About This Pub
Ah, The Cottage Inn in Bristol – it's one of those places that just draws you in with its rich history dating back to 1868, originally a spot for merchants, and now a buzzing pub where you can soak up those incredible harbour views while tucking into some solid pub classics. I love how they've kept that mid-19th-century exterior intact, making the waterside beer garden a real treat on a sunny day, and it's brilliant that dogs are welcome everywhere, so it's perfect if you're out for a walk with the pup. The menu really shines with fresh fish, seafood, and seasonal twists on favourites like bangers and mash or a veggie burger that's got people talking – and don't miss out on joining their loyalty club for a few perks. On the flip side, while the staff are often lovely and attentive, there have been a few grumbles about service not always matching the upbeat atmosphere, and some folks find the portions a bit on the skimpy side for what you're paying, especially with things like roast dinners where the potatoes might not be as crispy as you'd hope. All in all, it's a solid choice for a relaxed meal or drink near attractions like the SS Great Britain, but it's worth going in with realistic expectations to enjoy the best bits without getting caught out by the minor niggles.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The location is absolutely stunning, right on the harbourside with gorgeous views across to Clifton – perfect for a relaxing pint or meal while watching the world go by.
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The food is a real highlight, with delicious takes on pub classics using fresh, seasonal ingredients; I've heard rave reviews about the Sunday roasts, fish and chips, and even the veggie options like that Simplicity burger.
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It's super dog-friendly both inside and in the beer garden, which makes it a welcoming spot for anyone bringing their furry friends along.
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The atmosphere is cosy and inviting, with beautiful wooden floors and comfy furnishings that make you feel right at home, plus a great selection of award-winning Butcombe beers and local ciders to enjoy.
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The staff are generally friendly and welcoming, adding to that warm, community feel that's just what you want from a good pub outing.
Cons
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Service can be a bit inconsistent at times, with some visits feeling spot-on and others not quite living up to the rest of the experience.
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Portions might come across as a tad small for the price, especially if you're after a hearty meal like a roast, where the veggies and sides don't always hit the mark.
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A few food items, such as roast potatoes or Yorkshire puddings, haven't impressed everyone, so it might not be the top choice if you're set on perfect pub grub every time.
Contact Information
Baltic Wharf, Cumberland Rd, Bristol BS1 6XG
+441179215256
Pub
Closed today
Opening Hours
| Monday | 11:30 - 22:00 |
| Tuesday | 11:30 - 22:00 |
| Wednesday | 11:30 - 23:00 |
| Thursday | 11:30 - 23:00 |
| Friday | 11:30 - 23:00 |
| Saturday | 11:30 - 23:00 |
| Sunday (Today) | 11:30 - 21:00 |
Recent Reviews
The food was delightful, and the pub itself is beautiful with a lovely atmosphere. Unfortunately, the service didn’t quite match the overall experience.
Great menu! Friendly staff and lush atmosphere! The Simplicity veggie burger was so delicious. Husband had the bangers and mash with awesome gravy. We’ve also had the fish and chips, pies, arancini balls and risotto in the past. All superb! Be sure to join the Butcombe club for free and book for Butcombe Wednesdays when you get 25% off food!
Free Parking, Dog Friendly, The Welcome, The AMAZING Staff & Service, View, location & Vibe was all fantastic.
Wellington, Roast Beef & Pork were all delicious.
Vegetables were lovely but the roast potatoes & Yorkshire puddings were not great.
Portions were a tad small for the price.
Dessert & Guinness were fab.
The fish and chips looked amazing.
We would return because of the gorgeous team working there.
This was one of the first laces I experienced in Bristol 6 years ago and it is always a joy to visit.
This was my first time actually eating in the pub and I had Sunday roast which was absolutely fantastic (and the horseradish was particularly tasty). My friend had the curry which was nice, but not really anything to write home about. Maybe would have been nice to have a little mango chutney or something to lift it a bit.
We also shared the sticky date pudding - jeez. So good.
The staff are always super friendly and helpful and the place has a lovely warming atmosphere.
Thank you all!
This was the situation:
First, I wanted to go to another pub, however when we arrived and watched the menu, we didn't like it, and immediately we jumped out.
Googling for a new place (not far away) we found The Cottage Inn with good ranking and reviews.
The place is awesome, the ambient is extraordinary, the flavour of the food has a wow factor... The non-cheep prize and the non-big portions weren't good for me.
The calamari had a delicious texture... But 4 pieces??? And the battered was not every golden. It was pale and unsalted.
Then I got a lamp burger. Wow! What a flavour! Yes... Kids size.
My compliments to the chef for the see food stew.
It's a shame because I had high expectations about this. Not bad, but not so good.
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