10 hidden gems in Bristol & beyond to discover - from hidden nuclear bunkers to a cosy cinema for two
Whether you are new to Bristol or are an old-timer, we hope you find something new to explore in this list of hidden gems
Bristol is a historic city packed full of culture and history - enough so that even the oldest of residents are likely to have missed every unique place within the city limits.
During its long and esteemed history, Bristol has always drawn curious visitors. Whether you are new to the area or are an old-timer, Bristol World has put together this list which we hope provides places you’ll want to spend a day or evening exploring.
From the old to the new, away from the usual sites and shopping centres, this list should lead you down rabbit holes and interesting turns with fascinating stories.
Whether you’re an urban explorer hoping to investigate the city’s long-lost nuclear bunker, built during the cold war, or looking to book a vintage cinema night just for two - here are 10 hidden gems to be found in Bristol:
From the old to the new, away from the usual sites and shopping centres, this list should lead you down rabbit holes and interesting turns with fascinating stories.
5. 20th Century Flicks
Not straying too far from Chance & Counters, 20th Century Flicks is a heaven for cinephiles in the city. The small store rents more than 20,000 movies on DVD and also offers an intimate 11-18 seat cinema experience available for private hire.
6. Bag of Nails Pub
Found inside 141 St Georges Road, in Hotwells, it’s very easy to miss the Bag of Nails pub as you turn the corner. This narrow pub isn’t full of your average punters though - it’s full of cats. Worn down, suspiciously cat-sized boxes litter the bar and some of the tables as the felines roam free. A record player, with a subtle reminder for customers not to f-ing touch, provides the perfect backing track to a Tuesday night quiz or board game in the upstairs area.
7. Blaise Hamlet
Blaise Hamlet is made up of nine picturesque cottages, north of the city centre. It was built in 1811 to house retired staff from Henbury’s Blaise Castle estate. One of the earliest examples of a planned community, the National Trust cottages are still home to residents today. Visits can still be made on the grounds.
8. St John on the Wall Church
This church’s origins date back to at least the 12th Century though it was rebuilt on a section of the town wall in the late 1300s - from which it became known as St John on the Wall. Four other churches were built in a similar fashion to have a defensive structure but St John’s is the only remaining building. Its tower holds Bristol’s only remaining mediaeval spire and contains six bells.