The West Country’s amiable, grooved city of moss-damp backstreets and overgrown alleyways is consistently ranked one of England’s happiest places to live. With a vibrant culture of Bristol , speciality shopping and live music it is also an affordable destination to explore and stay. The city offers a wealth of bars and restaurants including the Michelin-starred Paco Tapas and modern British restaurant Bulrush. The city’s speakeasy scene is booming too with the likes of Milk Thistle and Adelina Yard offering a mix of cider cocktails, craft beer and spirits.
Bristol’s Rich History: Heritage Sites and Landmarks to Explore
The city’s heritage is celebrated at sites like the M Shed and Bristol Museum & Art Gallery as well as engineering marvels Clifton Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain. The mighty steamship was designed by master engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel and you can still tour the galley, surgeon’s quarters and engine room.
You can also learn about the city’s past on a free walking tour led by a local guide, many of which are run by the independent group Bristol Free Walking Tour. The tours last a couple of hours and will cover the main highlights including the medieval Corn Exchange, Gothic Norman Bristol Cathedral and – of course – the king of street art, Banksy.
The affluent south of England port was a hub for trade and exploration, which is reflected in the city’s architectural heritage. The imposing St Nicholas Market is still focused on trade while the cosmopolitan cobbled streets are dotted with cafes, shops and a huge selection of pubs and bars.