Number 38 Clifton

Number 38 Clifton in Bristol, United Kingdom, is a highly acclaimed boutique hotel, distinguished with a One Michelin Key award for its exceptional quality and unique guest experience. Housed in a beautifully refurbished 1820 Georgian merchant's house, it offers an intimate "home away from home" atmosphere with only eleven or twelve stylish bedrooms.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Number 38 Clifton is overwhelmingly positive, often described as "Superb" or "Exceptional". Guests frequently praise it as a "very special stay" that provides "efficiently rendered luxury" within a peaceful and intimate setting.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently highlight several aspects that make Number 38 Clifton stand out:

• Service & Hospitality: The staff are frequently described as "very helpful and accommodating", "friendly", and dedicated to ensuring guests feel welcome and comfortable with "warm smiles and a genuine desire to make your stay as comfortable as possible."
• Location & Views: Its elevated position in the "upmarket Clifton area" provides "breathtaking views of the Clifton Downs or Bristol city center", with many rooms offering stunning panoramic vistas.
• Design & Aesthetics: The hotel is celebrated for its "high-end intelligent design", blending period character with vintage chic and contemporary cool. The interiors feature modern artworks and exquisite furniture, creating a "picture-perfect design".
• Amenities: Notable amenities include Hypnos pocket sprung mattresses, luxurious 100 Acres bath products, waffle dressing gowns, Roberts radios, and widescreen smart televisions. The hotel also boasts a garden and a stylishly furnished terrace, perfect for evening drinks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Number 38 Clifton are consistently praised for their quality, comfort, and stylish design. They are "uber stylish", "comfortable and warm", and often described as "luxurious". Each of the 11 or 12 allergy-free rooms is uniquely styled, featuring modern comforts such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and tea and coffee making facilities. Many bathrooms are generously sized, with some featuring power showers, spacious cast-iron baths, or even freestanding copper bathtubs. Guests frequently comment on the quality of the beds, ensuring a restful night's sleep.

4. Dining Experience

While Number 38 Clifton does not have a full-service restaurant, it excels in its breakfast offering. Guests rave about the "delicious and good portioned" "made-to-order breakfast," often described as "excellent" and "amazing." Full English breakfasts are prepared using locally sourced produce, and lighter options such as granola, smoked salmon, and fresh fruit are also available. Continental options, including pastries, eggs royale, Florentine, and Benedict, are also served. Breakfast is typically included in the room rate. Afternoon tea, coffee, wines, and cocktails can be enjoyed in the reception room, lounge, or on the terrace.

5. Service & Staff

The staff at Number 38 Clifton are a significant highlight, consistently receiving high praise for their professionalism and warmth. Reviewers note the "friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere", with many guests appreciating the genuine desire to make their stay comfortable. The service is often described as going "above and beyond" to ensure guests feel welcome and taken care of.

6. Location & Accessibility

Number 38 Clifton boasts an excellent location in the "historical and cultural heart of Clifton." It overlooks the picturesque Durdham Down parkland and offers views towards the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. The hotel is approximately 2 miles from Bristol city center and about 1 mile from Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery. Local attractions like Bristol Zoo are less than a 15-minute walk away. Public transport links are convenient, with Clifton Downs Train Station just a 10-minute walk and a bus stop nearby. Bristol Airport is approximately a 20-minute drive.

7. Value & Pricing

While offering a luxurious experience, Number 38 Clifton is often perceived as providing "exceptional value for money". Room prices typically start around £199, with some sources quoting a range of £130-£240 per night. This pricing is considered competitive for the high standard of "affordable luxury" offered in a boutique setting, especially given that a comprehensive breakfast is usually included.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, a few minor points of feedback have been noted:

• Adults-Only Policy: The hotel has an "adults-only" policy, not accommodating children under the age of 12 or more than two guests per room, which might not suit families.
• No Pets: Pets are not allowed on the property.
• Stairs Only: All rooms are accessible only via stairs, which could be a consideration for guests with mobility issues.
• Limited Evening Service (Historical): An older review from 2014 mentioned staff signing off after 8 pm, leaving communal areas empty, which some found lacking in "personality and action." More recent reviews, however, focus on the excellent daytime service.
• Lack of Full Restaurant: The absence of a dedicated full-service restaurant (beyond breakfast and drinks) means guests need to explore local dining options for other meals.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. visitbristol.co.uk
3. top50boutiquehotels.com
4. number38clifton.com
5. besthotelsbristol.com
6. agoda.com
7. theguardian.com
8. thehotelguru.com
9. booking.com
10. lady.co.uk
11. secretplaces.com
12. thetravelmagazine.net
13. coolstays.com
14. muddystilettos.co.uk
15. myboutiquehotel.com
16. bristolehotel.com
17. bristol-hotels.net