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 with a simple vision: to create a warm, welcoming and luxurious space where every guest enjoys the kind of attentive, old-fashioned service that makes every visit feel special.
Furnished with rich leather seating and handcrafted tables made from sustainably sourced timber from the historic Tyntesfield estate, our bar has been designed for comfort, conversation and a touch of indulgence.
At the heart of Downing's is a genuine passion for exceptional wine. Our carefully curated collection focuses on provenance, quality and independent producers, many from family-run vineyards whose dedication is reflected in every bottle.
We offer 34 wines, with 24 available by the glass, alongside our elegant house Champagne. From timeless European classics to exciting New World discoveries, each selection has been chosen for its character, balance and drinkability.
Our aim is simple: to make great wine approachable. Whether you know exactly what you enjoy or are looking to discover something new, our team is always happy to guide you towards the perfect glass.
Alongside our wine collection, our cocktails are freshly mixed to order, combining classic favourites with contemporary creations, all crafted with precision and care.
We are also proud to champion the South West, serving a wide selection of Somerset ciders and a rotating range of unfiltered craft beers and lagers from respected local breweries, including Wiper and True and Left Handed Giant.
Everything is delivered with our signature table service, because we believe every guest deserves to relax, feel valued and enjoy a truly memorable experience.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Geoff 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 and True alongside traditional Somerset brewing with Cheddar Ales' Gorge Best.
From crisp lagers and hop-forward pale ales to rich stouts and classic cask ales, every beer is chosen for its quality, character and sense of place.

Our cocktails are crafted using premium spirits, fresh ingredients and a commitment to quality. From timeless classics to seasonal favourites, each drink is carefully prepared to deliver balance, character and flavour in every glass.

Treat someone to an unforgettable evening at Downing's Bar — exceptional wines, handcrafted cocktails, local ales and ciders, all served in a warm and elegant setting.
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a special night out.
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
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