The Bristol Hotel Review: Why This Harbourside Hotel is a Must-Stay in Bristol
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Part of the prestigious Doyle Collection, four-star The Bristol Hotel has long held a reputation as one of the standout properties in the heart of Bristol.
With its prime location overlooking the harbourside and steps away from major Bristol attractions, The Bristol is much more than just a place to rest your head—it’s a swish gateway to experiencing the city’s rich heritage and dynamic present.
If you’re curious whether this striking city centre hotel is worth it, I’ve got all the details so you can plan your next swanky hotel stay.
The Bristol Hotel Review
As a freelance travel journalist and podcaster, I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing countless hotels, and I try to be as thorough as possible.
Every stay, I try to get a feel for what a hotel offers guests, from the check-in experience to amenities and food quality.
In this review, I’m exploring what makes The Bristol Hotel stand out, sharing my take on everything from the upscale rooms to the glass-fronted restaurant.
Now, I have to admit, I didn’t know what to expect when I first arrived. The hotel’s exterior, with its retro-modern vibe, didn’t scream uber luxury.
But the moment I stepped inside, my perception changed. The Bristol Hotel has a subtle, unpretentious charm that quietly impresses and excellent customer service.
Bristol City Centre hotel
As one of the top 4-star hotels in Bristol, the Bristol hotel offers a range of amenities, including free high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, express check-in/check-out, a fitness centre, and on-site parking.
Here’s an overview of the hotel’s key features to give you a sense of what to expect during your stay.
- Number of Rooms: 187 rooms, including Cosy, Classic, Deluxe, Junior Suites, and Suites.
- Dog-Friendly Rooms: The hotel welcomes small dogs with a £20 non-refundable pet fee per stay.
- Parking: Adjacent car park with £16 per night for guests, paid at reception.
- Dining: The River Grille offers modern British cuisine with harbourside views.
- Bar: Rick’s cocktail bar for after-hours drinks.
- Fitness Suite: On-site gym with modern equipment.
- Accessibility: The hotel is set up to cater to guests with disabilities and/or those requiring wheelchair access.
- Location: Perfectly situated on Bristol’s Harbourside for easy access to attractions and shopping.
Ready to make your trip unforgettable? Book your stay at The Bristol and enjoy spacious guest rooms and suites, dinner at the River Grille and superb harbour views.
4 Star Hotels Bristol
What stood out to me the most? Well, it’s all in the details. From the glorious Bristol harbour views from my room to the ultra-comfy bed I didn’t want to leave (seriously, I could have cancelled my plans just to stay in), this hotel balances practicality with a touch of luxury.
The Bristol Hotel’s unique architectural history distinguishes it from its neighbours along the Harbourside.
Built in 1966 as a motel when the surrounding area was undeveloped and the docks were in a transitional phase, the hotel’s structure is a significant example of post-war modernist design.
The hotel’s architecture is relatively understated but carries notable heritage status thanks to its Grade II listing, largely due to its multi-storey car park’s eye-catching and innovative honeycomb concrete facade.
This architectural element, designed by Kenneth Wakeford, showcases the geometrical design popular in the modern movement.
The honeycomb pattern, supported on V-shaped legs, is a fine example of Brutalist design and adds a fascinating architectural twist to the area.
Bristol Hotel Location
The Bristol Hotel is enviably positioned in one of the best locations in the city, right along the picturesque harbourside.
Its prime spot is within walking distance of Bristol’s best attractions, including the SS Great Britain, the Arnolfini Gallery, and the lively Watershed Arts Centre.
Additionally, the hotel’s central location means you can easily explore the city’s renowned street art, including the famous works of Banksy, Bristol’s very own artistic export.
One of the great features of The Bristol Hotel Bristol is that it provides immediate access to the waterfront that’s bursting with restaurants, bars, and cultural venues to explore.
This ideal location gives you the best of both worlds—the excitement of city life right on your doorstep, with a serene waterfront ambience.
