Discover Bristol - Creative spirit on England’s colourful harbourside
Hotels in Bristol blend harbourside charm with creative energy, from converted warehouses overlooking floating boats to Georgian townhouses in Clifton’s leafy terraces and boutique stays near Banksy murals in Stokes Croft. You’ll find everything from historic coaching inns to design-led waterfront hotels, all with access to Brunel’s engineering marvels, independent music venues, and street art that colours Bristol’s rebellious character. Whether you’re here for harbourside dining, balloon festival views, or simply exploring the West Country’s coolest city, there’s a stay to match your visit.
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Bristol Cathedral
Where to Stay in Bristol
Bristol spreads from its regenerated harbourside across hills and historic quarters, with distinct neighbourhoods offering everything from waterfront dining to Georgian elegance. Your choice shapes whether you wake to harbour views or neighbourhood cafés.
Harbourside and Waterfront – A revitalised dockside area with museums, restaurants, bars, and the SS Great Britain with floating harbour atmosphere. Perfect for first-timers wanting Bristol’s main attractions and evening dining options at your doorstep.
City Centre and Broadmead – The commercial heart with shopping centres, Bristol Cathedral, Cabot Circus, and transport links. Ideal for shoppers and business travellers wanting central convenience and retail therapy.
Clifton and Clifton Village – An elegant Georgian suburb with independent shops, leafy squares, suspension bridge views, and upmarket dining. Appeals to couples and culture seekers wanting village atmosphere with stunning architecture.
Stokes Croft and Montpelier – Bristol’s creative quarter with street art, independent venues, vintage shops, and bohemian cafés. Suits younger travellers and art lovers exploring Bristol’s alternative side.
Redland and Cotham – Residential areas with Victorian terraces, student energy, local pubs, and leafy streets north of the centre. Great for travellers seeking neighbourhood character away from tourist bustle.
Bristol Harbourside
Best Hotels in Bristol
Bristol’s hotel scene celebrates maritime heritage and creative flair, from harbourside warehouses to Georgian townhouses and modern design hotels. Whether you’re after waterfront views, Clifton elegance, or simply a central base near Banksy’s hometown streets, there’s a stay to suit every traveller and budget.
Best Luxury Hotels in Bristol
Hotel du Vin Bristol (4-star) – A converted sugar warehouse in the old city with original features, bistro dining, and characterful rooms near the harbourside. Perfect for couples and history lovers seeking boutique luxury with industrial heritage.
Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa (4-star) – A contemporary waterfront hotel with rooftop bar, spa facilities, and direct harbour views. Ideal for spa enthusiasts and romantic getaways wanting modern comfort with maritime atmosphere.
The Bristol Hotel (4-star) – An Art Deco landmark in the city centre with elegant interiors, fine dining, and classic glamour. Suits travellers appreciating historic sophistication and central location.
Best Harbourside Hotels in Bristol
Radisson Blu Bristol (4-star) – A sleek waterfront property near the SS Great Britain with contemporary design, harbour views, and excellent breakfast. Great for families and leisure travellers wanting dockside convenience.
Future Inn Bristol (3-star) – A modern harbourside hotel with spacious rooms, free parking, and walking distance to attractions. Perfect for families and drivers wanting practical comfort with waterfront proximity.
Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel (4-star) – A Victorian railway hotel near Temple Meads Station with period features, central location, and historic charm. Appeals to train travellers and those appreciating heritage accommodation.
Best Clifton Hotels in Bristol
The Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin (4-star) – A stunning cliffside hotel with Clifton Suspension Bridge views, terrace dining, and Georgian elegance. Ideal for special occasions and photographers wanting Bristol’s most iconic vista.
Clifton Hotel Bristol (3-star) – A traditional hotel in Clifton Village with comfortable rooms, local atmosphere, and village boutiques at your doorstep. Suits couples and travellers seeking elegant neighbourhood stays.
Best Design Hotels in Bristol
Brooks Guesthouse Bristol (4-star) – A Victorian townhouse in Clifton with contemporary design, locally sourced breakfast, and boutique character. Perfect for design lovers and foodies wanting independent hospitality.
Malago Guest House (3-star) – A colourful Bedminster guesthouse with quirky interiors, friendly atmosphere, and neighbourhood charm. Appeals to creative travellers and those seeking personality over chains.
Best City Centre Hotels in Bristol
Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel (4-star) – A central hotel near College Green with modern facilities, indoor pool, and walking distance to shops and cathedral. Great for business travellers and families wanting reliable four-star comfort.
Hampton by Hilton Bristol City Centre (3-star) – A practical hotel near Cabot Circus with free breakfast, compact rooms, and shopping proximity. Suits business guests and shoppers prioritising location.
