Bristol pubs with cosy fires that are a must visit this winter

These pubs in the likes of Horfield, Clifton, Montpelier, Cotham and Bedminster will warm you up this winter

It's that time of year when we start fantasising about cosy pubs, good grub and nice country walks. And so we got to wondering about Bristol's best and must-visit pubs with impressive, or just downright cosy, fireplaces.

Whether they're situated in the Centre, on the outskirts, surrounded by bustling business blocks or rolling countryside, we can't get enough of a good ol' cosy pub. And as the weather gets cooler, we thought we'd put together an updated list of some of our favourites.

Of course, we haven't been able to name all of our favourites in this list. So, if you have a favourite that you think deserves to be featured, please email ellie.kendall@reachplc.com and tell us why - no doubt we'll be writing about more favourite cosy pubs in the coming weeks and your recommendation could make a future list.

The Crown Tavern

Where: 17 Lawfords Gate, BS2 0DY

The Crown Tavern reopened under new owner Sam Gregory (of The Bank Tavern) back in September and the cosy 'hidden gem' pub has had a refurb, featuring fresh interiors and a warm and welcoming cosy fireplace. We visited on a Thursday evening following its opening and were instantly welcomed through the doors by Sam smiling from behind the bar. Inside, the fresh paint job of a warm dark green colour, paired with gleaming tiled and wood floors, a dartboard, and an ornate fireplace stocked with wood, all really made you feel at home.

The bar is stocked with a range of spirits, and the likes of Amstel, Guinness, Thatchers and even Bass on tap. And while the pub doesn't do food quite yet (bar a pack of crisps), it's definitely a must visit for a cosy drink with friends or family.

The Farm St Werburghs

Where: Hopetoun Road, St Werburghs, BS2 9YL

If you want a rural pub, without necessarily heading out to the countryside, there's no better place than The Farm in St Werburghs. Neighbouring a city farm, it boasts an equal mix of country charm and cosmopolitan vibes. The Farm serves up a selection of drinks and a menu of home-cooked food, and describes itself as a 'great local pub' quite traditional in nature.

With its quirky painted exterior to reflect the farm close by, it certainly stands out among the houses in the area - though St Werburghs is known far and wide as being an eye-catching, quirky spot in its own right. Inside the pub, you'll find a warm fireplace to cosy up in front of, while outside there's an expanse of seating in the pub garden.

Food is available Monday through to Sunday (12-9pm), while other amenities include live sports, real ales, cocktails, WiFi, and a family and pet-friendly atmosphere. It's also a venue where you can enjoy a Sunday roast dinner, with a number of additional special menu items announced across the year.

Inn on the Green

Where: 2 Filton Road, BS7 0PA

The Inn on the Green is situated just off Bristol's famous Gloucester Road on Filton Road, and is a proper independent family and dog-friendly pub, serving up roast dinners and a much loved pub quiz. Definitely a place you can relax, with cosy sofas and an open fireplace, the Inn on the Green also boasts an atmospheric beer garden for some fresh air and al fresco dining in the warmer months.

During the winter months you can even dine outside in the Inn's outdoor shelter, as long as you reserve your spot, and it's worth reserving a table at the Inn if you fancy a spot of grub as it can get rather busy. The team here can also cater to dietary requirements, boasting 'some of the best vegan pub food as well as many gluten free options.

When it comes to the menus available at the Inn on the Green, there's sure to be something here to tickle your taste buds. Lunch is served 12pm - 5pm (Monday to Saturday) and items on the menu at time of writing include small plates like garlic bread, onion rings and nachos (any 3 for £16), lunch deals priced at £11.95 each (with drink included) - such as ham, eggs and chips and macaroni cheese - as well as steak and chips, fish and chips, ciabattas, burgers and even puddings.

The Royal Oak

Where: 385 Gloucester Road, Horfield, BS7 8TR

The Royal Oak is situated in Horfield, at a junction on Bristol's Gloucester Road. Stepping inside, there's an instant warming and welcoming atmosphere. No matter the time of day or year, there always seems to be a warming glow of light shining through the window or warm, cosy lighting and booths to keep you warm on greyer, colder days, as well as a crackling fire. The staff are on hand with smiles and welcomes and, of course, there's a selection of food and drink just an order away, to tuck into.

Live music is often on offer here, as well as a cocktail menu, Sunday roast, children's play area, wheelchair access, Sky Sports on HD screens, wi-fi and real ale. The Royal Oak is a proper community pub that welcomes families, adults, children, dogs, students, builders, cricket clubs and those looking to celebrate a special occasion - all tucked behind that quaint little façade on Gloucester Road.

The Spotted Cow

Where: 139 North Street, Bedminster, BS3 1EZ

Situated on North Street in the heart of Southville and Bedminster, The Spotted Cow pub, which has stood here for more than 200 years, has a rich heritage which dates back to the area's agricultural past. It serves up a community pub atmosphere, as well as food, drinks and live music. Of course they offer a Sunday roast, too.

During the summer, there's a large walled spacious garden out the back, which created a great suntrap for pub goers. Meanwhile, inside there's a warming wood burner to keep you cosy while you visit.

The pub team says: "Back in 2008 when we took over the pub we enlisted some help from our friends ‘Milo Design’ to refit the pub and they have created a warm, comfortable space with their unique touch, mixing both modern and traditional together perfectly."

The Pipe & Slippers

Where: 118 Cheltenham Road, Cotham, BS6 5RW

The Pipe & Slippers is found on the site of the old Berkeley Castle pub and has been serving the Stokes Croft area and beyond since 2004. There are usually large crowds of people trying to get a spot inside this ever popular establishment, and for good reason.

Inside, you'll find high ceilings, dark wood finishings and cosy warm lighting, including a quaint fireplace. Despite it being known as one of the area's best late night bars - it has a 1am licence from Thursday to Sunday - it offers a homely feel, perfect for warming up on colder days.

The Pipe & Slippers serves an array of local and premium beers, ciders, spirits and cocktails, as well as food all week - from roast dinners to dishes from their regular pop-up kitchens - and DJ's on the weekend.

The Cadbury

Where: 68 Richmond Road, Montpelier, BS6 5EW

This 300-year-old timber-framed pub is another cosy spot that's full of character and history. It's been dubbed by its manager as being like "a village pub in the middle of the city" and is known for its friendly welcoming atmosphere, and weekly pub quiz.

'Older than America', The Cadbury has its own log burner to keep visitors warm in the winter months, as well as its own conservatory area. Behind the bar you'll find a vast array of draught and bottled craft beers, ales, ciders and lagers to enjoy, all while chilling out to a smooth playlist of reggae tunes.

And, when it comes to food, you can expect pub classics, including a good old Sunday roast, as well as a menu of hot dogs, burgers, and big and small plates (think fish and chips, sausage and mash, among others) - and there's vegan and veggie options aplenty.