Pubs in Bristol

Whether you’re in the mood for some ale, cider, wine or a coffee, Bristol is home to many pubs that will quench your thirst. From historic, old-fashioned pubs to quirky modern bars, this city has something for every taste.

1. The Lion

A family-run and family-fun pub, The Lion is a bit off the beaten path in Cliftonwood, but the warm, inviting atmosphere makes it worth the trek. With a cosy fire, adjoining park and bijou garden, this pub offers respite from the stresses of everyday life.

Along with ale and wine, The Lion serves food cooked from scratch. From burgers to Scotch eggs and risottos, there is something for every taste.

Named one of the 10 best restaurants in Clifton, Bristol, The Lion should be on your must-visit list.

2. Bag of Nails

Looking for a quirky spot to enjoy a drink? The Bag of Nails is one of the most eccentric pubs in the city, and is home to several free-roaming cats. Yes – the resident cats sleep in boxes on the bar, where guests can enjoy their company.

With a great selection of beer, table games and a record player, you’re sure to enjoy your evening at the Bag of Nails.

Although this pub is a little on the small side, it’s worth the visit – if only to spend some time with the bar cats.

3. The Gloucester Old Spot

Known as Bristol’s family friendly pub, the Gloucester Old Spot serves drinks, coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Stop in on Tuesdays for Pub Quiz night, or sample from their award-winning menu.

From burgers to salads, desserts and pub classics, you’ll find something for every taste at the Gloucester Old Spot.

The bar also serves a wide range of wine, beer, cider, cocktails, soft drinks and hot drinks.

The Gloucester Old Spot is located on Kellaway Avenue in Horfield.

4. The Lansdown

Hidden in Clifton village, the Lansdown is a quaint traditional pub with a family-friendly atmosphere. Serving local ciders, ales, wines, spirits and homemade food, everyone feels like family at the Lansdown.

Downstairs is a well-stocked main bar with a cosy atmosphere as well as a beer garden. Upstairs, a large dining room hosts the pub’s legendary Sunday roasts.

If you’re in the mood for a traditional pub experience, head on over to the Lansdown.

5. The Hatchet Inn

The Hatchet Inn is one of the oldest pubs in town, and while it’s exact origins are shrouded in mystery, records show the inn being licensed in 1606.

Before being converted to a pub, the Hatchet operated as Frogmore farm and monastery. Legend has it, the inn was a favorite meeting place for Clifton Wood woodcutters.

With a well-stocked bar and a great menu, the Hatchet Inn offers a friendly atmosphere and the chance to visit an historic pub.

6. The Lazy Dog

From the people behind The Windmill and The Pipe & Slippers, The Lazy Dog is a pet-friendly pub that serves quality, fresh food and drink. That’s right – well-behaved dogs are welcome at The Lazy Dog.

From cocktails to real ales, the pub serves a wide range of drinks served by a well-trained staff. The menu is simple, but features fresh, local ingredients. Serving British and European cuisine, The Lazy Dog is known for its Sunday roast and daily specials.

The bar serves 14 bottled beers and ciders, and 16 draft products. Two of the draft lagers are sourced from the world’s oldest brewery.

For an authentic pub experience – and the chance to bring your canine friend along for a pint – stop by The Lazy Dog.

7. The Brewers Fayre Llandoger Trow

Located near the River Avon and Queen Square, the Brewers Fayre Llandoger Trow pub is housed in an historic Tudor-style building with striking black timber beams.

Built in 1664, the pub boasts a haunting history that includes tales of the Treasure Island novel, old Black Beard, and the pub’s very own ghosts.

Brave visitors will find this pub on Kings Street.

Offering a tasty food menu and a great selection of drinks, the Brewers Fayre Llandoger Trow is a great place to stop in if you’re a fan of history.

8. The Star and Dove

Located on Saint Lukes Road in Totterdown, The Star and Dove aims “to bring British food back to life.”

The pub features a dining room and a tavern, where small plates are served as well as its award-winning lunches on Sunday. The dining hall serves seasonal British dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

At the bar, guests can choose from over 50 ciders and bottled beers. The extensive wine menu helped the pub pick up second place in Bristol award.