Not so many cities can show off such beautiful cityscape as Bristol has. One of the most picturesque locations, this is a city with a lot of history and beauty unparalleled by the rest of the UK. If you’re considering moving to it, you’ve probably wondered, what are the best places to live in Bristol?
Well, there are plenty of choices to choose from when it comes to Bristol. Georgian houses of Clifton, waterfront apartments of Harbourside and colourful terraces of Montpelier – there truly is something for everyone in this beautiful city. Below you will find out what are the best areas to live in and what advantages put them above the rest.
8 Best Areas To Live In Bristol
These are the best places to live in Bristol.
1. Clifton
Clifton village is one of the most sought-after areas in Bristol. The reason behind Clifton’s popularity is simple once you walk through its picturesque streets with Georgian architecture terraces to the sides and wondrous and picturesque garden squares which are all over the place.
Clifton is the place of the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge and Bristol Zoo.
This area runs along the east side of river Avon, which gives it a plethora of green spaces, amongst which is the scenic Clifton Suspension Bridge Park and playground.
Clifton is abundant in amenities, and young professionals and families can enjoy all its splendours to their fullest. Without a doubt, Clifton is one of the most beautiful places in the UK, with which you will fall in love at first sight.
2. Redland
North of the Bristol city centre lies a beautiful neighbourhood for anyone who wants the best of the quiet life and energetic city living, Redland.
Redland is only a short walk away from Bristol’s city centre, while being classified as a quiet suburban area.
Because of great educational facilities and green spaces, you have a diverse population within Redland, from young families to students on term time.
Since most houses in Redland are spacious Victorian properties, the average house price tends to be on the high end, but with all the amenities and beauty, it’s well worth it.
3. Southville
Southville, known as “Bristol’s Notting Hill”, is an area south of the river Avon, and is southwest of the Bristol city centre.
Southville has been advancing at an accelerated pace since the 90s to the point where it has become a very desired place of living.
Southville has an old tobacco factory which they converted into a fine arts and theatre hub.
If you live in Southville, you’re nearby Victoria park, Spike Island, the weekly street food market and even the city centre isn’t too far off.
Southville also has a growing nightlife, so if it’s within your price range, Southville is the place to be and a place you should definitely put on the list.
4. Redcliffe
Situated in the south of the Bristol city centre, Redcliffe is an extravagant area between the river Avon and the floating harbour.
It has been a mostly business and commercial hub until more recent times when it’s seen residential area transformation.
While definitely on the pricier side, having a terrace or flat in Redcliffe brings you to the forefront of inner-city life.
So many bars and restaurants, as well as beautiful and historic locations, such as the St Mary Redcliffe Church and Temple School, are at your fingertips in Redcliffe.
If you want everything within walking distance in a central location, Redcliffe is the area of Bristol’s city centre you should aim for the most.
5. Westbury-On-Trym
While certainly not close to the centre, the northern suburb of Westbury-on-Trym has a heart of its own. If you want to be near the heart of Bristol, don’t worry, Westbury has great public transport.
Westbury-on-Trym has many both big and small independent shops, bars, restaurants and there is even a cinema for all you movie-going fans.
Westbury-on-Trym has a great green space nearby for your children and pets to run free, Canford Park. It also has the Westbury primary school, one of the best in the nation.
Overall, the primary and secondary schools in Westbury are amongst the best schools in the nation. If you can afford it, we fully recommend you check out Westbury-on-Trym.
6. Montpelier
An area near Bristol’s city centre, Montpelier is considered one of the trendiest places in the UK.
Colourful is the best word to describe Montpelier because of the ocean of terraced houses painted in sharp and vibrant colours, with some even displaying cute murals of various flowers and animals.
The Montpelier park and various bricked walls within the area are also painted, giving the place a unique feel that differentiates it from the rest of Bristol.
Montpelier is one of the areas of Bristol close to the centre, with easy access to many locations. If you want a lovely community, Montpelier is the place for you.
7. Totterdown
Right next to Victoria Park, Totterdown is a place with a charm similar to Montpelier but with its own beauty and attractions.
Totterdown is conveniently located at the perfectly balanced position of city and suburb, which is why many young professionals and families choose this charming place as their home.
Totterdown has great local shops, bars and eateries, and the Ashton Gate School is near, classified as one of the best primary schools.
Totterdown is also near great universities and some of the best secondary schools, so we especially recommend Totterdown for families looking to give their children great education opportunities.
8. Leigh Woods
Leigh Woods is the best place in Bristol for those who enjoy nature.
As the name suggest, Leigh Woods is a village south of the Leigh Woods Natural Reserve, a large green space and a jewel of the land.
Leigh Woods village is also near the Ashton Gold Course as well as Red Deer Park.
While not abundant in amenities as some others on the list, Leigh Woods village is connected to Clifton via the Clifton bridge.
Leigh Woods is quite expensive, but if you’re a family, especially a large family, we can’t recommend it enough.
Hire a box van from SDVH today to ease your house-moving stress. We also offer tail lift van hire for maximum loading convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bristol A Good Place To Live?
Bristol is a good place to live. Moreover, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and safe places to live in England.
In Bristol, if you want to enjoy vibrant nightlife, there is a place for you; if you want nature, there is a place for you; and if you want to go to a leisure centre, there are plenty of leisure facilities in Bristol to choose from.
Is Bristol Safe?
Bristol is safe. If anything, looking at the safety index, Bristol is one of the safest cities in Britain, surpassed only by Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Brighton.
You increase your safety even further in Bristol by choosing to live in more affluent and family-friendly areas such as Redcliffe or Clifton.
What Is The Cost Of Living In Bristol?
The cost of living in Bristol is relatively expensive compared to other cities with a similar population.
Bristol is far better in this regard than London, of course, but it’s more expensive than Leeds, Glasgow and even Manchester.
That being said, it’s worth the expense, as Bristol has some of the best sights and the quality of life is better than most.
What Are The Best Places To Live In Bristol For Families?
The best places to live in Bristol for families are:
- Clifton
- Redland
- Redcliffe
- Westbury-On-Trym
- Totterdown
- Leigh Woods
- Bishopston
The areas of Bristol listed above tend to have the lowest crime rates, excellent communities, best primary and secondary schools and multiple play areas. One thing to keep in mind is that these areas of Bristol have high property prices.
Conclusion
Now you know the best places to live in Bristol. The areas of Bristol listed above are definitely worth your consideration, and we hope that you find the best future home for you. If you do, you’ll fall in love with the historical sites, beautiful parks and homes with everlasting charm.