Exclusive review of Artist Residence in Bristol

We’re big fans of Artist Residence – the eccentric family-run group with five quirky, design-led locations in Penzance, Brighton, Oxfordshire, London and Bristol. Each one has its own standalone bar and restaurant that’s a thriving part of the local community – something that was always crucial to founders Justin and Charlotte Salisbury. Here we’ll be taking a deep dive into Artist Residence Bristol to discover what sets it apart in its city.

History

The hotel opened in November 2021, with the restaurant and bar following in March 2022. Set within an old boot factory and Georgian townhouse on the historic Portland Square, Artist Residence Bristol is perfectly located for Bristol city centre and creative Stokes Croft.

Priding themselves on being a home-from-home in the heart of St Pauls, the bar, lounge, cafe, event space and garden has done brilliantly at integrating and becoming a very big part of the fabric of the community since opening its doors.

Residents

There are 23 individually decorated bedrooms at Artist Residence Bristol, including two suites and The Lookout, which is a unique room tucked away in the eaves and set over two floors, with a private terrace overlooking the surrounding rooftops.

Each of the rooms have been individually designed by Charlotte and Justin themselves, featuring hand-picked furniture, reclaimed materials and an impressive collection of art throughout.

Speaking of which, the artwork is a big focus of the Bristol hotel as its all been chosen from an eclectic mix of local artists and galleries. Notable artwork includes commissioned pieces from Bristol artist Rose Vickers – a geometric piece created using vintage school rulers – local street artist, Kedals, and local painter Annie Clay, as well as pieces from Artist Residence favourites such as neon by Andy Doig, original canvases by Gommie, and limited edition prints by The Connor Brothers, Bonnie & Clyde, Pure Evil and Dave Buonaguidi.

Food and Drink

The dining / drinking space at The Boot Factory has been designed with that familiar comfort of visiting a friend’s house in mind, with good, wholesome food and drink, a warm welcome and a fun, friendly atmosphere. The bar, cafe and kitchen at Artist Residence Bristol is an open house for hotel guests and locals alike.

The space is set across the ground and lower ground floors and celebrates the building’s industrial past, with concrete floor, exposed brick and plaster, sliding factory doors and a double height glazed ceiling in the main bar providing a central focal point. Comfy lounge areas, a terrace garden and a basement bar and event space makes this an all-purpose space for any occasion.

Menus are easy-going and wholesome boasting small plates, sourdough pizzas and a Buttermilk Fried Korean Chicken Burger with pickles, slaw and fries we’d definitely recommend!

Brunch is also very popular here on the weekend, offering healthy smoothies and boozy cocktails, as well brunch classics like French Toast or Turkish Eggs, or house plates such as River Fowey Mussels in North Street cider and cream.

Local

With such a great location on the historic Portland Square, just a five minute walk to Cabot Circus and the creative hub of Stokes Croft, Artist Residence Bristol offers it all.

Book your table for the all day menu or weekend brunch via the button below.

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