Friday 17-08-2018 - 09:00

 

Nasra is the Undergraduate Education Officer. She is one of six full-time elected officers who represent students and work to improve the student experience at Bristol. There's so much to do here in Bristol and aiming to see some of the highlights in your first year isn't a bad idea at all. From foodie delights to world class gigs, boat trips around the harbourside to shows at the Old Vic, street art tours to picnics on the downs: Bristol definitely has something to offer everyone. Nasra talks us through her top picks of what not to miss once you arrive in Bristol. 

 

See the bridge lit up against the twinkling Bristol skyline – much recommended!

 

1. Clifton Landmarks:

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is easily the city’s most recognisable landmark and is the perfect spot for watching the sun rise or set. If you go at night you can see the bridge lit up against the twinkling Bristol skyline – much recommended! This famous local landmark shouldn’t be missed by any students. There's also Cabot Tower: climbing Cabot Tower is free and whilst going up might leave you out of breath, the view is definitely worth it. The Victorian tower offers some of the best views in the city - from the top you can see the city stretch out into the distance. It is easily combined with a trip to the Suspension Bridge.

2. Lona Grill House:

This is a must visit restaurant situated in the middle of Bristol's cultural quarter on Gloucester Road. Enjoy the best Lebanese cusine with a range of fresh fruit cocktails and get plenty of food for your buck - a student's dream. 

3. Be a Culture Vulture:

Bristol is crammed full of great museums and galleries to visit, especially around the Harbourside. There’s something for everyone - from exploring Bristol’s history in the M Shed to visiting the Arnolfini, one of Europe’s leading centres for the contemporary arts. There’s also the Bristol Museum (can you spot the Banksy?), the hands-on We The Curious and a newly opened escape room where up to 48 players can compete simulatenously to escape. 

4. Go on a Street Art Tour:

Street art is a big deal in Bristol, as you might expect from the home of Banksy. No visit to the city would be complete without spotting one of his famous graffiti works, but there’s also plenty of other street art to admire. We'll be holding a Street Art tour as part of the welcome week programme.

5. St Nick’s Market:

St Nick’s Market is the place to go if you’re looking for unique gifts for family and friends. Set in a charming Georgian arcade, St Nick’s has everything from handmade silver jewellery to homemade hot sauce. You won’t regret treating yourself to something from one of the food stalls either!

6. Go on a Boat:

Embrace Bristol’s nautical heritage and make sure you step foot on a boat. Take a trip on one of the harbour ferries, enjoy a drink on The Apple cider barge, or visit the SS Great Britain... there are multitude of boating experiences for you to enjoy.

7. Head to one of Bristol’s many festivals:

Bristol is the place to be over the summer because there are so many great festivals celebrating everything from barbecues to street art. Bristol Harbour Festival and Bristol International Balloon Fiesta are not to be missed, and best of all they are both free!

8. See a show at Bristol Old Vic:

There are plenty of theatres to enjoy in Bristol, including the Winston here at the SU. But the Bristol Old Vic is the oldest continually-operating theatre in the English speaking world. That makes it just a little bit special and a great place to catch a show.

9. Rock out at the Anson Rooms:

The Anson Rooms have played a massive part in Bristol’s arts and music programme since the 1960s, hosting some impressive acts. Bowie, The Smiths, Coldplay and Amy Winehouse have all performed here. You can easily tick this one of your bucket list as plenty of Welcome Week events will be happening here. Keep an eye on Bristol SU Live for performances throughout the year.

10. Explore the Downs:

The Downs is Bristol’s largest green space with over 440 acres of peaceful and picturesque downland. If you are looking to escape the city and head somewhere a bit more green, this is the place to come (preferably with a picnic and some friends). The Downs will also be the venue for our Welcome Fair on 28 September, so come along to learn about everything on offer to you as a Bristol student.

 

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More Information:

Find out more about the Official Welcome Week Programme

Take a look at the Bristol SU Live upcoming line up

Meet your Elected Officers and find out more