Everything You Need to Know Before Moving to Bristol

Bristol is a truly amazing city. It has a huge student population, is very eco-friendly, and is quickly becoming something of a tech hub, being home to cutting-edge companies developing solutions in green energy, aviation, and IT. It’s a great choice for those interested in art, culture, academia, and tech, making it an excellent all-rounder for most professionals and, of course, families.

Of course, it’s always a challenge to move to a new city. While it’s always going to be recommended that you visit any city you plan to move to at least once in advance, it’s not strictly necessary. This guide covers the basics and a few tips and tricks to help you decide if Bristol is right for you, and, if it is, where you should start your property search.

Bristol: An Overview

Bristol is a thriving port city that has a little bit of everything. Stretching from its harbor all the way into the hills, it has some rather dramatic scenery for a single city. It’s also only a few hours’ away from London by train, making it a great pick for those who need access to London for work but largely operate remotely.

Bristol has also made something of a name for itself thanks to its creative heart. The student body and large artist population means that the city is rich with culture, fantastic architecture, exciting street art, and endless community projects. If you’re after a place where you can pop into a gallery or hit up an adorable independent cafe before heading out for something fun or unique to do, Bristol is your city.

Top Industries in Bristol

Bristol is a growing city, and recently, it’s seen some big businesses move in:

1. Aerospace and engineering: Businesses in the aerospace and engineering sectors, from Airbus to Rolls-Royce, call Bristol home, making it a great choice for engineers.
2. Creative and media: Bristol has a huge creative heart and is home to companies like Aardman Animations and there’s even a BBC studio. That’s not to mention, of course, the countless grassroots organizations and independent artists.
3. Tech startups: Bristol is a haven for eco- and green-centered technology companies, making it ideal for those working in urban planning, green energy, and other related fields.
4. Research: Bristol is, of course, home to the University of Bristol and UWE Bristol, making it a great base for researchers and academics.

Bristol’s Top Neighborhoods

Like any city, the area you choose to move to is going to have a considerable impact on your experience of living there. If you’re someone who feels at home at the forefront of new culture, for example, you’re not going to feel at home in Clifton, which has a more polished feel, with its leafy streets and calm atmosphere.

This isn’t to say that you can necessarily go wrong moving to one of Bristol’s top neighborhoods, but understanding the vibe of each one, and what they have to offer, can help you pick the area that’s just quintessentially you:

1.    Bedminster

Bedminster is a new and evolving area that’s perfectly at the cusp of industrial meets new-age art. In this guide to Bedminster, you’ll find top recommendations including shops, quirky cafes, and vivid, eye-catching street art. The beauty of this area is its stunning mix of converted buildings and bright, art-filled facades, giving it a unique, unforgettable character.

2.    Southville

Next door to Bedminster is Southville. Think of it as Bedminster’s older sibling. Here you’ll find highlights like the Tobacco Factory Theatres and a weekend market, where you can source artisan foods, delicious fresh produce, and a variety of handmade goods. If Bedminster is great for a younger crowd, then Southville is ideal for families.

3.    Clifton

Another posh area of Bristol is Clifton, where you’ll find stunning Georgian buildings, tree-lined streets, delicious bakeries and cafes, and of course, elevated wine bars and dining options. It’s calm, it’s refined, it’s for those who enjoy living in quiet elegance without having to leave their little spot in the city.

4.    Stokes Croft

If you’re after the exact opposite of quiet elegance, consider Stokes Croft. This is where you’ll find inventive cafes, eateries, and bars, where street art covers every possible surface known to man, and where you’re rich in options to learn and express yourself. This space is ideal for creatives and night owls who want vibrant, exciting energy at every turn.

Well, Is It Time to Move to Bristol?

Bristol is full of fun, amazing things to do, and offers excellent job prospects for a wide variety of industries. With a charming mix of art, history, and tech, it’s easily one of the country’s top up-and-coming cities, and it’s guaranteed to only get more popular. If this sounds like a city for you, then it’s time to make the move.