bristol pub tour

This Self-Guided Pub Crawl Will Lead You Via Bristol’s Oldest Boozer

The Old City is jam-packed with history, least of all Bristol’s oldest boozer, so take this self-guided tour to eat, drink and learn your way around the city.

Bristol is an old city, with city status dating back to 1542 – but it’s much older than that still. Nowhere better exemplifies Bristol’s age than the Old City . Filled with historic buildings and Georgian-era architecture, it’d almost feel like a step back in time if it weren’t for all the trendy eateries and hip bars. But it’s this blend of new and old that gives the area its unique personality.

Using this self-guided audio tour of the Old City , you can explore the oldest parts of Bristol and uncover the best places to grab a beer and a bite to eat. Along the way, you’ll learn all sorts of fun facts , like how the city began and happened to the now ruinous Bristol Castle . Who doesn’t love a bit of random pub trivia? 

Bristol’s Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City also doubles as a bit of a pub crawl, stopping at just a few of Bristol’s traditional breweries, pubs and places to eat! Probably the most noteworthy has to be the oldest pub in Bristol, The Hatchet Inn – once a favourite haunt of the infamous pirate Blackbeard, this 400-year-old pub is still as lively today.

But you’ll also swing by The Christmas Steps and visit the quirky yet haunted street it is named after. Another notable pitstop is the Bristol Old Vic , the oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world. Sitting on King Street, here you’ll find a whole load of exciting pubs to discover. One of our favourites has to be the jazz and blues pub, The Old Duke .

Outside of pubs, you’ll also stop by Brisol’s oldest market, Saint Nicholas Market , where you can grab a bite to eat from numerous food stalls; take in the sights of Bristol City Docks ; and you’ll even pass through the last remaining city gate. From Bristol Cathedral and College Green to St Peter’s Church and The Nails on Corn Street , you’ll find a wealth of history in the Old City.

It’s not all about old things either. Street art lovers will also have plenty to discover. The city centre is heaving with giant murals everywhere you turn, but this audio tour will specifically take you to two Banksy pieces – Bristol’s biggest graffiti artist – Well Hung Lover and, the more difficult to find, You Don’t Need Planning Permission to Build Castles in the Sky .

If you fancy going on this self-guided audio tour, it will take approximately two hours – minus all the pub and food pitstops. Costing £4.98 , start and wander at your leisure as you wander through markets, relax in the park and take in all the sights. To get your tickets to Bristol’s Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City head here .

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

Bristol private pub hopping and sightseeing with local guide

• Entry/Admission - Saint Nicholas Market
• Entry/Admission - Bristol City Docks
• Entry/Admission - College Green
• Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine's Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ, UK In front of Hippodrome Bristol
• Bristol, UK
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• Bristol City Docks

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Bristol Hippodrome St Augustine's Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ, UK In front of Hippodrome Bristol See address & details
• 1 Saint Nicholas Market Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Bristol City Docks Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 3 College Green Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• You'll end at Bristol Bristol, UK See address & details

• Ken C 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great preparations, excellent tour, and thorough follow-up Barbara reached out and communicated timely, responding promptly. Arriving at my hotel on time, she even managed to include it as part of the tour. We had an eclectic introduction to Bristol, covering history, religion, the naval aspects of the port. I was left with several activities to pursue, with clear instructions. Barbara set a high bar for the two other private tours I booked this week. She is a great resource to learn about Bristol and the surrounding regions. Read more Written 18 June 2019

More to explore in Bristol

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Old Market Tasty Pub Tour

Share this experience.

It's known for its LGBTQ-friendly venues, quirky independents and cool cafes - but how well do you know Bristol's Old Market? Or maybe you don't at all. In which case, what are you waiting for!

Get stuck into this self-guided tour, brush up on fun facts about Bristol's old quarter, and hit up both trendy and traditional pubs and bars.

Your tour will begin at Moor Beer's taproom. Introduce yourself at the bar and one of the lovely bar staff will pour you three third pints from their large range of keg beers (all vegan-friendly). They'll talk you through their beers and their wonderful brewery.

Your welcome bag will be given to you here. Full of beer tokens, a map telling you where you can spend them, a sheet of interesting Old Market facts, a pen and paper for making notes of your favourite beers and some walking snacks. You'll be having an absolute party!

Following your map, you'll venture onto three other brilliant, independent venues in the area. There's a half pint or two thirds of Bristol brewed beer in each venue included (just hand over your token).​ But feel free to stay for more, if you fancy.

You can do this tour completely at your own pace. If you'd like to skip a venue or one's too busy to find a seat, you can spend the extra token at the next stop. On most occasions, there will be a total of five stops on your map for you to choose from. One of the venues often has live music or DJs from 8pm on a weekend. This is always free entry.

Non-drinkers are welcome to join you, and it's possible to substitute beer for cider everywhere apart from Moor - because it's a brewery!

Please note: some of the venues are quite small, so if you'd like to book for more than six people, please message your host and they'll see if it's possible.

Age restrictions: 18+

Available dates

What people are saying.

Fun exploration experience

A fabulous tour, with brilliant unique pubs in a perfect sequence.

The brew-pubs were all unique, with great personality, a good range of local beer and cider, and ...

Great way to explore some really great spots in Old Market

The brew-pubs were all unique, with great personality, a good range of local beer and cider, and listed in perfect sequence for a fun afternoon and evening out. The staff were great and the directions were easy to follow. We had a great time.

Great experience and trail finding new pubs!

Great tasting experience and fun!

Excellent experience! Very well organised. I highly recommend the Moor brewery. The barman was really helpful and knowledgeable and made us feel very welcome. The bars enroute were all very unique and had a great selection of beers on offer. Would highly recommend this tour for anyone who wants to try something different and off the beaten track. Cheers!