Premier Inn Bristol City Centre (3-star) – Multiple central locations with family rooms, reliable quality, and walking distance to harbourside. Perfect for families and budget-conscious travellers.
Best Budget Hotels in Bristol
Travelodge Bristol Central (2-star) – No-frills hotels across Bristol with compact rooms and affordable rates near transport links. Great for overnight stays and travellers prioritising price.
YHA Bristol (hostel) – A friendly harbourside hostel with dorms, private rooms, and social atmosphere near the SS Great Britain. Ideal for backpackers and solo travellers meeting fellow explorers.
Full Moon Backpackers (hostel) – A central hostel on Stokes Croft with dorms, shared kitchen, and street art surroundings. Perfect for budget travellers and those exploring Bristol’s creative quarter.
Top Things to Do in Bristol
- Clifton Suspension Bridge – Brunel’s iconic 1864 bridge spanning Avon Gorge with breathtaking views, visitor centre, and engineering heritage. A must for all visitors and photographers.
- SS Great Britain – Brunel’s pioneering iron steamship restored in Bristol’s floating harbour with interactive museum and Victorian dock experience. Perfect for history enthusiasts and families.
- Bristol Museum & Art Gallery – A world-class collection in an Edwardian Baroque building with art, archaeology, and Banksy works. Ideal for culture lovers and rainy-day exploring.
- Street Art and Banksy Trail – Self-guided walks discovering Banksy murals and street art across Stokes Croft, Bedminster, and the harbourside. Appeals to art fans and urban explorers.
- Bristol Zoo Project and Wild Place – Modern conservation zoos with immersive habitats, British wildlife, and family-friendly exhibits. Great for families and animal lovers.
- Cabot Tower and Brandon Hill – A Victorian tower with 360-degree Bristol views from the top of parkland offering peaceful green escape. Suits walkers and panorama seekers.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
Getting to and Around Bristol
By Train: Bristol Temple Meads connects to London Paddington in under two hours, Cardiff in 45 minutes, and across the UK with frequent services.
By Bus: FirstBus operates extensive city routes with day tickets, while National Express coaches serve London, Birmingham, and other cities from the bus station.
By Ferry: Bristol Ferry Boats cruise the harbour between attractions with hop-on hop-off services during summer months offering scenic waterborne transport.
By Car: Bristol sits on the M4 and M5 motorways with easy access, though city centre parking is limited and expensive. Park-and-ride services operate from outskirts.
When to Visit Bristol
Spring (March to May) – Warming weather, blooming parks, and moderate crowds make this ideal for exploring before summer peaks. Hotel prices are reasonable with harbour terraces reopening for outdoor dining.
Summer (June to August) – Peak season with Bristol Balloon Fiesta, harbour festivals, warmest weather, and outdoor events throughout the city. Expect higher hotel rates during balloon weekend in August.
Autumn (September to October) – Comfortable temperatures, autumn colours in gorge woodland, and thinning crowds create excellent sightseeing conditions. Mid-range hotel prices with pleasant walking weather.
Winter (November to February) – Cold months with Christmas markets, festive lights, and lowest hotel rates making Bristol affordable. Perfect for budget travellers and indoor attractions like museums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see the Clifton Suspension Bridge from Bristol hotels?
Only hotels in Clifton, particularly The Avon Gorge, offer bridge views. Most city centre and harbourside hotels are too far away to see it from rooms.
Do Bristol hotels include parking?
City centre and harbourside hotels typically charge £12-20 per day for parking. Some Clifton and suburban hotels offer free parking, making them better for drivers.
Are Bristol hotels near the balloon fiesta launch site?
The Balloon Fiesta launches from Ashton Court, southwest of the city. Most hotels are 15-30 minutes away, with shuttle buses running during the August festival.
Can I walk between Bristol hotels and the harbourside?
City centre and harbourside hotels are 5-15 minutes’ walk from attractions like SS Great Britain. Clifton requires a bus or 30-minute walk downhill to the harbour.
Do Bristol hotels arrange Banksy street art tours?
Many hotels recommend guided or self-guided tours covering Banksy’s hometown murals across Stokes Croft, Bedminster, and central Bristol, though locations change as pieces are removed or painted over.
Can I book Bristol hotels through easyStay with free cancellation?
Yes, most easyStay listings include flexible cancellation. Look for “Free Cancellation” before confirming your stay.
Book Your Stay in Bristol Today
From harbourside warehouses to Clifton elegance, hotels in Bristol put you at the heart of the West Country’s most creative city. Whether you’re chasing Brunel’s engineering, street art adventures, or simply enjoying waterfront dining, there’s a perfect base waiting.
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