The sun is shining in Bristol as we write this. Days like this have us flocking to every local park, beer garden, sandy beach and rooftop bar . But if you want to avoid the crowds and discover a hidden gem in Bristol this spring/summer, you’ve got to head to Beeses in Brislington.
The riverside pub is built to embrace summer vibes and is one of the best places to soak in the sunshine in the city – and as such, it is closed during the winter months. But there’s not long left to wait. Beeses will reopen on Friday, April 11 and will remain open until the end of October. Thanks to a slightly awkward location, this hidden gem is still one of Bristol’s best-kept secrets – a title it more than happily gives itself.
Located on the River Avon, on the edge of Eastwood Farm nature reserve, its tranquil setting is what summers were made for. Surround yourself with ancient trees and wildflowers as birds gently wade through the water close by. It’s ideal for relaxing in the sun with a few pints and close family and friends – but it also takes some planning to visit…
How do you get to Beeses?
Because Beeses is slightly off the beaten track, some of the best ways to get there are by using taxis, bikes, or public transport. Taxis will ordinarily drop you at Wyndham Crescent. About 20 yards down on the left, you’ll find a lane marked “To Conham Ferry”, where Beeses is located at the bottom. You can also grab the number 1 bus from Bristol city centre. Stop across the road from the Good Intent pub and walk downhill from there until you see the lane going through the park.
The best way to get to Beeses, however, is by ferry! So rekindle your pirate roots and take to the seven seas River Avon as you head to the pub this summer. Both the Bristol Ferry and the Bristol Packet offer trips along the river. Making their final destination at this hidden gem of a riverside bar!
By and large, Beeses Bar is only open on weekends and bank holidays. But the setting is available for hire on Wednesdays and Thursdays (unsurprisingly, it’s highly sought after as a wedding venue). The best day to head down, in our opinion, is on Fridays when you’ll find live music playing every night, or casual Sundays for a cracking roast dinner, too.
To learn more about Beeses head here.