In 2023, Bristol celebrated Bristol 650. A year-long celebration of all things Bristol: who we are, where we come from, what we’ve done – and where we’re going. It was a chance to tell untold histories, mark city anniversaries and welcome new arrivals.
Find out about what Bristol 650 was marking, explore the themes of the year, discover Bristol’s Timeline and the anniversaries that were celebrated in the city in 2023.
Bringing together the joint forces of Visit West, Bristol Ideas, Bristol One City and Bristol BIDs, Bristol 650 was the most ambitious multi-partner heritage project in Bristol for over a decade. It was a project of the city, by the city.
Why is it called Bristol 650?
Bristol 650 marked 650 years since King Edward III granted important rights and privileges to Bristol by royal charter in 1373. Until this time, Bristol was divided geographically and administratively by the River Avon. The charter of 1373 gave Bristol and its suburbs jurisdiction independent from other county authorities, making it a county in its own right. Since then, Bristol has developed its own unmistakable identity, carved out by passionate locals and spirited fans.
A facsimile of the 1373 Charter is on display at M Shed. The original copy is held at Bristol Archives. Bristol marked the 600th anniversary in 1973 with Bristol 600 parades, commemorative memorabilia and a royal visit from Queen Elizabeth II.
Find out more about Bristol's History.
Themes of the Year
Bristol 650 was about many things. It was a celebration of a city as well as an honest appraisal of where it has come from and where it is now. It was about the people of Bristol; the people who have come here from other places; and the Bristol diaspora to other cities and countries. It looks ahead to how we might, together, shape our futures.
Across the programme of events, blogs and activity, there were two main themes:
We are Bristol
We are a city of individuals, each with our own talents, skills, stories and opinions which are to be heard, seen, respected and understood. We come together as a collective to make the city of Bristol – a city that is rebellious in spirit, collaborative, diverse and welcoming.
Where do my family and I come from?
What is my story? Where do I and my family come from? What are the stories of and from my community? How does the history of my house and my street fit into the wider city story? How has the city grown and evolved?
You can find out more about Bristol history, geneology and more in the Local and Family archives.
A Year of Anniversaries
As if Bristol 650 wasn’t enough, the year also included a number of other anniversaries which are important to the city. Find out more here.
Supported by National Lottery Heritage Fund:
