Relocating to Bristol: Insider Tips from Locals

With a bustling nightlife, a huge range of arts and cultural venues, popular eateries, independent shops and a strong sense of community all within easy reach of some spectacular countryside, it’s no wonder that so many are proud to call Bristol home.

So, if you’re thinking about joining the 479,000 people who are proud to live in Bristol, here are some of our top insider tips to keep in mind. 

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Neighbourhood in Bristol

Each neighbourhood in Bristol has its own unique vibe, and finding the right one for you will provide you with an instant sense of belonging. Here are some things to look out for when choosing your ideal neighbourhood.

Local Amenities 

If you’re a foodie and you know you’ll want to be out all the time sampling some of the best cuisine in the city, a central location will offer easy access to the likes of Wapping Wharf and St Nicholas Street Food Market. 

Or if you’re hoping to enjoy boutique bars, leafy parks and striking Georgian architecture, the Clifton area of the city might be just what you’re looking for. 

Public Transport 

The public transport network in Bristol is excellent, and it is particularly easy to get around the city by bus. There are also several night buses which run throughout the city, which you should check out if you’re a night owl. 

There are also a number of other popular ways to get around the city, including e-bikes and e-scooters, which can be picked up and dropped off at various zones across Bristol. If that’s not for you, why not jump on a boat to one of the city’s many waterfront attractions?

The Atmosphere 

If you get the chance, we recommend spending a bit of time in the neighbourhoods you are considering moving to because it’ll help you get a feel for the overall feel of the area. 

Tips for Finding Housing in Bristol 

Whether you’re looking to rent or buy a property in Bristol, here are some tips to help you find your perfect pad. 

Know Your Budget 

The Clifton area of Bristol is one of the most sought-after and expensive areas of the city, with the average price in 2023 standing at £533,118. The large number of flats sold during this time has impacted the average here, as the average semi-detached property in Clifton fetched £1,325,308. 

There are plenty of more affordable neighbourhoods in Bristol, including Montpelier which is a laid-back residential area with an abundance of Victorian and Georgian properties, independent cafes and green spaces to enjoy. The average property price in 2023 here was £472,377 with semi-detached properties selling for an average price of £700,250. 

Consider Your Needs 

It’s important that your home offers everything you need, so it’s worth making a list and taking time to think about whether these requirements are set in stone or you have some flexibility. 

One thing to note here is that parking can be challenging in many of Bristol’s neighbourhoods, so this is something to think about when looking for your ideal home. 

Speak to an Expert 

Bristol’s property market is competitive, but there are plenty of experts on hand who can help you through the process. The Hopewell team has extensive knowledge of both the city itself and the local property market, which we use to deliver a bespoke approach when assisting each client in the search for their perfect property. 

Integrating into the Community 

You shouldn’t have any problems integrating into your new community, but here are some top tips to get you started. 

Get Involved

Although it can sometimes feel a bit daunting at first, Bristol’s community groups and local events attendees are renowned for welcoming newcomers and ensuring that everyone feels included. 

There are too many community groups and local events to mention here, but we recommend keeping an eye on upcoming Bristol Open Doors events and volunteering opportunities with organisations that you’re passionate about. Of course, it’s always a good idea to join any local Facebook groups and follow local businesses and community groups on Instagram; this will help you keep up to date with upcoming events and opportunities to meet new people. 

Follow Bristol’s Festival Calendar 

Bristol is home to a host of festivals and other events throughout the year, all of which provide ample opportunities to connect with like-minded people. From the Loves Saves The Day festival in May, which is known locally as Bristol’s Glastonbury, to the free Bristol Harbour Festival in mid-July, which celebrates the city’s maritime history and thriving harbourside area, there are events for absolutely everyone to enjoy. 

While we can’t mention every festival here, notable shout-outs go to St Paul’s Carnival, the International Balloon Fiesta, and DogFest Bristol.