Bristol has some first-rate pubs, and a trip north of the river reveals some of the best in the city. Whether you’re looking for a quiet afternoon pint, a sunny garden where you can sink a cider or two, or a lively Saturday night spot, these five pubs should get you started:
The Duke of York
nicksarebi, Flickr
Resting on the border of St Pauls and St Werburghs sits this characterful pub. In true Bristol fashion, the outside has been brightly painted, while inside it's a real treasure trove of knick knacks and fairy lights; reference books, board games and old photos topped off by bottle caps glued to the ceiling. The staff are a super-friendly bunch, and they've got a great little back yard that’s a rather pleasant spot to spend a summer’s evening.
The Coronation Tap
shrinkin'violet, Flickr
Exhibition Cider – the most dangerous liquid known to any Bristolian. It’s deceptively quafffable; a sweet, flat apple beverage served in a quickly-downed half pint glass. Be warned: this stuff has toppled the most mighty of cider drinkers and plenty of Bristol newbies. Come for the cider, stay for the music as The Corri Tap (as it’s know to the locals) also has some top-notch live music on at weekends. It gets very full but you’ll have a little standing room for grooving with your cider.
The Farm
KraftyMiles, Flickr
Hidden away in the leafy suburb of St Werburghs lies The Farm, so named because of its proximity to St Werburghs City Farm. They have a well-thought-out menu focused on dishes made from locally-sourced, organic ingredients where possible. Make an afternoon of it, wandering around the small farm and visiting nearby Boiling Wells before settling down for an evening pint and a bite to eat in The Farm's spacious pub garden.
The Highbury Vaults
rbwrw, Flickr
Perched atop the formidable St Michael’s Hill sits The Highbury Vaults, a cosy and traditional boozer that’s a favourite amongst locals, with the odd Bristol University student popping in from time to time. They offer a small, seasonally changing menu offering reasonably-priced, hearty pub grub with a gentrified twist – think butternut squash pie, Moroccan lamb stews and quiche. There are also more traditional pub snacks such as filled rolls, pickled eggs and sausage rolls. Be sure to wander around to the back – they have one of the best beer gardens in the whole of Bristol.
The Prince of Wales
samsaundersleeds, Flickr
You can’t miss it – it’s the bright blue one with a giant octopus on the side. This Gloucester Road favourite boasts a spacious pub garden with giant communal wooden tables, heating lamps to keep you toasty, and partial cover overhead should the weather be anything but glorious.
It’s a TV-free zone, so the PoW is also the perfect place to head to for a quiet drink if there’s a football or rugby match on. Drinks-wise you can sup on a decent selection of ales, including Bath Gem, Otter and Doombar, plus a reasonable selection of still and fizzy ciders to keep you refreshed in the summer.
Heading south? Check out our pick of five must-visit Bristol pubs south of the river. And let us know if we've missed any off the list in the comments below.