Creativity and an independent spirit are in Bristol’s DNA, and while urban renewal is on the rise across the city, there’s a vibrancy and edginess that’ll never be lost. With everything from world-class restaurants and a famous film legacy, to legendary artists and musicians, and ground-breaking Brunel architecture, it’s no wonder this centre of excellence is often voted one of the best places to live in the UK, and the happiest city in Britain. It also holds status as Britain’s first ever green capital – the accolades just keep coming for Bristol!
Fantastic food scene
Bristol’s robust restaurant culture is incredibly diverse, whether you’re keen for laid-back café eats or a slap-up Michelin-star meal. Combining the style of a classic French bistro with contemporary bohemian Bristol, littlefrench is a local fixture that’s a must visit. They serve up unpretentious, produce-led French fare and exceptional (yet well priced) wines – and you might recognise chef-patron, Freddy Bird, from BBC’s Saturday Kitchen and Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch.
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful, seasonal menus, but Caper & Cure is a cut above the rest. An informal atmosphere complements ever-changing, British-inspired dishes, all crafted from the best local ingredients. Then, transport yourself to Andalucia at Paco Tapas, where the food is perfectly Spanish yet elevated to Michelin levels thanks to chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias – the authentic dishes are made with a passion that’s palpable. They also serve up a range of chilled sherries served straight from the cask.
At the forefront of Bristol’s independent café scene since 2000, family-run Avenue Café is a suburban favourite among Bristolians. Their coffee is top quality, and their friendly service is unmatched – the stylish interiors are worthy of an Instagram post, too. For 100% vegan bites, head to East Village in the heart of Clifton, where homemade cakes and other treats take centre stage. You’ll also find art, gifts and homeware for an artisanal touch.
Delectable drinking
A trip to the UK’s official cider capital wouldn’t be complete without sampling the tipple it’s famed for. There’s nowhere more iconic than The Apple, a beloved Bristol experience where you can sip famously strong cider on a converted Dutch barge. If craft beers are more your bag, the Left Handed Giant is a community-owned brewing company with a brewpub overlooking the floating harbour – expect an extensive selection of IPAs, pale ales and stouts to savour, and head on a tour of the brewery if you’re keen to learn more.
Hidden in plain sight, Hyde & Co is one of Bristol’s first speakeasy bars, celebrated for its award-winning menu of NYC-inspired cocktails. Then there’s its sister bar, The Milk Thistle, where eclectic decor meets exceptional cocktails for the discerning drinker. Another firm favourite is The White Lion Pub, and with the largest terrace in the South West showing off panoramic views of Clifton Suspension Bridge, it’s easy to see why.
Awe-inspiring art and film
Bristol is a privileged place to discover, connect with, and feel inspired by art. Not only does it celebrate international contemporary art, but it’s renowned for nurturing an exciting urban art scene – it’s the birthplace of Banksy after all, whose much-loved street artwork is hidden around the city. Embark on a self-guided art tour; at one end of the historic harbour is the world-famous Arnolfini, a pioneering space presenting art that’s innovative, inclusive and engaging. The other end of the harbour is home to quirky Spike Island, where championing emerging and established artists in museum-scale galleries is the order of play every day.
You’ll be surprised by how much of Bristol you’ve already seen; it’s a hotbed of production for film and TV, and a featured location in its own right – it’s no surprise it garnered UNESCO City of Film status (one of just 18 in the world). The four times Academy Award®-winning Aardman Animations studio proudly calls Bristol home, while The Bottle Yard Studios is at the heart of the city’s thriving TV and film industry. Then there’s Britain’s first media centre, the Watershed, which offers a diverse film programme in a culturally upbeat venue.
Superb independent shopping
Bristol’s dynamic vibe extends to its burgeoning boutique shopping scene. The Clifton Arcade is a unique place where independent shops – think antiques, jewellery, and traditional sweets – sit amid Victorian splendour. Then wander the maze of quirky stalls and street food that awaits at St Nicholas Market (known affectionately as St Nicks to the locals). Established in 1743, it’s Bristol’s oldest, most loved market, and home to the largest collection of independent retailers in the city. Christmas Steps is a fascinating arts quarter that spans seven streets dating back to the 1600s, where you’ll find potteries, dress makers, musical instruments, furniture, art galleries, and more, all housed in ancient, postcard-pretty buildings.
A leading store that curates the best of Scandinavian brands and UK designer makers, Mon Pote is a homeware lover’s dream, where beautifully designed products focus on craftsmanship and sustainability. Fancy Plants is a jungle in the city for plant enthusiasts. Deck out your home with indoor plants aplenty, or take part in a workshop and learn a thing or two about plant care. Stokes Croft China makes “peculiar stuff for a peculiar society” by combining historic print with the street art and politics that abound Stokes Croft. Sales also directly fund the PRSC, so they’re actively helping the community.
