Alternative shopping

Above: Bristol's Old Market

Old Market

Old Market is a chest of shopping treasures, some not to be found anywhere else in the city. The essence of Old Market has historically always been trade and, in parts, still is today. There are a great number of specialised traders who deal in everything from windsurfers to climbing ropes; from shop mannequins to wigs; from ironmongery to karaoke kits; martial arts gear to guitars...

But Old Market is also worth exploring for many other reasons. An ancient market place on what was for centuries the main road to London, the area is steeped in history and contains some of Bristol’s most historic buildings – over 60 of them listed. Old Market still bears witness to some ancient customs such as its Pie Poudre Court which wasn’t formally abolished until 1971. The court was situated in the still open Stag and Hounds pub and dealt out summary justice to market-day offenders.

More recently, Old Market has also become known for its vibrant and friendly gay scene.

More information on the  Old Market website or the  Bristol Gay Village business and residents association website

Stokes Croft

For a shopping experience of a different kind, head to Stokes Croft: Bristol’s cultural quarter attracts visitors from all over the country with its unusual shops, great pubs, real clubs, fabulous food and a wealth of artist studios and ever-changing exhibitions. In fact the whole area resembles an outdoor gallery with colourful graffiti that continually transforms its walls and buildings. You might see some great artwork today – but by the time you want to show it to your friends tomorrow it has miraculously vanished or changed into a completely new picture. Keep your eyes open for some of Banksy’s best known pieces, your ears open for live music streaming onto the streets, and your taste buds prepared for some exciting culinary experiences.

And as for the shopping, you might find yourself heading home with a new piano, on the back of a new bike, a picture frame around your neck, whilst carefully balancing some locally produced bone china, and munching organically grown radishes.

Park Street

Recently nominated for a Google award as the UK’s hippest street, Park Street boasts a great selection of trendy clothes boutiques, music and records stores, bars and restaurants, furniture and art galleries… But being one of Bristol’s most famous streets Park Street does not just entice with quirky shops and culinary delights but also with great vistas and a beautiful Georgian setting. Why not stroll up the hill, admire the architecture, treat yourself to a new pair of shoes on the way up, and enjoy the reward of a nice cup of coffee and spectacular views over the city at the end of it?

Christmas Steps Arts Quarter

The Christmas Steps Arts Quarter is full of fascinating independent traders and artisans, providing Bristol and all its visitors with something a little bit different... For where else could you treat yourself to a new outfit (or a vintage one) and then celebrate by blowing your own trumpet? Learn how to create your own work of art, and then sculpt your hair to match? Or dress up like a super hero and walk home in some handmade shoes? The local shops and regular artisan markets make it all possible.

This fascinating quarter of Bristol has been a shopping area for hundreds of years and twists its way through Perry Road, Lower Park Row, Colston Street, and St Michael's Hill. The Christmas Steps themselves are nationally famous for their picturesque historic shops that run up on either side of the steep steps. Together with the myriad maze of arched alleyways and secret passages they create a unique shopping experience not to be found anywhere else in the region.

Find out more on the Christmas Steps Arts Quarter website.
Download the Christmas Steps Arts Quarter leaflet

The Old City

Bristol's medieval heart fascinates visitors with its cobbled streets and avenues, historic lanes and courtyards. Historic buildings and architectural gems wait around every corner, with remains of the old city wall to be found in the most unusual of places. Why not play a game to discover the staggering number of churches in the Old City; unravel the story behind the historic brass pillars known as “The Nails” outside the famous Exchange building; or be baffled by the clock with the two minute hands. The Old City provides you with a free history lesson while taking care of all your modern world desires.

In a shopper's world the Old City is best known for St. Nicholas Market - its fantastic stalls, quirky ambience and its surrounding street markets make this a vibrant and buzzing destination. A perfect place to buy anything from trinkets to tiaras, eat anything from pies to pimentos and completely lose track of time. And out on the street, be sure to check out a Bristol favourite, the treasure trove of Stanfords, for everything the intrepid traveller needs. If you find that you lose yourself in the shopping and the evening is suddenly drawing in, there are restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs aplenty in the Old City that will keep you entertained well into the night.

Find out more about St Nicholas Market.

Where can I find these areas?

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