We had a fab day experiencing a side to Bristol that I hadn't previously explored properly. A great opportunity to visit some new pubs and be a bit more adventurous with beer choices. Apparently I'm now a stout lover! The stand out has to be the excellent and knowledgable brewery staff/publicans that couldn't have been more helpful and passionate about their produce. We tried a wide range of local beers, learned a lot and most importantly had heaps of fun in the process! Would highly recommend.

We thought this was great value and whilst some people may have said you could do it cheaper you cant get the same experience at the Moore Brewery where we were introduced to a number of ales by the biggest enthusiast I have met for Ale. We will be back again soon as we had such a great time, thank you especially the Moore Brewery bar host 10/10

Great afternoon really enjoyed the tasting experience and discovering new pubs

Lovely tour and I enjoyed being able to pick which pubs to go to. All very easy to find and a great range of beers to try

Great experience. Heather was really helpful emailing back immediately and giving us the option to rebook when storm Eunice threatened our evening, and our host at Moor, Laurie, was knowledgeable and generous with his time.

Great fun - a self-led pub crawl so you can stay in each place however long you'd like, and a little bit of history about each pub on your info sheet. Great value, snacks included! Highly recommended :)

Had a really great time and discovered great new pubs with the friendliest staff - we’ll definitely be back!

A really well arranged and informative tour and each venue was very welcoming

How to get there

Yuup extras

• Beer tasting and an awesome goodie bag!
• Refreshments available

COVID-19 guidelines

• Each venue will be adhering to any Covid restrictions in place
• Please ensure you carry a face covering and you carry sanitiser for each venue
• Please ensure that you arrive at Moor brewery at your booked start time
• The brewery is around a ten minute walk from Bristol Temple Meads train station
• The tour ends opposite a major bus stop on Old Market Street. It's a 15 minute walk from Bristol Temple Meads (assuming you are walking a bit slower after a few beers!)
• Please drink responsibly. Just because all of your beers are included, it doesn't mean you have to drink them all!

Changes happen, don't worry

You'll be hosted by.

Heather Goodford

Heather is the founder of Bristol Hoppers. She has lived in Bristol for more than 20 years and still loves to show this off. Her love for craft beer began after the first brewery taproom opened in Bristol. Over the weekend you'll probably find Heather in one of the city's taprooms or craft beer bars - unless she happens to be away camping instead! Heather enjoys encouraging others to drink locally and meeting like-minded people.

Any questions?

Ask your question directly to Bristol Hoppers.

• Arts & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Health & Wellbeing
• Nature & Animals
• Sports & Adventure

Choose your Self-Guided tour style:  

Immersive audio tours - take a sightseeing tour of the old city and it's brilliant pubs or discover bristol's brewery taproom scene. just £4.95.  7 days a week. , take a tour of bristol's fabulous brewery taproom scene. at a brewery along the audio tour route, you'll have a guided beer tasting. £12.50. fridays & saturdays., opens in new window, explore the old market area with an all-inclusive paper map based tour, with a guided beer tasting and delicious, locally brewed beers included at the wonderful pubs and bars along the way. £24. fridays & saturdays, perfect for bristolians and visitors alike, these unique tours explore off the beaten track to discover bristol's best brewery tap rooms, traditional pubs, beer gardens and craft beer bars. you won't have a guide or a group of people hurrying you along, allowing you to walk & drink at your own pace. .

Looking for a brewery tour?  If there are at least four of you, we may be able to add one onto your tour from just £10  extra, s o that you can see and learn about how the delicious beer you'll be tasting is made. Or, standalone brewery tour and beer tasting is £20 a head.  Click here to email me to enquire about your chosen date and time. 

Bristols Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City

While some may question the need for a guided tour in a city filled with pubs, Bristol’s Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City offers a unique and insightful perspective on the local drinking scene.

As participants navigate the charming streets, they are treated to fascinating stories about the city’s historic pubs and their significance.

With hidden gems waiting to be uncovered and insider tips on the best brews, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Bristol’s pub culture.

• Explore Bristol’s vibrant pub scene with a self-guided GPS audio tour
• Immerse in rich history while sampling local brews at the city’s finest breweries
• Experience the diverse beer offerings and craft beer culture of Bristol
• Convenient starting point at Queen Square and endpoint at 45 King St for a seamless pub-hopping experience

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Bristol’s Darkest Secrets Tour
• Bristol Private Life-Drawing Class for Hen and Stag Parties
• Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour (Explore Old Market)
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Tour Highlights

Set out on a captivating journey through Bristol’s vibrant pub scene, enjoying the rich history and local brews with the Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour.

The tour highlights the city’s craft beer culture, taking you to some of the finest local breweries where you can savor unique and flavorful brews. Explore the craftsmanship and passion that go into creating these distinctive beers, as you learn about the brewing process and the stories behind each pint.

From traditional ales to innovative blends, this tour offers a taste of Bristol’s diverse beer offerings. Experience firsthand the essence of the city’s pub culture, where every sip tells a tale of tradition and innovation in the world of craft beer.

App Features

Explore the Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of Bristol’s Pubs through the user-friendly app features designed to enhance your experience and provide insightful commentary on the city’s pub culture. The app offers interactive engagement and technology benefits to make your tour memorable:

Detailed Pub Information: Access comprehensive details about each pub, including its history , specialties , and unique features.

Real-Time Navigation: Enjoy seamless navigation through GPS guidance, ensuring you never miss a stop on your pub-hopping adventure.

Audio Commentary: Listen to engaging narratives about Bristol’s pub scene, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the local culture.

Customizable Experience: Tailor your tour by adjusting the pace or selecting specific pubs based on your preferences, allowing for a personalized exploration.

Starting Point Details

At the heart of Bristol’s vibrant pub culture lies the designated starting point for the Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour, strategically positioned to kickstart your immersive journey through the city’s renowned drinking establishments.

