Period character and detail awaits at Bristol Harbour Hotel

Situated in historic Corn Street, two former 16th century banks have undergone a lavish transformation to become the Bristol Harbour Hotel and Spa. The two former properties have been fused together to create a gorgeous retreat and events space; the original steel safe doors of those banking days are even still visible in the spa.

The place oozes luxury. Not only do all of the staff members make you feel incredibly welcome during your time there, but every single corner of this establishment has been designed to an impeccable level. The décor is full of character at every turn and certain interiors have been beautifully restored to take you straight back to the elegant Georgian era.

One of the deluxe bedrooms at the Harbour Hotel

Walking into the welcoming reception area is to feel that you have stepped out of urban city life: instantly you are made to feel relaxed. Renowned architect William Bruce Gingell is the person behind the design of this former Lloyds Bank building, with a style inspired by Sansovino’s 16th century Library of St Mark in Venice’s Piazzatta. The former banking hall is now an impressive events space that boasts a detailed ceiling and is often used for weddings and corporate events. It’s a room that feels steeped in history.

After relaxing in our deluxe bedroom, which came complete with complimentary decanters of gin and sherry and a lovely birthday message on the chic side table, we took a walk around the Old City and nearby centre of Bristol to take in the familiar sites. With so much choice of great restaurants to choose from locally – even more so after the opening of Pasta Ripiena on St Stephen’s Street, we decided to save the delights of the hotel’s Jetty restaurant for the next morning’s breakfast.

A personalised greeting, as well as complimentary drinks, was laid out in the bedroom

Returning to the hotel in the evening, I enjoyed a long soak in the generously-sized bathtub in our bathroom, making sure I made the most of the complimentary products from The White Company, whilst my husband enjoyed lounging on the settee at the foot of the large bed and watching TV. We were both so impressed with the style of the bedroom that we wanted to spend as much time in there as we could.

After having a good sleep in the extremely large bed (there would have easily been room for several more people) we got up early in order to make the most of the morning. We donned our fluffy Harbour Hotel robes and slippers and went down to the spa. Down the rabbit warren corridors we went until we came to the dimly-lit indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room. So tucked away were they that it felt like a tranquil and quiet hidden gem in this otherwise bustling part of Bristol. We had a nice swim to work up an appetite and both loved the mood lighting that went from darker to light in intervals.

The spa is in the basement of the former bank

After a good soak we went up to the restaurant to have breakfast and enjoy a sit down before we had to check-out at 11am. The range of breakfast food included all the staples for a full English, as well as fruits, cheeses and continental options. The speed of the service was very impressive, and once again it was the décor that really made this place stand out.

The Jetty restaurant, spa and The Gold Bar, which features daily-changing cocktails, are open to guests whether they are staying at the hotel or not. The Gold Bar also has great music and DJs playing until the early hours if you ever fancy a night out in opulent settings.

The opulent finishes make The Gold Bar a special place to drink a cocktail

The Bristol Harbour Hotel and Spa has 42 bedrooms, and can get booked up quite far in advance especially during the summer months. Prices vary depending on room type and offers are available, including a Sunday night spa package for two and a stay in a superior room from £205. Visit www.bristol-harbour-hotel.co.uk to find out more and book.