In an area filled with craft beer dens, cocktail spots and charming independent boozers, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to places to drink. But sometimes with so many options, it can be hard to know where to go. That's why we've scoured through the many watering holes in the hub of all the action to come up with a definitive list of the best city centre bars in Bristol.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 26th July 2024
Need a new drinking destination in the city centre? Bristol has you covered with some of the best tipples at The Cocktail Club on Corn Street. Tip back fabulous porn star martinis, margaritas and other crafty concoctions at this spot.
Pitcher & Piano has garnered a reputation across the country for its modern interiors, stylish cocktails and affordable menu. Its Bristol bar is ideally located by the waterside, making for some lovely views whilst you sample one of their caramel sazeracs, blackberry brambles or chocolate orange espresso martinis.
If you're after an easy-going place to drink in Bristol city centre, The Horts is for you. The traditional pub has a mega list of wines, spirits and beers, as well as a classic menu of comfort food favourites if you should get peckish. What's more, they've even got a 36-seater cinema where they screen regular sports events.
Head to the Old Fishmarket in Bristol's city centre to find Revolution, a party bar that specialises in all things vodka. Their fruity cocktails will whisk you away to a sunnier setting whilst daily happy hours make for a wallet-friendly sip. Once Friday hits, the place comes alive with music and late-night revellers.
If you're after cocktail bars in Bristol city centre, then Blame Gloria will fit the bill. From its 2 for 1 drinks deals to drag events and a cool playlist of hits from across the decades, this place will keep you coming back for more every single time.
An undoubtedly cool hangout in the centre of Bristol, BrewDog is a hub for those grabbing pres, after-work drinks or chilling with mates. Stop over and explore their 20+ craft brews on tap, wide array of bottles, and cans in the fridge, alongside a menu of drool-worthy sourdough pizza.
House in a listed Mauretania building in the middle of the city on Park Street, Java is top spot for delicious cocktails and scrumptious food. Whether you fancy a buzzing atmosphere or a quiet VIP experience, they've got you covered.
Nestle along Harbourside, The Bristol Stable is your go-to for craft ciders, fresh sourdough pizza and live music. They even host regular tastings where you and your friends can try eight different brews accompanied by mouthwatering slices to keep you fuelled up.
Found over on the ever-buzzing Baldwin Street, Tonight Josephine is the hot-to-trot hangout that's shaking up a storm in the cocktail department. Head on over to dance 'til the early hours, indulge in wild bottomless brunches and really let loose.
Looking for the best bars in Bristol city centre? Home to regular drag extravaganzas, banging playlists and unmatched drink deals, OMG has all you need for a fantastic night out. And if you're looking to keep the party going, head down the road to their nightclub.
Located on Baldwin Street in the city centre and sporting neon graffiti across its walls and floors, NQ64 is a quirky party bar that also happens to be home to 36 retro arcade games. Gather your friends and head here any night of the week to play Guitar Hero, Time Crisis III, Mario Kart and more 'til 2.30am. And if you're thirsty? There's plenty of themed cocktails to get your lips around like the pineapple flavoured Mad Max or Aku Aku Fruit Punch.
Located in the heart of Bristol, Flight Club is a fabulous gaming bar, complete with delicious beers, signature cocktails and tasty pizzas. Here, you can try your hand at a quirky version of social darts, whether you're on a date or catching up with pals.
A cool Bristol sports bar, The White Harte is making sure you stay watered, fed and entertained. Along with pool tables and HD Tvs screening all the latest matches, you'll find American-inspired grub and real ales.
Boasting an enviable harbourside location, Riverstation is a charming space from day to night. Chomp on breakfast classics and seasonal dishes for dinner, all paired with expert-crafted cocktails, thirst-quenching wines and ice cold ales.
Searching for places to drink in Bristol? O'Neill's is a lovely boozer in the city centre and it's giving you everything you need for a good sports viewing. Enjoy pints, scrumptious burgers and a buzzing ambience, all while catching every second of the latest match.
Retro consoles, craft drinks and live DJ sets... Kongs Of King Street is your one-stop-shop for a fun night out in Bristol. During the week, the bar is great for an evening of arcade gaming with your mates, but come the weekend the spot is buzzing with partygoers and guest DJs keeping the energy high.
Situated on Corn Street, Walkabout is a crackin' sport for those city centre drinks. Gather your pals, as you head inside this laid-back haunt which is decked out with wood features and booths galore. As for the pours? Expect plenty of wallet-friendly bevvies.
Zerodegrees is a quirky spot in central Bristol that has transformed a tramshed into a microbrewery. Pints are as fresh as possible and food comes in the form of pizza.
The Milk Thistle has got to be up there as one of the best bars in Bristol city centre - that is, if you can find it. But once you have uncloaked the secret bar, prepare for a wonderland of delights, from mixology masters through to taxidermy-filled rooms.
Situated underneath King Street, The Beer Emporium is a cool basement bar and craft brew haven. Spend an evening tasting a range of international and locally-sourced ales and stouts in the cosy den. Like what you tried? Buy some sips from their award-winning bottle shop.
Located in a former banking hall, The Cosy Club is a showstopping Bristol city centre bar. If you're looking to impress, this beauty is sure to do the job with grand marble columns, vintage portraits and a seriously slurpable cocktail list making for a memorable evening.
Not all of Bristol's central bars are on land. Meet The Apple: a converted Dutch barge that's been turned into one of the most popular cider haunts in the city. Can't find a seat on the boat? There's also outdoor seating which is perfect for the summer months.
Small Bar is a must for all beer lovers in Bristol. In keeping with their dedication to support local and small breweries, the rustic joint pours drinks in 2/3 pints, to ensure that every glass is fresh and enjoyed to the maximum.
If you're after a quirky bar in Bristol city centre then The Clockwork Rose will suit you down to a tee. Not only are the drinks wacky and theatrically presented but the steampunk-inspired interiors will transport you into the fictional world of Sebastian Commodore, a mythical airship captain.
