Bristol News by HANA - Edition 52
Bristol Bites: dining delights
Let’s be honest. Many of us indulge in a cheeky takeaway from the local chippy now and again. Long may that British tradition continue. But Bristol’s reputation for culinary creativity is burgeoning. The variety and vitality of the city’s diverse dining and drinking options can now expect yet more Michelin stars for excellent eateries and rave reviews for the best bars.
The Telegraph newspaper has picked out 22 Bristol restaurants for particular praise (scroll down for the full story). To mention just a few, Adelina Yard is named as one of the best all-rounders, alongside Marmo. They are based at Welsh Back and the Old City, respectively. Best for families? Pasta Ripiena (Old City) and Noah’s (Spike Island).
Yet, beyond all the mouth-watering and lip-smacking, lies another story. Bristol’s bistros and bars are a major contributor to the local economy. They not only serve peckish Bristolians, but they also attract visitors happy to fork out for some foodie fun.
In terms of the broader night-time economy, restaurants and other outlets employ over 116,000 people. That’s 41% of Bristol’s total employment and far higher than the UK average of 27%. So, it’s an important sector that needs to be supported. (See Data Box below).
Clearly, Covid had a huge impact on Bristol’s restaurants, pubs and clubs. But it appears that, through a mixture of resilience and creativity, things are on the up. Those working in the sector should be applauded for their dedication to filling the belly and slaking the thirst of Bristolians and those from further afield.
Humans are not alone in enjoying a gastronomic treat. Take the case of Avon & Somerset’s Police Dog Raven. The intrepid hound sniffed out a drugs haul worth £170,000. Raven’s reward? A juicy steak. The drug dealer’s reward? Six years in jail.
Rhidian Wynn Davies | Editor in Chief
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Databox
Wine and dine
Bristol's food and hospitality sector represents a substantial portion of the local economy. The city currently hosts approximately 471 hot takeaway outlets and 305 public houses and bars, according to official data.
The broader night-time economy employs 116,339 people, representing 41% of Bristol's total employment - significantly higher than the UK average of 27%.
The visitor economy contributed a record £2.46 billion to the West of England region in 2023, supporting 46,000 jobs. Retail and hospitality venues across Bristol saw £149 million in spending during Q4 2024, representing an 8% increase year-on-year.
Major closures 2024-2025: 6 high-profile venues
Notable openings 2024: 7 significant new restaurants
Planned openings 2025: 5+ major venues confirmed
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Bristol this weekend…
This week’s top stories in Bristol
as chosen by our editorial team
Girl, 9, 'traumatised' after racist airgun attack in Bristol Bbc - September 17, 2025 A nine-year-old girl in Bristol was shot three times with an airgun during a racially aggravated assault, leaving her traumatised and afraid to leave home. Avon and Somerset Police are investigating the incident and seeking witnesses, particularly for any dashcam or CCTV footage, as they search for the suspect described in a blue padded coat on a black electric scooter. |
'Traumatised' girl, nine, 'shot with airgun' during racially aggravated assault Sky News - September 17, 2025 Bristol police are investigating a racially aggravated assault where a nine-year-old girl was shot three times with an airgun on Chakeshill Drive, leaving her traumatised. Authorities seek help identifying a 17 or 18-year-old male suspect last seen on a black electric scooter, while the victim's family has been referred to Stand Against Racism for support. |
UK City Fleet EV Divide: Bristol and Leeds Outpace London in Electric Vehicle Adoption Future Transport-News - September 12, 2025 New data reveals significant disparities in electric vehicle adoption among UK city councils, with Bristol leading at 44.5% of its fleet being electric, while Transport for London lags at just 3.2%. Experts emphasise the importance of telematics and infrastructure to support fleet decarbonization and highlight early adopters setting benchmarks for effective management in the transition to electrification. |
Bristol Bus Drivers Strike, Disrupting Travel to Popular UK Destinations and Bristol Airport, Here’s All You Need to Know Travel And Tour World - September 16, 2025 Bristol is facing significant bus disruptions due to a strike by First West of England drivers over wage issues, affecting key routes and connections, especially to the airport. Commuters are advised to check real-time updates, allow extra travel time, and consider alternative transport options during this period. |
