The fact that you can admire Bristol’s beautiful scenery even at its heart makes it a one of a kind city. So what better way is there to enjoy the sun – when it decides comes out – than to drink in style with a view on a rooftop bar. Whether you fancy going on a classy date or having a more chilled day with your friends, here are 10 of the best rooftop bars in Bristol revealed.
1. The White Lion Bar
Address: Avon Gorge Hotel, Sion Hill, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4LD
There is no question that The White Lion Bar is an oldie but a goodie. A local favourite, the bar is iconic for its terrace being a prime spot to admire the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Leigh Woods. Any day when the weather is good, you can also view numerous patterned hot air balloons peep up from behind Leigh Woods; so spotting them will become a fun pastime whilst enjoying a few pints.
2. Grain Barge
Address: Hotwell Rd, Bristol BS8 4RU
Fancy drinking but also immersing yourself in a bit of Bristol’s history? If so, the Grain Barge is a great shout. Originally a barge dating back to the 1930s, the Grain Barge was converted into a bar and dining area. Its kitchen serves only the best of the city’s locally brewed beers and ciders as well as sourcing local produce to offer a fine dining experience. Docked on the Harbourside, indulge on a few drinks on its top deck whilst soaking up the surrounding Bristolian history such as the SS Great Britain.
3. Bambalan
Address: Podium Level, Colston Tower, Colston Street, Bristol BS1 4XE
Been wanting to go on holiday but can’t afford it as you’re a student? Do not threat as visiting the Bambalan is a perfect alternative. Lay back and let the warm sun hit you on the bar’s rooftop terrace, transporting you away to a sunbed at a beach resort. Their relaxing music, Mediterranean food menu and tropical drinks will make you forget about the busy city life. Be sure to go during their happy hours from 4 to 9 pm to get that holiday feeling for a bargain!
4. The White Rabbit
Address: 33 Gordon Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1AW
The White Rabbit has a small yet cosy rooftop; home to many charming potted plants. Located right next to the University of Bristol’s Student Union, it is a great spot for students to pop into after a long day of lectures. The White Lion has a large selection of locally brewed ales and offers 2 pizzas for the price of 1 on selected days – a fantastic combination to indulge on whilst soaking up the sun. If you don’t want to fight for a seat with the many other students planning to go to The White Rabbit on a hot summers day, get there quick and secure your place as it fills up quickly.
5. Watershed
Address: 1 Canon’s Rd, Bristol BS1 5TX
After watching a film at the Watershed, whilst you’re there why not also try out the cinema’s bar to make it an outing to remember? Overlooking the Harbourside, catch some rays in the day whilst watching the boats and people passing by. If you decide to go at night, you can also enjoy a beautifully lit up riverside scene.
6. Urban Roof Terrace at Bristol Marriott City Centre
Address: 2 Lower Castle St, Bristol BS1 3AD
Located on top of Bristol Marriott City Centre hotel, this urban roof terrace isn’t always everyone’s first choice when it comes to rooftop bars in Bristol. Yet, if you’re looking to go somewhere where you will have a lively evening, then this terraced bar is a superb option. The rooftop bar is furnished with deck chairs, astroturf and fairy lights to give a wholesome garden feel. The bar also provides various outdoor games including ping pong for you and your friends to have some fun and friendly competition with.
7. The Mall
Address: 66 The Mall, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4JG
Situated amongst Clifton Village, The Mall gives off an atmosphere of a secret garden with its three-tiered terraces fully decked with greenery. For this reason, The Mall is a marvellous bar to go to for a more chilled day with your friends. At the terraced bar, you can be sure to have a hearty meal from their pub food menu; if you go on the weekend, give their notorious BBQ a go.
8. Clifton Observatory
Address: Litfield Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LT
Searching for another prime spot to take in the view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge? Then go and hit up the Clifton Observatory. Although the Observatory itself dates well back to 1766, its roof was recently converted into a 360-degree chic bar so you can look over the Suspension Bridge and enjoy a panoramic view of Bristol. If you want to switch up and treat yourself to a fancier drinking experience or have a date lined up, there’s no doubt that the Clifton Observatory is the place to go.
9. Old Market Assembly
Address: 25 West St, Bristol BS2 0DF
You will find a more casual scene at the Old Market Assembly’s rooftop bar. The Old Market Assembly is a cultural hub home to a restaurant, bakery, café, the Wardrobe Theatre and a live music venue. For those who appreciate the arts, The Old Market will prove to be an entertaining day out. After watching a performance, sip on a few drinks on the rooftop bar, and why not even try The Old Market Assembly’s very own gin?
10. Zerodegrees Microbrewery
Address: 53 Colston St, Bristol BS1 5BA
Zerodegrees Microbrewery is a bar which attracts the big beer drinkers of Bristol. As its name hints, Zerodegrees Microbrewery specialises in offering numerous home-brewed beers. What makes their beers distinct is the fact that they are not filtered or pasteurised, and no additives are used to ensure they are as healthy and nutritious as possible – a perfect excuse to have a few pints! And, their seasonal mango flavoured beer is simply irresistible in the summer.
Definitely a seasonal experience – don’t miss out on visiting these fantastic rooftop bars to admire the scenery Bristol offers under the beating summer sun.
