Could Bristol be the city for you?
Discover Bristol – The highlights of living in Bristol
As first time buyers look for more affordable but lively alternatives to London, one city that always pops up is Bristol. This unique, vibrant city has fast become one of the most popular living cities in the UK. But why? With its rich history, thriving arts scene, and splendid employment opportunities, it won’t take you long to find out.
Eager to learn about what makes Bristol so special? Join us as we run through some of the highlights of living in Bristol.
What to expect living in Bristol?
Bristol is perhaps best known for its diverse cultural scene, which makes it a trendy city with something for everyone. A walk through the city centre will see you take in independent shops and cafes, as well as lively markets and festivals. The city’s dedication to the arts is also evident in its thriving music and arts scene, with everything from vibrant street art to cosy pubs and music venues. In other words, there’s always something going on here.
Affordability
Away from the higher prices in the capital, Bristol has a range of housing options to suit varied budgets. Best of all, with Shared Ownership you can broaden your options even further. This part-buy part-rent scheme enables you to buy a smaller share of your home, and pay subsidised rent on the remainder, opening the door to a much more affordable path to homeownership. Using the scheme, you can get access to stylish new-build developments in Bristol’s city centre, or maybe even a two bedroom home in a quiet residential area.
Outdoor space
Bristol doesn’t just have a bustling city centre – it’s also surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. The coastline is located just a short drive away, and you can also take a day trip to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the Cotswolds. Take a hike, head out for a cycle, or simply take in the stunning views. Wherever you go, the city of Bristol promises a feast for the eyes!
The history of Bristol
Do you fancy yourself a history buff? Good news – Bristol has a fascinating history that goes back centuries with strong links to Britain’s maritime heritage. See evidence of Bristol’s rich history with a visit to landmarks like the Bristol Cathedral, the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, or the Floating Harbor.
Arts, music & culture
One of the first things you’ll notice after moving to Bristol is the thriving arts scene. From the stylish locals to the edgy art venues, you’ll soon learn that art and culture is the living breathing heart of the city. Engage with your creative spirit at the many galleries and museums or enjoy a night to remember at the striking music venues. As well as adding a layer of character to the city, you’ll also find it easy to meet new like-minded people!
Transport
Worried about getting to work or the city centre in Bristol? Don’t be – getting around the city is a breeze thanks to a handy transport network. With buses, trains, and boats connecting the city and surrounding areas, you’ll have no trouble exploring all that Bristol has to offer. Cycling enthusiasts will also be delighted to hear that Bristol is a bike-friendly city with plenty of dedicated cycle lanes to take advantage of!
Looking to venture elsewhere in the UK? You’re in for a treat as Bristol is closely located to the country’s other major cities. A train from Bristol can take you to the capital within an hour, with plenty of other connections to cities like Birmingham and Southampton.
Employment
As well as being easy to get around, Bristol is a brilliant place to work with plenty of thriving industries. You can get into prospering sectors like aerospace engineering, tech, or the creative industry – there really is a huge variety of things you can do. Bristol is home to big names like Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and Aardman Animations, giving you plenty of opportunities to spread your wings. You could be a recent graduate or a seasoned professional – either way, Bristol has plenty to offer.
Bristol isn’t the most affordable city in the UK, but there are loads of ways you can save some money on your home-buying journey. At Share to Buy, you can discover a range of new-build homes in Bristol, including properties available through the Shared Ownership scheme. Head over to Share to Buy’s property portal to learn more about how we can help you today.