Discover the charming suburb of Westbury-on-Trym, located in the northwest of Bristol. Once a historic village, this picturesque area boasts a unique character with a wealth of well-preserved period buildings dating back to the Victorian era and the 1930s. From unique cottages to purpose-built flats and retirement homes, there is a variety of residential properties available.
Nestled at the heart of the suburb, you will find a conservation area, preserving the area’s rich history and natural beauty. The river Trym flows through the village, adding to its scenic charm. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Westbury-on-Trym and experience the perfect blend of history and modernity.
Westbury-on-Trym Location
Situated amidst several neighbouring areas, Westbury-on-Trym is ideally situated to explore the best of what Bristol has to offer. With Henbury, Henleaze, Southmead, and Stoke Bishop in close proximity, visitors and residents can experience a diverse range of attractions and activities.
The famous Downs, a public-wide open area of limestone downland, is just a short distance away from Westbury-on-Trym. The Downs also has the breathtaking picturesque Durdham Down and Clifton Down, offering scenic walks, cycling and other outdoor activities.
The A4018 road is the main transport route into the vicinity of the suburb, providing easy access to Bristol city centre and Cribbs Causeway, where it connects with the M5 motorway. Public transport is well served by nine bus routes, making it easy to travel to and from the area. Additionally, the nearby Sea Mills railway station offers easy access to other parts of the city, including Bristol Temple Meads, where rail travel can take you much further afield.
The History of Westbury-on-Trym
Westbury-on-Trym has a rich city that dates back to the 8th century, making it older than the city of Bristol itself. The area was originally given to an Anglo-Saxon noble by the King of Mercia before becoming the site of a monastery in the 10th century. Over time, the monastery was developed into a college om the 13th century, which was then redesigned and rebuilt before being destroyed during the English Civil War in the 17th century.
Many of the original college buildings were restored during the 20th century, including the oldest building in the area, the Church of the Holy Trinity. Although the church has been rebuilt several times since its original construction, the nave and aisles date back to the 13th century. The nave clerestory, chancel, choir area, and the church’s north chapel were built during the 15th century, while the church tower and reredos date back to the 19th century.
Bishop Carpenter was responsible for the restoration work during the 15th century, and upon his death in 1476, he was entombed in a crypt beneath the main altar. Westbury-on-Trym is a fascinating area to explore for history enthusiasts to discover the rich and diverse past of this picturesque suburb of Bristol.
Shopping in Westbury-on-Trym
Westbury-on-Trym has a vibrant shopping scene that caters to the needs of residents and visitors alike. The village is home to a medium-sized, Co-op, which is the largest grocery store in the area. The locals are known for their opposition to over-commercialisation, which has prevented large supermarket chains like Sainsbury’s from building larger stores in the village. However, a smaller Tesco Metro was eventually built in 2013, much to the chagrin of some residents.
Apart from supermarkets, there are plenty of independent stores in the village centre. Shoppers can explore unique books shops, artisan florists, craft shops and hardware stores, among other retailers. The area also has beauty salons and gift shops, as well as multiple banks and several charity shops. Visitors can take advantage of two free car parking areas located within the central area, making it easy to explore the village’s shopping at their leisure.
Westbury Bars and Restaurants
The Westbury-on-Trym High Street is home to quite a few traditional pubs that provide enjoyable if not particularly rambunctious evenings out. These include the Prince of Wales, Black Swan and the Mouse and the Victoria.
Despite the departure of michelin starred Casa Mia some years ago, Westbury on Trym still has a smattering of excellent restaurants. There is a Thai restaurant as well as several that specialise in Indian food. There is also the well-reviewed Villager Restaurant on Church Road, which is quaint and cosy and offers a uniquely pleasing experience thanks to the excellent service and their original twists on popular meals.
The village also has multiple cafés including one that serves gourmet coffee along with a variety of snacks which you can enjoy while relaxing around reclaimed furniture. That one can be found on Cranford Lane, straight off the roundabout that also connects the High Street and Westbury Hill, but there are plenty of other options to enjoy exploring all around the village centre.
Westbury-on-Trym Schools
Westbury-on-Trym is home to several top-rated schools, including two prestigious schools exclusively for girls. One of these schools is Badminton School, which boasts a remarkable alumni network that includes the first female Priminister of India, Indira Gandhi, as well as notable royal students such as Princess Haya of Jordan and the daughter of the Sultan of Brunei.
The village also houses Redmaids’ High School, the oldest surviving school for girls in England, which was established in 1634 as The Red Maids’ School. In 2017, it merged with the Redland High School for Girls to form its current incarnation. The independent school is renowned for its excellent academic record and provides a nurturing environment for girls to thrive.
If you’re looking for outstanding educational opportunities for your daughter in Westbury-on-Trym, you’ll find a range of top-performing schools that prioritise academic excellence and personal growth.
Other Attractions and Places of Interest
It is a charming village with plenty of attractions for visitors and residents alike. Blaise Castle, located on Kings Weston Road between Sea Mills and Henbury, is a popular destination. The 18th-century Gothic-style castle is set within a picturesque estate and it surrounded by stunning countryside. Visitors can also explore the 19th-century building on the estate, which houses and impressive art museum.
The University of Bristol Botanic Garden is another must-see attraction located directly south of Westbury-on-Trym on Stoke Park. The gardens are a haven for nature lovers and provide a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, the Shirehampton Golf club on Park hill, just beyond neighbouring Sea Mills, is a great place to enjoy a round of golf surrounded by lush scenery. Additionally, the Downs nearby host exciting Bristol events and festivals throughout the year, including concerts by famous musicians such as the legendary ska group Madness, andall-day festivals featuring an eclectic mix of performers like Neheh Cherry, Grace Jones, and Lauren Hill.
Westbury-on-Trym offers a blen of bpth relaxation and excitement, making it an ideal place to reside or visit. Whether you’re seeking a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of an action-packed adventure, there is plenty to do in thie charming village.
