When the sun is shining, nothing quite beats a pint or meal at a waterside pub, whether it’s next to a river or overlooking Bristol’s floating harbour. And with a sunny Balloon Fiesta weekend, what better time to visit a few waterfront venues?
It might be a much needed cold beer after a long walk or a Sunday lunch with family and friends, but there’s something especially relaxing about the sights and sounds of a river in the background.
As a city divided by the River Avon and floating harbour, there are plenty of waterside pub options in Bristol and many are so close to each other, it’s quite possible to visit a few during a well organised pub crawl.
Here are nine of the best waterside pubs in Bristol and if we’ve forgotten your favourite let us know and we’ll add it.
1. The Pump House, Merchants Road, Hotwells
Occupying a prime waterside location close to where the city docks meet the River Avon, this former Victorian pumping station is now a smart pub and restaurant with a popular terrace area ideal for summer pints in the sun. | Google
2. Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia Place near Cumberland Basin
The Grade II-listed Nova Scotia dates from 1811 and was originally three houses before it became a dockside coaching inn. It has a spacious bar and a tiny ‘captain’s cabin’ snug. Soak up the real ale and traditional cider with one of the legendary doorstep sandwiches. | Google
3. The Cottage, Baltic Wharf, Cumberland Road
Dating back to 1868, this stone-built cottage was once used by merchants for storing Baltic timber for the growing number of businesses in the dock during Victorian times. It’s now a family-friendly Butcombe pub with great food and some of the best harbourside views in Bristol. | Butcombe
4. Grain Barge, Hotwell Road
A converted barge moored alongside Hotwell Road, Bristol Beer Factory’s floating bar and live music venue has a sunny deck with sweeping harbour views. | Google