The ultimate guide to a Bristol staycation

The Garden of Easton is the perfect staycation spot because you could almost believe you were in another country entirely. This beautiful café is lined with more plants than you could imagine, and the warm lighting really transforms the restaurant into a relaxing paradise. The outside al fresco dining area wouldn’t be out of place in the streets Italy.  Its ever changing menu uses locally sourced ingredients, keeping things fresh and current. Some example dishes include the Japanese pancake, served with cabbage, spring onions and crispy onions on the day menu, or a range of small plates including slow roasted lamb shoulder and ricotta gundi dumplings on the evening menu. This is a café you really shouldn’t miss. 

England may not have the most extensive list of traditional foods, but sausages are undeniably something we Brits do right. The Clifton Sausage works to prove that when British food is done well, it can compete with the best food in the world for taste and satisfaction. The ethos of ‘comfort with a bit of class’ is echoed through every part of the restaurant, from the décor right through to the service. The menu is full of delicious sausages including the traditional Gloucester old spot, but also features some with a twist like the lamb, mint and apricot option. All are served with mash and gravy, or you can upgrade to toad in the hole. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to leave feeling full, satisfied and proud to be British.

This is the perfect place to come for a swim, some food and maybe even treat yourself to a massage. The outdoor pool is slightly heated to take the initial chill away, which makes you feel like you’re swimming abroad. The standard swim pass includes access to the hot tub and the sauna, too. After you’ve worked up an appetite, the menu is full of amazing Mediterranean small plates, which adds to the holiday atmosphere of the restaurant. You will see dishes including things like burrata with fresh basil pesto, white cabbage and parmesan salad, and deep fried monkfish cheeks with chermoula and lemon on the menu; the food is a Mediterranean dream. On a sunny day it’s the perfect place to enjoy an Aperol Spritz overlooking the water and the relaxing atmosphere makes you really feel like you’re on your holiday.

The Bank Tavern has been standing since the 1800s and is an independent free house that prides itself on award-winning ales, ciders and food, as well as its casual and fun atmosphere. The roast dinners at The Bank Tavern have become a bit of a legend in Bristol, with a menu that would not be out of place at a fine dining establishment, but served with a down to earth demeanour. The roasts are so good that the Sunday dinner bookings are full for the foreseeable future, but keep your eyes peeled for when they re-open or have cancellations, or simply book to experience the regular lunch menu.

If you’re someone who loves a glass of wine on holiday, then why not spend an evening enjoying Cotto Wine Bar. This place brings the traditional love and heartfelt classics of Italy to the streets of Bristol. This city centre bar uses only the best ingredients on its menu, which is full of traditional, season-led Italian dishes. The wine list is chosen with care and whether you’re craving a full bodied red or a fresh and zesty white, the team here has got it covered.

The cargo containers at Wapping Wharf are one of Bristol’s best-known dining out spots, and for good reason. The restaurants here are all small, quirky and independent, and all serve an amazing range of different cuisines. One of our favourites is Seven Lucky Gods. This Japanese restaurant is inspired by the Izakaya bars of Tokyo and serves small plates and great drinks in a lively, buzzing atmosphere. The menu ranges from sushi and curry arancini to kimchi fries. Inside the small restaurant it has bright décor and great tunes alongside quick and friendly service, making it the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a meal out. It also has an outside terrace, which is lovely when the sun is out and has heaters for when the evening chill sets in. 

The Gallimaufry is the ideal restaurant if you want to experience some of Bristol and the South-West’s best live music acts. After filling up on some of its delicious ‘Galli plates’, which include dishes like Butternut Squash Katsu and Smoked Hake Kedgeree, then this restaurant is the perfect place for a boogie because in the late evening it turns into one of the most popular bars in Bristol. It hosts live music every night of the week, with some of Bristol’s best up-and-coming artists. Not only that, but it also serves some of the city’s best craft beers and ciders, so you can really get the Bristol experience. You’re guaranteed to have a night full of fun, laughter, and great music at the Galli.

When it gets warmer and summer is just around the corner, you might feel like you need to go on a holiday to truly embrace the nice weather. Luckily, you can still itch that scratch in Bristol if you know where to look. The idea behind a staycation is that you can satisfy the need to get away from your regular life even if you’re staying in the UK. One of our favourite places to visit is Coppa Club in the Clifton area. The main area has huge windows that allow you to soak up the sun and watch the world go by while you’re having lunch. On the menu, you’ll find a variety of small plates to share (think buttermilk fried chicken and crispy spiced prawns), perfect for a day out with a partner. The interior is airy with plenty of plants that make you feel at peace and there’s also the Mezzanine, a quiet space to work and relax. The venue is located close to Bristol’s most beautiful green spots and landmarks. The iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge is just a short walk away; you can visit by yourselves and take in the breathtaking views (just imagine what the sunset will be like) or book a tour and learn more about its history. We can’t think of a better spot for a weekend break.

Thali is an Indian restaurant like no other in Bristol. It’s a cosy and friendly space in the heart of Easton, serving healthy and delicious Indian street food and tiffins. Easton is a part of Bristol where the community feel is at its strongest and you really feel that both in the vibe and service at this restaurant. If you’re someone that likes to have a little bit of everything, then the Thali option on the menu is perfect for you. Options like Keralan Nandan chicken or Goan fish curry are all served with subji, dal, basmati rice, yoghurt and crunchy salad. There are also specials, such as the sticky paneer served with chapati and salad, and it also has a range of traditional Indian desserts. You really feel like you’ve been nourished and looked after once you leave, which is exactly what you want from a staycation dinner. 

Looking for the perfect staycation spot? The great thing about Bristol is that it has so much to offer; from amazing Michelin star restaurants to beautiful views, all you need is right at your doorstep. For example, Hotwells is a popular harbourside area where people go to have a break from their daily lives. Apart from the harbourside views, the area is known for its cosy pubs where you can enjoy comfort food and an upbeat atmosphere. One of our favourite spots is The Pump House. What makes it special is that it’s very welcoming and encourages you to visit with your pet and/or children. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking for somewhere to spend the weekend with your family. The menu consists of seasonal dishes that include small plates, pub classics and hearty meals such as roasted tranche of brill, browned butter, parsley, hazelnuts and new potatoes, which you can wash down with a pint. After a meal, you can go explore the harbour. There’s a Pooles Warf Marina just a three-minute walk away where sunsets tend to be spectacular. If you go a bit further, you’ll see the gorgeous backdrop of colourful Victorian and modern houses situated right above the Avon river.

Bristol’s harbourside is a gorgeous place to walk around during a visit to the city, and a great place to stop along the way for a drink and a bite to eat is Grain Barge. It has an upper deck with stunning panoramic views of the harbour that’s a sun trap if the weather is nice, or there’s lots of inside and undercover seating, too. It serves delicious, honest, and seasonal food complimented with local beers, freshly ground coffee, wines and spirits. You will see lots of craft beers from Bristol-based breweries like Bristol Beer Factory and New Bristol Brewery. This is definitely one of Bristol’s most beautiful spots, so be sure not to miss it.