This weekend we decided to defy the dark and cold Winter weather and take the kids out for a walk in Bristol. We decided on Clifton Village as it is not too far away and we love its beautiful old buildings and history.

Following a stroll down the impressive Royal York Crescent and a wander through the beautiful Birdcage Walk, we decided to stop and find a cafe for some sustenance on our journey. Unfortunately, all the cafes on Princess Victoria Street were full.

Just when the kids were reaching their limit of having enough of walking and being outside in the cold, we stumbled upon Rainbow Cafe, tucked away on Waterloo Road.

As well as having tables free, there were other bonuses. Rainbow Cafe prides itself on being child-friendly and houses a kids’ corner with toys, books and pictures, plus baby-changing facilities and high chairs for families who need them.

We discovered that Rainbow Cafe has been open since the early 1970s and was originally a frequent hang-out for artists living around Clifton. It has retained its creative vibe and displayed paintings, pottery and mirrors designed by local artists.

It is cosy and quirky inside, with little alcoves including one which houses a huge bookcase if you fancy losing yourself in a book over a hot drink on a rainy day.

Because it is a family run cafe, it had a personal, warm vibe that chain cafes often lack.

I also liked that Rainbow Cafe had a range of customers, there were two students meeting over a cup of tea and there was also an older couple, relaxing and reading books by the book-case.

There was a Squash option for the kids which was good. My husband opted for a pot of tea and I went for a hot chocolate with all the trimmings 🙂

We bought a chocolate brownie for the kids which was more than enough to share and I went for this slice of deliciousness…

In all, the cakes and drinks came to just over £10: a very reasonably priced treat out indeed.

Rainbow Cafe was a perfect find. It has a really cosy, quirky and relaxed atmosphere, the drinks and cake were good and my kids were made to feel welcome. We will definitely return soon.

The Rainbow Cafe
10 Waterloo Street, 
Clifton Village, 
Bristol 
BS8 4BT

Open:
Mon – Sat: 10am – 5pm
Sun: 11am – 3pm