beers!
King Street – Good fun any day of the week. This cobbled street, also known as Beer Street, has everything any craft ale fan could want. You can find the best fried chicken at Small Bar or grab pizza by the slice at Renato’s, a Bristol institution that serves pizza until closing.
The Old Duke – A visit to this jazz pub at the bottom of King Street is a must for any music lover. There is live music here every afternoon and evening. Get there early and, if you can, grab a seat—claim it and wait for the music to start. It will be packed out in seconds!
Wapping Wharf – Take a right out of the front entrance and head across the footbridge to Wapping Wharf. This trendy cargo container neighbourhood is home to amazing eateries and bars.
Go on a Banksy tour – You can spot The Girl with the Pierced Eardrum and Well Hung Lover just a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Alternatively, head to Stokes Croft to see Mild Mild West.
Dangle your legs – If there’s a glimpse of sunshine in Bristol, make like a local: take some cans to the harbour and dangle your legs over the harbour wall.
Speakeasy cocktail bars – Our favourite hidden cocktail gems are The Library (look for the bookcase) and Hyde & Co (look for the hat).
Day Trips from Bristol
If you’re extending your stay, consider a short trip to:
- Bath (15 minutes by train): Famous for its Roman Baths and stunning Georgian architecture.
- Cheddar Gorge (45 minutes by car): Perfect for those who love hiking and visiting a cave.
