Radisson Blu Hotel, Bristol

Housed in an 18-story glass tower, one of the tallest in Bristol, this Radisson Blu is sleek and modern both outside and inside. The lobby bar and restaurant, Filini, is an airy, open-concept space flooded with light and outfitted with natural wood chairs and tables to accommodate the many guests and locals who dine and drink there. The scene is enhanced by a grand piano, which local musicians occasionally use for live music performances in the evenings. The hotel is geared toward business types, but its central location attracts families and couples as well.

The hotel is located in Bristol's pedestrian-friendly center, a few minutes' walk from the newly renovated waterfront and harbor. Bristol Temple-Meads train station is about a 17-minute walk away, and an array of shops, restaurants, bars, theaters, and bike rental venues are all within a 10-minute walk of the hotel. The Hippodrome is literally across the street. The University of Bristol's campus is a seven-minute walk and the Bristol Zoo a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride (there is a stop in front of the hotel). Bristol Airport is about a 20-minute drive, without traffic.

The Radisson Blu has 176 rooms and suites, most of which have panoramic views of the city or harbor through floor-to-ceiling windows. All are spacious and modern, outfitted with all the requisite amenities expected from an upper-middle-range chain hotel and decorated in varying color schemes, from gray carpets and maroon accents to more colorful reds, purples, and tans. The entire city and surrounding countryside are visible from higher rooms, and suites have private balconies. All rooms include free high speed Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and a coffee/tea kettle. Higher-tier rooms and suites also have a Nespresso machine, and suites have a second lofted story with a sitting/office area. The Harbourside suites are notably spacious, big enough to host a small party in, with a private outdoor seating area. Bathrooms are sleek, done up in dark gray granite tile and silver towel warmers, with shower/tub combinations.

The hotel's Filini restaurant and bar, which shares space with the lobby, serves an expansive breakfast buffet with a wide range of hot and cold items; breakfast is not included in room rates. Dinner and lunch are also served, and it's a popular drinks spot. Room service is available 24 hours a day. There is free, high-speed Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel. Parking is valet-only and is considerably more expensive than nearby garages. The hotel offers an express laundry service and there are meeting and events spaces available to rent. Pets are not allowed. The hotel also has a small, modern fitness center with cardio machines.