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.
The area is home to the Upfest street art festival, and you'll find over 170 murals dotted around the streets, as well as a gallery and shop on North Street.
Book on to a cookery class at Migrateful, or a jewellery workshop at Silver & Steel. There's also the option to get crafty in a painting, printmaking, clay or collage class at Studio Pachira.
Families and little ones can head to Windmill Hill City Farm for a working farm, community garden and outdoor play area, get lost in the mini city at Pickle Street, 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.
If you are looking to make Bedminster your base, then check out Metal Works Bristol, contemporary short-stay and student accommodation offering en-suite living, modern kitchens, gym facilities and easy access to transport links.
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 from shops on North Street and East Street, as well as the Sunday Market at the Tobacco Factory.
Shop for stylish homewares and gifts in Independent Design Collective, Mon Pote, Plant Studio and Glass Designs on North Street, or browse the various galleries and art shops in the area. Silver & Steel stock a range of unique jewellery made by independent and ethical designers. You'll find even more independent retailers tucked away in the shipping containers in Willway Yard!
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 and East Street have a high concentration of businesses, including family butchers, bakeries, and delis. You'll also find a good selection of charity shops and vintage/thrift shops for second-hand and pre-loved items, including Revival Market.
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 book onto 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, Mangosteen for Thai small plates, Souk Kitchen for Lebanese cuisine, or the popular Mark's Bread for seriously good baked treats. For breakfast, try Lounge or Yafo, and for pre-theatre dining, head to the Tobacco Factory. Over on East Street, Bombil offers a taste of Bombay street food, Ganesha has a range of Indian dishes cooked in their tandoor oven, CanCan Pizza is a Neapolitan-style pizzeria, and Sambol serves up Sri Lankan dishes.
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.
