Brooks Guesthouse

In the centre of Bristol, a stroll from the harbour, Brooks Guesthouse is a pleasant surprise, with its quirky courtyard garden, shiny rooftop caravans and excellent value. There’s a ‘sense of privacy’ and fun, say inspectors of this three-storey 1950s office block converted by Carla and Andrew Brooks to provide cool, frills-free accommodation – though it’s probably not aimed at ‘older folk’. Bedrooms are ‘neat and well lit’ and smartly furnished with classy wallpapers, tongue-and-groove panelling, pale-wood bedsteads and hooks for clothes; space is at a premium. Housekeeping, say inspectors, is patchy. Tiled bathrooms are compact. Alternatively, the ‘Airstream-style’ trailers in the rooftop garden, squeezing in double bed and shower, are a funkier way for a cosy night’s sleep; great ‘for a young family’. ‘Well-executed’ breakfasts include home-made fruit compote, eggs Benedict, smoked salmon and cream cheese, as well as daily specials. They’re served in the open-plan living area with its bright, eclectic mix of vintage and rustic furniture and overlooking the garden. ‘It is surprisingly quiet’, given the central location.