4 min readStreet art, street parties and street food - just a few reasons to visit this vibrant corner of South Bristol. We asked local resident Claire Greville to share some of her Southville favourites...
There is some debate amongst us locals as to where Southville ends and where Bedminster begins. So although I’ve tried to stick mostly to what is ‘officially’ Southville in this guide, there will inevitably be some overlap as the two areas are inextricably linked.
North Street
North Street is at the heart of the community and it is this lively commercial road which officially separates Southville from Ashton to the south, and slowly changes to Bedminster as you walk further east. The road is closed to cars for different events throughout the year, including both winter and summer fairs.
Over a weekend in February, the residential streets around North Street are decorated for Window Wanderland, a window-based walking trail which lights up the entire area. In September you can see locally-made crafts and art in people's homes and community spaces as part of the South Bristol Trail.
In December, the Bedminster Winter Lantern Parade takes place, which is a spectacular procession of around 1,500 people and thousands of illuminated lanterns, accompanied by brilliant music.
Window Wanderland - Source: Claire Greville
Views
Some of the best views of Bristol’s famous coloured houses can be found at the top of Southville’s hilly streets. It’s a quick and easy walk from Southville to Wapping Wharf and the Harbourside across Gaol Ferry Bridge. But before you hop back over to the other side of the river, take your time exploring the quiet streets - we have our fair share of colourful terraces here too!
- Find out about Bristol's colourful neighbourhoods, Cliftonwood and Totterdown
North St Fair - Source: Claire Greville
Street Art
As you walk around Southville and Bedminster, you’ll notice that we have a LOT of amazing street art and that’s mainly due to the fact that Upfest, Europe’s largest street art festival, takes place here every other year.
Make sure you look up and down every side street you pass by, as you never know where you might spot a fantastic mural by a world-renowned artist. And if you want to take some art home with you, pop into the Upfest shop on North Street where you can buy prints of the best pieces, as well as art supplies if you’re feeling inspired!
Image - Upfest artwork
Tobacco Factory
The Tobacco Factory is the main hub of the area. Saved from demolition by ex-mayor George Ferguson, the building now houses a relaxed, family-friendly bar and café, as well as a fantastic theatre which hosts shows all year round (the Christmas shows are always particularly brilliant!)
It's also worth checking out the weekly Tobacco Factory Market every Sunday, outside in the courtyard and on Raleigh Rd. It has some of the best food stalls in the city and is great for a Sunday morning browse.
Image - Tobacco Factory
Food and Drink
You'll be spoilt for choice with the many restaurants and bars on North Street. As well as some of the best burgers in Bristol from Oowee Diner, there are plenty more options to suit all tastes, including delicious Middle Eastern tapas at Souk Kitchen, great pizza from Pizza Workshop, and classic British dishes at The Malago. Check out The Hen & Chicken which hosts great comedy nights, Spirited for regular whisky tastings, or The Spotted Cow’s sunny beer garden which has Upfest art on display.
A bit further along North Street you'll find award-winning small plates restaurant COR, cosy wine bar KASK and a range of great coffee shops, from Albatross to Sweven. Friendly Records is a popular bar which regularly hosts DJs and live music.
Image - KASK
Bristol Beer Factory
We also have our very own brewery! Walk down North Street towards Ashton Gate in the morning and you will smell the hops of Bristol Beer Factory as you go past. There is also a lovely friendly bar inside, so next time you’re passing, pop in and try a bottle of the very tasty Southville Hop.
Image - Bristol Beer Factory
About the author
Claire Greville is a long-time BS3 resident, freelance social media specialist, and family blogger. She loves sharing the best of Bristol on her Instagram page thiscitymum.
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