People / My Bristol Favourites
My Bristol Favourites: Nic Lenny
Nic Lenny is a Pilates specialist who is gaining international recognition as her podcast, Beyond the Reformer, approaches its first anniversary, reaching listeners in more than 100 countries.
The podcast from Nic – the founder of Soul Pilates which has studios in the city centre, Gloucester Road and the Paintworks – features conversations with some of the most respected names in the Pilates world.
These are Nic’s top-five Bristol favourites:
Stoke Park
Have you found Andy O’Neill’s wood carvings in Stoke Park? – photo: Martin Booth
“This has been a constant in my life through so many seasons. I first came here walking my dog, then with a buggy when my children were babies and now we’re back again for family bike rides. Stoke Park is one of those rare places where you feel completely removed from the city, despite being right on its edge. The views across Bristol are incredible, and it’s my go-to spot when I need to clear my head and reset.”
Bristol Lido
The food at the Lido’s restaurant overlooking its pool is inspired by head chef Pash Peter’s visits to the Ionian Islands in Greece – photo: Bristol Lido
“The Lido feels like a bit of a hidden ritual among Pilates teachers. It’s where many of us go to properly switch off. Now that my children are in school, a friend and I try to escape here every couple of months for a spa day. We’ll have a swim, brave the (always colder than expected) pool, then warm up in the sauna before settling in for lunch with a glass of English sparkling wine. The food is consistently brilliant and it really does feel like a Bristol institution.”
FED
Fed on Gloucester Road is now just a few doors down from their original premises – photo: Martin Booth
“FED on Gloucester Road is my go-to lunch spot, perfectly placed near both my home and our Bishopston studio. I always order the mushrooms on sourdough toast. It’s one of those simple dishes that’s done so well you end up craving it. As someone who’s gluten-free, I really appreciate how easy they make it to eat there without feeling limited. The only challenge is resisting the cakes.”
Miro Lounge
Miro Lounge in the former Bocabar at Paintworks is named after Spanish painter Joan Miró – photo: Loungers
“Miro Lounge sits right next to our Paintworks studio so it’s naturally become part of our rhythm, especially during teacher training weekends. It’s a lovely spot for lunch and so spacious you can always grab a table. We’ve built a great relationship with the team there over time and they always make us feel so welcome. Special shout-out to Ryan, who greets us with a big smile every time.”
Le Vignoble
Le Vignoble is within Finzels Reach on the site of the former George’s and later Courage brewery – photo: Martin Booth
“Le Vignoble in Finzels Reach is a must for wine lovers. With over 100 wines available by the glass, it’s the kind of place you can settle into for the evening and try something new each time. I have a personal connection to it too, as the owner used to host wine tastings on my retreats in Cornwall, so it’s been special watching it become part of the Bristol scene. Finzels Reach has really come into its own in recent years, and this is always one of my favourite spots for a relaxed night out.”
Main photo: Soul Pilates
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