In the heart of Bristol Old City lies a charming guesthouse that offers guests a unique experience. Whether you fancy the ultimate glamping experience in a retro caravan on its rooftop or staying in a traditional room, Brooks Guesthouse has something for every traveller.
During my recent trip to Bristol, being based in a central location was important to me. Not only that but as the hometown of Bansky and a haven for street artists, I also wanted to stay somewhere with an edge – somewhere special, yet affordable. That’s when I decided to found Brooks Guesthouse. It checked all my demanding boxes and I had a wonderful stay. If you’re planning on visiting Bristol, here’s everything you need to know about staying at Brooks Guesthouse.
Location
As they say in real estate, location, location, location. You can’t get more central than being located on the doorstep of St. Nicholas Market in the heart of the Old City.
Bristol Harbourside is just a 7-minute walk away and Cabot Tower is just 15 minutes. Restaurants, bars, and shops are just a stone’s throw away which makes staying at Brooks Guesthouse a great place to base yourself. If you’re arriving via Bristol Temple Meads train station, it is also a 15-minute walk or a £6 Uber away.
The Rooms
Brooks has a selection of luxury compact rooms to choose from that cater to the size of your party. They offer a Twin room (two single beds), a Triple room (three single beds), a Standard Double room, and a King Double room.
I stayed in a Standard Double room by myself and had enough room for my large suitcase. It might get a bit snug with a second suitcase. The bed was really comfortable, so much so, that I found it difficult to get up in the morning. I blame the John Lewis pocket-sprung beds with and the Hungarian Goose down duvets and pillows.
Each room is modern with a country twist with its Cole & son wallpaper, wooden panelling, and Colonial style Wooden shutters. I especially enjoyed the retro wooden chair with the British flag on it.
The bathroom has been newly refurbished and included heated towel rails, a selection of toiletries, a large mirror, and towels.
At the foot of the bed is a bespoke wooden chest with a Flat-screen TV on top, a compartment for a kettle with tea, coffee, hot chocolate and biscuits, hairdryer, and a portable fan.
The only downside to the room I found was that it didn’t have a desk, so I had to work from the bed with a pillow under my laptop to prop it up.
The Retro Caravans
Brooks most unique offering is its collection of four airstream style caravans located on their rooftop. Each of these retro caravans was handmade in Britain and is available in 3 sizes, 16ft, 18ft, and 20ft. They’re are fitted with Eco-friendly showers and lighting which saw Brooks win a silver award in green tourism in 2014.
While I missed out on staying in one of these very cool caravans, I did get a chance to take a look around inside one of them before the next guests arrived. As you enter the caravan, there is a double bed to your right, a large sitting area, and a table to your left, and a bathroom with a shower, toilet and vanity unit directly in front of you located behind a door. For young families, the seating area can even be converted into two single beds for two children up to 8 years old.
Just like the traditional rooms, the caravans are equipped with all the same facilities, from the TV to the kettle. The free Wi-Fi also works up here too!
The Retro Caravans they sell out quickly, so be sure to book well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Breakfast and Kitchen
Located near the entrance is a large communal area with an open plan kitchen where Brooks prepare their award-winning breakfast right before your eyes. It actually feels like you’re staying in someone’s house and they’re making your breakfast. It’s a lovely feeling.
Breakfast is served daily 7 am-10 am during the weekend and from 8 am-11 am on weekend. You can choose from French toast, Eggs Florentine, Eggs Benedict, a Full English Breakfast, granola, and yoghurt.
Opposite the kitchen is a large living area with leather couches and floor to ceiling glass doors that open out onto the terrace. This would be a fantastic spot to have breakfast during the warmer months.
Outside of breakfast, guests can help themselves to the water and large bowl of fruit that sits on the kitchen counter. There is also an honesty bar, where you can help yourself and jot down on the sheet what you had and pay later at check-out. Such a great idea.
Final thoughts
View of St. Nicholas market from the rooftop
Brooks is an excellent choice for accommodation in Bristol. It’s affordable, cosy, modern, and well-positioned right in the city centre. The staff were friendly, helpful and professional. Want to stay at Brooks? Check prices, availability, and book your stay here.
For more information, visit the official Bristol tourism board website.
Watch my vlog on the best things to do in Bristol
Planning a trip and need travel insurance? Get a free quote from World Nomads here.
Visiting the UK? Check out my other posts
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Over to you!
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