Bristol is a unique and vibrant city full of history, culture, creativity and quirky finds. There are so many great ways to spend your visit – from St. Nicholas Market, the Harbourside to the city’s numerous museums, you won’t be short of options. While we love the classics (who doesn’t love a good bit of street food from St. Nick’s Market??), we wanted to recommend to you some hidden gems that are worth exploring. These are just a few ways you can experience Bristol from a different angle.
- East Bristol Books
This bookshop is a relatively new addition to the city. Located in Old Market, it is a small bookshop specialising in translated literature and poetry. The co-founders are poets and printers themselves, and they have a wonderfully curated selection of books. This independent bookshop has an eclectic mix of topics from radical, folksy and weird, critical theory to indie poetry. I was very excited to find a copy of Rebecca Solnit’s Reflections of my Nonexistence on my visit. East Bristol Books also supports small publishers and community-based projects – be sure to check out their zines!
- Sparks
This one isn’t exactly hidden, but it is definitely quirky, and definitely a gem! Sparks is located just around the corner from our hostel, in Broadmead. It was once a Marks & Spencer’s and is now a ‘department’ store full of local independent shops. You can shop for vintage clothing, hand-painted furniture, jewelry and prints. Dotted about the place are also interesting installations and fun activities like a decommissioned bus – great for kids (and adults) who want to sit in the driver’s seat! There is also a piano near one of the entrances – my first visit was accented by another visitor/talented player filling the space with beautiful music!
- Catley’s
If Clifton is on your list (as it should be!), then make sure to visit Catley’s while you’re there. An independent cafe and bakery with a beautiful aesthetic, this little gem is full of incredible pastries and excellent coffee. If you are into merch, they also have great merch! But seriously though, the doughnuts. My mouth is watering just thinking about it! The baked goods all look incredible – whatever you choose on your visit, you won’t be disappointed.
- The Loco Klub
If you are looking for a cool music venue, Bristol is full of such places. The bigger names include Bristol Beacon, The Fleece and Thekla (yes, this one is a boat). But The Loco Klub is an underground gem. Literally. It is located just near Temple Meads in the old railway tunnels. The Loco Klub is an alternative arts venue, full of creative performances and intimate music events. I saw Darlingside here and it was one of my favourite gigs, ever! Fun fact: it is a joint venture with the Invisible Circus! Fun Fact 2: The Invisible Circus used to use our hostel, before it was The Bristol Wing! (read our history here). See? It’s all connected.
- Rock Salt
If you have room for dinner after all those pastries from Catley’s, stick around in the Clifton/Cotham area and check out Rock Salt. This fantastic little spot has an extensive menu of Indian and Chinese food. There are loads of vegan and vegetarian options too. The food is excellent but be sure to book in advance as it is a small space and very popular with the locals!
- Goldney Garden
This last secret spot is very off the beaten track. Goldney Garden is part of the University of Bristol. It is a beautiful historic garden, with an Orangery, an Orchard and most interestingly, Goldney’s Grotto. This is where things get fun – the grotto is a weird and wonderful little cavern that took 27 years to create. Lit by skylights, the grotto is made with a mix of shells, minerals, coral and Bath stone. The gardens are not open to the public all the time – you will have to see when they are offering visits and tours, but it is definitely worth making a visit if you can.
- Clifton Observatory
This iconic landmark was restored in the last ten years and has a rich history in the Clifton area. An old windmill built in 1766, it now boasts a museum with a camera obscura, a cafe with 360-degree views, and the Giant’s Cave. Tickets to visit Clifton Observatory are very affordable and it is a great place to take the family, especially when the weather is nice!
