Posted on February 6, 2023 February 17, 2023

Fun Things To Do in Bristol in 2023

Now that dreary Jan is out the way, we thought it would be nice to compile a list of events happening throughout the year to get us excited for the months to come, especially the warmer ones.

Bristol always has so much going on, from comedy shows and gigs to festivals and fiestas. So, whether you’re visiting for the weekend, a student new to the city, or a born and bred Bristolian, we’ve got you covered – let’s jump in!

February

Bristol Light Festival

Bristol Light Festival is back for its longest run to date, spanning across 10 days (3rd-12th February). The festival illuminates the city in neon colour with a series of commissions from local and international artists which you can follow via a trail through the City Centre. This one is free to attend and is great for all ages.

Bristol Film Festival

Throughout 2023, Bristol Film Festival will be showing many fantastic films at various locations. We’ve popped this one in Febs list due to the weather still being on the colder side of things and what better way to spend your evening than with a classic film and some popcorn!

They’re kicking off the year with their 2023 Vintage Screening series with Groundhog Day on 10th Feb and Notting Hill on 11th Feb. Followed by some Valentine’s screenings of Romeo & Juliet, Dirty Dancing, and Sleepless in Seattle.

March

Sister Act at Bristol Hippodrome

Have a Joyful, Joyful time at Bristol Hippodrome when you catch a performance of Sister Act, which is running from 6th-18th March.

Catch a gig

If you’re someone who loves catching live music, there is a great selection for you to choose from during March. O2 Academy has performances from the likes of Alex G, Loyle Carner, Daughtry, FKJ and more throughout March, be sure to check out their website for a full list of performers.

April

Cheese and Cider Festival

Good news for cheese and cider lovers alike because the Cheese and Cider Festival is back on April 1st. Take part in day filled with activities such as cheesemaking workshops, live music, cider tasting sessions and more. Hosted by The Cider Box.

Check out an exhibition

Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is always a go-to if you’re looking for something to do and its great for all ages. There are usually some great exhibitions going on throughout the year such as the Rediscovering Black Portraiture by Peter Brathwaite, which will be running from 14th April until 16th July.

May

Disney’s The Lion King at Bristol Hippodrome

From the 18th May-1st July you can catch a showing of the the multi award-winning production of Disney’s The Lion King. This production has played in more than 100 cities and 20 countries since it hit the stage back in 1997. If you’ve never seen it (or even if you have) this is one to add to your list!

Love Saves The Day

When it comes to festivals Brizzle has some great ones and to kick off the season is Love Saves The Day. Festival goers can dance the day away to a variety of musical performers across multiple stages. It takes place over the May bank holiday weekend (Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th) at Ashton Court.

If yoy’re visiting the city on this weekend and you need somewhere to stay, why not check out our available short stay lets.

June

Bristol Sounds

Bristol Sounds is one of the city’s biggest and best music events, held at Lloyds Amphitheatre on Bristol’s Harbourside. Previous headliners include Paolo Nutini, Kaiser Chiefs, George Ezra, Elbow and many more. So far the acts announced for 2023 are Jacob Collier, James & guests and A Beautiful Day Out with Levellers. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for any further announcements.

Bristol Pride

Last year an incredible 40,000 people took to The Downs to celebrate Bristol Pride and they’re back once again to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. The day starts with a colourful parade which is then followed by a big outdoor stage with music and performers, as well as family areas, silent disco, food and drink plus much more. Last year saw Carly Rae-Jepsen headline – we’re excited to see what’s to come for 2023!

July

St Pauls Carnival

July is home to St Pauls Carnival and this year it will be celebrating its 55th year! Held on the first Saturday of July, St Pauls Carnival celebrates African Caribbean arts and culture throughout the streets of, you guessed it, St Pauls! This year is set to be its biggest carnival since 2019.

Bristol Harbour Festival

If you live in Bristol you’ll know that Bristol Harbour Fest is one of the biggest days of summer! Bristol’s Harbour attracts over a quarter of a million visitors each year for a series of entertainment from musical performances, dance acts, circus performers and much more. It’s usually a sunny one so if you’re attending be sure to stay hydrated and wear suncream. 15th-16th July.

August

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Another pinnacle event of the Bristol summertime calendar is the International Balloon Fiesta, held at Ashton Court Estate on 10th-13th August. Marvel at over 100 hot air balloons as they take off and fill the sky with colour. This one really is magical to see and the best part, it’s completely free.

September

Tokyo World

Tokyo World is another great festival in Bristol, held over two days in September at Eastville Park. The festival brings people from all over to the city and has become popular with students year after year. Line up TBA.

