Take a saunter south of the river to find Bedminster, Southville and Totterdown. Full of independent shops, restaurants, bars, markets, urban art, parks and city farms, these lively areas are popular with locals and visitors alike. There are several bus routes that connect Bedminster and Totterdown to the City Centre and the rest of Bristol.
Things to do
Discover Bedminster, Bristol's thriving arts district, where street art meets independent creativity. Immerse yourself in the world of urban art, local galleries, and eclectic independent shops in this unique corner of Bristol.
North Street is the centre of most of the action, offering an enviable mix of independent shops, cafes, bars, restaurants and markets. Tobacco Factory Theatres stage Shakespeare, opera, Christmas shows, comedy, puppetry and dance. Meanwhile, the adjoining Cafe Bar hosts a number of events and performances throughout the year whilst serving up a fine selection of good food and beers.
Families and little ones can head to Windmill Hill City Farm for a working farm, community garden and outdoor play area, or picnic in the many parks that Bedminster has to offer such as Greville Smyth, Dame Emily, South Street and Gore’s Marsh parks.
For sports fans, Ashton Gate Stadium is the home of Bristol City FC and Bristol Bears Rugby.
Browse the shops
The area is a haven for shoppers and foodies who regularly flock to the strip for stores such as the Southville Deli, which sells fair trade, organic and wholefoods, as well as the Sunday morning market at the Tobacco Factory.
Bedminster is also a champion for long-standing local businesses such as Spirited selling a curated collection of spirits, and Zara’s Chocolates crafting handmade sweet treats. High street brands such as Boots and Asda are also among the huge selection of retailers in the area.
Bedminster Parade, East Street and West Street have a high concentration of businesses including family butchers, bakers, jewellers, antique shops, vintage boutiques, contemporary photography studios, travel agents, banks, charity shops and chemists – to name a few.
Places to eat & drink
The area is a popular spot to enjoy a relaxing drink and some great food. Bristol Beer Factory’s taproom is the place to try some locally-made beer (or booking on to a brewery tour), while Michelin Bib Gourmand small plates restaurant COR should be your first stop if you fancy a spot of fine dining.
Head to KASK on North Street for a selection of natural wines and charcuterie, or Bombil on East Street for a taste of Bombay street food. Souk Kitchen for Lebanese cuisine, or the popular Mark's Bread for seriously good baked treats. For breakfast, try Lounge or Grounded, and for pre-theatre dining, head to the Tobacco Factory.
Take a food tour of the area's best restaurants, shops and bars with Food Tours of Bristol.
Totterdown
From Temple Meads railway station, you can see the famous multi-coloured houses lining the hills of Totterdown.
There are plenty of friendly pubs and cafes throughout the area, and Victoria Park offers incredible views over the city and the southern suburbs of Bristol. Arnos Vale Cemetery and Paintworks are just a short walk away if you want to explore further.
BANK Restaurant has been rated one of the best Sunday Roasts in the country and also serves up a menu of small plates cooked over fire for the rest of the week. Nearby you'll also find Bruhaha micro taproom, Southside bar and numerous cosy pubs which play host to entertainment throughout the week.
