Top Bars in Bristol â Most Viewed (2025)
Discover Bristol's creative bar scene with waterfront cocktail bars along the Harbourside, cozy pubs on King Street, and vibrant indie spots across Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road. Explore speakeasies tucked behind coffee shops, cider houses celebrating West Country tradition, and rooftop terraces with colourful city views. From craft beer taprooms and natural wine bars to inventive mixology and music-forward venues, Bristol blends street art culture, laid-back charm, and progressive tastes in England's most creative harbour city.

Located on the lively Gloucester Road in Bristolâs Bishopston neighbourhood, The Gallimaufry is an independent bar, arts venue and music space rolled into one. The venue is known for supporting local breweries (with rotating cask ales and craft taps) and championing creative talent through live performances most nights. Inside youâll find a warm, slightly eclectic atmosphere â mismatched furniture, artistic touches, open layouts upstairs for performances, and a sizeable terrace for outdoor drinks. Reviews highlight the friendly staff and a crowd that varies from families in the early evening to gig-goers later on. Food used to play a significant role (modern-European small plate style) but as of summer 2025, The Gallimaufry has announced a shift: while they continue operating as a bar and live-music venue, the in-house food kitchen has been paused to focus on the arts and music space. For your directory: this is a great pick for a relaxed, creative and community-rooted night out â whether youâre after craft beer, live sounds or simply a bar with character. Arrive early for shows, especially on weekends, and check their events calendar for gig listings.

Last Chance Saloon sits confidently on the corner of Stokes Croft, one of Bristolâs most iconic creative neighbourhoods. From its striking exterior mural by renowned street artist Silent Hobo to the playful, art-infused interior, this bar is a celebration of Bristolâs independent spirit. Part cafĂ©, part bar and part cultural hangout, Last Chance Saloon has carved out a reputation as an inclusive space where locals and visitors alike can linger for exceptional coffee, delve into imaginative cocktails, or simply soak up the buzz of Stokes Croftâs vibrant streets. Whether youâre popping in for a speciality brew from Radical Roasters in Easton during the day or choosing one of the barâs signature mixed drinks after dark, thereâs a relaxed yet electric energy that makes every visit feel engaging. Food and drink at Last Chance Saloon lean into local-first sourcing: draught beers from Bristol favourite Lost & Grounded, small plates and snacks, and seasonal menus that reflect the best of local suppliers. Espresso fuels early afternoon chats, while expertly mixed cocktails and a thoughtfully curated drink list keep the convivial atmosphere flowing well into the evening. What sets the bar apart isnât just its menu â itâs the community focus. Expect to encounter creative events, DJ sets from local talents like Prime Cuts, rotating artwork that keeps the interior fresh and unexpected, and a palpable sense of belonging that makes this more than just another night out. Whether youâre catching up with friends, meeting someone new, or just soaking up the Stokes Croft vibe, Last Chance Saloon feels like a destination built by the neighbourhood, for the neighbourhood.

Located on Whiteladies Gate (off Whiteladies Road) in Clifton, Bristol (BS8 2PH), Her Majestyâs Secret Service (HMSS) is a boutique cocktail bar with a playful espionage theme and serious cocktail craft. From the exterior youâll spot an unassuming black doorâyet once inside youâre transported into a mid-century secret service den. Think polished wood, leather booths, vintage telephone boxes and passport-style menus invoking covert missions and clandestine ops. The drink list is eclectic and imaginative: cocktails themed around British icons, with playful presentation and tailored suggestions based on your tastes. Reviewers highlight that staff are very good at listening and creating something unique for you. Although compact, the venueâs intimate size adds to the experienceâideal for pre-dinner drinks, dates or a special evening out. Booking is encouraged especially at weekends.

Nestled within the heart of Bristolâs Old City at 6-8 St Nicholas Street (BS1 1UQ), The Library is a cocktail bar with a twist: by day it runs as a stylish brasserie and afternoon-tea parlour, and by evening transforms into an intimate, hidden cocktail lounge. The entry itself sets the tone: you ring a brass bell under a copper lamp, step into what appears to be an antique bookshop, and then pass through a secret bookcase door to reveal the bar behind it. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and opulent â dark wood panelling, leather armchairs, low lighting, plush dĂ©cor and a sense of quiet indulgence. The cocktail menu is thoughtfully curated: expect classic techniques with modern twists, premium spirits, and a presentation designed to match the vibe. For example, according to reviewers, âthe bartenders really know their stuffâ and the drinks can be strong but memorable. During the day (especially Sundays) the venue also serves a refined brunch/roast offering, giving it dual personality: from daytime dining to evening lounge. The Library maintains a smart-casual dress code; bookings are recommended especially for evenings, and table times may be limited during busy periods. Whether youâre heading in for pre-dinner drinks, an elevated post-work cocktail or a special night out, The Library offers an experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming â perfect for a refined yet relaxed evening in Bristol.