There will of course be many more fantastic events taking place throughout summer and the months that follow but until then we’ll leave you with the above and update you as further events get announced. Keep your eyes peeled and if there are any events we’ve not mentioned, please let us know, we’re always on the hunt for exciting things to do within our wonderful city!

Posted on October 19, 2022 October 19, 2022

13 fun things to do for Halloween in Bristol

Ghosts, ghouls, and all things spooky during the month of October are, for some, way more thrilling than the pending Christmas festivities.

It’s no surprise that Bristol has a whole host of Halloween activities going on throughout the month and if you’re struggling to find the perfect activity, we’ve got you covered. From fright nights to pumpkin patches, cemetery cinemas and everything in between.

Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park

Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park has loads going on this spooky season. Head to their pummpkin patch and get hunting for the perfect Jack-o’-lantern to pop out for trick or treaters. Slots are selling out quickly, so if you’ve not yet booked, we highly recommend you do to avoid disapointment. Book tickets here.

Pumpkin patches are great for all ages, and if you’re wanting to take the perfect aesthetic autumnal photo for the gram, Avon Valley is the place to do just that!

#Gourdgeous

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FEAR Avon Valley Scream Park

If you’re wanting something a bit higher on the spooky-scale, it has to be FEAR Scream Park, which was voted the UKs Best Scream Park for the second year running. FEAR, which runs from 14th-31st October, is a sure fire way to feel the fear this Halloween. For more information and tickets click here.

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Halloween half term activities for kids

There are also plenty of activities and days out to keep little ones busy this half term:

Pumpkin picking at Puxton Park (19th-31st October): It is free to enter the fields on weekends and during the October half term, however, pumpkins are priced between £2-£10 if you’d like to purchase some to take home and carve for trick of treaters.
Terrifying Turnip Trail at SS Great Britain(from 22nd October-6th November): This year, the SS Great Britain is teaching us about the Victorian Era through Halloween. Did you know that back in the 19th century they would carve turnips instead of pumpkins!? See the SS Great Britain illuminated by spooky turnips, as they reveal truths about ‘All hallows eve’…
Bedminsters Haunted Halloween Trail (from 15th October): Head to the following independent shops in Bedminster and collect stickers as you seek out monsters lurking in the area. (Five Acre Farm Shop, Occasion Cakes and Catering, Glass Designs Gallery, Southville Deli, Compuwave, Farahway Cafe, Mon Pote, Lion Stores, Upfest, Bristol Flooring, Independent Design Collective, North Street Cheese Company, Trylla, No Frills Knitting, Emporium, Vx Bristol, East Street Emporium, Miss Millie’s, Revival Market, Alpha Bottle Shop and Tap). Receive a prize for finding all 20.
Wild Place Project Half Term Trail for Little Monsters (from 21st-30th October): Let little ones run wild this half term as they explore a Halloween trail. Plus see animal talks and feeds. Recieve a 20% discount on entry for those who put on their best costume or bring a pumpkin to add to the trail.
Spooky Lantern Parade (30th October): Marvel at the giant illuminated puppets as they parade through Bristol City Centre, which goes from Broadmead to King Street. The perfect way to end Halloween weekend and get out and about within the city, great fun for all of the family to enjoy.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is SSGB_SEPT_2022_010-2048x1412.jpg — *Terrifying Turnip Trail: Photo SS Great Britain*

Arnos Vale Cemetery

Visiting Arnos Vale Cemetery isn’t just for Halloween, but for the added spook factor, taking a trip during October is sure to raise the hairs on the back of your neck!

They are also showing some classic Halloween films this year within the cemetery cinema. Choose from Hocus Pocus, The Adams Family, The Corpse Bride or Interview with a Vampire. Find film screenings and tickets here.

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Bristol Film Festival: The Nightmare Before Christmas

Whilst were on the subject of Halloween classics, you can catch a showing of The Nightmare Before Christmas at Bristol Museum on Thursday 27th October, as part of the Bristol Film Festival. Catch live performances before the screening as you marvel at the Tim Burton classic amoungst the museums exhibits.

Bambalan: Halloween Drag Brunch

If you’re more about having a fun time than a scary time then head to Bambalan for their Halloween Drag Brunch on 22nd October. A Halloween special, filled with thrills, music, fizz and of course, spectacular drag talent! Tickets are going quickly so be sure to book early to avoid dissapointment.

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Motion Nightclub

For those that like to dance the night away, Motion have got a fab line-up ready for Saturday 29th October with Eliza Rose, Elkka, Sally C and Charlie Boon. Tickets are going quickly, so click here to secure yourself a night of dancing this Halloween.

