The charming city with the UK’s best high street, packed with 17 independent shops
- UK Hidden Gems
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Brits have spent years enjoying staycations across the UK, searching for the best markets, beaches and cosy pubs to unwind in.
Bristol has often been a favourite for all ages, known for its lively mix of restaurants, bars and clubs.
But if that is not quite your idea of a perfect break, the city also has a great choice of vintage shops and markets, ideal for a short trip before Christmas.
Clifton Village sits at the heart of the city, perched just above the university’s hilly campus.
Filled with beautiful Georgian streets that lead up to the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge, designed by 19th century engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, here is why Clifton Village deserves a spot on your Christmas travel list.
If you love wandering along pretty streets, exploring garden squares and browsing independent shops packed with charming gifts and souvenirs, Clifton Village could be the perfect place for you.
Although locals know it as a suburb, it is only around a half hour walk from the city centre.
With rows of 18th and early 19th century terraces, the village sits close to the green open space of Clifton Downs, a public park just west of the Avon Gorge.
Princess Victoria Street, tucked between The Mall and Regent Street, along with Boyces Avenue to the east, are prime spots for unique fashion finds. Store “18” is one of roughly 17 independent boutiques.
If you are looking to refresh your home, there is also a selection of luxurious furniture on offer.
Small trinkets and jewellery make lovely gifts, which is why the Clifton Arcade, the Victorian shopping arcade near Boyces Avenue, is the perfect place to browse.
Here you will find delicate accessories, antiques, designer clothing and custom made furniture, all gathered under one beautifully restored roof.
Councillor Ed Plowden, Chair of the Transport and Connectivity Committee, said: "Princess Victoria Street is a vibrant area that has seen the benefits of offering a traffic free space.
Visitors have been enjoying browsing and shopping in a relaxed environment and taking advantage of all the outdoor spaces to eat and drink".
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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