The Clooper Guide To Clifton
Bristol is rich with fantastic neighbourhoods, so let’s take a look at one of the most popular: Clifton.
Like so many of our popular locales: Clifton is bursting with fun things to do, picturesque sights and leafy streets. Let’s take a closer look at what’s in store for you in this stunning area.
PROPERTIES AND PRICES
TO BUY: Clifton is a little more exclusive than other areas in Bristol. Its Georgian architecture drives up the prices, as well as it being a generally coveted area. Primarily for its many amenities, waterside location and quaint suburb appeal. One-bedroom apartments ordinarily start at around the £130,000 or £140,000 mark. With houses starting upwards of £300,000.
TO RENT: Renting is similar to buying. Prices usually start close to the thousand per month mark. There are however plenty of houseshares available for students or professionals. These linger more around the lower prices, such as £400 or £500 per month, usually with bills included. Solo studio flats and one-bedroom apartments can start from £800 per month.
TO STAY: Typically, luxury serviced apartments in Clifton, Bristol, start at about £110-£120 per night. You can browse through some of our available properties here.
GREEN SPACES
We can’t resist starting with Bristol Zoo Gardens. Doubling as a fun thing to do and a vibrant green space both, Bristol Zoo Gardens describes itself as the ‘perfect fresh-air destination, set within 12 acres of award-winning gardens.’ You can visit over three hundred animal species from around the world, as well as many endangered species that are being conserved and cared for. There’s even ZooRopia, an aerial ropes adventure!
Additionally still, Bristol Zoo Gardens often offers the chance to join their gardeners for a day. For those of you with a green thumb, this will be a dream! The Gardens are award-winning and for good reason. Discover their beauty for yourself, and even take home some tips for your own gardening endeavours.
There is also a park in Clifton Downs. Clifton Downs is an open public space with a cafe, a playground, as well as BBQ and picnic areas. There’s free parking, free toilets and beautiful green spaces. Locals say it’s perfect for a walk with your dog, a morning jog, or simply a catch up with friends.
THINGS TO DO
Clifton is truly a treasure. There are ample activities around, without there being too many that it would risk the areas suburban feel. Here are just a few of our favourites:
- Royal West of England Academy: Bristols finest art gallery. This building hosts five naturally-lit galleries, a lively program of exhibitions and an annual open exhibition. It’s truly a sight to see for any art-lovers out there. The gallery is currently closed, with hopes of opening this year. You can keep an eye on this through their website.
- The Lido is a paradise for relaxation. A spa, a heated pool, a sauna?! A hot tub?! We’ll race you there!
- The Giants’ Cave is located in Clifton Observatory. From here, you can catch one of the most beautiful views around. Locals claim it’s even a lovely addition to your Sunday walk if you’d ever find yourself fancying one.
- Clifton Cathedral was restored in 2018 and now stands at its peak. This stunning example of 19th-century architecture is open to the public every weekday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Ashwell & Co is the perfect place to relax after a day at the gallery, or a hike to The Giants Cave. Ashwell & Co has been named one of Britain’s 50 Best Boutiques, and it’s easy to see why. Explore their website to find out more about this quirky ‘shopping and eating’ vintage experience.
AMENITIES
There are also many amenities in Clifton. Such as Clifton Downs, which has its own shopping mall, as well as a Sainsbury’s supermarket and other large chains, such as Boots and Timpsons. Clifton Village also sports a diverse selection of pubs, clubs, luxury boutiques and quirky cafes.
There is also a Clifton Leisure Centre with a highly rated gym, as well as a pool. Alternatively, head down to Amaris Universe Fitness And Boxing Gym. Clifton is a desirable place to live. There are shops containing your everyday needs lining the streets, to compensate for the larger population.
SCHOOLS
Clifton College is generally regarded as one of the best in the entirety of Bristol, which speaks for its quality and esteem. Additionally: there is also Clifton High School, Redmaids High Junior School, and The Downs Preparatory School to name a few.
As always, it’s essential to research schools extensively before making any decisions. In Clifton, you’re at least surrounded by valuable options. Each most popular school scores ‘good’ or higher with Ofsted, and there are options for single and mixed-gender schools available.