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Spooky stories in the Leigh Woods Vaults

During the half term you can also head below street level to the Leigh Woods Vaults, as you embark on a dark and spooky journey. Within the largest chamber you will be met by candlelight to hear spooky stories. Please bear in mind that you will need to wear a high vis and hard hat when you get there and climb down a ladder. Book tickets here.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Untitled-design-2-1.png — *Photo Clifton Suspension Bridge*

Beauty and The Beast at Bristol Hippodrome

And finally, why not book yourself a night at the Bristol Hippodrome for a showing of Disney’s Beauty and The Beast. It may not be spooky, but it’s sure to get you ready for the cold festive months ahead. Tickets here.

So there you have it, whether you’re a born and bred Bristolian or visiting the city for the first time, there are plenty of Halloween activites going on for everyone to enjoy during October. No matter your age, get spooky this October!

Need somewhere to stay? Check out our short-lets here.

Posted on September 29, 2020 January 10, 2023

The Ultimate Bristol Suburb Guide: City Centre

Bristol city centre is located in the heart of Bristol, and it is one of the most exciting parts of the city. As you would expect, the city centre is home to many of the best bars, restaurants and attractions that Bristol has to offer. There is plenty to see and do including lots of cultural and historic attractions to keep you busy. Whether it’s your first visit to Bristol or you’re planning to move to the city, here’s a guide to everything you need to know about Bristol city centre.

City Centre Location in Bristol

The city centre’s rough geographical area can be described as being the area south of Cotham and Kingsdown and Clifton, north of the New Cut, and west of Lawrence Hill and St Pauls.

Transport to and from the city centre is easy from anywhere in Bristol. Many busses go into the city centre from the outskirts of the city, and Bristol Bus and Coach Station and Temple Meads railway station are also located in the centre.

Be aware that there is now a Clean Air Zone for the centre of Bristol. Drivers must now pay to enter the zone if their car doe not meet the zone’s emissions standards, unless you have an exception. Head to the bristol.gov website for more information, vehicle checker, and daily charges.

The History of Bristol City Centre

The city centre in medieval times was located to the north of Bristol Bridge. During the 19th century, parts of the River Frome were covered over in various stages, and this area became the main hub of the tram network and now makes up part of the city centre. The area now known as Harbourside has also seen big changes over the decades. Once a busy dock, it has now an attractive development packed with shops, bars, restaurants and attractions.

Shopping in Bristol City Centre

There is lots of great shopping in Bristol. Shoppers will find everything they need in the Shopping Quarter in Bristol city centre and there is something for everyone.

Broadmead consists of various pedestrianised streets lined with shops. Located just north of the historic centre, this area was redeveloped after the war and you can find a wide range of high street names here.

The Galleries was built in the 1980s. This modern and unique shopping centre is in the centre of Bristol Shopping Quarter. It is a huge centre with a large glass roof, and it’s home to all the big high street stores.

Park Street is an iconic shopping street in the centre, and is home to big brands and independent stores alike. This buzzing area also has lots of bars, restaurants and cafes.

There are also many markets in the city centre, with one of the biggest being St Nicholas Market in the Old City. It has been held here since 1743, and the Glass Arcade is a Grade I listed building. Visit the market to find a range of stalls selling clothes, handmade goods, food and more.

Bristol Harbourside Market is held on weekends and stretches along the waterfront. You’ll find a wide range of creative arts and crafts as well as food stalls.

The street food market on the Broad Quay is held on Wednesdays and Thursdays and is a great place to grab a bite to eat on your lunch break. While Finzels Reach Market is held on Fridays and Wednesdays, and you can discover tasty street food from local producers here.

Bristol City Centre Bars and Restaurants

You won’t be surprised to learn that there are dozens of excellent bars, restaurants and nightclubs for all tastes in the city centre. Here are some of the best.

City Centre Restaurants

Whatever type of food you feel like, there’s a good chance you’ll find something in Bristol city centre.

The Bristol Stable, Canon’s Road – Popular pizza restaurant with some unusual flavours.
Mud Dock, The Grove – A great spot for brunch, lunch or a romantic dinner overlooking the Bristol Harbour all within a relaxed atmosphere.
Four Wise Monkeys, Clare Street – Super tasty Asian-fusion food and cocktails right in the centre of Bristol. Big flavours, flavourful dishes and a playlist to accompany.
Pizzarova, Park Street – Incredible sourdough pizzas from one of the best pizza places in Bristol. They have a couple locations around the city but their Park Street spot is not one to miss!
Honest Burgers Bristol, Clare Street – One of the best places to grab a burger in the city centre.
“It’s Not” Hot Pot, Small Street – Experience the ancient Chinese cooking process that is Hot Pot for an up-close and personal dining experience.

City Centre Music and Nightlife

There are some top bars, nightclubs and live music venues in Bristol city centre. Whatever sort of night you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.