Tucked away at 9 New Street in central Bristol (near Old Market and Cabot Circus), The Volunteer Tavern offers a compelling blend of historic charm and spirited pub culture. Housed in a building over three centuries old, with wood-panelled walls and a sense of character that only decades of local patronage afford, it feels like a proper neighbourhood gathering spot. What sets this pub apart? For starters: the beer. They brew their own âVolly Paleâ on-site in a custom shipping-container brew-box next door, and complement it with multiple guest ales, real ciders and keg lines. Then thereâs the gardenâsouth-facing, fully enclosed, with covered heated sections and plentiful seating under treesâan unexpected oasis in the city centre. Food is part of the story too: Sunday roasts are especially popular with regulars, and vegan/vegetarian options are available. On the events side: Monday trivia nights, music bingo, beer-garden gaming and summer live âSound Sessionsâ give the place a lively week-to-week rhythm. The vibe is warm and inclusive: families welcome (especially before later hours), dogs are allowed in garden areas, and the staff are described as friendly, helpful and genuine. If youâre after a genuine pub experience in Bristolârather than a bar chainâThe Volunteer Tavern offers historic walls, local flavour and that rare mix of comfort and craft.

Located in the heart of Bristol city-centre, The Milk Thistle invites you on a journey behind a discreet façade into one of the cityâs most celebrated cocktail bars. Housed in the historic âQuay Head Houseâ on Colston Avenue (BS1 1EB), the venue spans four floors, each with its own characterâfrom the ground-level âParlourâ bar, up to the atmospheric âAtticâ, and down to âThe Vaultâ where whisky tastings and private hire happen. When you arrive, youâll press a buzzer at the entrance and enter the buildingâthis gives the place a secret-club feel, though walk-ins arenât impossible. Inside, dark wood paneling, velvet seating, taxidermy mounts (yes, including a Canadian elk named âGeorgeâ), and ambient lighting combine to evoke a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. The barâs menu emphasises creativity and craftsmanship. Their cocktail list rotates regularly and includes innovative twists on classics alongside unique signature serves. They also cater to low- and no-alcohol options, and offer a selection of wines, beers and ciders. Because of its size and layered venue structure, The Milk Thistle also works beautifully for private eventsâfrom small gatherings in âThe Vaultâ (ââ16 guests) to full-venue hires of up to ~120 standing. The vibe: stylish but without being overly pretentious. The Milk Thistle is perfect for pre-dinner cocktails, date nights, celebrations or an elevated evening out. On weekends it gets busier and lively, and booking in advance is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.

Nestled in Bristolâs Old City at 30 Clare Street (BS1 1YH), The Raven invites you into an immersive blend of mixology and mystique. From the moment you arrive, the mood is set: dim lighting, rich dĂ©cor, a sense of intrigue. The barâs mantra âForget what you know, enter the house of the Ravenâ reflects its approach â cocktails crafted with flair, live-performers roaming the room, occasional burlesque, magic and tarot readings. Drinks-wise they offer a creative selection of handcrafted cocktails alongside more familiar classics, all served with attention to presentation. Reviews mention the bar pairs style with substance. Entertainment is part of the package: The Raven hosts tarot reading sessions regularly (Weds/Thurs/Sun) by resident seers, as well as live band sets, DJs and themed nights. For those looking for something a little different in Bristolâs cocktail scene, this spot provides that mix of elegance and edge. It works well for a date night, a soirĂ©e with friends who appreciate performance and craft, or a prelude to a late-night outing. That said, booking ahead is wise, especially for weekends and larger groups.

In the heart of Bristol city centre lies Alcotraz: Cell Block Two-Two-Six, a bar like no other. From the moment you check in, youâre treated like an inmate: thereâs a security checkpoint, you change into the standard-issue orange jump-suit, and youâre ushered into the cell block. But this isnât punishment â itâs party. Within this immersive, theatrical environment youâll be guided by actors playing wardens and bootleggers, given the task of smuggling in your own liquor (or opting into the inclusive package), and then presented with personalised cocktails crafted by inmate-mixologists from your contraband. The design is spot on: metallic cells, gang-tagged walls, staged noir lighting and a sense that youâre part of a story rather than just visiting a bar. Reviews mention that âthe set-up, actors and drinks were first class.â This experience suits group outings â hen/stag parties, birthdays, corporate team-builds â but also works for adventurous couples or cocktail fans after something memorable. Itâs not your casual drink at the bar. Itâs elevated, theatrical, playful. Take note: youâll need to book, bring a sealed bottle (unless you opted for inclusive) and arrive ready to play the part.
