Hi guys and gals,
My hometown of Brizzle is packed full of things to see and do. I’ve summed up eight of the best things to do if you’re heading to the South West…
See the suspension bridge
An iconic Bristol sight that’s emblazoned upon many a Bristol souvenir tea towel. Despite it being a bit of a cliché, it’s definitely worth a visit. The views across the city are amazing from here and there’s a pub called the White Lion that offers up incredible views of the bridge. If you’re a keen runner, I’d also recommend taking the running route along the portway, that passes under the bridge itself.
Brunch at The Ivy
I had been to The Ivy a few times in London so I was thrilled when it came to Bristol Town! My bestie Chelsea took me out for brunch there and it was amazing. For the level of service and fancy surroundings you are getting, the prices really aren’t that bad. Definitely one of my fave places to eat.
Have a boating experience
You can’t visit a harbour city without getting on the water at some point. You could take the ferry to cruise all the way around the harbour, but I’d suggest checking out the boat bars and restaurants to find your sea legs. Three Brothers is fab for burgers, the Grain Barge is ideal for a bevvy and Under the Stars does the most dreamy tapas.
Attend the Balloon Fiesta
This international ballooning event over four days involves multiple mass accents of hot air balloons. That familiar sight of brightly coloured balloons taking to the skies over Bristol is something that I grew up with and I even managed to fulfil my dream of going in one back in 2016.
Climb Cabot Tower
Once you’ve tackled the hill and then the many steps inside the tower, you’ll be treated to impressive views over central Bristol – and boy is it worth the effort. Head here on a summer’s day and treat yourself to an ice-cream on the way back down.
Go shopping Cabot Circus
A pretty impressive shopping destination where I used to spend most of my weekends (and most of my money!). The cinema is worth a visit as there is a rather plush director’s lounge and I’d also recommend checking out Piccolino and Harvey Nichols for post-shopping cocktails.
Experience UpfestÂ
Upfest is an annual street art festival where graffiti artists transform North street. Even if you miss the actual festival (like I sadly did last year) the art works stay up on the buildings until they are painted over the year after so it’s always worth having a wander around North Street to see what creations you can spot.
Check out Gloucester Road
Head to this hipster hangout for the best charity shop shopping and a whole host of independent cafes for brunch. Wander a little further to discover The Bristolian – their brunches are divine!
LOOKING FOR A DATE NIGHT IDEA IN BRISTOL?
Drink at the Florist
If Instagram made cocktail bars, it would probably look something like this. The Florist a huge flower wall, neon signs and a whole host of very pretty cocktails. The prices are London standard, meaning that it’s not the cheapest night out, I’ll admit that – however, it’s definitely worth swinging by for a bevvie or two, simply for the gram.
Discover a secret bar
The city is peppered with super-cool, concealed bars. Do your research online and make sure you book because they get filled up pretty quick. Personally, I’m a big fan of The Milk Thistle – just knock the door and see if you are granted entry. Also, Red Light is the perfect hangout for a romantic date night. There’s a phone box outside and you pick up the phone to ask for permission to enter.
Have you been to any of these Bristol hotspots?
R x
Rachel Recommends 
I live in Bath but rarely go over to Bristol – I’m definitely going to make a trip to check out a few of these places though – thank you for sharing x
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You definitely should! Bath is beautiful though – I need to go more often xx
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