Located at the iconic Queen Square, this spot not only offers a picturesque starting point but also serves as a hub for pub recommendations and historical landmarks .

As you begin your tour, you’ll be surrounded by charming Georgian architecture and lush greenery, setting the tone for an unforgettable exploration of Bristol’s rich history and beer scene.

From here, you’ll explore the city’s past while discovering hidden gems and top-rated pubs, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience from the get-go.

Tour Logistics

Located at the heart of Bristol’s vibrant pub culture, the tour logistics for the Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour ensure seamless coordination and a hassle-free exploration of the city’s renowned drinking establishments.

Tour Duration : Visitors can enjoy the tour at their own pace, with flexible timing to soak in the pub culture.

Scheduling Flexibility : Advance scheduling is required, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to individual preferences.

Local Provider Confirmation : It’s essential to confirm the start time with the local provider for a smooth beginning.

Operating Hours : The tour is available daily from 12:00 AM to 11 :59 PM, allowing for scheduling convenience within the specified dates.

With these logistics in place, participants can look forward to an immersive and convenient exploration of Bristol’s pub scene.

Endpoint Amenities

Nestled in the heart of Bristol, the tour concludes at 45 King St, offering a variety of dining options for participants to unwind and savor after their exploration of the city’s pub scene.

At this endpoint, visitors can enjoy the local brews and historic charm that Bristol has to offer. The area is perfect for those who enjoy pub hopping and want to experience the authentic local flavors of the city.

Whether craving traditional pub fare or looking to try something new, 45 King St provides a delightful setting to reflect on the tour’s highlights. With its inviting ambiance and diverse culinary offerings, it’s an ideal spot to relax and relish the memories made during the self-guided adventure.

Customer Reviews

Visitors consistently praise the self-guided GPS audio tour of Bristol’s pubs for its engaging commentary and immersive experience. User feedback highlights the following aspects of customer satisfaction:

• Interactive and informative commentary keeps visitors entertained throughout the tour.
• Easy-to-use VoiceMap app enhances the overall experience by providing clear directions and interesting insights.
• Flexibility in tour duration allows visitors to explore at their own pace, catering to different preferences.
• Positive reviews emphasize the tour’s focus on the local beer scene, contributing to a unique and authentic Bristol pub experience.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• The House Magicians Comedy Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors in Bristol (Sat 7pm)
• St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Walking Tour
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• (9pm) The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show – Smoke & Mirrors
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Common questions

Are There Any Specific Recommendations for Local Craft Beers or Breweries to Try During the Tour?

Craft beer enthusiasts exploring Bristol can indulge in a variety of local breweries and beer tasting experiences. From the vibrant brewery tours to the unique flavors of craft beer, there are plenty of options to savor.

Is There a Recommended Time of Day to Start the Self-Guided Tour for the Best Experience?

For the best viewpoints and evening stroll vibes, starting the self-guided tour in the late afternoon is ideal. Morning coffee lovers might prefer a fresh start, while night owls can extend the adventure to explore Bristol’s nightlife options .

Are There Any Historical or Cultural Facts About Bristol’s Old City That Are Highlighted on the Tour?

When exploring Bristol’s Old City, the tour showcases its rich history and cultural significance through insightful commentary on architecture, landmarks , and local traditions. Visitors can enjoy Bristol’s vibrant past and present.

Can Participants Customize the Tour Route or Add Additional Stops Along the Way?

Participants can indeed customize the tour route and add extra stops along the way, offering flexibility to tailor the experience. This option allows for personalized exploration and the chance to explore specific areas of interest.

Is There a Recommended Attire or Footwear for the Walking Tour, Considering the Terrain and Weather Conditions in Bristol?

When exploring Bristol, it’s essential to consider proper attire and footwear for varying terrains and weather conditions. Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended to navigate the city’s streets and handle any unexpected weather changes effectively.

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Set out on a journey through Bristol’s historic Old City with the vibrant pub culture tour, where every pint tells a story. Let the VoiceMap app be your guide as you uncover hidden gems and local beer delights.

Enjoy the rich history and lively atmosphere of Bristol’s pubs, making memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this immersive experience that promises to quench your thirst for adventure and knowledge.

Cheers to a brilliant pub tour!

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Home » Food & Drink » The Oldest Pubs In Bristol And Their History

The Oldest Pubs In Bristol And Their History

• September 14, 2021
• Food & Drink

The Oldest Pubs In Bristol

The entire city of Bristol is shrouded in a rich history, so it should come as no surprise that the pubs within Bristol have just as much history surrounding them. Plenty of pubs within Bristol claim to be the oldest, all of which have varying dates that they were first set up. Some are only kept in the running, for the title, by a handful of technicalities.

So, whilst it might not be possible to tell you precisely which pub is the oldest (as many of them claim to be) here are a few of the Bristol pubs that have been running for a fair bit of time, with some twisted and interesting pasts. Whether you’re interested in hearing the macabre tales or it’s the historical architecture that’ll draw you in, be sure to check out some of Bristol’s oldest pubs, below:

Bristol's Oldest Pub

The hatchett inn.

Generally speaking, The Hatchet Inn is considered to be the oldest pub in Bristol – as proudly boasted and claimed by the pub themselves. This Tudor pub has stood on Frogmore Street since 1606, and whilst some older pubs and buildings are on this list, it is The Hatchet Inn that is perhaps the most well-known and loudest in stating that they are the oldest pub within Bristol (whether that’s true is a different story).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Best of Bristol (@bestofbristol) on Sep 23, 2020 at 9:54am PDT

The building, over 4 centuries old, is now a Grade II listed building and has undergone plenty of preening, changes and alterations since first opening up in 1606, a time in which Bristol played a key role in the UK’s seafaring trade. One notable change being the removal of the mortar that hung above the front door for a significant amount of time. On the 400th anniversary of the pub, some staff members dressed as historical figures outside the venue to celebrate the pub’s long history. The Hatchet Inn is assumed to be named after the axes used by woodsmen, who would stop by the pub after having worked in the Clifton Woods, though there is no confirmation of this.

