Perched at the pinnacle of Bristol's many hills, this exceptionally stylish small hotel is much like the city itself - calm, considered and surrounded by green space. Situated at the top of Black Boy Hill on quite a busy road, it's a good 40-minute walk from the centre and harbourside, but chichi Clifton Village is much closer at hand. Gorgeously proportioned, Georgian-era windows overlook tangled alleyways and colourful terraced housing. A real home-away-from-home, this space is strictly for grown-ups - Number 38 does not accommodate children under 12 and consequently the atmosphere in communal rooms inclines toward rest and relaxation. After a nap on your king-sized bed, head out to explore the Downs or the area's many independent shops, bars and restaurants.
The Downs are effectively the hotel's own 400-acre front garden; this is Bristol's best terrain for runners and walkers, with Suspension Bridge views.
The hotel is tucked away in Clifton with great views over the city of Bristol.
By car: The drive is 3 hours from London and 1 hour 50 minutes from Birmingham. There is paid public parking nearby.
By train: Bristol Temple Meads station is a 15 minute drive, with direct trains from London that take around 2 hours 10 minutes. thetrainline.com
Great for design-conscious couples who want a calm vantage point from which to explore Bristol - interiors reflect the historic harbourside, with a touch of Banksy-esque irreverence. The bookshelves in the library (which doubles as a breakfast room) are lined with intriguing volumes, trailing plants and small animal sculptures.
We loved the 'nothing is too much trouble' attitude taken by staff - whether you want a parking permit, a newspaper or an off-menu cocktail, they're happy to help.
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lounge
- Terrace
- Garden
- Free Wi-Fi
Suite 11 is generously proportioned, luxuriously finished, and well-served by views - gaze over the Downs from the freestanding copper bath tub and the local university from bed. The cut-price mini bar is also a cut above, offering diminutive drops from local merchant Avery wines, Tyrells crisps, and free fresh milk for in-room cups of tea.
Superior Room, Luxury Room, House Room, Suite
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, tea and coffee facilities, Roberts Radio, TV, free Wi-Fi
The short drinks list of classic cocktails - from mojito to martini - are all very reasonably-priced. That hipster staple, avocado toast, is done very well here - with perfect crispy bacon, grilled cherry tomatoes and a smattering of chilli flakes.
Number 38: Cooked breakfasts to order, including English breakfasts, eggs benedict and avocado toast.
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