Londoners moving to Bristol share interesting observations

Pre-pandemic, estate agent Knight Frank estimated that 5,441 Londoners moved to Bristol in 2019, up from 3,288 in 2013.

That figure is thought to have increased further with Covid triggering a reappraisal of urban living. Many people have continued to choose to escape the capital for cities such as Bristol within reach with more green space.

But what do people from London think of Bristol after arriving? A recent thread on Reddit asked the question: ‘People who have recently moved over from London, how are you enjoying Bristol?’

Here are some of the responses:

- Really liking it so far - obviously some of this is switching the type of area within the two cities, but people genuinely do seem to be friendlier and more approachable.

- I find I really love Bristol for the amazing nature walks, much nicer than the concrete jungle. Retail shopping cannot be compared and the public transport is not great. However, Bristol is eclectic and has a vibrant live music/local scene and just feels more relaxed.

- I know Bristol has always been left wing but I wasn’t expecting it to immediately feel it in conversation, posters, attitudes etc. Although that might be because we’ve got such an unpopular government and a lot of support for strikes in general across the country at the moment.

- The size is perfect and it’s so easy to get around. I don’t miss the tube or London etiquette one bit and I don’t feel like I’m missing out on goings on

- It’s way dodgier than I was expecting for a city of its size

- Bristol is more expensive than the part of London I used to live in

- Love it. It’s like the new Shoreditch and so cheap too!

- Grew up in west London, came this year for uni. It’s cool! Finding a house for 2nd year was the most stressful experience of my life, though

- Love Bristol, there is always something happening and the air quality around the Harbourside / Clifton / Leigh Woods area is just great and in reach.

- Turns out the housing crisis is getting pretty bad here too