Visit the buzz of Bristol city, known for its artists, activists, vibrant music culture and green open spaces. Located in the South West of England, this city was voted best city to live in Britain by the Sunday Times in 2014. In 2015 Bristol won the Green Capital of the Year award for its environmental efforts; most noticeably the wide use of bike lanes, the inner city farms and the sustainable initiatives that permeate the city.
The city of Bristol has a diverse ecosystem. Walking through the exclusive Clifton suburb you’ll find the country’s oldest working theatre, the Bristol Old Vic, as well as the Clifton Suspension Bridge; the symbol of the city of Bristol and the bridge that facilitated the first documented bungee jump in the world. A mere twenty minute walk and you’re in a very different neighbourhood: the Peoples Republic of Stokes Croft (PRSC), also referred to as Bristol’s ‘cultural quarter.’ This area is known for claiming independence, boycotting chain supermarkets like Tesco and for creating its own Bristolian currency, which encourages consumers to patronise local shops. Stokes Croft encourages people to ‘think local’, to consider the community and its local businesses.
As both study abroad students and global citizens, this semester is a chance for you to explore Europe. During your travels we encourage you to consider the identity of each community you pass through and the locals that reside; you’ll be amazed at the discoveries you find that aren’t featured in your guidebook.
SU London will be running a trip to Bristol on the 17th February. If you are interested please sign up in the Program Office.
Photo Credit: Kristoffer Trolle