Clifton Village

Clifton Village 

Clifton Village is a suburb of Bristol, often known to be the affluent part of the city and is located just a 5 minute drive from the centre of town. Despite its proximity Clifton Village is much quieter and much more picturesque than other parts of the city. Beautiful Georgian and Victorian houses, built up as a result of the slave trade and the tobacco trade, line the streets whilst in the village you can find boutiques overflowing with trinkets and high end, individual clothing stores. There's something for everyone in Clifton with its cosy cafés perfect for a curled up winter catch up and its chic wine bars. Having lived in Bristol for over 15 years I'm here to share my knowledge on what to see, do, eat and drink in this marvellous quarter.

What to See?

The Clifton Suspension Bridge

One of the longest suspension bridges in the world at 214 meters, Isambard Kingdom Brunel's Clifton Suspension Bridge spans the Avon Gorge just under 80 metres above the river below. Completed in 1864, the magnificent bridge is one of Bristol's most iconic symbols which attracts thousands of visitors a year. Its stunning setting upon the cliffs of the gorge make it a sight not to be missed with views from the bridge stretching for miles across the city below.

The Observatory

High up on the downs, the Observatory offers excellent views of the Suspension Bridge below. It is also home to one of the only camera obscuras in the world that is still open to the public. Originally built as a windmill for corn and then later for tobacco the Observatory had several functions. Whist the artist William West was renting the space for use as a studio, he installed a telescope in the tower which he later replaced with the camera obscura that projected views of the bridge and surrounding city.

From the Observatory it is also possible to access the Giant's Cave for a small cost. According to popular Bristolian folklore, the cave was home to two giants. Although the giants are no longer there, it is possible to follow a tunnel into the cave and onto a small balcony 76 metres up on the cliffs. This balcony offers spectacular views of the bridge, gorge and river below and is well worth a visit.

Royal York Crescent

Once thought to be the longest terrace in Europe, Royal York Crescent offers a magnificent example of Georgian architecture and sensational views of Bristol harbour. It is set on the hillside and can be seen from the gorge below and from the other side of the harbour.

Bristol Zoo Gardens

With over 400 species of animals, Bristol zoo is the oldest zoo in the world outside of a capital city. Visitors can expect to see everything from penguins to gorillas including Afia, the zoo's baby gorilla. The zoo is open 364 days of the year (closed on christmas day) but for more information on opening times and ticket prices check out the website here.

Where to Drink?

The White Lion/ Avon Gorge Hotel

Situated on the top of the cliff's overlooking the gorge, the terrace at the White Lion pub offers breathtaking views of... you guessed it, Brunel's Suspension Bridge. Popular with locals and tourists like this is also used as a wedding and meeting location due to its friendly staff, lovely selection of drinks and buzzing atmosphere. This does all come at a cost though. As with many of Clifton's better known watering holes a bottle of wine here will set you back around £25 pounds and a single gin and tonic around 8 so it is perhaps better for a classy afternoon drink in the sun, than a larger drinking session. On sunny afternoons, or if there's football showing be sure to book in advance as it can get a bit overcrowded.

The Avon Gorge Hotel, Sion Hill, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4LD,  Telephone: 0117 403 0210

Rack's Bar and Kitchen

Slightly cheaper and perhaps the best atmosphere you will find in Bristol, Rack's is rammed every evening of the year. Situated on the other side of Clifton Village to the White Lion Rack's draws crowds in the winter due to it's candlelit wooden interior, cosy booths, warming fireplaces and the constantly changing selection of wines and beers on offer. In the summer the terrace attracts buisnessmen and women on their way home from work with hog roasts and barbeques. Large umbrella's with strong heaters mean that it's not too chilly to sit outside even after the sun has gone down  and groups gather round the tables to catch up and gossip. Rack's is also perfectly located between the bars and pubs of Clifton Village and the night clubs and late evening venues of the triangle making it the perfect stopping place if you're on the way out and customers take advantage of the many deals on offer. The owner Colin is a loveable larger than life character and will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Or if you're in Bristol during the rugby, reserve a table and join the cheering crowds.

Racks Bar & Kitchen, St Paul's Rd, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1LXT, Telephone: 0117 973 6882

The Coronation Tap - ' The Corrie Tap'

Famous amongst locals and visitors alike the Coronation Tap is well known for its live music and dimly lit interior. One of the smaller pubs in Clifton, the Tap is popular amongst students for its range of ciders sold in half pints and its lively atmosphere as well as (relatively) low prices. Be sure to try out theExhibitioncider, a cider made exclusively for this pub and not available anywhere else.

The Corination Tap, 8 Sion Place, Clifton, City of Bristol, BS8 4AX, Telephone: 0117 973 9617

Her Majesty's Secret Service

If you're looking for more of a cocktail bar head to HMSS. With the wartime theme, this dimly lit cocktail bar serves exciting and unique cocktails that you can choose from their passport style menu. Think the classics with a twist. Or an extra added bonus with every choice. If nothing on their menu takes your fancy, no worries, tell the bar tenders what you're in the mood food and they will work their magic to come up with something just for you. A truly british experience and a lot of fun, however it can be difficult to get a table on Friday and Saturday nights so book in advance!

Her Majesty’s Secret Service, Whiteladies Gate, Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 2PH Telephone: 0117 973 3926

The Somerset House

This fashionable club is a favourite amongst Cliftonites. Featuring a variety of over 60 gins and a full range of fever-tree tonics to choose between to accompany them, the candlelit booths and well decorated interior create an attractive bar in which to enjoy a laid-back drink before heading elsewhere. Slightly pricey but this is to be expected as it is located in the heart of Clifton Village. If you're not a gin plan check out the seasonal wine menu or try one of the local beers. There's something to suit everyone's taste here.

