Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
Bristol, the alleged birthplace of the infamous pirate Blackbeard, is a small county in its own right bordered by Somerset and Gloucestershire.
As the closest major city to London, it has a fantastic and wide reaching transport network, with national and regional rail and bus links. Positioned on the M4 and M5 corridors, it’s also easily accessible by car, wherever you’re travelling from. If you’re visiting from the North of England or Scotland, flying is a great option, reducing the journey time and ensuring that you arrive fresh and ready to explore!
Whilst it’s still a major seaport, the city maintains a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with plenty of culture and attractions to ensure you have an action-packed holiday. The small county combines the round-the-clock buzz of the city with the peace and tranquillity of the miles of lush green countryside surrounding it.
We have a range of gorgeous cottages near Bristol which will help you to enjoy the best of both worlds – from making the most of the city, to getting out and about in the countryside. We have cottages to cater for everyone, whether you want to spend hours relaxing by a private pool, or like to spend your evenings sampling the wares of the local pub.
If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy some quality time with the family, we have cottages with enclosed gardens and even some with games and play facilities to keep them occupied for hours!
Couples are well catered for in this area too, with some lovely little cosy retreats, perfect for that romantic getaway together.
A happening place
You’d be hard pushed to find a South West city with more vibrancy and energy than Bristol. Buzzing with art and culture, there are music events of every genre happening all over the city; from small underground performances to huge concerts featuring A list stars.
It’s not only in music that the city excels, but also in art. In fact, Bristol is the street art capital of the UK, and we’re not talking scribbled graffiti here. The famous yet elusive artist Banksy has used many of the city’s walls as his canvas and a walking tour will take you past some of his most famous works. If fine art is more your cup of tea, the Bristol City Museum and Art Galleries has a great array of paintings, ceramics and silver from across the centuries for you to browse at your leisure.
Bristol’s 150 year old Grade I listed suspension bridge, Brunel’s first major commission, spans the Avon Gorge and is the iconic symbol of the city. You can cross the bridge on foot free of charge and it’s definitely a recommended experience for spectacular views of the gorge, Clifton and the beautiful city beyond.
Of course, a visit to Bristol would not be complete without throwing in a shopping trip for good measure. The Shopping Quarter has no end of wonderful retail complexes, from the modern £500 million Cabot Circus to the architecturally elegant Galleries shopping centre. You’ll also find an incredible array of independent shops on the pedestrianised streets of Broadmead.
A family city
There’s plenty on offer for families too, with a wealth of exceptional attractions appealing to everyone from animal lovers to science enthusiasts.
Bristol Aquarium in the Harbourside area takes you on a fascinating underwater safari through natural-looking habitats housing marine wildlife from both local waters and exotic locations.
Continue your discovery experience with a trip to Bristol Zoo Gardens. With over 400 species it makes a fantastic day out and the children are sure to return home contented after expending some of their energy in the Zoo’s great play areas.
The award winning @Bristol is one of the UK’s largest science centres boasting hundreds of fascinating interactive exhibits designed to foster learning through hands on experience. It covers all aspects of science including the body, construction, recycling, nature, the world and beyond, to the solar system and stars. If you think it’s all about entertaining the children though, think again! While you’ll all enjoy the fantastic exhibits, there are also special ‘adult only’ evenings where you can make the most of the centre without the children!
One of Bristol’s most anticipated annual events is the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta which sees a mass ascent of over 150 balloons, filling the sky with awesome shapes and colours. The four day event attracts over half a million visitors and features a wide variety of other attractions including food stalls and bars, arena entertainment and a dance stage. For a truly spectacular sight, make sure you’re there for the evening nightglow, when 30 teams light up their balloons while fireworks illuminate the sky.
A rural escape
Don’t be fooled into thinking that Bristol is all about the city though, there’s so much more to explore if you venture just a little further beyond the suburbs.
The city itself has been named the 2015 European Green Capital. Committed to tackling climate change, Bristol is determined to continue to enhance its already glowing green credentials into the future. Named an official ‘cycling city’ in 2008, it is also hot on promoting the sale of local produce and became a designated ‘Fairtrade City’ in 2005.
The county of Bristol stands on limestone foundations and stretches from the Mendip Hills to the south, right up to the Cotswolds to the northeast. Walking is a pleasure here, with such a variety of landscapes to explore. The stunning Mendips showcase an awe-inspiring range of geological features, from steep sided gorges to underground caves.
21 miles from the city of Bristol, carved into the Mendip Hills, is Cheddar, home of Cheddar Gorge. Famous for its cheese, it also has a range of other attractions, such as the caves, lookout tower and cliff top walks.
Often associated with country life is the South West accent. Bristol has its own unique version, which, unusually for a big city, is also found in its urban areas too. You’ll know it when you hear it, and once you do it’s hard not to fall into the farmer-like drawl yourself!
The market town of Tetbury in the Cotswolds managed by the Forest Association is bursting with 16th – 17th century style and makes a lovely day trip. There are a wide variety of shops selling everything from local produce to antique jewellery. Just down the road is Highgrove, home of HRH the Prince of Wales. The Highbury shop in Tetbury sells products from the Royal Estate, and if it’s good enough for him, well, it’s good enough for us!
Just seven miles from Bristol city centre is Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park, which has numerous family attractions set in a beautiful, natural countryside setting. With animals to pet, falconry displays, thrilling rides and exciting indoor and outdoor play areas, you’re guaranteed a fun filled time.
With such an action packed itinerary, you’ll need somewhere homely and comfortable to rest your head and recuperate your energy. Take a look at our Bristol cottages and you’re sure to find the perfect restful retreat, whether you’re an energetic family or a couple looking for a cosy hideaway.