Your guide to living in Bristol
There’s a reason why this city was named the best city in England by Condé Nast in 2021, and the happiest place to live in the UK in 2019. Bristol manages to achieve the perfect balance between energetic and relaxed, with a creative flair, extraordinary food and incredible independent stores. Bristol is where the world famous street artist Banksy first explored and showcased his art back in the day. Described as somewhere that has ‘always moved to the beat of its own drum’ by Condé Nast, this area in SW England has maintained its popularity for many years, and is still a hotspot people of all ages flock to.
Where is it?
Bristol is located in South West England, more specifically it borders North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, with South Wales just beyond the Severn Estuary. The cities of Bath and Gloucester are also nearby.
What’s it like?
Combining city life with green spaces and sea, Bristol has everything. You’re never far away from the quintessential countryside in the West Country, or some sea air. Bristol was actually built around the river Avon, which runs through it, and the harbour has played an important part in making the city what it is today. With cool nightlife and a huge food and pub scene, this city is perfect if you love going out. Bristol itself is fairly compact, and not difficult to explore on foot. Something to note is Bristol’s hilly landscape, so you’ll be getting a workout in by walking around!
What’s the transport like?
Transport links from Bristol are numerous. Bristol Temple Meads, the city’s main train station, is one of the busiest stations in the South West, with trains running directly to most parts of the UK, including Wales and Scotland. There’s also Bristol Parkway, located a little further out of the city centre.
Bristol has plenty of bus routes you’re able to get around the city easily. Recently named the most cycle-friendly city in the UK based on mapped cycle ways and cycle routes, Bristol is the place to be for all you keen cyclists!
Where do the locals go?
Parks: Combining the hustle and bustle of city living with pockets of greenery, Bristol has the perfect balance. Head to Brandon Hill Park and climb to the top of Cabot Tower to soak in the city landscape. Located on the edge of the city, and just a short walk from Clifton Suspension Bridge, The Clifton Downs make you feel like you’re right in the heart of the countryside.
Events: Bristol’s nightlife is like no other. Home to some of the coolest clubs in the UK, such as Motion and Lakota, and music events like Tokyo World and Love Saves The Day, music and dancing is a huge part of this city. Find Bristol's students and young people at The Love Inn, a cosy bar offering cool live music and DJ's, or head to the iconic O2 Academy to see some of the best bands and artists around.
Activities: We already know the creative scene in Bristol is huge. Catch a theatre performance at the Bristol Old Vic or the Tobacco Factory, you won’t regret it. Clifton Village is full of eclectic shops, cafes, architecture and gardens, so you’ll never be bored in this quaint part of Bristol. St. Nicholas Market, surrounded by historic architecture, is the market in Bristol, and famous for some of the best food in the city..
The best restaurants: Love Italian food? Head to Bosco for some of the best pizzas in Bristol and Little Hollows for homemade pasta. Cargo at Wapping Wharf is home to an abundance of eateries housed in converted shipping containers. Poco is the place to go for seasonal small sharing plates, with sustainability at the heart of their business.
The best pubs: Catch the locals in the garden at The White Lion for a pint overlooking views of Clifton Suspension Bridge. Fancy something a little different? The Apple sells some of the best cider in the world… on a boat! Sit on their cobblestone quayside and drink refreshing pints in the sun with mates. Beer and cider not your thing? The hidden away Hyde and Co. has a top cocktail and whiskey selection.
The best coffee shops: Sip a cappuccino by the water at Spoke and Stringer on the harbourside, or catch locals at the tucked away at Small St. Espresso.
Shops: Known for its eclectic vintage shops, the indie scene is huge in Bristol. Find some edgy garms for your wardrobe at Beyond Retro and The Vintage Thrift Store. Also known for its independent shops, it’s always great to support small and local businesses. From plants, food, books, to records, there’s an indie shop for anything you need in this city, move over Amazon! It also wouldn’t be a Bristol guide without mentioning Cabot Circus and Cribbs Causeway, two major shopping centres catering for all your needs.
What’s it famous for?
You may know Banksy as one of the most famous and sought after street artists in the world, but Bristol was his playground when he was a kid. Starting out right here in the city, Banksy was part of the wave of street art which began in the 1980’s, continuing into the 90’s. Spot his work around the city, including his very first mural ‘The Mild, Mild West.’ Bristol was also the first British city to be named European Green Capital in 2015, due to the effort Bristolians have put in to make this city sustainable!
Want to know the average room rent for Bristol, and other UK towns and cities? Check out our latest guide here!
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