Life in Bristol

Boats passing each other under Pero's Bridge in Bristol Harbourside, with the MShed is visible in the background. The bridge has 'Bristol Harbour Festival' written on it.

Links to everything you need to know about Bristol.

Bristol is a cosmopolitan city. With a population of almost half a million it is the largest city in the South West, and the 8th largest city in the UK. It has a diverse and multi-ethnic population and is the home of many world-famous festivals and events.

It is 90 minutes from London with easy access to nearby cities, beaches and rolling landscape. It boasts a history of Georgian architecture, gritty graffiti and harbourside living

Bristol is a vibrant, friendly place to live. More detailed information can be found on the University's main pages  (http://www.bristol.ac.uk/city/)

There are many things to see and do, please see www.visitbristol.co.uk for further details of attractions in the city and local area.


Public Transport

Buses - Most of Bristol is served by First Buses. Their website has an easy to use journey planner and timetables.

The University is a member of the First Bus Commuter Travel Club which offers staff discounts of up to 10%. 

Metrobus - Metrobus is a new modern express bus service for the greater Bristol area which sits between regular bus services and the rail network. It uses environmentally friendly vehicles with free Wifi.

Taxis - Bristol has both Hackney carriage vehicles which can be flagged down in the street and picked up at taxi ranks, and private hire vehicles which have to be pre-booked. Follow this link for further information and taxi safety tips.

Bristol is also serviced by Uber.

Further information - Extensive information on public transport in Bristol can be found on the University’s Travel and Transport pages.

The university operates an interest free loan scheme for bus and train season tickets. 


Electric Scooters

TIER electric scooters and electric bikes are available to rent throughout the city. Find out everything you need to know on their webpage or download the app.


Parking

Bristol is not known for easy parking! Most of the on-street parking throughout the central area is restricted to resident’s parking zones and car parks are on the pricey side so if you don’t live a walkable distance from the university, it is sensible to ensure you have a good public transport route. 

There is a Staff Parking system and all staff have the opportunity to apply for a permit, but applications far outweigh permits and a permit does not guarantee you easy parking.


Socialising

The University organise an extensive programme of public events that you (and guests) are very welcome to attend. This is a good way to network with other members of staff at events that interest you.

In addition to this there are a number of clubs and societies open to University staff (http://www.bristol.ac.uk/staff/social/clubs/).


Sport in Bristol

Bristol is known for many professional sports teams and many active amateur sports clubs. The University of Bristol also boasts a performance squad.

The city celebrates two Football League clubs, Bristol City FC and Bristol Rovers FC as well as a Rugby League club, Bristol Rugby. Bristol City FC and Bristol Rugby both host their games at Ashton Gate Stadium and Bristol Rovers host their home games at the Memorial Stadium. Gloucestershire County Cricket Club also have their grounds in Bristol.

Bristol City Council operate a number of sports centres and swimming pools.   

Bristol also participates in the stages of the Tour of Britain cycle race and facilities in Bristol were used as training camps for the 2012 London Olympics.


Volunteering

There are many opportunities for volunteering in your free time, whether you (or your family) want to make a difference to the local community, learn new skills, meet new people, or just have fun.

You can find opportunities on these websites:


Places of Worship

Bristol is a multi-faith community and there are many places of worship close to the university and throughout the city.

Places of worship local to the University

Places of worship throughout the city


Reporting Crime

If you’ve been a victim of crime or have witnessed one you should report it straight away. 

In an emergency always dial 999. 

If you’ve been mugged, badly hurt, or attacked in any way, or if you’ve seen a serious crime being committed, then you should ring 999 as soon as possible.

If you want to report a minor crime call 101 or go to your local police station.

Use 101 for anything not requiring an emergency response e.g:

Refer to the Police UK website for further information on reporting crime including:


Smoking

Smoking isn’t allowed in any enclosed workplace, public building or on public transport in the UK.