Five of Bristol’s cosiest pubs, according to TripAdvisor reviews

Temperatures have plummeted in recent days, which can only mean one thing - chilled drinks in the sunshine are out, and cosy boozers with roaring fires and hearty food are in. Luckily, Bristol has a vast wealth of interesting and friendly pubs in which to seek shelter from the bitter cold and enjoy a tasty roast.

Whether you want a snug seat in which to watch the boats go by, a peaceful venue in which to enjoy a quiet night cap or you don’t mind sharing your pint with a feline friend, Bristol has a cosy winter haunt for you. Here are five of the best, according to TripAdvisor reviews.

Five cosy pubs in Bristol according to Tripadvisor reviews

1: Quinton House

Best for: Introverts

• Where: 2 Park Place, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1JW
• Rating: 4.5/5

“I have had a few beers here on multiple occasions. It’s a very pleasant place. Usually a bit more quiet than the average pub, which is a good thing.”

“A typical small English pub with two coal fires and choice of real ale - friendly atmosphere, located close to the University.”

“Lots of locals chatting, very quaint. Beer selection isn’t bad, prices aren’t bad, nothing to complain about really. Just a nice little place to get a pint.”

“I admit that I’m not a beer drinker, but my partner loves her draught bitters and we saw that this pub had real ales on tap so we went to try it out. It was great.”

You can find out more on TripAdvisor.

2: Bag of Nails

Best for: Beer and cat fans

• Where: 141 St George’s Road, Hotwells, Bristol BS1 5UW
• Rating 4.5/5

“A character, quirky pub with a lot of cats. If you want your pubs squeaky clean, newly decorated and cat free, you know where Spoons is.”

“Marvellous beer and fabulous cats, what more could you possibly want from life?

Without a doubt the best pub in all the land.”

“The place is cosy, but not cramped, with a nice old school pub vibe to it and a proper vinyl record player playing a wide selection of music.”

“The landlord was friendly and took us to the room upstairs as there were no spare chairs downstairs. Well, he could have taken me to heaven. Upstairs has a record deck and an amazing selection of vinyl and you get to choose what to play.”

You can find out more and book a table on Tripadvisor.

3: Port of Call

Best for: Sunday lunch

• Where: 3 York St, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2YE
• Rating: 4.5/5 

“A very friendly, cosy pub serving great food, beer and wine. The service was excellent and everything was priced very sensibly.”

“This pub couldn’t be better - always great beer, great food, great staff who are knowledgeable and care about their customers and pub. It’s lovely to see a traditional pub survive the pandemic.”

“Craft ales. Superior snacks. Great food. Log fire when it’s cold outside. Pre-Victorian premises, but fast WiFi. Outstanding customer service.”

“Called in on the spur of the moment for Sunday lunch and so glad we did. Absolutely delicious roast turkey, beef  and pork with free flowing veg, two different types of gravy and excellent service.”

You can find out more and book a table on Tripadvisor.

4: Highbury Vaults

Best for: Atmosphere

• Where: 164 St Michael’s Hill, Bristol BS2 8DE
• Rating: 4.5/5

“Just what I needed for a moment of peaceful reflection between a hard working day and an evening’s meeting. Great pint and lovely snack (crab and leek tart).”

“Highbury having been our local in the 90’s and still a firm favourite. Food was delicious and plentiful, staff friendly and efficient. Timeless classic of a pub.”

“This place is everything a local pub should be. Great ambiance, lovely outdoor space that’s actually warm during winter. The Sunday roasts are incredible, generous portion sizes.”

“Funky old tables, chairs and the like. We shared a table with about ten chemistry students and bad a blast.”

You can find out more and book a table on Tripadvisor.

5: The Cottage Inn 

Best for: Harbourside views

• Where: Baltic Wharf, Cumberland Rd, Bristol BS1
• Rating 4/5

“Lovely atmosphere and very cosy feel. The first night I had the fish pie and my husband had the fish and chips. Large, hot portions.”

“Comfortable seating in cosy pub and lovely view out of the window to the harbour.”

“A fabulous venue for sitting watching the world of Bristol saunter, sail, cycle or skateboard past.”

“This spot is perfect for visiting as a watering hole on a Bristol Ferry boat ride. Beer selections are good, food looked great and the atmosphere is convivial.”

You can find out more and book a table on Tripadvisor.