The story
At Lido Restaurant, the setting is as compelling as the food. Housed within a painstakingly restored Victorian swimming pool that first opened in 1850, this Clifton destination offers a dining experience that feels both timeless and fresh. After the pool closed in 1990 and narrowly escaped redevelopment, the site was purchased in 2006 and underwent a major restoration, reopening to the public in December 2008. The result is a space where original architectural character meets modern comfort, with the restaurant and poolside bar at its heart.
The kitchen focuses on Mediterranean cuisine, with a menu designed to be enjoyed in the relaxed, light-filled restaurant or alongside the water. Lido offers a range of dining options throughout the day, from breakfast and a la carte lunch to dinner and small plates on Sundays. Their popular Swim & Eat packages allow guests to use the pool and spa facilities before sitting down to a meal — a particularly British way to spend an afternoon. Cocktails by the pool are a regular draw, and the team also hosts seasonal events like the Midsummer Feast Supper Club.
The restaurant’s quality has been recognised with a Michelin Recommended award, a fitting nod to the consistent, thoughtful cooking and the singular atmosphere of the place. Whether you are there for a full dinner, a casual drink at the poolside bar, or a swim followed by lunch, Lido Restaurant delivers a genuinely distinctive experience in Bristol.
Recognition
Ambience
Location