Whether you are spending time with your special someone or simply want to pamper yourself in the lap of luxury, the following are some of the best places to stay in Bristol.

The City Inn Bristol is bristling with great style and provides travellers with an ideal location right in the heart of Temple Quay and a short distance away from the city's leading attractions, such as theatres, museums and the Broadmead Shopping Centre. There are 167 en suite bedrooms in all, each of them spacious, air-conditioned and equipped with CD players, interactive TV sets and power showers. The in-house City Cafe is an elegant venue for modern British cuisine, with an al fresco terrace that overlooks the beautiful Temple Gardens.

The Aztec Hotel on Almondsbury boasts of the highest standards around: elegant, luxurious and an ideal setting for a comfortable and relaxing stay. All the bedrooms and even the public venues are decked out in great style and contemporary design. There are also a number of excellent dining venues, including Quarterjacks Restaurant and its al fresco terrace, Danby's Bar and the Aztec Hotel's own country pub.

The Brigstow Hotel in Welsh Back is one of the city's newest hotels. This four-star wonder features contemporary and fully air-conditioned bedrooms (117 in all) with en suite facilities and televisions with a host of satellite and terrestrial channels.

For a unique type of accommodation at an authentic Victorian Gothic mansion, head to Berry Wells at Hawkers Lane in Somerset. Built around 1838, Berry Wells offers something truly different. It begins with a hearty family welcome upon checking in and extends to the luxury bed and breakfast experience that every guest can count on. It is a favourite venue for lovers who want to indulge in a Bronte-eque romance.

Meanwhile, if you want a setting that is away from the hustle and bustle of city life but still close enough to Bristol's leading attractions, then one of the city's relaxing country hotels awaits you.

The Hunters Rest Inn is a special favourite of more mature couples and history lovers. Located at Clifton Hill, the inn was constructed in 1758 as the Earl of Warwick's hunting lodge. It offers visitors a breath-taking view that stretches from the Cam Valley and Mendip Hills all the way to Chew Valley and the port of Bristol. Furnishings are all first-class and include antique furniture, elegant bathrooms and a four-poster bed. Each bedroom also has colour television, direct dial telephones and a spectacular view.

Toghill House Farm at Freezing Hill, Wick provides traditional country comfort as well as double rooms that are elegantly designed and offer supreme comfort and privacy. Each room has double or twin beds, en suite bathrooms, colour TV and tea and coffee making facilities. A delightful English breakfast is served every morning.

Located at Temple Cloud near Bristol, Cameley Lodge provides one of the most spectacular locations around. The lodge stands on 60 acres of magnificent countryside, just beside its own lake. It is a favourite venue for weddings, corporate event or for just dinner and dancing. For a quiet, intimate romantic dinner in an elegant venue, Cameley Lodge fills the bill. All bedrooms are en-suite and are elegantly appointed. Most of the rooms provide an excellent view of the lake and countryside. There are plenty of in-venue activities that couples can do together, including archery, trout fishing and clay pigeon shooting.

The Henbury Lodge Hotel on Station Road is known as “the country lodge in the city” because it provides a serene and comfortable haven just within the city but in a location that is away from the noise and frenetic pace of city life. Built in 1600, the lodge is a magnificent venue for lovers. There have been additions over the years, such that the hotel now boasts of a Palladian Georgian Mansion style.

Now if it's a home away from home type of atmosphere that you want, Bristol has many guesthouses for you to choose from. The Westfield Guesthouse in Stoke Bishop is one of the best and most luxurious examples around. It stands on two and a half acres of private gardens which are a mere 200 meters away from Clifton Downs and close to the M4 or M5 motorway. The venue is excellent for a scenic walk and many of the rooms are well appointed.

The Daneswood House Hotel in Winscombe is another exquisite abode. It offers a spectacular view of the Somerset countryside. Each room is spacious, comfortable and has a unique design.

For a peaceful venue just outside of Bristol, the Alveston House Hotel in Alveston may be just what the doctor ordered. It has a solid reputation for its exemplary personal service. Each of the 30 en-suite bedrooms are well equipped and comfortable. There is also an adjoining restaurant, bar and conservatory.