Nightlife / Bars
9 best cocktail bars in Bristol
Bristol has a really vibrant cocktail scene, ranging from smart prohibition-style bars tucked away in dark corners to noisy student favourites. There are also a number of restaurants with delicious drinks menus. Now that you’re an impoverished student, you’ll be glad to hear that many have great happy hour deals, so go ahead: treat yourself!
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The bar formerly known as Papaji’s plays host to a large student crowd most evenings. With two floors, a garden and a loud selection of party tunes, it’s a fun place to unwind —and is just as busy mid-week as at the weekend. Must-try: the Pornstar Martini, tangy passion fruit served with a shot of prosecco.
This dark drinking den with a fifties twist is hidden away at the foot of Park Street. Pick up the pay phone, press the large yellow button and enter through the seedy-looking doorway. Inside, table service is provided by retro-looking bar staff (think braces, red lipstick and Brylcreem). Must-try: The Bristol Connection— Appleton 8, dubonnet, cider syrup and orange bitters.
When the sun is out and you’re done with a day of lectures, there is no better place to be than relaxing on the steps of Brown’s with a cocktail in hand. Must-try: The British Royal — rosehip and rhubarb cordial, vodka and prosecco, topped with powdered blackberries.
This intimate, Berlin-esque bar is located at the very top of Whiteladies Road, hidden away under “Rajpoot”, an Indian restaurant. Ring the doorbell and wait to be let in. It’s fun to sit at the bar and watch the friendly and knowledgeable bar staff work their magic. Must-try: their amazing mojitos.
This cosy Clifton Village bar is spread over two floors. Pretty lighting and comfy seating make it the ideal spot to relax with friends on a cold winter’s evening. Must-try: the Cosmo – a perfectly-formed classic.
This elegant 1930s style speakeasy boasts a dark, luxurious interior: all crystal chandeliers and leather armchairs. Another one of these press-the-doorbell-and-wait affairs, it’s best to reserve. Must-try: Shrubbery Road no. 2—spiced apple and pear shrub, lemon and ginger ale.
This alternative cocktail bar delivers unusual ingredients in an inventive way. Kilner jars on shelves behind the bar hold weird and wonderful ingredients for the stranger cocktails on offer here – some of which are served not just in wellies but also miniature toilet bowls and sweet dispensers. Hidden off the beaten track above Clifton Down railway station, you’re sure to get the royal treatment.
Another Prohibition-style hidey-hole that belies its humble setting. It’s nestled amongst a number of takeaway joints that you’ll definitely become familiar with over the course of first year. The only clue as to its presence is a small, glowing top hat above a nondescript doorway. Must-try: The Cherry Tree Empire—banana infused vermouth, white cacao, bitters and a choice of whisky, tequila or rum… served in a cloud of cherry wood smoke!
This beautiful bistro is based in an old sugar warehouse near to the Christmas steps. Sink into a deep leather sofa by the bar and enjoy a very civilised aperitif away from the student hustle and bustle. Must-try: the Pomegranate Cosmo, both fragrant and summery.