Best cafes and coffee stops in Bristol
November 23, 2018
Whether you drive for a living, are moving to Bristol or simply enjoy the odd trip in the family car, it’s fairly safe to say that every driver out there appreciates a good cup of coffee. Caffeine does more than keep us awake, however. A good cafe or coffee shop can also offer the perfect atmosphere to unwind, chat or grab a tasty bite to eat before getting back on the road.
Having a great place to stop for a hot drink is doubly important in cities like Bristol. This beautiful coastal city is a well-deserved tourist favourite, and waves of commuters are heading here to settle, benefitting the city’s growing economy whilst also giving the city’s best cafes and coffee shops plenty of foot traffic. Plus, with all those moving jobs, there are probably thousands of thirsty van drivers to cater for!
Let’s take a look at just some of the best cafes and coffee shops for drivers in Bristol.
Avon Lodge Cafe
If you're travelling in and around Bristol, you may yourself heading into South Wales on the M49. In an unassuming industrial estate, you may not expect to find a quality dining spot. However, Avon Lodge cafe is a favourite among drivers passing through the area.
The cafe has lots of parking and great facilities, but the food makes it a real winner. With four affordable classic breakfast options, as well as light bites, proper tea, coffee, main meals and even desserts and snacks - anyone looking for a bite to eat on the road will be satisfied. On top of this, the cafe is open until 9pm and has secure parking for trucks, meaning on long journeys, it’s a perfect place to make a pitstop.
The cafe is frequented by many truck drivers breaking up long journeys, which is a clear stamp of approval for the business.
With huge portion sizes and even showers on site, it’s a great place to fill your tank and your stomach while freshening up. According to reviewer Mark Lowerson, “The breakfast was good, and the coffee and the shower was lovely and clean and very smart. Will definitely stop here again - there’s a truck wash and diesel pumps too. Very secure, and the staff were lovely!”
Hart's Bakery
Frequently described as one of Bristol’s best cafes for when you’re passing through the city centre, Hart’s Bakery is just a stone’s throw from Bristol Temple Meads station and serves a huge array of baked goods.
The croissants here are particularly popular, although they also sell excellent cinnamon buns, sourdough toast and breakfast muffins, as well as soup and toasted sandwiches at lunchtime. The most important part, of course, is the ever-popular freshly brewed coffee. Hart’s is a convenient place for a filling snack on the go but also has a large seating area if you need to rest and refuel.
Hart’s has a huge range of sweet treats. However, locals know that if you’re after something specific, it’s worth keeping an eye on their social media, where they often announce what they’ll be baking on certain days, such as their delicious brownies and homemade sausage rolls.
Aulia Dewantari on Google felt that Hart’s is the “Absolutely the best of the best bakeries in Bristol. Everything’s delicious, the croissants, brownies, bread, literally e v e r y t h i n g” - we can’t argue with that!
Gordano Services
Located just west of Bristol on Junction 19 of the M5 motorway, Gordano Services may not have Michelin-star class, but it does offer the perfect stop for seasoned drivers. Spend long enough on the road, and you will soon learn the value of a top-quality service station: a chance to stretch your legs, caffeine, amusements, or good grub can make the next leg of your journey that much easier!
While Gordano Services might lack the charm of tiny independent cafes, it’s still an excellent place to stop and refuel. It offers several well-known brands, including Starbucks, Subway, Burger King and Krispy Kreme, alongside several local hotels for weary travellers.
Of course, if you are driving with friends or family, you could also pick up a comfy car pillow for when someone else takes their turn at the wheel. If you need a quick stop, don't head to the main services; grab a quick coffee at the drive-thru Starbucks.
Speaking on TripAdvisor, Sirenita123 wrote: “Lovely services, very busy but staff were friendly and efficient. Certainly, a good place to stop on the M5.”
Another reviewer, acupofteaonthe17th, wrote: “We stopped here to break up the long journey from London to Devon late on Friday evening. All was as you would expect, and they gave us a discount for using our keep cups!"
For most drivers going from London to the South West, Gordano Services marks a great halfway stop. It's about halfway down to Cornwall, and the service stations after this are a little smaller, with fewer options.