Abstract: An annular fluid film bearing is formed of a stator ring and a rotatable element concentrically mounted within the stator ring such that an annular clearance is defined between the inner surface of the stator ring and the outer surface of the rotatable element. Fluid flows through the annular clearance, and hydrostatic pressure of the fluid in the clearance provides radial support to the rotatable element and stiffness and damping for the bearing. A diffuser and inlet flow guide is mounted adjacent the inlet end of the annular bearing clearance. The diffuser and inlet flow guide comprises a ring having a plurality of flow passages formed in its inner surface facing the rotatable element. The flow passages are configured to turn the fluid approaching the inlet of the annular bearing clearance such that the fluid entering the annular clearance has a tangential velocity opposite to the direction of rotation of the rotatable element.