During the February half-term, we spent three nights back in our former home city of Bristol – the first time we’ve been back since we left 2.5 years ago. When we lived there, Mollie’s Diner was one of our son’s favourite places to eat (mainly because of their Oreo milkshakes, I think!) and so Mollie’s Motel was top of his list when it came to places to stay – especially when he discovered that they had bunk bed rooms…
After one night at Mollie’s Bristol, it’s safe to say he now loves the place even more.
The Welcome
Mollie’s Motel and Mollie’s Diner are on the same site, in two separate buildings, each with their own car park. There was plenty of space in the motel car park and it was just a short walk from the main entrance (which was a definite relief, as it was raining when we arrived).
The neon signage on the outside gives definite motel vibes – and inside, the reception area is seriously impressive. It’s light, spacious and beautifully designed, with comfortable seating, co-working spaces and even a courtyard area for the brighter days. There’s free tea and coffee on offer, as well as a (paid) bar if you’re after something stronger.
The reception team were warm and friendly from the moment we arrived, but what really stood out was how they included our eight-year-old in the check-in process and our conversations, making us all feel like valued customers. They also reminded us about downloading the Mollie’s app, which can act as a remote for the TV, a contactless room card and allows you to order food and drink (and EV charging time, if needed).
The Style
With Soho House behind the interior design of Mollie’s Bristol, it’s hardly surprising that the place is pretty damn stylish. In the public areas and the rooms alike, there’s a great blend of retro motel vibes and thoughtful contemporary touches.
It’s a place that has the feel of a boutique hotel, but at a far more affordable price point. Relaxed and welcoming, it’s a carefully-curated yet unpretentious space.
The Facilities
With its large, free car park, its on-site diner, its EV chargers, its co-working spaces and its stylish bar and courtyard, Mollie’s Bristol is pretty well-equipped. Being just off the M5 also makes it easy to reach, and it’s a world apart from the generic, soulless, chain hotels that you’d normally associate with those types of locations.
The Rooms
There are 123 bedrooms at Mollie’s Bristol, including doubles, twins, accessible rooms, connecting rooms and family-friendly bunk rooms. Each comes equipped with Egyptian cotton sheets, air conditioning, a Smart TV with casting options, USB charging ports and tea and coffee (although the boiling and cold water dispensers are in the corridors on each floor, rather than having individual kettles in the rooms).
The bathrooms are stocked with Cowshed toiletries, and the rainfall shower in our room was honestly one of the best I’ve experienced in a very long time.
Hanging storage spaces with shelving underneath make it easy to stow suitcases and clothes out of the way during your stay.
Our bunk room at Mollie’s Bristol was a massive hit. It featured four individual bunks, each with their own light and charging port, which our son LOVED. Of course, it had to be a top bunk for him…and the sides are high enough that you don’t need to worry about kids (or adults!) falling out in the night.
The mattresses were really comfortable, and although the pillows were far too soft for me personally, I appreciate that it’s all down to individual preference.
Each room includes a Dyson hairdryer and GHD straighteners too: a lovely touch that adds to the boutique feel.
The only real downside for us was the fact that the sink was positioned in the main bedroom rather than in the bathroom. While it looks great, design-wise, it’s not the most practical if you’re not travelling solo – especially if, like me, you tend to get up and ready before everyone else!
The Food
Mollie’s Diner is open to both residents and non-residents, and it’s a great place to grab a spot of breakfast, lunch or dinner. We’ve visited multiple times over the years, and it’s still just as good now.
As you can see from the photo, the designers nailed that classic American diner vibe, and with dishes like burgers, loaded fries, chicken wings and epic shakes on the menu, they’ve nailed the food, too.
In the evening, I shared their incredible pickle chips with my son (probably my favourite item on the Mollie’s Bristol menu), along with a portion of their hot honey cheese croquettes, deliciously soft and covered in a mound of grated cheese.
Breakfast the next morning was just as good. I don’t think I’ve ever seen our son eat as quickly as he did when his plate of waffles with banana turned up, and with a bottle of maple sauce on the table to drizzle by himself, he loved the semi-DIY element to his food.
Across the table, the full English was a huge hit, while I went for the bagel filled with smoked salmon, cream cheese and capers (and a green juice on the side) for a slightly healthier start to the day.
To add to that real diner vibe, there’s even the option of bottomless filter coffee on the menu…
The Price
Bunk rooms at Mollie’s Bristol start from around £130 per night, which feels like great value considering the design quality, facilities and location. For families looking for a fun, stylish and easily-accessible base just off the M5, it’s a great option for a family break in Bristol. Add in the diner offering, which seems to be a real hit with children of all ages, and it’s an experience kids will treasure. Our son’s already talking about wanting to do the same again at Mollie’s in Manchester or Oxford!