The Hatchet Inn and human skin

Perhaps the most notable reason for The Hatchet Inn’s fame, and most peculiar aspect of its history, is the local legend claiming that there is a layer of human skin to be found at the entry way. Most claim this skin is stretched over the door, hidden under coats upon coats of paint, though others go further, twisting and exaggerating the urban legend, saying human flesh can be found within the doorway.

The human skin door is a focus point for guidebooks, walking tours and history books of Bristol, undoubtedly bringing in a lot of fascinated tourists (like myself) to the pub. This odd legend stems from the 1800s, when the authorities within Bristol tried to make use of the bodies of hanged criminals after their deaths, particularly their skin.

Bare-knuckle boxing at the Hatchett Inn

The next phase in the history of The Hatchet Inn, is the 18th century reputation as a cock-fighting ring, before developing into a spot for bare-knuckle boxing , producing local champions Jem Belcher and Henry Pearce.  

A few individuals believe they have seen an apparition, a ghost of a bare-knuckle boxer within the pub, and whilst this isn’t frequently mentioned by guests, from time to time a report does arise.

The 18th century also saw the introduction of a rat-pit to the back of the building, facilitating rodent teasing. Rodent teasing involved filling the pit with rodents (rats, mice, and animals alike) and placing bets as to how long it would take for a dog, usually a terrier, to kill them. Further historical sources detail the squeals of the animals, barks of the dogs, and audible cheering from crowds of men, all of which could be traced down to the back room of the pub.

Blackbeard at the Hatchett Inn

Another claim to fame of this Bristol pub is that pirates, most notably Blackbeard, drank at The Hatchet Inn. Though The Hatchet Inn is not the only pub to have made that claim within Bristol. Llandoger Trow, which opened in 1664 (and was also a contender for the oldest pub), is now sadly closed, also allegedly saw Blackbeard pop in for a drink.

If you’re looking to check out the rock music, or to inspect the skin door yourself, take a look into visiting The Hatchet Inn at 27 Frogmore Street, Bristol, BS1 5NA. You can see the Butcombe Brewery website at https://butcombe.com/pubs-rooms/ or check out The Hatchet Inn specifically at https://www.facebook.com/thehatchet/ .

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The bowl inn.

The Bowl Inn grew from three cottages, built in 1146 to house monks who were building the neighbouring Church, St Mary the Virgin. Though this medieval construction certainly is old, The Bowl Inn did not become licensed as an inn until much later, in 1550.

Rumours say, there are secret tunnels connecting each of the cottages, the Church, and the priory to one another. These tunnels served the purpose of protecting the monks who lived within the cottages from the attacks of foreign marauders invading.

Perhaps the quirk that draws most people to The Bowl Inn, however, is the anecdotal story of Elizabeth Maronne. The ghost of this young French child is said to haunt the pub. She, her brother (John Maronne) and her father had lived within Almondsbury.

Elizabeth died at just age six in 1708, and her brother passed at age 5 in 1711. It is believed and presumed that they both died at the hands of their abusive father.

This theory gained more momentum as the plaque on the Parish Church reads: ‘Beneath this place lye the Bodies of John and Elizabeth Maronne, in the Memory of whom their Father caused this Monument to be put up’.

Their father had been poor and moved from Province of Dophin in France with little means to survive. He reportedly believed his children were taken by God as a punishment for his sins, though some believe his purposeful and harmful actions hurt the two children.

From 1970 onwards, however, visitors of The Bowl Inn have reported hearing a ghostly voice of a young girl singing nursey rhymes, assumed to be Elizabeth, and even hearing her gently cry.

Two other ghosts, also said to be female but with no assumed identity, have been heard and seen at the pub, though the information surrounding these women is limited, largely due to less consistency in the sightings of them.

I don’t know about any ghost sightings, but The Bowl Inn sure is remarkable for a Sunday Roast . The Bowl Inn may not have been a pub for the longest time, but the lengthy history of the building certainly makes it one of Bristol’s more haunted! If you want to see the incorporated modern and medieval building, look out for Elizabeth and John, or just grab some lunch in Almondsbury, The Bowl Inn is a great choice. You can pop on in at 16 Church Road, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4DT or head to https://butcombe.com/the-bowl-inn-bristol/ to find out more.

This pub has stood since 1241, but since the building was created, The Rummer has gone by a whole host of aliases, starting with Green Lattis.

In 1440, the pub was rebuilt and assumed the name Abyndon before yet another rebuild occurred in 1565 when the Jonas Inn underwent a makeover, and Abyndon was incorporated into it; this collaborative mishmash went by the name The New Inn. Yet more renovations took place in 1743 when the building had the ‘Exchange’ added in. This gave the pub the structure it has today, and the name ‘The Rummer’ came with it – which seems to be sticking, at least for now.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Helen Long (@helenlong3434) on Apr 28, 2019 at 12:40am PDT

Besides the whole host of names, The Rummer has a large history surrounding its being the first Berni Inn in the UK, a chain of steakhouses ran by siblings Frank and Aldo Berni. The Berni Inn chain was modelled off of restaurants seen in America, bringing more aspects of Americanisation, that the fifties were rife with, over to Britain.

The Rummer was opened as the very first UK Berni Inn in 1956, selling steaks, chips, a buttered roll and ice cream . The extreme popularity sparked the continuation of the Berni Inns, which peaked in 1960 as the biggest restaurant chain outside of the US.