The Somerset House, 11 Princess Victoria Street, Clifton, BS8 4BX, Telephone: 0117 973 6831

Where to eat?

Brown's Bristol

Serving a variety of british classics in a stylylishly decorated interior, Brown's Bristol is located in a beautiful building that was originally modelled around the Doge's Palace in Venice. My personal favourite is the sunday roasts they serve although book in advance as it's often busy! They also serve an excellent variety of cocktails with deals on certain evenings of the week. For something a bit fancier, try their high tea serving scones and finger sandwiches for a very British feel. Look out for their themed specials such as their Royal Wedding special. In the summer even the steps outside ae packed with people soaking up the sun as they enjoy the fresh summer specials.

Brown's Bristol, 38 Queen's Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1RE Telephone: 0117 930 4777

Côte Brasserie Clifton

A typical french brasserie, serving all the classics and great wine to accompagny, Côte is a firm family favourite. Their menu is varied featuring wonderfully cooked steak with sauce, calamari, standards such as caesar salad and delightful crème brulée. They also serve a tasty breakfast menu with the likes of a full cooked english breakfast (a must if you've never tried it), eggs benedict and pancakes. Their commitment to authentically French cooking, as well as their relatively low prices makes them a firm contender when choosing where to eat. They also serve a cheaper early evening menu with a 2 courses for a set price!

Côte Brasserie, 27 The Mall, Clifton Village, Bristol, BS8 4JG, Telephone: 0117 970 6779

Primrose Café

At lunch time in Clifton there's really only one place to be. Nustled into a corner at the end of the street right next to an arch coated in Ivy, Primrose café is renowned amongst Cliftonites and those from other areas of Bristol alike. Serving an excellent menu of lunch time classics with fresh ingredients from inside their quaintly decorated house, you can expect salads overflowing with freshness, delicous brunch and sandwiches served on class A bread and packed with fillings. They also serve a variety of daily and seasonal specials all for an excellent price. Stop by even for a coffée or a piece of cake, you wont regret it!

Primrose Café, 1 Boyce's Ave, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4AA, Telephone: 0117 946 6577

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie

If you're not on a budget then be sure to check out the Ivy, Clifton. Located in a stunning building with astonishingly high ceiling and ornately decorated walls this restaurant is open 7 days a week and serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, lightsnacks and dinner. It offers a mix of British classics an food from abroad all presented beautifully and with great service. Booking is a good idea however the restaurant does hold back tables for walk in which allows a bit more freedom. The Ivy will however set you back a pretty penny or two! 

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie, 42-44 Caledonia Place, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4DN, Telephone: 0117 203 4555

The Giggling Squid

A thai tapas restaurant known for their portion sizes and excellent flavours, the Giggling squid is a great choice for those looking to sample food from the east. With varying levels of spice they serve well presented classics packed with spices in a classy room thats packed in the evenings. Despite the large flow of people in through the doors they maintain a good level of service that wont leave you disappointed! And if you're struggling to choose from the menu you can opt for one of the Tapas Sets chosen by the owners to set your tastebuds tingling!

The Giggling Squid, 34 Princess Victoria Street, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4BZ Telephone: 0117 973 2543

No. 4 Clifton

For a more elegant vibe the A la Carte menu at No.4 is perfect. Often used as the setting for boutique weddings and closely linked with Rack's Bar and Kitchen, this stunning Georgian house provides the perfect setting for a romantic candlelit meal in the centre of Clifton. As you eat you can take in the beautiful high ceilings, wooden floor and authentic townhouse feel. Their menu changes seasonally in order to incorporate the best, freshest and local ingredients and look out for their deals which are common such as a two-for-£10 dinner or £10 steak.

No. 4 Clifton, 4 Rodney Place, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4HY Telephone: 0117 970 6869

Rack's Bar and Kitchen

Equally as well known for their food as as a drinking spot, Rack's serves a varied menu throughout the day including breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. Their £5 lunch menu is legendary amongst students and locals featuring salads, baguettes and pizzas, you will not find better value for your money anywhere else nearby. There are offers everyday of the week including two for one burgers and pies, a £10 rib-eye steak, buy one pizza get one for a penny and more and on fridays they place free bar snacks on the bar. My personal favourite is the sunday roast which comes in lamb, beef, chicken and vegetarian varieties and is served with roast potatoes, mixed seasonal vegetables, delicious gravy (feel free to ask for more), and a giant yorkshire pudding. Just the sight of it is enough to make your mouth water!

Racks Bar & Kitchen, St Paul's Rd, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1LXT, Telephone: 0117 973 6882

As you can see there are plenty of things to do and plenty of places to hang out, eat and drink in Clifton. Arrive early to allow yourself time to walk around the village and take in the architecture and the boutique shops are perfect for window shopping although the large price tage may mean that's all it is- window shopping! There's also many cozy cafés to grab a coffee or a smoothie in as well as a cake or scone and I have only mentioned a very small number of the bars and restaurants that this charming area has to offer. If you fancy the classics, the Zizi's in Clifton or the Pizza express serve excellent italian food and there's a variety of other tapas and chinese restaurants so if you can't choose in advance, head to Clifton and wander around until you fnd something that takes your fancy!

Photo gallery