WELCOME TO DOWNING'S BAR
Exceptional wines, handcrafted cocktails, Somerset pours and live music in the heart of Nailsea.
Over 18s | Dog Friendly
Exceptional wines, handcrafted cocktails, Somerset pours and live music in the heart of Nailsea.
Over 18s | Dog Friendly

Downing's Bar opened its doors on Nailsea High Street in December 2024, bringing to life our vision of creating somewhere a little bit special. A stylish, welcoming and intimate bar where people can relax, enjoy exceptional drinks and experience the kind of attentive, old-fashioned service that makes every visit feel like a treat.
With rich leather seating and handcrafted tables made from sustainably sourced timber from the historic Tyntesfield estate, we've created a space that's comfortable, full of character and just a little indulgent.
At the heart of Downing's is our love of great wine.
Our carefully chosen and ever-evolving collection features over 30 wines, with more than 25 available by the glass, including Champagne. From timeless European classics to exciting New World discoveries, we love finding wines with a story to tell, particularly those from independent producers and family-run vineyards who share our passion for quality.
But enjoying great wine shouldn't be complicated. Whether you know exactly what you like or fancy discovering something new, we're always happy to offer a little guidance, share our favourites or help you find that perfect glass.
And, of course, there's much more to Downing's than wine.
Our cocktails are freshly mixed to order, from much-loved classics to our own signature creations, all made with quality ingredients and a little flair.
We're equally proud of our South West roots, with an extensive selection of Somerset ciders and a regularly changing range of craft beers and lagers from independent breweries, including Bristol favourites Wiper and True and Arbor.
If you enjoy trying something different, our wine, sparkling wine, beer and cider flights are a lovely way to explore new flavours and perhaps discover a new favourite.
Something delicious to enjoy alongside your drinks.
Our food menu offers a tempting selection of freshly prepared hot dishes and sharing plates. From our delicious pinsas and baked Camembert to Mediterranean-inspired specialities, artisan cheeses and savoury bites, there's plenty to enjoy whether you're popping in for something light or settling down for an evening with friends.
There's always something happening at Downing's.
Live music has become a much-loved part of our calendar, with talented musicians and bands bringing an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, soul, rock, acoustic favourites and traditional Irish folk to the intimate surroundings of the bar.
We also host regular guided wine and spirits tastings, where there's always something new to discover. They're relaxed, sociable evenings filled with interesting wines and spirits, fascinating stories and the chance to learn a little more about what's in your glass.
Above all, Downing's is about making people feel welcome.
We love what we do, and we want that to come across in every visit. Whether you're joining us for a quiet glass of wine, enjoying cocktails and hot food with friends, or spending an evening listening to live music, we want you to feel completely at home.
As an adults-only bar, we've created somewhere to relax, enjoy conversation and savour a little time for yourself. And with our traditional table service, there's no queuing at the bar. Simply settle into your seat, choose something you fancy and let us take care of the rest.
We're immensely proud of what we've created here on Nailsea High Street and love sharing it with our guests, from familiar faces to those discovering Downing's for the very first time.
We look forward to welcoming you soon.
Geoff, Julie and the Downing's Team
To reserve a table, please book using ResDiary below.
If you’d like to book for more than 8 people, or enquire about hosting a private function or event at Downing’s, please complete the Contact Us form at the bottom of this page. Walk-ins always welcome.
If you book within 90 minutes of your arrival time, we’ll always do our very best to accommodate you. That said, during peak times we operate a busy walk-in service alongside reservations, so a table may not be immediately available.
Live Music and Tastings
Our calendar is packed with experiences designed to bring people together over great drinks, live music and great company. From jazz, blues, Irish sessions, rock and carefully chosen cover bands to intimate wine tastings and guided spirit experiences, there is always something worth stepping out for. We are adding new events and artists throughout the year so check back regularly to see what is coming up.
Private Hire
Alongside our regular events programme, Downings Bar is available for exclusive private hire. We have hosted a wide range of occasions, including milestone birthdays, anniversaries, wedding receptions, celebration of life gatherings, corporate events and private parties. Our elegant surroundings, attentive service and carefully curated drinks selection provide the perfect setting for memorable occasions of all kinds.
Join Us
Whether you are joining us for a relaxed tasting evening, a lively music night or a special private celebration, every event is delivered with our signature service, warm atmosphere and attention to detail.
Enquire About Private Hire
Explore our upcoming events below and book your place. For ticketed events, please use our contact form to reserve your place. If you are interested in private hire, we would be delighted to discuss your requirements and help create a memorable occasion.
We champion small-batch, independent cider makers from right here in the West Country — especially those close to home in Nailsea and Bristol.
Our cider selection celebrates provenance, craftsmanship and the rich cider-making heritage of the West Country. Carefully curated from independent producers across Somerset and beyond, each cider is chosen for its quality, character and sense of place.
We're also proud to serve Downing's Black Pip — a Somerset farmhouse cider crafted from apples grown in Geoff's garden on Nailsea High Street and produced in partnership with Nailsea Cider.
You’ll regularly find rotating selections from:
Whether you love a bold dry cider or something bright and fruity, our range reflects the incredible variety and character of the region’s best producers.
Discover Our Cider Flights - Build your own Tasting Trio
We celebrate the rich cider-making heritage of our region — and there’s no better way to experience it than with one of our Cider Flights.
Each flight includes a curated tasting of 3 x third of a pint pours, handpicked from our rotating selection of small-batch, craft ciders. From crisp and dry to bold and fruit-forward, our flights let you explore the diversity and depth of real West Country cider — all in one sitting.
Perfect for:
Ask your server about today’s selection, or book a table and let us introduce you to your next favourite cider.
At Downing's, we carefully select exceptional beers from independent breweries whose values align with our own commitment to quality, craftsmanship and community.
Our rotating selection showcases some of the South West's most respected producers, including Bristol favourites Arbor Ales and Wiper & True, alongside traditional Somerset brewing with Cheddar Ales' Gorge Best.
From crisp lagers and hop-forward pale ales to rich stouts and traditional ales, every beer is chosen for its quality, character and sense of place.
We also host occasional brewery tap takeovers, giving our guests the opportunity to discover something a little different, explore new beers and enjoy a wider selection from some of our favourite independent breweries.

We believe a fabulous cocktail deserves a little care and attention. From much-loved classics to our own signature creations and seasonal favourites, every cocktail is freshly made using premium spirits and quality ingredients.
Whether it's a perfectly balanced Negroni, a beautifully shaken Espresso Martini or something a little more adventurous, we take pride in getting every detail just right. And, of course, everything is served to your table, so all you need to do is sit back and enjoy.

Treat someone special to a little Downing's indulgence. From exceptional wines and freshly made cocktails to local craft beers and Somerset ciders, our gift vouchers are a lovely way to give someone an evening to look forward to.
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, Christmas presents or simply saying thank you.
Looking
Don't just read about us, come on in and have one of our team make you the perfect cocktail!
Over 18's only
Dog friendly
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Proud to be recognised as a Recommended venue by Restaurant Guru.
Mon | Closed | |
Tue | Closed | |
Wed | 16:00 – 22:00 | |
Thu | 16:00 – 22:00 | |
Fri | 16:00 – 23:00 | |
Sat | 14:00 – 23:00 | |
Sun | Closed |
Closed Tuesdays & Sundays
(But open on these days for special events or live music – check our Live Events section above and social media) .
See December opening times for Monday and Tuesday openings