An impressive host of guests have dined at The Rummer, most notable being Queen Elizabeth I and Oliver Cromwell. Though the main attraction in the history of The Rummer appears to be more tales of hauntings and wandering spirits.

In 2007, a tour group said they had seen the torso of a man stood right behind them, in front of an open fireplace, frightening a number of the tour’s members. Other sightings have been of a phantom girl, who, after the man is seen, almost always follows shortly after him. Many say that the most common place to spot the couple is within the cellar – a classic haunting spot. John Hughes’ Haunted and Hidden Bristol Walk tours you around old and haunted buildings, and unsurprisingly, The Rummer is a stop along the way.

This once medieval pub is now an award-winning restaurant, and the rich history embellishes the experience of guests. If you fancy taking a look at The Rummer, visit All Saints Lane, Old, Bristol, BS1 1JH or head on over to https://www.therummer.net/ for more details.

Bristol's historic pubs

So, whether you want to consider the oldest pub in Bristol to be the first building, the first building to operate as a pub, or the most consistent in their business (yes, I’m looking at you Rummer/ Abyndon/ Green Lattis), Bristol’s pubs really do have a varied and rich history. The generous history of Bristol’s pubs is only the surface of the wonderful past this vibrant city has. Be sure to check out the buildings, the ghosts, and the menus next time you’re in Bristol.

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The Rock 'n' Roll walking tour in Bristol with a pub stop

With over 20 stops, it takes music lovers across the city to some of Bristol's most famous music venues

• 16:06, 30 APR 2024

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City walking tours can be found all over the world, showing off everything from historic landmarks to haunts that are, quite literally, rumoured to be haunted. They can brag about some of the city's most famous residents, can take you through parts of your hometown you may not have known even existed, introduce you to new artwork, food , drink and culture, and more.

Bristol boasts a vast array of such walking tours. But did you know you can also embark on a specific Rock 'n' Roll walking tour - and there's even a pub stop included?

If you're someone who has ever visited a music venue here in the city, you may have spotted posters or notices to let you know just when some of the biggest names in the world of music played there. Some well-known and much loved artists played some of their earliest gigs among Bristol's music scene. And there's even a tour dedicated to learning all about them...

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Taking around two hours, music fans and tour-goers can select from a number of date options, meeting near to the White Hart in Bristol. It's hosted by John Hughes, who has hosted the Haunted and Hidden Walk for 16 years, and has made TV appearances on Most Haunted, The Source and Made in Bristol.

John has a whole host of stories about the city, having also run walking tours about both Clifton and Old Market and spent time working on private tours of TV locations for the Bristol Open Top tour bus. Rock 'n' Roll, John says, is his other biggest passion, which is why he embarked on a walking tour to take people through the history of some of Bristol's most famous gigs.

Launched after lockdown, these walks are described as being "trips down nostalgia lane and around Bristol's legendary music venues". John has a 30-year career of managing local Bristol bands and promoting shows and his Rock 'n' Roll walking tour spans more than 20 stops, finishing up at yet another venue for drinks at the bar.

Among the venues featured on the tour are The Locarno (now Bristol O2 Academy ), Bristol Hippodrome , The Louisiana and the Granary Club . You'll hear all about visits to the city by the likes of The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. There are also stops showcasing the Bristol music scene itself, before all end up at the Granary Club where other music legends, including Robert Plant, Motorhead, Billy Idol, Supertramp, Slade, Genesis, Dire Straits, and many more performed.

The Granary's new bar will be open for drinks when the tour comes to an end. Tickets cost £9 for adults, £7 for students, £8 for senior citizens and £7 for concessions (including NHS/Blue Light staff).

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Bristol, RI 02809

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I love The Nest. Always great, free entertainment, a well-poured Guinness and a super friendly staff. They must take after the owner, Eddie, who is always the ultimate host. If you love the taste of a good curry, order anything and make sure it has curry sauce. I particularly love the french fries in curry.

Outstanding. I was with a group visiting Bristol for the first time today (1.15.24) and arbitrarily decided on The Nest for a lunch. A nice quaint warm spot very close to Ireland and that includes Irish fare served by an Irish owner. The entire party was quite satisfied with the fare and the fair prices. An Irish band will be there March 3. If I like it, you'll like it!

A legendary bar returns to the East Bay in Bristol. The space was occupied by Bar 31, my favorite. Bar 31 had a good run over a decade but hopefully the new owner can bring the fun again to the space. The decor is not much different from Bar 31 but different color scheme. More traditional Irsih Bar color scheme. The food is... what you would find at an RI Irish Bar. Fish and chips, wings, calamari, shepherd pie, curry, corner beef. We ordered Lemon Garlic wings and calamari for along with beer on tap. First impression - easy 5 stars. We will be back again for this smaller and more intimate settings.

Excellent food, drinks and service. Pints were great. On food salad, ribs, shepherds pie, burgers, stuffies and Brussel sprouts were delicious. Friendly staff great location, check then out

Like the dive bar look, but they are a mess! No coordination or communication, wasn't busy but staff looked A.. confused B. Unhappy C. Unaware Asked for the check while waiting for our beers.... Btw, I know it's an "irish" pub, but the server never heard of Bass Ale or Becks... But they got Coors Light!

Very unfortunate food was not good. Liked the vibe of the place but they really need to step it up food wise. There is so much potential please use this as constructive criticism.

As I sit here having jufabulous, traditional Ulster Fry (breakfast for the not Irish) I am compelled to write my review. My first visit to The Nest and it is the first of many to come. This is from this day forward my "go to" place when visiting the area. The owner, Eddie, is a brilliant person full of the Irish humor and one heck of a bar keep. Now back to the breatfast. Irish Sausages, puddings, rashers, eggs, tomato and wheaten bread. Cooked to perfection and who could ask for more? Can't wait to have the corned beef. Stayed in town last night and closed the bar at 1 am. Same night life as being here during the day, happy Irish atmosphere. Make sure to land at this Nest for some great craic and drink. Slauntia!

