The largest city in the West Country, Bristol has been a regional hub for centuries. This historic inland port city has seen maritime trade flow along the river Avon to its docks since as far back as the Middle Ages and has flourished accordingly. Although once-staple industries such as manufacturing and shipbuilding have declined, Bristol has adapted and remains one of England’s foremost cities. Each year, travellers take cheap flights to Bristol to enjoy its buzzing music and restaurant scene. Much investment in urban regeneration in recent years has made it one of the most attractive cities to visit in southern England.
Bristol is also well situated for those wishing to explore other cities and sites in the southwest. The historic city of Bath, another very popular destination in the region and perfect for a sightseeing daytrip, is only a short drive or train ride away.
Famous prehistoric monument Stonehenge is also easily accessible, as is the town of Glastonbury where the world’s largest green field open-air music and performing arts festival is held.
One of the UK’s warmest and sunniest cities due to its south-westerly location and shelter from surrounding hills, Bristol enjoys warm, sunny summers and cold, wet winters, with July and August generally the warmest months and December, January and February the coldest. Snow is rare but falls between mid-November to mid-April if at all.
Central Bristol is compact enough to mean that most locations are easily walkable, with many pedestrianised streets and picturesque quayside walking routes. There are also many cycle paths and routes should you wish to rent a bike. The First Bristol company also offers inexpensive public bus services, with the 8 and 9 routes particularly useful for visitors as they travel through the city centre and West End as well as shopping area Broadmead.