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We love the West Country’s capital, and one of the reasons for that is its selection of pubs. For good drinks, better food and even better company, Bristol’s historic boozers are for you.
Whether you’ve spent a hot summer’s day on The Downs or need to head inside on a cold evening, the city’s no stranger to cosy taverns. But we know you want your dog to enjoy the pub, too, so we’ve handpicked our favourites for you and your four-legged regular.
From trendy gastropubs to staple haunts, here are our five favourite dog-friendly pubs in Bristol. Oh, and yes, before you ask, there’s plenty of cider. Where do you think we are?
Bristol’s best dog-friendly pubs
The Bank Tavern, John Street
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Yes, we know you’ve heard it all before - somewhere has an amazing Sunday lunch, but you (and your four-legged friend) have sampled hundreds. Can it truly be that good?
Well, yes, if The Bank Tavern’s jam-packed Sundays and awards are to be believed. In fact, the pub stopped taking reservations in March 2022 after waiting lists reached four years!
This 19th-century pub has gravy and cider pretty much interwoven into its historic floorboards. It features a superb selection of food beyond the aforementioned award-winning Sunday roast, and it’s very dog-friendly, with anchor points to tie your dog’s lead off throughout.
If you’re looking for a pub that gets you and your dog’s foodie tails wagging, this gets our seal of approval.
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The Dark Horse, Redfield
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Continuing the Sunday roast theme, The Dark Horse is the pick for a hearty lunch that leaves you smiling. Plus, you can share it with your dog! They say happiness shared is doubled, and that’s especially true with dogs and roast leftovers.
The pub’s rustic feel contrasts well with its modern rooftop terrace, which offers a comfy space to sip on a craft ale (one of the city’s and pub’s specialities) and watch the world go by. On colder days, you can take in the warmth near its open fire.
It even has a Wall of Dogs, which features polaroids of the place’s four-legged regulars! Who knew dogs could have a local, eh?
It’s right next to the lush St. George Park area, making it the ideal place to unwind after a long walk.
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The Shakespeare, Redland
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As a pet parent, you want more than just ice-cold ciders and quality food - you want something that keeps your dog happy too.
That’s where The Shakespeare, Redland comes in. The redbrick Victorian pub isn’t old-fashioned; they’re very dog-friendly, and even host a dog show every Saturday that your pup can get involved in.
Complementing its dog-friendly nature is a passion for seasonal, local food and drink. It’s a warm, friendly space for everyone, including our dogs.
The Cottage Inn, Baltic Wharf
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Any list discussing Bristol’s best pubs wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Bristol Harbour. The Cottage Inn is our pick for that area, featuring a waterside beer garden, stunning views, fresh fish and fresher conversation.
Sitting right on Bristol Harbour, you can see bright, colourful views of Clifton, washed down with beer, cider (of course) and seasonal food. The pub serves Butcombe ales, which lovers of hoppy, bitter flavours will rave about.
The bar even features a selection of dog-friendly snacks if yours is something of a treat gourmand. It’s not just about the beer either; locals love the pub’s coffee, so it’s a good spot if you’re alcohol-free.
Recommended for those who want a cosy atmosphere, good views and Bristol’s best fish finger sandwich.
The Old Bookshop, North Street
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The Old Bookshop is a friendly, unique North Street pub with a 100% vegan kitchen open seven days a week.
It serves pub classics with a German twist, from bratwursts to burgers, alongside a wide range of beers, cider, wine, spirits and cocktails. It has a big selection of food and drink, so there’ll be something for even non-vegans here.
Dogs are very welcome and, if you’re lucky, you’ll even meet the pub’s resident pooch Max, who we’re sure will share the local Bristol folklore and gossip with your dog.
The interior’s quirky, littered with playful decorations and illustrations. If you’re looking for somewhere a bit different, but with the same Bristol hospitality and cosiness, then The Old Bookshop is for you and your dog.
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