The lobby
The hotel’s interior is designed to feel warm and inviting, with sleek furnishings in neutral tones. Attentive and professional staff greet you with genuine smiles, offering an excellent first impression.
This is a place that welcomes you in with understated elegance. There’s no over-the-top opulence here but rather a refined sophistication that sets the tone for the rest of your stay.
You’ll also find tasteful art adorning the walls and soft lighting, creating a calming atmosphere and making the lobby the perfect spot to check in and get your bearings before heading to your room.
Accommodation Options: From Standard to Superior
The Bristol Hotel offers a range of accommodation options, from standard rooms to the more luxurious superior double rooms.
Each room is thoughtfully designed to reflect a sense of modern sophistication while ensuring maximum comfort.
The superior rooms are worth mentioning for their generous size, plush bedding, and attention to detail.
Decorated in a stylish palette of creams, reds, neutral and earth tones, the rooms create a chic and homely atmosphere.
The Bristol Hotel rooms
Every room has all the necessary amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and—perhaps most importantly for the coffee lovers—a Nespresso machine.
After all, there’s nothing quite like brewing a fresh cup of coffee in the morning as you look out over the lovely harbour views from the large windows that grace many of the rooms.
If you want an extra touch of luxury, the upgraded rooms also include premium toiletries from Temple Spa, adding a level of pampering to your stay.
Combined with plush towels and comfy robes, the bathrooms are well-appointed for a relaxing start or end to your day.
Our stay at the Bristol
Me and husband Luke stayed in one of the hotel’s ‘Superior Double Rooms’, and the grandiose title did not disappoint.
Our room was stylishly decorated in creams and reds, with plush pillows and throws, giving it a chic and contemporary feel.
Our room featured complimentary Wi-Fi, a 32” flat-screen TV, and a snazzy Nespresso machine for the coffee connoisseur.
One of the best things about our room was the rather lovely views of Bristol Harbour from our window.
It was time to freshen up for dinner, and thankfully, there were upscale toiletries from Temple Spa, cosy dressing gowns, and luxurious towels in our room.
I certainly had a very pleasant hour floating around in my dressing gown, sipping a glass of Pinot, putting my makeup on and taking a selfie, all simultaneously, like a pro.
River Grille restaurant
One of the true highlights of staying at The Bristol Hotel is the chance to dine at The River Grille, the hotel’s signature restaurant.
Offering some of the best views of the harbourside, this elegant restaurant is known for using local ingredients, with a menu that changes seasonally to showcase the best produce the West Country has to offer.
The restaurant’s large floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the dining room in natural light during the day, while in the evening, the space transforms into a romantic setting ideal for a special meal.
The style here is minimal elegance, with stylish furnishings and swanky lighting, making for an ambient and romantic setting for a date night. Best order a bottle of red whilst we’re at optimum romance levels, right?
River Grille restaurant Menu
The menu at the River Grille features modern British Cuisine that changes with the seasons and makes full use of local produce.
The kitchen places a particular focus on simplicity done well—think aged steaks cooked to perfection, fresh seafood, and a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes that showcase local produce.
Signature dishes include grilled West Country meats and fish paired with thoughtfully selected wines. The steaks, aged and full of flavour, are a highlight, while the seafood dishes often feature the freshest catch from the nearby coast.
The focus on local sourcing ensures that each dish is bursting with fresh flavours, and the chefs’ attention to detail is apparent in every tasty bite.
What we tried
We couldn’t resist trying the cider-braised pork belly and the stone bass fillet during our meal at The River Grille.
The juicy pork belly was melt-in-your-mouth tender, with the perfect balance of rich, meaty flavours complemented by the sweetness of cider. Paired with red cabbage and boulangère potatoes, it was hearty but refined.
On the other hand, the stone bass was a lighter dish but just as flavourful. Delicately roasted, it came with a medley of seasonal vegetables and a bright sauce vierge that added a fresh, zesty note.
Both dishes were beautifully presented and felt like the thoughtful, locally inspired meals that make dining here such a pleasure.