September: Dish swap research Bristol Uni - September 18, 2025 A groundbreaking study from the University of Bristol reveals that strategically rearranging hospital menus can significantly promote healthier and more sustainable food choices, reducing patients' carbon footprints and saturated fat intake across NHS hospitals. This innovative approach, part of the NEAK project, highlights the potential for simple menu manipulations to enhance public health and environmental sustainability in various settings, including schools and workplaces. |
Elbit Systems UK denies the closure of Aztec West site BBC News - September 11, 2025 Elbit Systems UK has dismissed rumours of closing its Aztec West office near Bristol, reaffirming its commitment to providing skilled jobs and supporting the UK Armed Forces amid ongoing protests from Palestine Action. The company continues to deny allegations regarding its involvement in supplying weapons to the Israeli military. |
Red Roses players visit patients at Bristol Children's Hospital BBC News - September 19, 2025 Ahead of their Rugby World Cup semi-final against France, England's women's rugby team, the Red Roses, brought joy to young patients at Bristol Children's Hospital, emphasizing the importance of inspiring future generations. As they connected with children like twelve-year-old Martin, who was thrilled to meet them, players Marlie Packer and Abi Burton shared their own journeys of resilience and the uplifting power of sports. |
Bristol museum needs £4m of repairs, council says Yahoo News - September 15, 2025 Bristol City Council is seeking nearly £4 million from Arts Council England for essential repairs to the Grade II listed Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, which faces major defects. With over 300,000 visitors each year, the council aims to preserve this historic building, enhance its accessibility, and engage the community in its restoration efforts. |
University of Bristol Bristol - September 15, 2025 The Bath Mental Health Research Group (MHRG) has received £11 million from the NIHR to tackle mental health challenges among young people in the region, focusing on collaboration with local communities and service providers. Led by Dr. Pamela Jacobsen, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between research and practice, enhancing care and prevention strategies through active public involvement and evidence-based solutions. |
The 22 best restaurants in Bristol Discover the UK’s culinary gem, where upscale chef's tables offer intimate dining experiences and bold flavours like curried goat reflect vibrant Caribbean influences. Explore thriving food markets, trendy eateries, and innovative street food vendors, all while indulging in delectable sweets from artisanal bakeries. |
Josh and Holly Eggleton’s Pony Group to open third Root restaurant The Pony Restaurant Group is set to open its third Root restaurant in Bath on October 16, following the success of its two Michelin Bib Gourmand locations in Bristol and Somerset. Housed in a former Jamie’s Italian site, Root Bath will feature a vibrant menu of vegetable-led dishes and a spacious two-floor layout with seating for 95, all while emphasising local sourcing from nearby suppliers. |
Avon and Somerset police dog 'earns steak' after finding drugs haul Bbc - September 18, 2025 In a remarkable operation, PD Raven, a new search dog with Avon and Somerset Police, helped locate a drugs haul worth £170,000 in Easton, Bristol, leading to the arrest of Kamar Lewis, who was subsequently sentenced to six years in prison. As a reward for his outstanding work, PD Raven "earned a steak." |
Sport
Gavin Marshall: Saudi Arabian takeover of Bristol City 'purely speculation', says director BBC Sport - September 18, 2025 Bristol Sport Group CEO Gavin Marshall has dismissed takeover rumours involving Saudi investors, labelling them as "purely speculation." This follows the recent sale of Bristol City Women and ongoing discussions about investment opportunities by owner Steve Lansdown, who has indicated a willingness to consider selling part or all of the club. |
Bristol City Women: Lansdown family sell majority stake in WSL 2 club to group Mercury13 BBC Sport - September 18, 2025 Bristol City Women have been acquired by Mercury13, a multi-club ownership group dedicated to enhancing women's football in Europe, marking a significant shift for the club. At the same time, the Lansdown family retains a minority stake. With ambitions to return to the Women's Super League and a commitment of over £80 million to transform women's clubs globally, the team continues to play at Ashton Gate, looking ahead to their next match against Southampton on September 21. |
Bristol City: Anis Mehmeti key to Robins success BBC Sport - September 14, 2025 Bristol City is off to a fantastic start this season, sitting third in the league thanks to standout performances, including a 4-1 win over Sheffield United. Anis Mehmeti has emerged as a key player, showcasing his skills with a goal and an assist in the recent match against Sheffield Wednesday, highlighting his crucial role in the team's attacking success. |
