Bristol is known for being a medley of the UK’s creatives corners. Irreverent independence is in Bristol’s DNA. I was excited to learn the city produced a few of my favorite 90s musical groups, Portishead & Massive Attack. More recently, the city has gained a reputation as one of the country’s finest food scenes with its variety of independent restaurants. Exploring the city, I love the mix of colorful pastel terrace houses juxtaposed with the more elegant Georgian architecture. Turn one corner and you’re among pastel-hued houses and cityscape views reminiscent of London’s Primrose Hill. I confess in the past, I’ve only stopped briefly for an hour or two having never considered staying longer until I found a reason to.
That reason came with the newly opened Artist Resident Bristol, named one of 2022 UK’s top ten hotel openings. When I saw images of the place, I knew this was my excuse to visit. Now I can’t believe I waited almost five years!
FIRST IMPRESSION: 5/5
Set in a Grade I listed old boot factory, part Georgian townhouse, is the fifth hotel offering from British hoteliers, Artist Residence - hospitality collection. CN Traveller describes the hotel as a “treasure trove of vintage delights – antiques and knick-knacks collected from the owners’ travels adorn the walls.” The guest rooms were gorgeous and thoughtfully designed. Even more enjoyable: the beds. I slept incredibly well. I could go on and on about all the reasons this hotel is a 10 for me. But I’ll let you decide for yourself.
The hotel is designed as a neighborhood spot, where in-the-know locals come for a WFH escape during the week, or huddle by the fire in the bar area for late-night drinks.
FOOD & DRINK: 5/4
There is a downstairs breakfast area that turns into a cocktail bar come evening. Distressed walls and mismatched chairs continue the shabby-chic aesthetic running through the hotel, while an open fireplace and rattan lampshades add a cozy feel to the room. A bar is a great place for lazy morning breakfasts and evening cocktails, but as of early 2022, the main restaurant is the place to be. Offering a casual menu, it sits underneath the gaping skylight, leaving an open-plan, light-filled room perfect for remote working, cozy suppers, or a few drinks.
In line with the hotel’s aesthetic, the service is friendly and laidback. Morning service was welcoming, ever-present for any questions and ready to help, while evenings reflected the changing atmosphere – slightly more upbeat, full of cocktail suggestions and tips for nearby spots to visit.
COMFORT & SERVICE 5/5
The rooms and suites vary hugely in size and price, but all share the Artist Residences' distinctive industrial-chic style. They're gorgeously dressed with limited-edition art, brightly colored pillows, upcycled furniture, and vintage finds; and housed in high-ceilinged rooms with exposed brickwork, sculpted cornices, and big sash windows in the larger rooms.
All bedrooms offer fast WiFi, Smart TVs, Roberts radios, Nespresso machines, thoughtfully-stocked minibars (including Bristol ales and artisan gins), organic Bramley bath products, powerful plate-sized rainfall showers, and, most importantly, extremely comfy beds. Boutique bliss.
Rooms starting at £125
Artist Residence Bristol,
28 Portland Square,
St Pauls, Bristol BS2 8SA
+44 117 428 8440