Background
Designed by the Soho House team, Mollie’s is a budget hotel and diner concept that launched its first property in Oxfordshire in 2019. The Bristol outpost followed in 2021, and a third hotel is set to open in Manchester next year. Conceived as a welcoming pitstop for corporate guests or leisure travellers, the properties occupy positions on the outskirts of town.
Where is it?
Just off the M5 at Cribbs Causeway (Junction 17), about 15 minutes outside the city centre. Bristol Parkway and Bristol Temple Meads rail stations are a 10-15 minute drive away, as is Bristol airport. There’s free parking onsite, and nine electric vehicle charging stations can be pre-booked.
What’s it like?
A fun Americana-style motel with an aesthetic that’s cool and inviting. The reception doubles as a lounge lobby, co-working space and cocktail bar. There’s fast wifi, wireless charging ports on tables, and free tea and coffee available all day. Around half of the guests are business travellers, and there’s dedicated corporate offerings via Mollie’s for Business.
The lounge area resembles a cosy alpine cabin, with an eclectic mix of furnishings and hints of Soho House aesthetics everywhere. The space is open 24/7 and was busy with a mix of guests throughout my stay. It also backs onto an outdoor garden space.
There’s a strong digital concept with a handy app that guests can use to check in (from 3pm, while checkout is at 11am), access their room, cast content to the TV, order food, chat to the team or charge their car. Free bikes are also parked outside the front door.
Rooms
There are 128 rooms which come in double, twin, accessible and family bunk-bed options. My double room was cosy but stylish, with grey walls and wood-slatted panelling, light oak floors, velvet armchairs by Conran and modern standing lights.
The king-size bed was comfortable with Egyptian cotton linens, though it felt like two singles joined together. A large smart TV was mounted on the wall opposite.
Lights were easily controlled with switches by the door and bedside (including dimmer options to create the ambience you want), and there were good blackout curtains. Power sockets and USB outlets are located on either side of the bed.
The bathroom featured a power shower and rain shower, black tiles and terrazzo floors, and large Cowshed amenities. My favourite features were the wall-mounted Dyson hairdryer and GHD straighteners.
Overall, the room maximises space and is designed to offer a premium feel. However, there were a few features missing. Tea and coffee were provided – but no kettle. Instead, guests need to use a water station located on each floor. Rooms don’t have a minibar, fridge, nor a safe either. There was no real space to work but given the lobby lounge is such an inviting space for digital nomads, this wasn’t a major issue.
Food and drink
Mollie’s Diner is located in the building next door. It follows the all-American theme with sloping roof, diner-style booths, and an affordable comfort food menu that featured everything from “Frickles” (fried pickles – £5.50) to a melt-in-your mouth belly pork rib (£17) and a selection of gourmet burgers (£10-12). The most expensive item was an 8oz flat-iron steak (£24). Our group tried a wide selection and it was tasty, if not at all diet-friendly. The service was extremely friendly. Guests are advised to book ahead.
Breakfast is also served here until noon daily, with an extensive a la carte menu that includes everything from eggs Benedict (£8) to coconut yoghurt and berries (£6.50) and a Full English breakfast (£12.50).
Meetings
None – though the hotel is considering adding an events space to the bottom of the garden. The hotel also has partnerships with event spaces including The Wave and Aerospace Bristol.
Leisure
None.
Verdict
A superb addition to the economy hotel market. The “affordable luxury” concept has given budget accommodation a makeover with lashings of style, character and thoughtful details that feel premium.
FACT BOX
- Best for Soho House style at Premier Inn prices
- Don’t miss A cocktail in the lobby bar/reception
- Price Internet rates for a flexible midweek stay in December start from £81 for a deluxe room
- Contact Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS10 7TL; 0117 374 7740; mollies.com
