Discover the city the best way possible. Follow our Bristol taxi driver’s guide

This snug little den, not far from the epic sights of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, (just sayin’, in case you’re nearby) is a Bristol institution. Known as the Cori Tap to locals, the internet and just about anyone who’s ever been here. This place famously serves a lot of its drinks in halves. Why you ask? Well it’s because of the scrumpy. If you’re not familiar, scrumpy is a particularly potent home-made cider. And if there’s one thing Bristol’s famous for, its cider. Drink at your peril but do enjoy this lovely little boozer.

8 Sion Place, Clifton BS8 4AX
thecoronationtap.com

It’s no mean feat hiding four floors of cocktail bar from sight but the Milk Thistle have managed it. Of course, like most hidden bars, this one is well worth seeking out. Inside it’s a near viscous blend of dark leathers, oak panelling and the occasional stuffed animal. This place breathes its own history. The drinks are suitably sublime, with all manner of cocktails, classic and revived available across the different floors. And they also knock out some pretty decent food if you’re feeling peckish.

Quay Head House, Colston Avenue, BS1 1EB
milkthistlebristol.com/

Bristol’s a pretty cool place. You’re probably starting to gather as much. And when places are cool, they have lots of speakeasies. But Bristol’s really cool, so it has lots. Another of these sexy hidden bars is the Red Light. A “retro den” on the inside, a graffiti ridden alley on the outside. Just pick up the payphone under the red light outside and you’re in. Once inside try the cocktails, try them all. There’s a vast range and the bartenders will go out of their way to find something for everyone.

1 Unity St, BS1 5HH
www.redlightbristol.xxx/

If you’re familiar with the Hawksmoor restaurants in London then you’ll forgive yourself a jolt of familiarity when you walk into the Ox. But what with flattery being the highest form of praise and all that, we can’t see why that would be a problem. Fine dining that focuses heavily on red meats and terrific wines make up a good chunk of the menu here. And there are plenty of great British alternatives if that’s not your deal. Owned by the same crew who put together Milk Thistle, the cocktails are also bang on. Try the Sunday Roast, it’s divine.

Basement, 43 Corn St, BS1 1HT
theoxbristol.com

Conspicuously disguised as little more than a 200 year old country pub plumped in between Bristol and Bath. This exquisite restaurant is far too modest for its own good. The Pony & Trap is a Michelin starred eatery that has folks flocking to try its taster menu from miles around. Priding itself on its use of incredible local produce and never knowingly overcharging for it. There’s usually a bit of a wait to get a table here. But it’s worth it! Oh and don’t forget to try the Sunday Roast here too, it’s that good.

Chew Magna, BS40 8TQ
www.theponyandtrap.co.uk

We hear the words ‘organic Korean cafe and restaurant’ and just drool. At least our inner hipster does. The rest of us is more than satisfied by the amazing food on offer in Sky Hong Kong. The interior is simple and convivial. Looking like it stepped out of a Chinese street market. While the food is lovingly prepared by chef and owner Wizzy. Coming from some seriously good stock (she worked at Nobu amongst others), Wizzy writes a different menu every night depending on what fresh produce is available. But she always chooses well. Not to be missed.

2, Haymarket Walk, BS1 3LN
Skykongkong.co.uk

Clifton is an area in Bristol that’s famous for being a bit posh. So if you’re one of those self hating types who let their politics get in the way of a good time, look away now. For everyone else, check out Clifton Lido. Not your average swimming pool, this exquisite bathing spot was originally built in 1849 and then sadly left to rot in the years after the war. Now restored far beyond its former glory, it also houses a spa, restaurant and bar. Take that Croydon Fusion Leisure Centre.

Oakfield Pl, BS8 2BJ
www.lidobristol.com

OK so you may be a bit old for this one. Me, you ask? Yeah you. Because we’re guessing if you do already go clubbing, you probably don’t read about it in online guides set up by prominent minicab firms. That being said, if you’re new to the city and are thinking of getting an early night – don’t! Bristolian’s love of a good night out is what provided the city with carte blanche to build and sustain places like the big named sounds of Motion, the dubby noise of Cosies and the Jazzy vibes of The Attic.

Aside from having just the best name ever, Isambard Kingdom Brunel also designed some fairly historic British landmarks in his day. Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of them. Hanging imperiously over the river Avon and linking Bristol with Somerset, this is one of his crowning glories. Sadly Brunel never lived to see it completed and several aspects of the original design never made it to the final product. Fortunately for you, you can still visit it regardless.

Clifton
www.cliftonbridge.org.uk