10 reasons why people want to move to Bristol

Property in Bristol is booming at the moment, with home workers flocking from London and beyond to set up shop in a city where culture and community is key.

Here are just some of the reasons that make Bristol an attractive base.

Sustainability is high on the agenda

It’s no secret that Bristolians care deeply about the environment. We were the first British city to achieve Green Capital status, were ranked the UK’s greenest city in 2017 and are the UK’s first cycling city. Bristol even influenced international policy at the UN climate change summit in Paris in 2015, impressing with its commitment to clean transport and energy. From the Bristol Clean Air Zone to plans for a Bristol underground, there’s plenty going on to help tackle pressing environmental issues.

City, countryside and seaside living all in one

Bristol might be a heaving metropolis, but you’re never far away from a calming walk in nature thanks to Leigh Woods, Ashton Court Estate and the Avon Trail being on the doorstep. Looking for an open space, fresh air and gorgeous views without having to leave the city? Head to Clifton Suspension Bridge or the Downs. Ok, so Bristol isn’t technically the seaside as such, but it’s easy to grab an ice-cream and pretend you’re right by the ocean thanks to the vibrant Harbourside area with its bustling river traffic .

Foodie heaven

Bristol is just as renowned for its vibrant street eats as its fine dining scene. From Korean to Mediterranean and everything inbetween, a myriad of cuisines is always at your fingertips with a proud emphasis on independent eateries and locally-sourced produce. Bristol has also been named one of the UK’s top cities for herbivores, boasting a whopping 197 vegan friendly restaurants.

Full of culture

What floats your boat? Whether it’s art, history, sport, theatre or music, you’ll definitely find something to pique your interest in this cultural hive. Embark on even a short stroll down the road and you’ll be faced with a colourful mural, perhaps even by Banksy himself. Top cultural attractions include the M Shed, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the Arnolfini, Hippodrome and Bristol Old Vic.

The people are cool - and they care

Bristolians are not just famed for their endearing accent but also for being some of the friendliest and most accepting people in the UK. This is a city passionate about social justice - it boasts more than 1,500 voluntary organisations and has a long tradition of protests and activism. Bristol is also a City of Sanctuary, forming part of a national network to welcome sanctuary seekers and celebrate their contribution to society. Famous people who hail from Bristol include Maisie Williams, Russell Howard and Cary Grant along with the bands Massive Attack and Portishead.

Home to two superb Univerisites

The University of Bristol is one of the most popular and successful universities in the UK, ranked in the world’s top 60 in the QS World University Rankings 2021. The University of West England also climbed to 21^st place in the UK in the latest annual Guardian university league table to its best ever position. Students come from all parts of society and from over 130 different countries, helping to ensure a diverse and vibrant community.

Iconic landmarks and attractions

Everywhere you turn there is something to see and do in Bristol. Whether you fancy a peaceful turn around the city’s Medieval Cathedral, discovering exotic and endangered animals at Bristol Zoo or aquarium or stepping back in time as you step aboard the SS Brunel, there’s something for visitors and residents alike. The Clifton Suspension Bridge has become the symbol of the city and gets thrown around a lot, but it really is something truly other-worldly - you could have lived in Bristol all your life and it will still take your breath away.

Great for shopping

Bristol is the shopping capital of the South West. All the High Street staples you could want frequent the city’s Shopping Quarter or, if you’re feeling flashy, you can head to Clifton Village and perambulate round the area’s posh boutiques. For alternative shops, check out Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road, which boasts Europe’s longest street of independent retailers. Park Street is home to some of the trendiest shops in the city and Whapping Wharf, Bristol’s newest district sporting a hub of independents in shipping containers, is well worth a look. For those who like to take in some history while they shop, there’s the Old City, Old Market and the magical Christmas Steps Arts Quarter.

Gorgeous period properties

Demand for property in Bristol is skyrocketing at the moment, and it’s not hard to see why.

The city is home to some beautiful Victorian and Regency-era properties, especially in the Clifton area, which also has the advantage of being home to some incredible shops, restaurants and cocktail bars.

If historical abodes in leafy suburbs are your bag, you’ve come to the right place.

Career prospects

Many people are looking to move to Bristol due to its thriving economy and career opportunities, even at the tail-end of the pandemic. In fact, recent statistics show the city’s employment rate stands at 77 per cent - above the national average. The city supports thousands of creative jobs and is home to the BBC’s Natural History Unit. Bristol is nicknamed Silicon Gorge thanks to its large volume of high-tech industries.