Bristol area guide : Bedminster

Bedminster and Southville

Postcode – BS3

South of the city, Bedminster has become increasingly popular over recent years.

Shopping – Bedminster and Southville are increasingly popular with professionals and both offer great access to the City Centre/Temple Meads etc. There is an eclectic mix of shops across East Street, West Street and North Street. Up and coming with lots to offer, the area champions independent businesses.

Schools – There are a number of primary schools in the nearby area including South Street Primary School and Victoria Park Primary. Secondary schools offer a choice between Ashton Park School and Bedminster Down School.

Age of houses – Roman origins remain inside some properties along East Street and West Street, although the majority of the area is made up of 19th century terraced houses.

Main roads – East and West Street are the main streets, though North Street is considered the heart of Bedminster, offering an exciting mix of independent shops, cafes, bars, restaurants and markets.

Main attractions – Known as Bristol’s artistic quarter, Bedminster plays host to a variety of performances and productions held at the Tobacco Factory Theatres including Shakespeare, opera, Christmas shows, comedy, puppetry and dance. For sports fans, Ashton Gate Stadium in Bedminster is the home of Bristol City FC and Bristol Rugby. Upfest (Europe’s largest street art and graffiti festival) which began in 2008, is now firmly on the events map too.

Restaurants – the Lounge on North Street is great for brunch and the Windmill is an award-winning pub.

Little known fact – Bedminster is the centre of the world’s hot air balloon industry with entrepreneur Don Cameron’s factory based on St Johns Street. Bristol’s Balloon Fiesta in August is now the largest in the world.

Population – Approx. 12,450.

Local transport – A seven-minute journey will take you from Parsons Street station to the city centre at Temple Meads. There are 37 local bus routes available throughout Bedminster and also a coach service with good access to southern Bristol and the airport. Access to the city centre on foot is easy, with several pedestrian bridges allowing you to cross the river.