Dropping your son or daughter at university for the first time or visiting throughout the year is the perfect excuse to book in a short break to Bristol. You can get to know the city they've chosen to spend their uni days in a bit better and make your way around the many attractions on offer at the same time. 

We've gathered together a selection of hotels near both University of Bristol and University of the West of England campuses as well as in the city centre, close to many of the city’s top sights.

DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre

If you’re planning to take the train to Bristol, then DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre is a great option. Based on Redcliffe Way, it’s less than a ten-minute walk from Temple Meads station. As well as the convenient location, stylish and contemporary guest rooms with friendly, personal service give you reasons to book a stay. The signature welcome gift of a chocolate chip cookie is always a nice touch too!

Dining here is also a brilliant experience, as the hotel’s Kiln Restaurant is situated in an original 17th Century glass kiln. It’s been converted into a unique dining space where you can enjoy a menu of international and modern British dishes. 

The Kiln Restaurant at Doubletree by Hilton City Centre - credit Doubletree by Hilton
Image - DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre

Novotel Bristol Centre

Also handily situated near Temple Meads train station is the Novotel Bristol Centre on Victoria Street, just down the road from the UWE student accommodation Transom House. Rooms in this modern hotel are spacious and airy – the perfect space to relax after a day of sightseeing or moving boxes. There’s also a sauna and steam room, buzzing bar and gourmet restaurant to make the most of.

Novotel Bristol City Centre double bedroom with white bedsheets
Image - Novotel Bristol Centre

Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel

A beautiful hotel inside and out, the Mercure Bristol Grand is an historic Grade II listed building in the Old City quarter. Originally dating back to 1856, the city’s independent art scene was used as inspiration during a major revamp and over 500 pieces of art created by local artists can now be found adorning the interior. Pop into the bee-themed Keepers Kitchen and Bar for a taste of dishes and cocktails made using honey from local urban hives.

Mercure Bristol Grand bedroom  - Credit Jose Coello
Image - Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel

The Bristol

The Bristol is a member of The Doyle Collection, a group of urban hotels known for their coveted locations and warm, attentive service. Check in here for a boutique experience at the heart of the Harbourside by Pero’s Bridge and in easy reach of plenty of the city’s most visited attractions. The River Grille is a wonderful setting for a family meal – their signature barbecued steaks, fish dishes and chocolate fondant are made even better by the waterfront views.

Glass fronted restaurant at night
Image - The Bristol

Clifton Hotels Group

Spread throughout leafy Clifton, the Quarter hotel group has accommodation in beautiful Georgian buildings, ranging from an elegant three-star hotel to luxurious and exclusive five-star suites. Whether you stay at The Clifton Hotel, The Washington, The Berkeley Square Hotel, Berkeley Suites or The Rodney Hotel, you’re minutes away from the main University of Bristol campus in Clifton.

A room with 1 large armchair and a sofa - Credit Berkeley Suites
Image - Berkeley Suites

Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin

Not only is the Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin nearby to UWE’s Bower Ashton campus, but it’s based in one of the most enviable locations in the whole city, looking out towards Brunel’s iconic bridge. The heated terrace at the hotel’s White Lion Bar is a fantastic place to enjoy the panoramic view.

Both the campus and the hotel are surrounded by some of Bristol’s finest landmarks – explore Ashton Court Estate, Leigh Woods, Clifton Suspension Bridge and Clifton Village while you’re visiting.

A luxury bedroom at Hotel Du Vin Avon Gorge with a large window and freestanding baths - Credit Amy Murrell
Image - Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin

Village Hotel Club

Another hotel near UWE Frenchay is the Village Hotel Club. Located in Filton, the vibrantly decorated, high-tech rooms here come complete with a Chromecast, Alexa and Sealy beds, so you know you’re in for a comfortable stay. Treat the student in your life to the unlimited Sunday carvery at the Pub and Grill or get your caffeine fix at the Starbucks coffee shop.

Aerospace Bristol is only a three-minute drive away from the hotel, where you can delve into Bristol’s illustrious aerospace history and have a chance to step aboard Concorde.

Village hotel bedroom - Credit Paul Box
Image - Village Hotel Club 

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A pinterest collage for here to stay for parents when visiting - Credit Visit West