Bristol Beacon (formerly the Colston Hall) – This large concert hall puts on all kinds of performances, from rock to classical music to comedy.
The Milk Thistle – Covering four floors in a historic building, this cocktail bar and lounge is one of Bristol’s most popular bars.
Prince Street Social – A top British Brasserie with a relaxed atmosphere.
O2 Academy Bristol – Bristol’s biggest live music venue where all the biggest acts perform.
St George’s Bristol – Top music venue where you can listen to classical, blues, jazz and more.

Other City Centre Attractions and Places of Interest

There are plenty of things to see and do in Bristol city centre, from Museums and art galleries to parks and historic attractions.

To enjoy some greenery, head to one of the many splendid parks like Castle Park next to Broad Weir. This large green area is free to enter, and you can see a bandstand, St Peter’s Church and the remains of Bristol Castle’s walls and keep.

Queen’s Square is a lovely central park between the Old City and Harbourside, and College Green at the end of Park Street is also pleasant. You could also visit Brandon Hill Nature Reserve off Park Street, a historical park with great views where you will also find Cabot Tower.

Take a stroll in the Bristol Old City quarter and discover its beautiful historic buildings along with a good selection of pubs and restaurants.

Two of the most nationally established and recognised of Bristol’s theatres are in the centre – The Bristol Hippodrome and Bristol Old Vic Theatre, both of which offer a wide range of performances throughout the year.

Other interesting places to visit include Arnolfini Gallery on the Harbourside, a top contemporary arts centre; Watershed, a media centre showing independent films and other events; Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, which has some wonderful art collections as well as archaeology and natural history exhibits; and the gothic medieval beauty of Bristol Cathedral.

Posted on November 25, 2019 March 10, 2023

Montpelier

Montpelier, Bristol UK is a trendy area just north of Bristol’s city centre that boasts a bohemian vibe. In February 2018, TravelSupermarket named Montpelier as the hippest area in the UK.

The area offers a distinct atmosphere with its beautiful terraced houses, painted in pastel colours, and has become a popular choice for people seeking residential accommodation in Bristol.

Montpelier enjoys easy access to the city centre by bus, bike or car, and has its own railway station on Cromwell Road, making commuting outside of the city easy. The M32 and the A38 are also within easy reach, making it easy to get in and out of the city.

The History of Montpelier

Why Montpelier has this name is a mystery. It suggests a connection with the city of Montpellier in Southern France, but there is no known connection between the two places.

The history of Montpelier dates back to the 18th century when people used to travel from Bristol to bathe in the ponds of Montpelier. Thomas Rennison seized the opportunity and established Rennison’s Grand Pleasure Baths, consisting of baths, tea gardens, and a tavern called the Old England. This site became a popular destination where people went to escape for a while, and the unique vibe has remained until this day.

The area was also historically important during the English Civil War. There used to be an old farmhouse on Ashley Hill that was used as the local headquarters of General Fairfax and General Cromwell during the war. They based themselves here before leading an assault on Bristol, which was at that time held by Royalists, in 1645.

Shopping in Montpelier

Shopping in Montpelier is a delightful experience, with a few excellent shops situated on Picton Street. Radford Mill Farm Shop has been operating for decades and specialises in whole foods and organic vegetables. C & T Licata & Son, an Italian deli, has also been around for many years and is a great place to purchase quality food and wine. For larger shops, central Bristol is just minutes away.

And then of course there’s Stokes Croft and Cheltenham road on the western border of Montpellier with their countless independent shops and cafes.

Montpelier Bars and Restaurants

Montpelier has numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants to choose from, most of which are independently run. The Bristolian Café is one of the most well-known cafes in the area, while the Old England is one of the most popular pubs. Café Kino, a vegan cafe, sells a range of delicious local and organic food, tea, coffee, local beers, ciders, and wines. The Playground is a popular artisanal bakery, coffee shop, and cocktail bar where you can enjoy craft beer and play board games.

Montpelier has plenty of other places to visit, including Oowee Diner, Rice and Things, and The Cadbury pub, which has a great little beer garden.

Other Montpelier Attractions and Places of Interest

Montpelier has loads to see, one of the first being The Silent Hobo mural at Montpelier Station which is one of the most well-known murals in Bristol. On one of the buildings on Ashley Road, you will see a plaque with the inscription stating that the actor Sir Henry Irving used to live there. He was apparently who Bram Stoker based the character Draculas on.

Montpelier Park is a pleasant green space, featuring the Rainbow Wall, where the bricks are painted in different colours.

The Charley Box is an interesting feature of Montpelier. Bristol did not have its own police force until 1836, and before this, a nightwatchman – a Charley – was employed. He had the power to arrest troublemakers and keep them in the Charley Box, and the box is still on Picton Street. You can see two cells inside, and one still has a manacle attached to the wall.