At the heart of old Bristol, Hort’s Townhouse exudes irresistible charm: a historic address on Broad Street, a 1920s design that brings a smile, boutique rooms filled with little attentions, a warm Art Deco bar, and a menu that pays tribute to British produce. People come for the central location — just steps away from the floating harbour and St Nicholas Market — and they stay for the cozy atmosphere, the conviviality, and the easy access (elevator, dogs welcome, free Wi‑Fi). An ideal stop for couples and solo travelers, whether business or leisure, with gentle rates starting from £106.20.
A location in the heart of old Bristol
Located on the cobblestones of Broad Street, one of the original arteries dating back to the Saxon era, Hort’s Townhouse enjoys an exceptional historical setting. Around it pulses the city, encircling the famous floating harbour, now reinvented as a cultural and gastronomic promenade. In just a few minutes on foot, you reach St Nicholas Market housed around The Exchange, with its vibrant Glass Arcade full of stalls and street food. On the practical side: no parking on-site, but nearby parking lots and excellent bus connections to Temple Meads and Bristol Airport — here, the car is more cumbersome than useful.
A story worthy of a novel
This elegant Georgian building from the 18th century, classified Grade II, has seen it all: a townhouse, an auctioneer’s study, a warehouse… It bears the name of Sir Arthur Fenton Hort, author, teacher, and gardener, the former owner of the premises. In 1922, the Exchange Dining Rooms took residence here after Wine Street, becoming the most fashionable restaurant in Bristol — it is said to have served the city’s first cocktails. In 1943, the Berni Inn steakhouse chain set up shop, before giving way, over the decades, to a pub, a cinema, and then a sports bar. In 2022, Young & Co purchased and orchestrated a total transformation in the style of the Roaring Twenties: polished woodwork, Art Deco lines, Asian nods, and a plethora of paintings that create a vibrant and joyfully nostalgic decor.
Boutique rooms: comfort, character, and little attentions
Above the pub and restaurant are nineteen boutique rooms spread over two floors. An elevator leads to the first level, making these rooms accessible to a wide audience. Some are designated as pet-friendly (surcharge), and all exhibit the art of detail that makes a difference: sweet treats and a mini bottle of port upon arrival, a generous snack basket, a well-stocked “honesty” mini-bar, Bramley cosmetics, a Nespresso machine, and a real workspace.
Each room is unique, fitting the irregular volumes of the historic building. The Cosy Rooms are perfect for a solo traveler or a couple. The Boutique Rooms, versatile, can be combined for families or small groups. The Boutique Twin and Bigger Boutique gain in space, with the possibility of a baby cot and sofa bed — a smart format for tribes. Looking for a hint of exclusivity? The Loft, accessed by its own staircase, or the Feature Boutique, bathed in light under tall ceilings, opens its large windows onto the Bristol Guildhall and accepts children and pets.
Bar, cuisine, and a “Showstopper” to share
In the spacious open area, discreet alcoves and cozy corners allow you to savor the moment. The well-stocked bar remains open all day. At the table, a menu that is both comforting and inventive is punctuated by seasonal offers. The house specialty, the Showstopper — long-simmered chuck steak with red wine, rosemary, and marrow in a shortcrust pastry — arrives accompanied by airy mash and crunchy greens: hearty for a robust appetite, perfect for sharing for two. In the morning, you can pick from the cold buffet before choosing a cooked dish, from poached eggs on toast with avocado to the essential Full English.
For whom, and how much to budget?
A comfortable and practical address for couples and solo travelers, whether on a city break or on a work mission, Hort’s Townhouse appeals with its cozy spaces to sip a drink, its easy access (elevator), and its dog-friendly rooms. On the budget side, an “early bird” rate for a Cosy Room for two starts at £106.20 (excluding meals). Be sure to check availability directly with the hotel to take advantage of the best deals.
Things to do just steps away: Harbourside, science, steam, and memory
The Harbourside of the floating harbour unfolds a concentration of attractions. The Aquarium showcases giant tanks, tropical plants, and feeding animations (including sharks). We The Curious awakens the inner child, amidst puzzles and character creations. On the water, embark on a cruise through the canals to the majestic SS Great Britain. Want urban history? Head to M Shed: free entry, thematic galleries, and impressive functioning machines outdoors. Throughout the year, Bristol pulses with events like the Balloon Festival, and more recently the Cider Week, where pubs serve their hoppy gems before toasting with a pint.
Practical information
Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the establishment. There is no parking on-site, but several public parking lots are just a few minutes away. The central location and excellent transport links — nearby stops, easy access to Bristol Temple Meads, and shuttles to Bristol Airport — make for a smooth and stress-free stay.
Travel inspirations and trends
If this address has given you ideas for a getaway, take a look at a selection of luxury hotels to book right now, or let yourself be inspired by the centenary of the Bristol Palace for another dive into historic hospitality. Are you on the lookout for news on the Riviera? Here’s the prestigious new luxury hotel in Saint-Tropez. On the practical side, keep an eye on travel disruptions around Easter and hotel booking trends to adjust your dates with peace of mind.
