City guide to Bristol
What makes one of England’s smallest cities such a cool place? Two words: history and culture. Dotted across the Bristol landscape, you’ll find a record of its rich past. John Cabot, who discovered North America aboard his boat The Mathew, set sail from Bristol, and the replica of his vessel still proudly does the rounds of the harbour now. Also seen in the city is the ever-present engineering legacy of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, from the majestic SS Great Britain to the iconic and beautiful Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Bristol is a hotbed of creativity. There is an edgy urban arts community known as the Stokes Croft People’s Republic, a must-see if you are a fan of graffiti. One of the city’s most famous sons, Banksy, and his art still dominate many urban buildings in the centre, and makes for an interesting arts trail. Bristol boasts one of the most vibrant and eclectic music scenes in the country. Big names hail from this fair city – Massive Attack, Roni Size and Portishead give it a musical pedigree not to be sniffed at.
Bristol has the perfect riverside setting to celebrate all this wonderful culture, so it is no surprise there are countless festivals that take place here. From the sedate kite and balloon festivals, to the lively Brisfest and Harbour Festival, this is the place to visit of a summer weekend. If food and drink is your thing, Bristol caters for all tastes, from sushi bars, cider barges, chocolate cafés, exquisite fine dining to everything else between.
There is always something for someone going on in Bristol. It is a place where it is impossible to become bored.