Brooks Guesthouse Bristol

In the middle of the city's historic St. Nicholas Market, Brooks Guesthouse Bristol is situated past a series of arched doorways that open onto the hotel's courtyard. The three-story building has a modern look and resembles a residential block more than a hotel. Interiors are bright and have a chic and laid-back, modern vibe. There's a sunny breakfast room with rustic wooden floors and an adjacent cozy seating area with black-leather sofas and armchairs, plus an old trunk serving as a table. But the most striking aspect of Brooks is its vintage-style camper trailers parked on the property's rooftop, acting as extra guest rooms. The courtyard has many potted plants and is a popular hang-out for guests, many of whom are younger tourists. 

Brooks Guesthouse Bristol is located only a few minutes' walk away from the city center, next to the historic St. Nicholas Market. There are several eateries, bars, and shops located in the immediate vicinity, making it a convenient location for leisure travelers. It's a two-minute walk to the River Avon from here, and local landmarks located close by include the Bristol Hippodrome and O2 Arena, five and 10 minutes away on foot, respectively. Bristol's main bus station is a 10-minute walk away, while the airport can be reached by car in around 20 minutes.

Guest rooms run small and are simply and sparsely furnished. Plexiglas nightstands or retro-style chests of drawers are some of the few furnishings here. But decorative wainscoting and delicate wallpaper add pretty retro touches. Rooms come in Twin, King, and Triple configurations. Amenities include kettles, iPod docks, and flat-screen TVs with DVD players. Bathrooms can be a tight squeeze, but they're attractively tiled in brown natural stone and outfitted with showers, heated towel racks, hairdryers, and free White Company toiletries.

Those looking for truly singular accommodations can opt to stay in one of the Retro Rocket Rooms located on the rooftop, which are essentially converted vintage campers measuring 16 to 20 feet. These compact spaces pack in the expected features, such as double beds, tiny seating areas, built-in dressers, and snazzy aquamarine accents. The 20-foot camper has a seating area that can be converted into two single beds for two children up to 12 years old. Amenities here are similar to the guest rooms and include flat-screen TVs with DVD players, retro Roberts radios, and free coffee- and tea-making facilities. Not surprisingly, the bathrooms are tiny (though attractive) and fitted with cramped shower cabins.

Note that past guests have complained about noise from nearby bars and wear and tear including stained and worn carpets, chipped furniture, and cracked tiles in the bathrooms.

Brooks Guesthouse Bristol has only a few features on offer. Breakfast is served each morning in the light-filled breakfast room and costs extra, but guests booking via the hotel's website pay only a nominal fee. A variety of cooked-to-order options are available, prepared with local organic produce in the open-plan kitchen. Offerings include Fair Trade tea and coffee, herbal teas, homemade muesli, granola, yogurt, fruit, and a variety of hot dishes, including full English breakfast. Takeaway options with breakfast sandwiches or bagels are also available. Note that during peak times the breakfast room can get busy and guests may have to wait for a table.

The hotel's Honesty Bar offers a selection of wine, beer, soft drinks, and snacks. Guests can help themselves and write down what they've taken on the bar tab, which is then added to their bill. There's also a pleasant outdoor courtyard area with an urban garden atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy their drinks. A computer is available for guest use, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. There's no parking on-site, but there is parking in the area for a fee.