Named as one of the “most happening” European destinations of 2019 by The Independent, it’s no surprise that Bristol is increasingly attracting the attention of savvy planners looking for a unique UK location for meetings and incentives. A raft of recent hotel refurbishments and new openings are also increasing the city’s appeal, so we check out three of the best…

Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin

The beautifully restored Bristol icon opened its doors following a multi-million-pound refurbishment last August, showcasing its new Goram & Vincent restaurant with a panoramic view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Sitting atop the spectacular Avon Gorge, the grand Victorian building dates back to 1898 and was originally known as the Grand Clifton Spa and Hydropathic Institution.

Now part of Hotel du Vin’s collection of stylish boutique hotels, the property features 78 stunning new bedrooms and suites plus new meeting, event and private dining suite, located in the former spa pump rooms. The space retains many of the unique, historic features uncovered during the renovation, including the steam pumps for the former spa, the original Turkish bath doorways, marble staircase, beautiful tiled flooring and Victorian plaster work.

Bristol Marriott Royal

Another of the city’s historical landmarks and Bristol’s oldest hotel has also just completed a multi-million refurbishment to mark its 150th anniversary. Located on College Green, the Bristol Marriott Royal sits adjacent to the Bristol Cathedral and has previously welcomed guests including Queen Victoria and Winston Churchill.

There are now 13 different bedroom types and there is even a ‘royal wing’, with a seven-bedroom suite that has its own private dining area. Miller & Carter Steakhouse opened a flagship restaurant inside the hotel in December 2018, while Palm Court – a Grade II listed event space and bar – has remained. For meetings and events, the hotel offers 729 sqm of dedicated venue space across seven rooms, the largest of which can host 350 guests.

Artist Residence

For groups looking for a more boutique, arty vibe, the new Artist Residence is due to open in the city this autumn. Located in the heart of the creative St Pauls community just minutes from Bristol’s city centre and Stokes Croft, the 23-bedroom property is housed in a former boot factory.

Like its sister hotels in Brighton, Pimlico (pictured right), Penzance and Oxfordshire, the hotel will feature an eclectic fusion of art and vintage. It will also offer a coffee shop, bar, kitchen, event space and garden, “serving simple, honest food and drink”.

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