Living in Bristol (BS)
A rebellious streak, a penchant for the quirky and way more than a touch of creativity: Bristol is brimming with energy and excitement at every turn. It's no wonder this eco-conscious South West city is always topping the 'most liveable' lists.
Your guide to moving to Bristol
Why Bristol is a good place to live
Living in Bristol is a whirlwind of inspiration and vibrancy, where every corner of the city has its own story to tell. It's not just a place to live, it's a lifestyle worth diving into.
It's all about embracing diversity, from the food scene to the music gigs – there's always something cool happening.
Each part of the city has its own distinct character, and that means crime rates can vary. But there are excellent schools, green spaces and independent businesses everywhere you look, so you're spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a great area to live in Bristol.
If you're into creative spaces, bustling markets and all-week-long nightlife, living in Bristol will suit you like your comfiest pair of trainers.
What is Bristol famous for?
Bristol is famous for being the birthplace of the elusive street artist Banksy. This proud association showcases the city's deep-rooted support for street art and creativity, and his presence has helped cement Bristol as a global hub for art and innovation.
Things to do in Bristol
First, hit up the Harbourside and its blend of cool cafes, boat bars and artsy markets. Get your graffiti fix in Stokes Croft and grab a bite to eat on Gloucester Road, one of the UK's longest streets of independent businesses.
Don't miss Clifton Suspension Bridge – the iconic landmark offers killer views, plus there are plenty of great pubs nearby in picturesque Clifton Village.
Average asking prices in Bristol today
We update our average asking prices every day using data from millions of properties for sale.
Properties currently for sale in Bristol
Whether you're looking for a family home or a beautiful apartment, we've got you covered.
Offers in region of
£190,000
- Bedrooms1
- Bathrooms1
- Living rooms1
1 bed property for sale
West Street, St. Philips BS2
Guide price
£650,000
- Bedrooms2
- Bathrooms2
- Living rooms1
2 bed flat for sale
Bridge Quay, 138-141 Redcliff Street, Bristol BS1
Guide price
£160,000
- Bedrooms1
- Bathrooms1
- Living rooms1
1 bed flat for sale
Kings Quarter Apartments, King Square Avenue, Bristol BS2
Bristol and beyond
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Transport in Bristol
Trains
Bristol Temple Meads in the city centre is your go-to station for longer journeys, getting you to London in 1.5 hours and Cardiff in an hour. Bristol Parkway runs trains to many major cities and can be easier to reach as it's located north of the city centre. There are several small train stations that are handy for getting around Bristol, including Clifton Down, Redland, Montpelier, Bedminster and Filton Abbey Wood.
Buses
Bristol's got a huge bus network with plenty of services to get you where you need to be. This sustainable city has brought in more bus lanes to ease the journey, but keep in mind that buses can be subject to heavy traffic at peak times.
Park and Ride
Ashton Gate and Long Ashton Park and Rides are your shortcuts to the city centre, each taking about 15 minutes.
Car
Traffic in Bristol can get pretty heavy, especially in the city centre and on the M32 at peak times. Many locals choose to cycle and avoid adding to congestion and pollution in the city.
Bristol is well-linked to major cities and the rest of the South West. Head east on the M4 to reach London in 2.5 hours or go west to reach Cardiff within an hour. The M5 runs north to south, putting Birmingham 1.5 hours away and Exeter an hour away, where it connects to the A30 towards Cornwall.
Airports
Bristol Airport is around 30 minutes away (if traffic is kind) and offers flights to various domestic and international destinations. For even more flight options, larger airports like London Heathrow and London Gatwick are a 2.5 to 3 hour drive.
Transport connections
- Castle Park Ferry Landing
- Ferry Port
- 0 miles / 0.0 km
- Bristol Bridge Ferry Landing
- Ferry Port
- 0.1 miles / 0.2 km
- Welsh Back Ferry Landing
- Ferry Port
- 0.2 miles / 0.3 km
- Bristol Temple Meads
- National Rail
- 0.5 miles / 0.8 km
- Montpelier
- National Rail
- 1 miles / 1.6 km
- Bedminster
- National Rail
- 1 miles / 1.6 km
Schools in Bristol
Bristol boasts a rich and diverse educational landscape. The city offers a wide range of primary and secondary schools, including both state-funded and independent institutions.
In terms of higher education, Bristol is home to two prominent universities: the University of Bristol (a Russell Group institution) and the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol). Both attract students from all over the world, making Bristol a lively student city.
Bristol also has several colleges and vocational training centres that cater to a variety of interests and career paths.
Schools in Bristol
- Hannah More Primary School
- Ages: 4 - 11 years old
- Ofsted Rating: Good (2020)
- Willow Park CofE Primary School
- Ages: 4 - 11 years old
- St Mary Redcliffe and Temple School
- Ages: 11 - 18 years old
- Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2015)
- Bristol Cathedral Choir School
- Ages: 11 - 18 years old
- Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
- Cathedral Primary School
- Ages: 4 - 11 years old
- Ofsted Rating: Good (2018)
- St Nicholas of Tolentine Catholic Primary School
- Ages: 4 - 11 years old