Number 38 Clifton
Bristol, United Kingdom
Clifton
Vibe
A wood-burning stove warms the guest lounge, while the tiered garden terrace catches sun over sweeping Bristol rooftop views.
“Hilltop Georgian hideaway”
Wood-panelled rooms blend Georgian proportions with contemporary art, velvet seating, and freestanding copper tubs in loft suites.
An 1820 Georgian merchant's townhouse overlooking Clifton Downs, preserving classic cornicing, timber staircases, and period sash windows.
Breakfast features West Country produce like Ruby and White sausages, alongside curated cellar selections from Bristol vintner Avery.
In leafy Clifton facing the Downs, with panoramic city skyline views from the rear terrace.
“this 1820 Georgian merchant’s house faces the open space of Clifton Downs, with the city of Bristol at its back.”
Rooms
Wood-panelled bedrooms pair Hypnos beds with contemporary art, while loft suites add freestanding copper soaking tubs beneath the rafters.
Backstory
Built in 1820 for a wealthy merchant, this Georgian townhouse was converted by designer Adam Dorrien Smith into an intimate hilltop retreat.
Eat & drink
Mornings bring cooked-to-order West Country breakfasts in the library, followed by evening drinks sourced from historic Bristol vintner Avery.
The neighborhood
The green expanse of Clifton Downs unfolds directly outside, with the Avon Gorge and Clifton Village just a short stroll away.
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The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.