Welcome to our first installation of our destination series, where we take a look at locations around the UK and why they could be the next place you call home.
In the South of England, you’d be hard pressed to find a better destination than Bristol, whatever you’re looking for. If you’re looking to relocate, and you’re looking for a new home that will bring not only bustling city life, but also a thriving creative scene, Bristol will have whatever it is you’re looking for in spades. Referenced regularly in popular culture, Bristol is known to be the music capital of the UK, and with its diverse population it’s no surprise that the city is a fantastic melting pot of cultures and sounds.
Bristol is a city that’s always alive, and there’s not quite anywhere else like it in the UK. Bristol’s thriving culture isn’t just music however, whether you’re looking for a rich history, some of the best food and nightlife in the country, or simply somewhere with a great rural landscape and stunning architecture, you need look no further.
Arts
Whether it’s film, art or music, Bristol is a city with a rightfully earned reputation as one of the key creative hubs in the country, and it’s influence in UK culture is massive. From bands like Portishead to artists like Banksy, a trip to Bristol will show you loud and clear why the city has long produced some of the country’s best artists, it’s bristling with creativity everywhere you look.
As if that wasn’t enough, in 2017 Bristol was named as the UNESCO City of Film, celebrating it’s rich history as a pioneer in the moving image. Any film fan would be spoiled for choice when visiting Bristol for where to try and find some of their favourite sets, as Bristol is one of the most sought-after filming locations for film and TV in the country, with productions such as Skins and Sherlock taking set in the city numerous times. Many fans have in fact created trails throughout the city of infamous film sets.
Nightlife
For a city so heavily invested in music, it’s no surprise that the nightlife in Bristol is some of the best in the country. Whether you’re after a more relaxed night visiting bars and speakeasies, or you want some of the liveliest venues the UK has to offer, Bristol has got you covered. One of the highlights of the city is the Library, a secret bar hidden away in the heart of the city. To even get the chance to taste the fine cocktails available inside, visitors will need to ring the doorbell and locate the entrance of the bar, hidden away behind a fake bookcase within the library’s interior. The bar is styled with a sophisticated 1920’s feel, very similar to the aesthetics of a dark academia style, books adorning the walls with dark wood panelling and moody lighting and the drinks are some of the best in the city.
If you’re looking for more of an action packed night, Motion is sure to fill you with adrenaline like no club you’ve been to before. The club is a frequent in the upper echelon of DJ Mags best clubs in the world list, currently sitting at 14th, although its peak was being ranked at no.2 in 2019, behind only the infamous Berghain in Berlin. The club regularly hosts some of the biggest and best from all sides of the electronic dance scene, from house to Drum and Bass, with many DJ’s attributing their rise in profile to the vibrant hub. Although not for everyone, if you’re looking for a night in Bristol to get your blood pumping, Motion is sure to give you a night you won’t forget.
History
Bristol is a city with a rich, cultural history, and everywhere you turn there is evidence of it’s deep past. One of the largest historical landmarks in the city is the Clifton Suspension Bridge, which was first constructed in 1864. It was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, a prolific engineer in the 19th century which revolutionised British construction, and who was later named in a BBC poll as the 2nd greatest Briton of all time. The bridge is an impressive monument, and gives a heavenly view over the Bristol area as well as being illuminated by LED lights at night. It was also the site of the first ever bungee jump in 1979, which at the time was illegal.
Another historical site that is supplied courtesy of Brunel, is the SS Great Britain. This titanic vessel was another historical achievement by the acclaimed engineer, at the time of it’s creation in 1845 being the largest ship in the world. She was the first iron ship propelled by a screw propeller, as well as also possessing two masts for added power and speed. She was the first ship to cross the Atlantic Ocean, which she did in 1845 in 14 days. You can visit the SS Great Britain in Bristol as a walk in interactive museum, with a fully reconstructed interior, and even be shown around by an actor of Mr Burnel himself. It’s a great day out and perfect for those with children as a cheap, educational time for the whole family.
Food
If you’re looking to explore the culinary side of Bristol, there’s no shortage of options throughout the gorgeous city. From the highest standards of pub grub to exciting dishes hailing from all manner of cultures, whatever your taste buds desire, there’ll be somewhere to satisfy your craving.
If you’re fancying Italian, there’s nowhere in the city better to try out than Cotto, a relaxed, casual bar which features the finest selection of wines and pasta. Cotto can give you relaxed, delicious dining on a low budget, and is perfect for catching up with friends over fine Italian food and a few drinks. Located right in the centre of the city, if you’re planning to hit the town this is the perfect stop off to line your stomach and get the festivities started.
For those more inclined towards the vegetarian lifestyle, there is also Root, which supplies some of the most creative and experimental vegetarian dishes you’ll find in the city. There are meat options on the menu also, so Root can provide something for everyone should you visit, although the restaurant’s selling point is by far it’s animal-free options. This quaint destination is a must see for any herbivore looking for food in Bristol, and has a wide array of meals across both a lunch and dinner menu.
