Nova Scotia

Situated on the habourside, near the swing bridge, the Nova Scotia is more of a traditional pub than its local counterpart, the Pump House (just across the water). There’s definitely a feel of local community, which is accentuated with the photos that they’ve hung up on the walls of the history of the place and local area. This gives it a nice feel, and definitely a touch of personality compared to a lot of other pubs further along the way into the centre.
There’s a good outdoor seating area which is beautiful on a summer’s day, and you’ll find ales a plenty, as well as a well stocked, inexpensive bar with friendly staff inside.

Nice pub down Hotwells way with Smiles, Courage and Bass on tap. On a sunny day it has seats outside to watch the river traffic. The food, apparently, is very good — unfortunately the only time I’ve eaten here I had a hangover from hell and couldn’t face my plate of food! My friends ate heartily though so I’ll take that as a sign of approval. It’s good traditional pie and fish and chips type pub food.

Down in Hotwells you’ll find this nautical themed pub. A haunt of my parents for many years this place has a long history. This has been well maintained, with pictures and maps on the wall. Things like this gives the place a strong sense of character that helps it keep a loyal following of regulars — It’s a popular end of the day drinking spot for those working on the docks. All this makes you feel much less like an anonymous customer when you visit, something I appreciate.
It’s got lots of seating outside. Next to a marina (I call it a marina only because I dont know any better and ‘boat car park’ doesn’t sound quite right), I highly reccomend sitting out here feeding crisps to the sea gulls on a sunny day.
Visit the Nova Scotia for a pleasant evening in a more traditional pub.

A great pre match watering hole if you’re heading off to watch Bristol City.
It’s very old fashioned inside with a nautical theme throughout. It also features a truely odd snug bar that looks as though in times gone by was reserved for captains.
The location is good on the dockside and under the shadow of the suspension bridge. It’s also a pub where fans of both sides can happily mingle on a matchday.
You wouldn’t think so but the pub food served, though limited, is rather good, as is the beer.
In the summer sitting outside is a great way to spend a few hours watching the world go by.