River Grille deserts
Dessert is always my favourite part of dining out, and the dessert menu at The River Grille offers the perfect indulgence to round off a meal. There are plenty of sweet treats to choose from, from rich, decadent options to lighter, refreshing choices.
One highlight is the dark chocolate fondant, with its molten centre perfectly paired with vanilla ice cream—a must-try for any chocolate lover.
For something more refreshing, the lemon tart delivers a zesty punch, balanced by smooth Chantilly cream.
Each dessert is thoughtfully crafted, ensuring a balance of flavours and textures to end your River Grille dining experience on a high note.
Lounge and bar area
Should you wish to continue your evening after dinner, there is a plush lounge and bar area just above the restaurant where you can enjoy post-dinner drinks as you sink into a comfy sofa.
The lounge area has a splash of art deco style, including the beautifully lit, ornate bar to fashionably perch at and order drinks from.
This area has a definite ‘Gatsby’ style vibe, with late-night cocktails being sipped under low lighting. It’s a suave way of finishing off your evening.
Ricks bar
Tucked inside The Bristol Hotel, Rick’s Bar is a stylish, retro-inspired cocktail bar addition to the hotel that instantly transports you to a golden era of glamour.
The ambience is intimate yet lively, with plush seating, moody lighting, and a touch of Art Deco flair. Known for its expertly crafted cocktails, the menu features timeless classics and inventive modern creations for sophisticated sips after dark.
The “Talk a Little Treason” cocktail is a bold mix of mezcal and cognac, with a refreshing twist of lime and marmalade.
Ricks bar bristol cocktails
For something tropical, try the “One Partner in Paradise”, a blend of cachaça, mango, coconut, and pineapple—a sip that takes you straight to the beach.
Signature cocktails like “Magic and Make-Believe”, featuring rum, banana, and caramel foam, add a playful element to the menu.
If you love the cocktail classics, there’s the Negroni made with Rick’s gin, produced locally in collaboration with Bristol’s Psychopomp distillery.
This gin is a star feature at the bar, with its rich, juniper-forward flavours elevated by hints of raspberry and cherry.
Rick’s Bar also caters to those looking for non-alcoholic options. The “Passionfruit Marti-No”, made with CleanCo G and passionfruit purée, offers all the taste of a martini without the alcohol.
The Bristol Hotel breakfast
Waking up at The Bristol Hotel means being greeted by an extensive breakfast spread at The River Grille—and trust me, it’s worth waking up for.
Set against the backdrop of the scenic Harbourside, breakfast here is generous and relaxed – a perfect start to the day.
For £18 per person, the breakfast includes an indulgent buffet packed with classic full English options: think crispy bacon, juicy sausages, scrambled eggs, black pudding, baked beans, hash browns, and some grilled tomatoes and mushrooms.
If you want something lighter, there’s a continental section with fresh fruits, creamy yoghurts, cereals, and various pastries and breads, freshly baked and ready to be slathered in butter and preserves.
The substantial spread also includes cold cuts and cheeses, perfect for a European-style breakfast.
The Bristol Hotel breakfast menu
If you prefer to order from the à la carte menu, you can start with a three-egg omelette with fillings like cheese, ham, mushrooms, or spinach.
Or, opt for something simple like eggs on toast—fried, scrambled, or poached, all cooked to perfection.
While the buffet offers variety and volume, the setting makes breakfast here memorable. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the harbour, the views provide the perfect backdrop to sip on your coffee or tea.
Nearby Attractions: Exploring the Best of Bristol from The Bristol Hotel
One of the standout features of The Bristol Hotel is its ideal location right in the heart of the city, making it a perfect base to explore Bristol’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and lively harbourside attractions.
Here’s a guide to some of the top attractions just minutes away from the hotel, offering something for every kind of visitor.
Bristol Harbourside: Just Outside Your Door
The hotel sits directly along Bristol’s busy harbourside, filled with cafés, bars, and cultural spots. You can simply step out of the hotel and enjoy a scenic stroll along the water, with the M Shed Museum only a five-minute walk away.
