The Old Workshop

About this stay

A unique two-bedroom home in Bedminster, converted from a former workshop and retaining plenty of its original character. The impressive vaulted interior features exposed wooden roof beams, original-style steelwork, skylights and a mezzanine bedroom, while a cast-iron log burner creates a cosy focal point in the open-plan living space. There is also a private enclosed garden, utility room and a great location just a short walk from the independent shops, cafés, bars and restaurants of North Street.

The space

The Old Workshop is unlike a typical Bristol home. Originally a workshop, the property has been thoughtfully converted into a characterful residential space, retaining some of the features that give the building its distinctive identity. The heart of the property is the open-plan living and kitchen area, with a dramatic vaulted ceiling, exposed timber roof beams and large skylights bringing plenty of natural light into the room. Original-style steel supports and timber columns add to the sense of the building's former industrial use, while colourful furnishings, artwork and carefully chosen details give the space a warm and personal feel. A traditional cast-iron log burner provides a cosy focal point in the living area, complemented by comfortable seating and a dining space. The kitchen is fully integrated into the open-plan room, making this a sociable space for cooking, eating and relaxing. There are two bedrooms, including one particularly distinctive bedroom set on the mezzanine level. The mezzanine overlooks the main living area and makes the most of the property's unusual vaulted layout, with exposed beams and steelwork continuing through the upper level. The property also has a well-appointed bathroom, a separate utility room and a private enclosed garden. The garden provides a lovely contrast to the characterful interior, with a paved seating area, planting and artificial lawn creating a pleasant outdoor space for relaxing or dining.

The neighbourhood

The Old Workshop is in Bedminster, on the south side of Bristol and just a short walk from North Street, one of the area's liveliest and most distinctive neighbourhoods. This is a part of Bristol with a strong independent character, where traditional local businesses sit alongside independent cafés, restaurants, bars, galleries and creative spaces. North Street is the heart of the area and is particularly good for food and drink, with everything from coffee shops and bakeries to restaurants, wine bars and traditional pubs. The street is also home to the Tobacco Factory, a former industrial building that has become one of the area's cultural landmarks, with its theatre, café bar and regular events and markets. Bedminster and Southville are also known for their street art. The area has strong links to Upfest, Bristol's celebrated street-art festival, and colourful murals can be found throughout the surrounding streets. Independent shops and small businesses are plentiful, giving the neighbourhood a more local and creative feel than the main shopping areas in the city centre. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside too. Greville Smyth Park is nearby, while Windmill Hill City Farm offers a community garden, working farm and outdoor spaces. Further afield, Ashton Court Estate provides 850 acres of woodland and open grassland on the western edge of Bristol, with walking routes, cycling, golf and other outdoor activities. Despite its neighbourhood feel, Bedminster is very close to central Bristol. The area sits just across the river from the city centre, with the harbourside and attractions such as Wapping Wharf within easy reach. It makes a particularly good base for experiencing Bristol beyond the main tourist centre, while still being close enough to head into the city whenever you wish.

Getting around

The Old Workshop is well connected for exploring Bristol, whether you are travelling on foot, by public transport or by car. North Street is within easy walking distance, while the surrounding Bedminster and Southville streets are well served by local bus routes. Parson Street railway station is also nearby, providing regular train services towards Bristol Temple Meads and destinations beyond Bristol. Bristol Temple Meads can be reached by train from Parson Street in around 10 minutes, making onward travel by rail straightforward. For those travelling by car, the property has convenient access to the wider road network, including routes towards the city centre and the Bristol Link Road. Bristol Airport is also readily accessible by road. If you are exploring Bristol itself, much of Bedminster and Southville can be enjoyed on foot, with the city centre also within easy reach by public transport.

Before you book

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