While us Bristolians know we have some impeccable gastropubs in the city, it seems that whoever puts together Estrella’s list of Top 50 Gastropubs for 2025 disagrees as Bristol has been left out. While the list isn’t officially announced until January 27 at a prestigious ceremony in London, Estrella Damm has revealed all the pubs on the list in alphabetical order.
These include venues in London, Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cumbria, Monmouthshire, Newcastle, Manchester, Kent – and there’s even a couple in Devon and Cornwall – among others. But if you fancy a visit to those closest to us, there are three pubs on the list that are around an hour’s drive away from Bristol (in different directions, however).
The first is The Three Horseshoes in Batcombe, Somerset, which (according to Google Maps) will take you around an hour and 15 minutes from Bristol City Centre.
This pub is described as a 17th Century Inn opened by Margot Henderson – “a pub for all seasons with a cosy locals bar, two dining rooms, a courtyard, terrace and lawn for outdoor dining and drinking, and five exceptionally luxurious and comfortable en suite bedrooms.”
One reviewer said: “We had the loveliest dinner and stay here, wonderful in so many ways. The dinner was absolutely delicious and atmosphere with live music was magical.
“Our stay was super comfortable – one of the comfiest beds I’ve experienced in a hotel. Breakfast was perhaps my favourite part. Simple unassuming menu that was just brilliantly executed into perhaps the tastiest I’ve had in England so far!
“The little hike/walk they recommend in the hotel guide was beautiful and quaint. Full of sweet little moments and hidden beauty.”
The next pub on the list is The Woolpack Inn, in Stroud, Gloucestershire, which will take you around 55 minutes from Bristol City Centre. This pub is described as being “nestled in the Slad Valley, The Woolpack has been celebrated for its unique charm for more than 300 years.
“It still holds the magic and simplicity of an untouched treasure. The tiny pub embraces a fireside tavern, dining room, snug, and vine covered terraces providing an intimate backdrop for people to come together and enjoy real ales, craft beer, fine ciders, beautiful food and good cheer.”
One review reads: “Thoroughly enjoyed ales and a nice dinner. The ambiance is authentic and charming. The pub side is (good) cosy with old creaking wooden benches (leather cushions), crackling fireplace, and low wood beams.
“The dining side is slightly more open and equally charming. The menu fresh and creative – no laminated placard here. The owners/team were delightful and accommodating. And the evening views over the neighbouring pastoral hillside – hard not to just stare and soak in. Can’t wait to come back this way.”
Finally, the third pub on this list is The Longs Arms in South Wraxall, near Bradford-on-Avon in Wiltshire, which can take between 40-50 minutes to get to from Bristol’s City Centre. This pub is described as “a beautiful country pub serving cask ale and fresh seasonal food in a relaxed environment with warm and friendly service, located in the heart of the lovely village of South Wraxall – just three miles from the picturesque town of Bradford-on-Avon, and seven miles from the historical city of Bath.
One review said: “My wife and were amazed by the high quality of food that came from the kitchen. The Long Arms has a serious chef crating delicious, well prepared, and beautifully presented dishes.”
While a second added: “A dining experience that can’t be missed! Exceptional culinary skills that will leave you wanting for more. Can’t wait to be back.”