We all have times when we’re in need of a night out to make us feel a bit special, or wanting to find a place that feels a bit more quiet and hidden away.

Bristol has become famous for its variety of speakeasies and secret bars, all of which offer something a bit different, without being pretentious or too exclusive. With that in mind, here are some places where you can imbibe the finest cocktail concoctions in Bristol…

Hyde & Co
A dark and atmospheric speakeasy near the Triangle – this tiny bar is great for small groups wanting a bit of sophistication.
hydeand.co

Milk Thistle
Spread across 3 floors in a gorgeous old Bank building, this cocktail bar is a nod to the Gentlemen’s clubs of old; think wood panelling, taxidermy, leather sofas, etc. As well as offering a fine cocktail menu, the bar also hosts a multitude of events, and its upper floors are available to reserve for larger groups, or even dinner parties! You’d also do well to try its cousin The Ox if you like your cocktails with a fine steak.
milkthistlebristol.com

Her Majesty’s Secret Service
This small bar next to Clifton Down station has gone through more incarnations than (allegedly) your average Buddhist, and I’ve been won over by the amazing presentation (cocktails come served in array of vessels including Wellington boots, owl mugs and even a miniature toilet), the Bond-inspired decor (including a gun cage) and the lovely staff. However these cocktails go beyond mere gimmicks – they’re damn tasty too.
www.facebook.com/HMSSbar

The Rummer
Quite possibly the most extensive drinks selection in Bristol (they have over 500 spirits behind the bar), this comfortable and historic venue in St Nicholas Market is definitely one to bring someone you want to impress – sit up by the bar and watch the mixing in action, or lounge on a sofa by the fireplace for a cosier experience. The food here is also top notch, and the bar have recently introduced gift cards for their signature cocktails – so start dropping hints for Christmas now!
therummer.net

Brozen Bar
Frozen cocktails you say? How delightful! I’m not sure how more people haven’t thought to merge a cocktail bar with a dessert bar, but here we are. As fun as they are tasty – you get to watch your drink made with liquid nitrogen before your very eyes!

Other great places to try are New York style speakeasy The Bootlegger on Gloucester Road, or The Clockwork Rose on St Stephen’s Street in the centre – great if you’re in the mood for a dance as well as a tasty beverage.

Drink and Dine

Alternatively, if you’re wanting to line your stomach whilst sampling some well made cocktails, some of the best establishments for combining your food & cocktailing pleasure are tapas maestros Poco, cool lounge bar & restaurant The Gallimaufry on Gloucester Road and at fun coffee house (they have boardgames AND SWINGS) Playground Coffee Co. in the city centre.

Where do you rate for cocktails in Bristol? And are you more of a Daiquiri devotee, a Sour slurper, or a Cosmopolitan connoisseur?

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If you enjoy the guides on this blog, or found this post particularly useful/entertaining, you can buy me a coffee or a glass of wine to say thanks – it’s always nice to see when the blog is appreciated!

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– Bristol’s Best Pub Crawls
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