No doubt about it, Bristol is a child-friendly city. People move here because of it. It's a great place to raise kids.
But, when you're new to parenthood, suddenly, going out for a coffee, a drink or just a change of scene becomes a whole new ball game. Will the buggy fit through the door? How will people react if I need to feed the baby? Is there room for us all? Are there changing tables?
Here's our guide to some of the best baby-friendly hang outs in Bristol. Some of them might surprise you.
Bubbahub: best for making new friends
An absolute must visit for anyone with a newborn, this is a living room-style haven for new parents who just want to sit quietly, drink excellent coffee, feed their children and relax. There is nowhere else like it.
It's a sofa day with friends you haven't made yet. It also has some of the highest quality groups meeting there, such as Poco Drom, Rhymetime and Ukelele Babies.
Bubbahub, 20 North Street, Bedminster
The Stock Exchange Bakery: the best for taking new friends
Bright, breezy, stuffed full of incredible food, this often quiet spot (particular out of peak times) is a great central meeting spot for a couple of parents looking to stay civilised.
It's also got great WiFi and is my top tip for you if you're looking for some me time during nap time. Also has changing table.
The Stock Exchange Bakery, 34 St Nicholas Street, Bristol.
Playground Coffee House: best for sling users/buggy folders
A stylish central meet-up point with to-die-for coffee and a new range of grilled cheese sandwiches which look ideal for sharing with a baby you might be weaning.
It's baby-friendly secret weapon is an upstairs room which is secluded, full of comfy chairs and near the loos. Perfect for sling users – but not so great if there's five of you rolling with travel systems.
Playground Coffee House, 45 St Nicholas Street, Bristol.
The Victoria Park: best for NCT-style group meetings
Large pub with enough space to cope with several large buggies and the other good things that come with a newborn. A fab arrangement of sofas that are perfect for feeding on.
It also offers opportunities for group strolling in the very nearby and lovely Victoria Park afterwards.
The Victoria Park, 66 Raymend Road, Bedminster.
The Ethicurean: best for the first group trip out of town
You'll need some cars to get there, but this delightful walled garden has incredible views, a mellow atmosphere and is nice and peaceful on weekdays, whether you're inside or out.
Delicious food too, which is mostly grown on site.
The Ethicurean, Barley Wood Walled Garden, Long Lane, Wrington.
Bocabar: best for a group family lunch
Enough style to make you feel like you're still human, it also has enough food, space and service to cope with very large, sprawling groups.
It's almost compulsory to have a child with you at weekends.
Bocabar, Paintworks, Arnos Vale.
The Atrium Cafe, Arnos Vale Cemetary: best for an outdoor natter
A hidden South Bristol gem of tranquility, with a great terrace with buggy access for summer outdoor meets. Decent coffee and cake and a walking circuit to get the blood flowing.
Limited parking, but lovely birdsong.
The Atrium Cafe, Arnos Vale Cemetery, West Lodge, Bath Road, Arnos Vale.
Mockingbird Cafe: best for coffee heaven
This place has flat-out the best flat white in town (in my opinion) with an incredibly original Southern American menu.
Mockingbird is ideal for small groups who can sling it or fold the buggy down. Genuinely welcoming to all comers, even dogs, and popular with locals. High chairs and a changing table.
Mockingbird Cafe, 58 Alma Vale Road, Clifton.
Station Kitchen: best for stopping while shopping
Located in the old fire station, and YMCA, there's very good food and tonnes of space for buggies and small visitors.
A great alternative to some of the Cabot Circus and Broadmead chains.
The Station, Silver Street, Bristol.
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