The Bristol Wing
Bristol
At a glance
The Bristol Wing is a boutique hostel with a unique character, located at 9 Bridewell Street in Bristol. This historic building, steeped in rich heritage, has been thoughtfully transformed over time. Once serving as the old police headquarters, the site has housed various tenants, ranging from a prison to a circus troupe, before becoming the hostel it is today. The renovation pays homage to its storied past while providing modern amenities for travelers.
In terms of location, The Bristol Wing is ideally situated for those eager to explore the city's vibrant offerings. Both independent shops and well-known brands are easily accessible within a 15-minute walk, making it convenient for visitors to enjoy shopping experiences. The accommodation provides a cozy and alternative stay in the city, focusing on offering comfort and fostering a sense of community among its visitors.
The hostel prides itself on its social purpose. It is a space that has not only been part of the community historically but also continues to contribute positively to it. Emphasizing eco-friendly practices, the establishment encourages guests to appreciate and partake in its environmental efforts.
Overall, The Bristol Wing appeals to socially-conscious travelers and those who appreciate historical settings with modern comforts. Its strategic location at the heart of the cityscape makes it convenient for exploring Bristol's cultural and retail scenes.
Reviews
Despite all the negative reviews, I decided to give it a try and I'm glad I did. The place is amazing considering the cost, it's quiet, safe, well positioned. Friendly staff at reception, quick check in, you are given an access card, and that's it. There is a cosy lounge, TV, dining table, free coffee at any time. My room was modest but clean, only the bunk beds and some little cages to lock your backpack. Each bunk bed has curtains for privacy, which was great, its own lamp, a little shelf, and a socket for charging the phone. The toilets and showers were also clean.
Lovely building with original features. If you’re staying 1 or 2 night could be ok but here are some important things you should consider- the mattresses are covered in a “wipe clean” vinyl covering which can make a but uncomfortable and importantly no breathability. Add this to the fact that the rooms are WAY TOO HOT ! And you potentially have 9 hot sweaty individuals and and unpleasant aroma of armpits, feet and more ! This should really be addressed. It’s a waste of money having the heating ridiculously high. I had to sleep naked (February) for the 1st time since last summer ! Also this is BAD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT. It wasn’t just the bedrooms. The whole place was way too hot. When I left to go outside I immediately felt really cold on what was not a particularly cold day due to slight acclimatising to the indoor temperature. The management should surely see the logic in this. Less over the top heat, less sweaty sleepers, less smell in the room. I personally would not have stood this for more than 1 night which was my stay. It’s also a bit annoying having to carry a door card everywhere you go. NOTE if you need to go to the toilet at night you need to take it with you otherwise you’ll be trapped outside your room !!! There are NO STANDALONE TOILETS on the same floors as the rooms. This is a design fail. They are in the shower rooms. If someone is having a shower and you need the toilet then you’re going to have to get dressed and do downstairs to use the one there. A bit inconvenient if you only popped out in your t shirt for a quick wee. On the plus side the building is clean and pleasant and there is free coffee and basic breakfast. Also a lounge type area
WOW. I've stayed here on the 1st Feb, the receptionist was very kind and he looked up with me when to leave for the airport in the morning, he was friendly and available 24/7. I had a room for myself so that made a difference too but they are well located, the bus station is a few minutes away, the bus comes every 15 minutes even at night the flyer one. They even have cereal with milk in the mornings, I didn't have time for it but that's very welcome addition, they had Bristol Twenty many flavors of tea which is brilliant and free coffee. The kitchen to cook in, the living space, toilets are outside the room but there is good amount of space in them. I will stay here again. The beds were clean very quite even if it's near the road. Overall I was very surprised and will definitely come back. It was I think a police station before with some really old lift. Id say it should be very safe too because police station is just across the road. Love it and would strongly recommend it.
I booked a private room with shared bathroom for New Years Eve. There was a lovely handwritten card and sweets waiting for us on arrival. All the staff were very welcoming and I would recommend anyone to stay here.