You Have to try The Traci Special drink!!! The soup & salad, they serve a full sandwich! So Delicious. Traci is so bubbly & fun to chat with.

This is the space that Bar31 occupied for years. I wasn't much of a fan of Bar31 but this makes me wish it was back. We have been here 3 times since the opening and nothing has gotten any better. The outside looks inviting and has an Irish bar feel but that's pretty much where it ends. Sadly beyond Guinness there really aren't any Irish beers. The beer selection is just full of the standard American beers you can get anywhere. The food was terrible, some of the worst wings and flatbread I have ever had. The bartenders just look frazzled every time I have been here. Last time I was here there was just 4 people at the bar including us and they looked overwhelmed. Overall the worst thing I can say about any Irish bar is it's boring., no life. The night we have been here it's mostly a young college crowd that doesn't appeal to us.

First its my there. The corned beef sandwich was horrible the worst ive had in my whole life it was nothng but bits and pieces of unedible gristle of.cornbeef ..

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Mannequin Pussy Add 2024 Tour Dates

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05-07 Minneapolis, MN - Fine Line 05-08 Madison, WI - Majestic Theatre 05-10 Detroit, MI - Saint Andrew’s Hall 05-11 Toronto, Ontario - The Concert Hall 05-13 Cambridge, MA - The Sinclair 05-14 Cambridge, MA - The Sinclair 05-16 Brooklyn, NY - Brooklyn Steel 05-17 Washington, D.C. - The Atlantis 05-18 Washington, D.C. - The Atlantis 05-19 Philadelphia, PA - Union Transfer 05-22 Philadelphia, PA - Union Transfer 05-23 Philadelphia, PA - Union Transfer 05-30 Barcelona, Spain - Primavera Sound Barcelona 06-01 Linz, Austria - SBÄM Fest 06-02 Mannheim, Germany - Maifeld Derby Festival 06-04 Paris, France - Le Petit Bain 06-05 Tourcoing, France - Le Grand Mix 06-06 Brussels, Belgium - TRIX 06-07 Hilvarenbeek, Netherlands - Best Kept Secret Festival 06-08 Porto, Portugal - Primavera Sound Porto 06-11 Berlin, Germany - Cassiopeia 06-12 Hamburg, Germany - Molotow Club 06-13 Cologne, Germany - MTC Club 06-15 Brighton, England - Chalk 06-16 Bristol, England - Strange Brew 06-18 Glasgow, Scotland - King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut 06-19 Nottingham, England - Rescue Rooms 06-20 London, England - Scala 06-21 Southhampton, England - Joiners 06-22 London, England - The Garage 06-27 Newcastle, England - The Grove 06-28 Milton Keynes, England - Crauford Arms 06-30 Manchester, England - Outbreak Festival 07-12 Seattle, WA - Day In Day Out Festival 07-19 Omaha, NE - Grrrl Camp Music Festival 07-20 Omaha, NE - Grrrl Camp Music Festival 07-21 Chicago, IL - Pitchfork Music Festival 08-02 Montreal, Quebec - Osheaga Music and Arts Festival 08-10 Budapest, Hungary - Sziget Festival 08-11 Vienna, Austria - Flucc 08-13 Leipzig, Germany - Werk 2 08-14 Amsterdam, Netherlands - Paraiso 08-15 Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Rotondes 08-16 Hasselt, Belgium - Pukkelpop 08-16 Charleville-Mézières, France - Cabaret Vert 08-18 Brecon, Wales - Green Man Festival 08-20 Dublin, Ireland - Whelan’s 08-21 Limerick, Ireland - Dolan’s Warehouse 08-23 Reading, England - Reading Festival 08-24 Leeds, England - Leeds Festival 09-26 New Haven, CT - Toad's Place 09-27 Asbury Park, NJ - Asbury Lanes 09-28 Columbia, MD - Merriweather Post Pavilion (All Things Go Music Festival) 10-01 Asheville, NC - The Grey Eagle 10-02 Birmingham, AL - Saturn 10-03 Baton Rouge, LA - Varsity Theatre 10-04 Austin, TX - Austin City Limits 10-05 McAllen, TX - Cine El Rey Movie Pub 10-07 El Paso, TX - Lowbrow Palace 10-08 Tucson, AZ - 191 Toole 10-10 San Diego, CA - The Observatory 10-11 Los Angeles, CA - The Bellwether  10-12 Las Vegas, NV - Best Friends Forever Fest 10-14 Boulder, CO - Fox Theatre 10-16 Lawrence, KS - The Granada Theater 10-17 St. Louis, MO - Delmar Hall 10-18 Louisville, KY - Zanzibar 10-19 Lexington, KY - The Burl 10-21 Pensacola, FL - Handlebar 10-22 Gainesville, FL - The Wooly 10-24 Fort Lauderdale, FL - Revolution 10-25 Orlando, FL - The Beacham 10-26 Tampa, FL - The Orpheum

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By Jazz Monroe

By Nina Corcoran

36 Hours in Colorado Springs, Colo.

By Cindy Hirschfeld May 9, 2024

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By Cindy Hirschfeld Photographs by Theo Stroomer

Cindy Hirschfeld has lived in Colorado for more than 30 years and frequently travels around the state.

Colorado Springs, like Denver, abuts the Rocky Mountain foothills and brims with ways to enjoy the outdoors, although it runs at a slower pace. Once known for its megachurches and kitschy attractions like recreated ancient cliff dwellings, Colorado’s second-largest city now has a more cosmopolitan vibe: Notable openings and upgrades include a stunning $91 million Olympic and Paralympic museum and a major revamp of a resort overlooking the red sandstone of the Garden of the Gods park. Later this year, the 8,000-seat Sunset Amphitheater will open, as will the Hotel Polaris , at the U.S. Air Force Academy, advertised as the country’s only hotel with flight simulators. Through all this change, the mighty 14,115-foot Pikes Peak remains constant, a beacon on the western skyline — though with a recently refurbished cog railway.