The M Shed offers an immersive look into Bristol’s history, with interactive displays and exhibitions covering the city’s role in trade, industry, and social change.
We The Curious
Also a short five-minute walk from the hotel is We The Curious, a science and arts centre perfect for visitors of all ages. Known for its hands-on exhibits and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium, it offers a unique, interactive experience.
This attraction is particularly popular with families, though its thought-provoking displays also appeal to adults.
Banksy Walking Tour
If you’re a fan of street art, don’t miss out on the Banksy Walking Tour, which takes you through some of Bristol’s most iconic murals created by the legendary local artist Banksy.
This self-guided tour is a great way to explore different neighbourhoods while experiencing the quirky side of Bristol’s artistic spirit. Several key Banksy works are located within walking distance of The Bristol Hotel.
Bristol Aquarium
For a more serene experience, the Bristol Aquarium is only a five-minute walk away and is perfect if you and the kids want to dive into the wonders of marine life. The small aquarium features vibrant coral reefs, marine life, and a range of interactive exhibits designed to educate and entertain visitors.
Bristol Hippodrome
For live performance lovers, the Bristol Hippodrome is a 10-minute walk from the hotel and regularly hosts top West End shows, opera, ballet, and concerts.
In 2024, for example, the beloved musical Mary Poppins took to the stage, drawing audiences from across the UK.
SS Great Britain
Just a little further afield, about a 15-minute walk from the hotel, you’ll find the SS Great Britain, one of Bristol’s most famous attractions.
This historic ship, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, revolutionised transatlantic travel in the 19th century and now stands as a museum on the harbourside, offering visitors a chance to step back in time.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
For those willing to venture a bit further (around a 30-minute walk or short drive), the Clifton Suspension Bridge is a must-see landmark. Designed by Brunel, it offers incredible views of the Avon Gorge and is one of Bristol’s most recognisable symbols.
Cabot Circus Shopping Centre
Cabot Circus is less than a 15-minute walk from The Bristol Hotel if you’re in the mood for shopping.
This sprawling retail destination offers everything from high-end shops like Harvey Nichols to popular high-street brands, ensuring you’ll find something to suit your style and budget.
Parking at The Bristol Hotel: Convenient but Priced for City Centre
For guests arriving by car, The Bristol Hotel offers convenient parking with an adjacent car park right next to the hotel.
This makes parking easy and hassle-free for those visiting the city, especially given the hotel’s prime location in the heart of Bristol’s city centre.
While it’s not free, the parking service is well-organised and provides peace of mind if you want a secure place to leave your vehicle.
The overnight parking fee for hotel guests is £16 per night, paid directly at the hotel reception. To streamline the process, you’ll need to provide your vehicle registration details when checking in, ensuring your parking is registered and taken care of for the duration of your stay.
While £16 per night may seem a little steep compared to some suburban hotels, it’s quite reasonable for a central city hotel, especially given the convenience of having the car park directly adjacent to the property.
How to Get to The Bristol Hotel
By Car: The Bristol Hotel is conveniently located in the city centre at Prince Street. It’s easily accessible from the M4 and M5 motorways.
The hotel offers guests parking in the adjacent NCP car park at £16 per night. Set your GPS to BS1 4QF for smooth navigation.
By Train: If you’re arriving by train, Bristol Temple Meads station is just a 15-minute walk or a quick 5-minute taxi ride away. The station connects to major cities across the UK, including London, Cardiff, and Birmingham.
By Bus: The hotel is well connected by local bus services. The Bristol Bus & Coach Station is around a 10-minute drive, with buses operating frequently throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Several bus stops near the hotel, including routes to key Bristol landmarks like Cabot Circus and Clifton.
By Bicycle: Cycling to The Bristol Hotel is also a great option, especially with Bristol being one of the UK’s most bike-friendly cities.
Several cycling routes lead to the hotel, including paths along the harbour. Secure cycle parking is available nearby. The hotel’s central location lets you easily pedal around the city to explore.
