Our picks for the best pubs in Bristol

If there is one thing you can be sure of while camping around the UK, it is that you are bound to bump into a few pubs along your travels. A visit to a traditional British pub is still one of our favourite pastimes, especially during the warm, summer months. Bristol, in the south west of England, is a testament to this pastime with a selection of highly regarded food and drink venues. Whether you are looking relax with the kids in a quaint garden or unwind with a sumptuous glass of wine in a friendly atmosphere at the end of a long day, Bristol’s list of top pubs caters for all tastes. Here at Campsites.co.uk, we have compiled a quick list of the best pubs in Bristol to lend a helping hand while planning your visit.

The Grain Barge

This pub has quickly become one of the best hotspots in Bristol since it first opened in 2007. The Grain Barge in Hotwells (pictured above) earned the title of Best Bar in Bristol by Venue Magazine after just one year in business, and it is easy to see why as you pull up to the location. The docked converted barge boasts stunning views of the Bristol harbour, with lights from the city and surrounding houses bouncing off the water to add to the atmosphere. Owned by the Bristol Beer Factory, the Grain Barge serves an array of award winning local ales and tasty, locally sourced treats from its constantly updated menu. Alongside some top food and drink, this pub hosts annual events such as the Harbour Festival as well as regular music gigs and art exhibitions. Its affordable, traditional menu is filled with wholesome dishes that the entire family will enjoy. This venue is perfect during the daytime as well as the evening and guests can explore the rest of Bristol’s picturesque harbour by foot or bike before and after their meal.

Llandoger Trow

Step back in time at one of the oldest pubs in Bristol, Llandoger Trow. This historic public house, which dates back to 1664, looks regal along King Street with its dark timbers and classic, jutting architecture. The Grade II listed building has built up a unique history over the years. During the Victorian era, the pub played host to performers and musicians from the nearby Theatre Royal, including Henry Irving. It is also said that its creaky floorboards and rustic charm were Robert Louis Stevenson’s inspiration for the Admiral Benbow in his much loved classic, Treasure Island. Although the pub was partially destroyed by a bomb during World War II, the old Llandoger Trow still remains a top meeting place for locals and visitors. Today, guests can enjoy a more modern menu with familiar dishes and a top notch roast every Sunday as well as meal deals for the whole family.

Rummer Hotel

The Rummer Hotel, on All Saints Lane in Bristol’s Old City Quarter, is a cosy independent cocktail bar and restaurant inside a splendid listed building. Although inns have stood on the site from the 1200s, the building became a historical and entertainment hub when it was rebuilt in 1742. After years of neglect, the Rummer Hotel was lovingly restored in 2005. Today, holidaymakers can visit the hotel’s restaurant and bar seven days a week to savour its modern British cuisine and its long drinks menu, which features local and international bottles of wine as well as some top West Country cider, champagne and cocktails. Table reservations are advised to secure a place at this sophisticated venue. Expect to pay around £18 for a main course from the Rummer’s evening dinner menu.

Seven Stars Inn

Tucked away on the cobbles of Thomas Lane, this little retreat is one of Bristol’s oldest pubs. Dating back to the 1600s, The Seven Stars Inn has remained relatively unchanged since it first began business all those years ago. The pavements even have metal-bound edges to protect from damage by cart-wheels. Year after year, the popular inn has ranked highly in the CAMRA Awards and has been awarded Bristol and District Pub of the Year twice. Located close to the commercial heart of the city, the Seven Stars is easily accessible from campsites located near the city centre, either on foot or by bike. Alongside a generous serving of some hearty grub, punters can also view its list of eight ever changing real ales, cider and perry.

A visit to one of these top Bristol pubs is not just an enjoyable experience in terms of food and drink. Many of these venues also offer an insight into the city’s past over the years. From the scenic views of the harbour to a jaunt down Bristol’s backstreets, we hope that this guide has given you a variety of options during your camping holiday.