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The Coronation Tap

Bristol's legendary ciderhouse near Clifton Suspension Bridge, famed for potent Exhibition scrumpy, live tunes, and timeless tavern vibes in cozy Clifton.

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Clifton's iconic ciderhouse, The Coronation Tap, stands as Bristol's oldest purveyor of West Country cider. Nestled near the Clifton Suspension Bridge, this legendary spot offers an unrivaled selection of draught and bottled ciders, including the exclusive, potent Exhibition served only in half-pints. With its cozy, wooden-paneled interior, live music sessions, and lively atmosphere, it's a must-visit for cider enthusiasts seeking authentic Bristol pub culture. Open evenings from 5:30pm weekdays and 7pm Saturdays, it draws locals and visitors alike to savor traditional scrumpy in a historic setting.

A brief summary to The Coronation Tap

  • 8 Sion Pl, Bristol, Clifton, BS8 4AX, GB
  • +441179739617
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 5:30 pm-11:30 pm
  • Tuesday 5:30 pm-11:30 pm
  • Wednesday 5:30 pm-11:30 pm
  • Thursday 5:30 pm-11:30 pm
  • Friday 5:30 pm-11:30 pm
  • Saturday 7 pm-11:30 pm

Local tips

  • Opt for Exhibition cider in half-pints only—its 8.4% strength packs a punch that sneaks up fast.
  • Visit midweek for live music without the weekend student rush; Thursdays and Sundays feature jazz and blues.
  • Pair your cider with bar snacks if available, as the focus stays on drinks in this traditional ciderhouse.
  • Arrive early on Saturdays at 7pm to snag a spot before the compact space fills with locals.
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Clifton's Cider Legacy

The Coronation Tap occupies a storied site in Clifton village, with a pub presence dating back to the 18th century, predating even the nearby Clifton Suspension Bridge engineered by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. As Bristol's oldest dedicated ciderhouse, it has cemented its place in local folklore, earning nicknames like The Cori, The Cori Tap, or simply The Tap. This compact venue embodies the West Country's deep-rooted cider tradition, where apple fermentations have been a cultural staple for centuries.

Exhibition Cider's Potent Allure

At the heart of the experience is Exhibition, the house cider brewed exclusively for The Coronation Tap at a formidable 8.4% ABV. So potent that it's served solely in half-pint measures, this cloudy scrumpy delivers a rush of sweet apple notes reminiscent of unfiltered orchard juice, balanced by its boozy kick. Complementing it are rotating draught options like Thatchers Cheddar Valley, Traditional, Gold, Westons Old Rosie, and Stowford Press, alongside bottled varieties such as Green Goblin and Katy. Mulled cider warms winter nights, while cider-tasting events introduce newcomers to regional nuances.

Intimate Tavern Ambiance

Step inside to low ceilings, wooden paneling, and worn floorboards evoking a bygone era of British taverns. The snug layout fosters conviviality, with bar stools and limited seating that fill quickly. A palpable energy hums through the air, especially as evenings progress, blending the scent of fresh-poured cider with chatter and occasional bursts of song. This unpretentious space feels like a time capsule, where locals and out-of-towners mingle over pints in true pub fashion.

Live Music Heartbeat

Music pulses through The Cori Tap's veins, with regular sessions of jazz, funk, soul, blues, and student-friendly sets on Thursdays, Sundays, and Mondays. Its reputation as a launchpad for emerging talent led to finalist nods in national awards like The Publican UK Music Pub of the Year and a win as the Southwest's Best Live Music Pub in 2011. The intimate setup amplifies every note, turning quiet pours into lively gatherings where audiences and performers feed off the vibe.

Evening Rhythm in Clifton

Hours align with after-work rhythms: doors open at 5:30pm Monday to Friday until 11:30pm, and 7pm Saturdays to 11:30pm, with Sundays variable. Proximity to Clifton's bohemian streets and the Suspension Bridge makes it a natural stop for those exploring the area's historic charm. Real ales, lagers, and wines round out the offerings, but cider remains the undisputed star, inviting patrons to toast Bristol's liquid heritage.

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