As Bristol prepares itself for Spring, many of Clifton’s outdoor drinking spots are being spruced up for the influx of afterwork punters. As the evenings stretch lighter, it’s becoming more and more tempting to say goodbye to the day with an afterwork tipple with colleagues. We’ve put together our list of the ten best outdoor drinking spots in Clifton – perfect for an afterwork aperitif in the sunshine.
Racks
Home to one of Clifton’s best outdoor drinking spots, Racks Bar and Kitchen is a firm afterwork favourite. With a wide range of local ales, an extensive drinks list and a menu full of tempting sharing plates, it’s perfect for an afterwork drink in the sunshine. Get there between 5pm and 7pm and make the most of their 2-4-1 prosecco offer. For location and offer details, visit the Racks website.
The Square
On Bristol’s elegant Berkeley Square, private members’ club The Square has one of Clifton’s most exclusive terraces – and one of the city’s best cocktail lists. Newest addition The Secret Garden is covered, heated, and exuberantly decorated, allowing guests to enjoy the outdoors no matter the weather. Check out the gallery for more inspo at The Square website.
Channings
Clifton staple Channings Hotel is situated on Pembroke Road. A Greene King pub, it has a large leafy beer garden that gets great afternoon sun – perfect for relaxing with a cool glass of something after a hard day at the office. Find out more on the Channings site.
Botanist
Renowned for its extensive cocktail menu (and regular afterwork drinks offers), The Botanist is another Berkeley Square drinking hole. Despite its proximity to bustling Park Street, stepping onto the patio feels like an oasis away from the city – ideal when you want to put the day behind you. Find out more about offers and drinks lists on the Botanist’s website.
Browns
Housed in the former Bristol museum, Browns Bristol is probably the most dramatic of our suggested offerings with its huge arched windows and stone pillars. Watch the world go by on their Park Street-facing terrace with a glass of something from their extensive list of cocktails, wines and other drinks. For more info, visit the Browns Bristol website.
Lansdown
The Lansdown is a gem hidden at the edge of Clifton Village. If you can pull yourself away from the open fire inside, the outside is just as inviting. The large paved garden is covered and heated – yet still feels very snug. It’s also an independent pub with a whole range of offerings from local breweries – perfect for an afterwork ale. Visit the Landsdown website for more information.
The Albion
Nestled away at the edge of Clifton Village, this 17th century coach house is perfect for a drink in the Spring sunshine. For those on an early finish, they have prosecco deals until 5pm – plus an extensive menus of sharing plates and platters. Find out more on the Albion website.
The Hope and Anchor
With possibly the greenest beer garden in Bristol, the Hope & Anchor is a real traditional treat. Tucked behind Brandon Hill on Jacob’s Wells Road, it’s got a great selection of ales and other drinks. Plus, its garden is terraced too – which means you can have either an intimate catch-up in a secluded corner or let your hair down in a bigger group. Find out more on the Hope and Anchor website.
Highbury Vaults
The Highbury Vaults has been the perfect place for an afterwork pint for years. Dating back to the 1800s, it’s located next to Bristol University and the hospital so it’s not unusual to hear the odd heated debate going on at a neighbouring table. Inside is traditionally snug, but the outside is surprisingly spacious with a beautiful walled garden. Take a look on the Highbury Vaults website.
Quinton House
Tucked away just north of the Clifton Triangle, the Quinton House is a warm, cosy and traditional Free house. Inside is very snug (it’s one of the smallest pubs in Bristol!), so on warmer evenings, customers can enjoy their drinks on the greenery of the park opposite.