Why choose The Bristol Hotel in Bristol for your stay?
Staying at The Bristol Hotel was a real treat, and its location along Bristol’s lively Harbourside couldn’t be better.
What stood out to me was how effortlessly it blended that 4-star luxury with a warm, laid-back atmosphere—something many hotels try for, but few manage as well as this one.
From the moment I checked in, the attention to detail was noticeable. Whether it was the cosy yet stylish rooms or the little touches like the Nespresso machine waiting for my morning coffee ritual, it felt like the hotel had thought about what would make the stay comfortable.
And don’t even get me started on the breakfast—The River Grille is the perfect spot to start the day, with fresh, local produce and a view over the harbour that makes your morning coffee taste even better.
The Bristol Hotel Review
The best part? It’s a stone’s throw from some of Bristol’s must-see attractions like SS Great Britain and Cabot Circus, so I could walk everywhere without worrying about transport.
It’s central but doesn’t feel busy or chaotic—a nice balance of convenience and calm. Honestly, this swish hotel just gets it right, combining value for money with high-quality service and a touch of luxury.
If you’re looking for a comfortable, stylish stay with all the best of Bristol right at your doorstep, The Bristol Hotel is one of the top picks in the city. I know I’ll be back!
What did you think of my The Bristol Hotel Review? Let me know in the comments below!
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What is The Bristol Hotel Check-Out Time?
Check-out at The Bristol Hotel is 12 PM. However, if you need a little more time, late check-out until 1 PM is available on request and is subject to availability.
Is The Bristol Hotel Dog-Friendly?
Yes, The Bristol Hotel is dog-friendly. The hotel welcomes well-behaved dogs (and even cats!) weighing up to 15kg. A fee of £20 per night applies, and your pet will be pampered with all the essentials, including a bed and bowls. Be sure to inform the hotel in advance to ensure your furry friend’s stay is just as comfortable as yours.
Does The Bristol Hotel Have Parking?
Yes, The Bristol Hotel offers guests parking in an adjacent NCP car park. Parking costs £16 per night, and you can pay directly at the hotel reception. The hotel’s central location means you’re right by the harbourside, making it easy to park and explore.
What Dining Options Does The Bristol Hotel Offer?
Guests at The Bristol Hotel can enjoy dining at the on-site River Grille restaurant, which offers modern British cuisine with seasonal, local ingredients. From a full English breakfast buffet to beautifully cooked seafood and steak for dinner, The River Grille delivers a high-end yet relaxed dining experience. There’s also Rick’s Bar, a stylish cocktail bar perfect for evening drinks.
Is The Bristol Hotel in the Clean Air Zone?
Yes, The Bristol Hotel falls within Bristol’s Clean Air Zone. Guests with older vehicles may be subject to charges, so it’s best to check if your car qualifies before arriving.
What are the breakfast options at The Bristol Hotel?
Guests can enjoy a variety of breakfast options at The River Grille, which serves both buffet and à la carte choices. The buffet includes traditional English breakfast staples like bacon, sausages, and eggs alongside lighter options like cereals, pastries, fresh fruits, and yoghurts. The à la carte menu features omelettes and porridge with summer berries.
What is the best time to visit Bristol City Centre?
Bristol is a year-round destination, but visiting in late spring or summer is ideal if you’re looking to enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions and festivals. This is when the city comes alive with events such as the Bristol Harbour Festival and Upfest, Europe’s largest street art festival. If you prefer fewer crowds, autumn is also a great time to explore the city’s rich history and cultural sites.
How does The Bristol Hotel compare to other 4-star hotels in Bristol?
Among the top 4-star hotels in Bristol, The Bristol Hotel stands out for its unbeatable location by the Harbourside, offering waterfront views and proximity to key landmarks. The hotel’s elegant, modern design and exceptional dining experiences at The River Grille and Rick’s Bar make it a unique and luxurious option. Reviews often emphasize the balance of comfort and sophistication that sets it apart from other Bristol city hotels.
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