Recommendations

• Garden of the Gods is a city park filled with fantastical red sandstone formations, an informative visitor center and 21 miles of hiking and biking trails.
• U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum celebrates American athletes with interactive exhibits for each Olympic and Paralympic sport and high-tech displays.
• The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway takes riders to the top of 14,115-foot Pikes Peak and back down, including a stop at the Summit Visitor Center for high-altitude doughnuts.
• AdAmAn Alley is a downtown walkway with murals, sculpture and an LED installation, all created to commemorate the 2022 centennial of a local mountaineering club.
• Old Colorado City was the first town in the Pikes Peak area, established in 1859 as a supply hub, and today is a neighborhood of historic buildings, galleries and shops.
• Manitou Springs has eight mineral-springs drinking fountains that dispense naturally carbonated water said to have healing properties.
• North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a 1,600-acre city park in southwest Colorado Springs with 26 miles of trails, including one up Mount Cutler.
• Lumen8 is a rooftop restaurant and bar downtown with local beer on tap and a stellar view of Pikes Peak.
• Four by Brother Luck , whose owner has appeared on “Top Chef,” offers creative Southwestern-inspired small plates and entrees.

Ivywild School is a food hall with a variety of counters, a bar, a distillery and a brewery, all within a former elementary school built in 1916.

• Inefable serves traditional Mexican food enhanced by French, Spanish and South American influences in a low-key dining room.
• Golden Bee is an authentic 19th-century English pub, shipped over and rebuilt at the Broadmoor Resort in 1961, with nightly singalongs led by a pianist.
• Story Coffee is a locally owned cafe and roastery with a location in Old Colorado City as well as in a tiny house at downtown’s Acacia Park.
• Adam’s Mountain Cafe is an almost 40-year-old restaurant in Manitou Springs that is beloved for its hearty breakfasts.
• Cronk Art and Curiosities sells taxidermied insects, tarantulas (live), tarot cards and other eclectic goods.
• Novis Mortem Collective offers natural art like insect specimens, taxidermied birds and butterfly dioramas in glass domes.
• Cacao Chemistry makes a delicious variety of truffles and bars and carries chocolate from other artisanal brands.
• Ladyfingers Letterpress prints offbeat greeting cards and stationery in house and stocks gifts, too.
• Poor Richard’s is an independent bookstore that has served the city for almost 50 years and includes an adjacent coffee shop and casual restaurant.
• The Garden of the Gods Resort and Club , established in 1949 as a private facility and opened to the public in 2013, unveiled a $40 million renovation last year that included updates to its restaurant. It also refreshed the sleek and spacious rooms in the main lodge, which all have patios or balconies overlooking the Garden of the Gods park and the Rocky Mountains beyond. Amenities include golf, tennis, swimming, an on-site adventure outfitter and an excellent spa and a concierge medical center. Rooms in summer start at $600.
• The Mining Exchange , a boutique hotel run by Wyndham that is also newly renovated, occupies a 1902 building downtown that served as a stock exchange for miners. Rooms include historic brick accents and the hotel recently added a new lobby bar and coffee shop. Rooms start at $300.
• Kinship Landing , one of a new breed of hotels aimed at adventure-oriented travelers, opened downtown in 2021. It offers some rooms with garage-style roller doors that open to the outside, an eight-bed private bunkroom and even a scenic deck for urban camping (bring your own tent). Rooms start at $150.
• For short-term rentals , look in Old Colorado City, a historic neighborhood near Garden of the Gods park, where you can easily walk to restaurants and galleries. Downtown Colorado Springs is less than three miles away.
• The most efficient way to get around is by car . PikeRide , an electric bike-share program, has 60-plus hubs in and around Colorado Springs ($1 to unlock a bike, then 25 cents per minute, or $30 for a four-hour pass). Mountain Metro runs the public bus service , including a free shuttle around downtown.

A dramatic view of Colorado Springs, framed by rough-hewn cliffs, comes early in a 2.2-mile roundtrip hike up Mount Cutler in North Cheyenne Cañon Park . The popular city park added seven miles of new trails three years ago, but this classic route never gets too steep and has a big payoff. From the summit, inhale fragrant juniper, piñon and ponderosa pine while viewing the sparkling tiers of the Seven Falls waterfall far below in South Cheyenne Cañon and the forested slopes of the Pike National Forest rolling westward. From nearby Cheyenne Mountain, you may hear the chimes coming from the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun , a granite tower with a viewing deck overlooking the city. You’d never guess from this vantage point that a large military complex , built during the Cold War, still operates 2,000 feet deep within the mountain.

At Lumen8 , a rooftop restaurant and bar that opened downtown in 2022, post up by a fire pit, sip one of seven local brews on tap (from $6) and gaze at the majestic, snow-capped Pikes Peak. Then head up the street to the low-lit dining room at Four by Brother Luck , where its chef and owner, Brother Luck, who appeared on “Top Chef,” offers Southwestern-inspired dishes like sweet-and-savory blue cornbread accompanied with wojapi (a thick berry sauce traditional in Lakota cuisine), charred octopus in mango broth with tangy Peruvian peppers, and a fun dessert called the Forest Floor with sweet elements styled as edible “flora.” Dishes are a la carte, or four courses for $75.

