Bristol’s Best Cocktail Spots

Although this intimate speakeasy – located just off Whiteladies Road, near the entrance to Clifton Down Road train station – feels like it’s been plucked straight out of the 1920s and should be shrouded in a layer of cigar smoke, the cocktail selection is anything but traditional. Looking like a prop from an old gangster film, the menu is varied and tantalising. Sure, you can have an Old Fashioned if you want, no problem, it’ll be delicious. However, if an alcoholic version of your favourite ice cream van treat is more your style, you’ll not be disappointed either.

Nestled in the beating heart of Bristol, hidden in plain sight on Upper Byron Place, Hyde and Co. can be found by those in the know. One of Bristol’s first modern speakeasy-style establishments, this gem was inspired by the famous New York City prohibition era bars and still thriving cocktail scene. For those who have booked in advance (always book in advance) the unassuming exterior gives way to a low-lit interior full of dark wood and leather furniture, lending the whole place an atmosphere of laid-back opulence. The menu is easy to navigate and organised by taste: from dainty to more sturdy flavours, so you’ll have no trouble finding something you like!

It’s time to go back to school… rum school! At the Bristol and Bath Rum Distillery – located on Park Street, between the city centre and Clifton – guests are offered a truly immersive experience in which they learn about rum’s “rags to riches” story and choose their own rum to spice, re-distil and name themselves! Just fancy a drink? That’s not a problem either, just head over to the chic, low-lit bar and choose from a range of delicious rum-based cocktails, some of which you may be familiar with, others you may not, but all prepared using high quality ingredients.

Located in the popular Harbourside area with plenty of outdoor seating, the Loose Cannon is the epitome of the quirky modern cocktail bar. With exposed concrete and red brick creating an industrial-style interior aesthetic, but with life belts hanging from the ceiling, the charmingly idiosyncratic décor perfectly reflects the cheeky, heavily pop culture inspired cocktail menu, unusual garnishes and epic music choices. To give you a flavour of what to expect, Bambi, Sugar Tax and King’s Cup are just a few of the cocktails on offer at this gleefully eccentric bar.

Earlier, we mentioned the illustrious Hyde & Co., well, meet their coquettish younger sibling! Located in the city centre, near the famous Hippodrome Theatre, The Milk Thistle is spread over four floors (yes, four!) and includes a stylish cocktail bar and lavish lounge – booking is strongly advised. To us, visiting this fabulous establishment, with its decadent décor in dark woods, oxbloods and teals, feels a little like how we imagine an old fashioned “gentleman’s club” would, minus the debauchery and rampant discrimination! Whoever you are, if you’re looking for fine food, drinks, company and, of course, a good time, you’re more than welcome! These bartenders are some of the finest in the country and seriously know what they are doing when it comes to mixology. Why not try something new? Trust us, you’re in good hands.