At Garden of the Gods , one of the country’s most unusual city parks and a designated National Natural Landmark, 300 million years of erosion have shaped the red sandstone into fantastical formations — with names like the Kissing Camels, Siamese Twins and Balanced Rock — that strikingly contrast the often vivid-blue sky. Stop first at the visitor center , which is chock-full of exhibits about the park’s geology, history, and flora and fauna (a species of dinosaur was even discovered there). Then explore some of the short, interconnected hiking trails that allow you to view the striated, pitted rock up close, starting with the 1.5-mile paved Perkins Central Garden loop (a free shuttle provides access to the trailhead through the third week of August). Or see the park on horseback (from $100), bike ( rentals , from $40, available at the visitor center) or by car. Free entry.

It’s perfectly legit to drink at Ivywild School , a former elementary school turned food hall, where the well-worn wood floors creak underfoot and the entryway sign is written on a blackboard. The school was built in 1916 and decommissioned in 2009; now, instead of rows of small desks, former classrooms house a variety of food counters and bars, as well as a whiskey distillery and an eclectic gift shop . Try Bristol Brewing Company’s pub for its signature Laughing Lab Scottish ale ($6.50 for a pint); Ivywild Kitchen for a spicy, buttermilk-brined chicken sandwich ($11.95), washed down with house-made nonalcoholic ginger beer ($4) from the Principal’s Office ; and Gold Star Bakery for a splurgy but delectable slice of salted maple pie ($7).

With the Paris Summer Olympics around the corner, stoke the fervor for amazing athletic feats and tear-jerking gold-medal moments at the excellent U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum (entry $19.95), open since 2020. (Colorado Springs has been home to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee since 1978, and has a major training center.) The building’s striking exterior — which features thousands of aluminum panels shimmering in the sunlight — hints at the high-tech displays inside, including virtual sport simulators (try archery!) and other interactive exhibits for each sport. A gallery of Olympic torches, from 1936 to the present, contains inspiring video footage from the torch relays. One of the most moving exhibits focuses on the 11 Israeli athletes taken hostage at the 1972 Munich Games, and includes the ABC sports announcer Jim McKay’s somber broadcast of their fate.

Colorado Springs is showing more of its artsy side these days, even in the heart of downtown. From the museum, stroll a few blocks to AdAmAn Alley , a walkway where murals, sculpture and an LED installation commemorate the 2022 centennial of a local mountaineering club , AdAmAn, that climbs Pikes Peak each New Year’s Eve to set off fireworks. Need a live tarantula, taxidermied butterfly or deck of tarot cards? Find these, and mystical treasures, at Cronk Art and Curiosities (the nearby Novis Mortem Collective also offers taxidermy as art). Indulge a sweet tooth with a whiskey-and-cherry-cordial truffle at Cacao Chemistry , then duck into Ladyfingers Letterpress , where the on-site press produces sassy cards (“Don’t forget me when your start-up goes public”), and Poor Richard’s , an indie bookstore that’s served local literature lovers for almost 50 years.

Smoked cocktail at Inefable

The low-key décor lets the food shine at new restaurant Inefable above the just-renovated Avenue 19 food hall, where the chef and owner Fernando Trancoso boosts traditional Mexican dishes with French, Spanish and South American influences. Bright flavors meld nicely in a slightly spicy tropical fruit gazpacho (pineapple, passion fruit, lemon and cucumber) with poached shrimp ($16), while a pumpkin-seed green mole adds a twist to a traditional duck confit ($39). A recent nightly special featured cochinita pibil ($42), a Yucatán-style slow-roasted, fall-off-the-bone pork shank that’s been marinated overnight in a sauce with Maya spices, red chiles and achiote (a slightly peppery spice). The cocktail menu reflects Mr. Trancoso’s Mexican roots with almost three dozen varieties of tequila and mezcal.

It’s a little corny, sure, but belting out tunes like “Sweet Caroline” or “Piano Man” during the nightly singalongs at the Golden Bee , a pub within the venerable Broadmoor resort on the city’s west side, is also a lot of fun, in a seventh-inning stretch at the baseball game kind of way. The bar is a 19th-century English pub that was shipped over and reassembled in this space in 1961, ornate woodwork and all. Everybody gets a songbook, and the piano player leads the program (and takes requests). Order a pint ($10) or a half-yard ($28) of Extra Special Bee, an English-style pale ale from the local brewery Red Leg, to wet your whistle.

North Cheyenne Cañon Park has 26 miles of trails, including one up Mount Cutler.

Adam's Mountain Cafe

Have breakfast in Manitou Springs, a quirky enclave at the base of Pikes Peak — but instead of taking Highway 24, take a more interesting detour by driving Colorado Avenue west through the Old Colorado City neighborhood. The area was once its own town, established in 1859 as a supply hub. Today, several blocks are lined with historic buildings, galleries and shops, such as Story Coffee , a small cafe and roastery. Continue driving west to the homey Adam’s Mountain Cafe , an almost 40-year-old favorite for hearty meals like orange-almond French toast ($12) or shrimp and grits ($18). Then stop by one of the town’s eight mineral-springs fountains for a swig of naturally carbonated, slightly metallic-tasting water (each spring has a different “flavor”); the Native Americans who first lived here attributed healing properties to the water.

Take the world’s highest cog railway to the summit of Pikes Peak (from $59 per person for the three-and-a-half-hour round trip). Reopened in 2021 after a $100 million, four-year overhaul, the train is the easiest way to ascend the mountain that inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write “America the Beautiful” (there’s also a 19-mile toll road and hiking trails up). You’ll ride past cascading streams, the ruins of the Halfway House Hotel and perhaps a few bighorn sheep. At the spacious Summit Visitor Center , recently rebuilt with an energy-efficient modern design, don’t miss the doughnuts (from $2.99 for two); a beloved tradition since 1916, they’re baked from a recipe that only works well above 14,000 feet. Munching on a cinnamon-sugar doughnut amid 360-degree views of mountains and plains may inspire you to pen your own tribute.

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