England vs Scotland live: Result and reaction from World Cup quarter-final The Independent - September 14, 2025 England triumphed over Scotland with a commanding 40-8 win in the Women's Rugby World Cup quarter-finals, showcasing their strength and setting up a semi-final clash against France. Despite some pre-match concerns, standout performances from players like Kelsey Clifford helped secure the victory, while Scotland's journey ended on a disappointing note amidst coaching uncertainties. |
Bristol City: Just how good is the Robins' start compared to previous years? BBC Sport - September 16, 2025 Bristol City, now under the guidance of Gerhard Struber, is enjoying a strong start to the Championship with two away wins and an unbeaten run, reminiscent of their best opening since the 2020-21 season. With a more dynamic style of play and multiple high-scoring games, the team looks poised for potential promotion, echoing successful seasons from the past. |
Property news
The ‘gritty’ areas of Bristol where property prices are soaring Emerging postcodes are becoming the new hotspots for property price growth, driven by improved transport links, new amenities, and local developments that attract young professionals and families. With a blend of urban convenience and suburban charm, these areas are capturing the attention of investors and homebuyers seeking long-term value. |
UK Regulator to Scrutinise £723m Student Housing Merger PYMNTS.com - September 16, 2025 The UK's Competition and Markets Authority is reviewing Unite Group's £723 million acquisition of Empiric, raising concerns about increased market concentration in the lettings sector, particularly in Bristol. Unite, which manages 25,000 bed spaces, aims to enhance its portfolio with Empiric's 7,685 bed spaces, following a successful bid accepted by Empiric's board. |
Bristol property prices continue to rise amid lack of new homes Business Live - September 18, 2025 A new JLL report reveals that Bristol's property prices are on the rise, with new build apartments increasing by 2.5% and one-bedroom flats up 6% due to high demand and a significant undersupply of housing. As average rents also climbed 2.4%, the city's appeal to university students further fuels the surge in both prices and rentals. |
Landlords and property investors: Have your questions answered on the Renters’ Rights Bill as the UK’s largest property exhibition returns to Bristol on 1 October The National Landlord Investment Show returns to Bristol on October 1, 2025, at Ashton Gate Stadium, offering landlords and property investors essential insights, networking opportunities, and the latest industry trends. Join fellow professionals for expert sessions and resources designed to enhance your investment strategies in the evolving property market! |
Rental Market Report: September 2025 Zoopla - The rental market is moving towards stabilization, with an influx of new properties easing tight conditions and leading to more predictable prices for tenants. As landlords adapt to a more competitive landscape, both parties are encouraged to stay informed about local trends for mutual benefit. |
Consultation launched for £165m housing scheme in South Bristol UK Property Forums - September 15, 2025 Allison Homes is hosting a community drop-in event on September 19, 2025, to discuss their proposed development of 510 homes in Ashton Vale, which includes 30% affordable housing and plans for green spaces and community benefits. Residents are encouraged to share their feedback at the Ashton Vale Community Centre from 3 PM to 7:30 PM. |
Suspiciously cheap Bristol house is not a pretty sight inside Bristol Live - September 13, 2025 A two-bedroom house on Whiteway Road in St George, Bristol, is set for auction with a tempting guide price of £100,000, significantly below the area's average, but it requires complete modernisation due to severe damage. With spacious interiors and off-street parking, this property offers great potential, especially considering its prime location near St George Park and local amenities. |
What’s on in Bristol this weekend?
Saturday, September 20th
UK Beatbox Championships - The 2025 UK Beatbox Championships returns to the iconic Trinity Centre for a two-day celebration marking 20 years of the national event. Described as "the Olympics of the voice," this competition has drawn over 20,000 attendees since 2005. The event continues on Sunday as well.
Stand-Up Comedy with Dane Baptiste - At the Hen & Chicken Studio (210 North Street, Southville), doors open at 7:15pm for an 8pm show. Baptiste made comedy history in 2014 as the first Black British act nominated for a comedy award at Edinburgh Fringe.
The Bohemians Queen Tribute Band - BAWA (589 Southmead Road) hosts this internationally renowned Queen tribute band from 6:45pm to midnight. The band has been praised by Queen's own Brian May as "brilliant" and Roger Taylor described their performance as "uncanny".
Bristol Card Show - Day one of a two-day trading card and collectables event at EP1, Enterprise Park, UWE Bristol. Features over 250 vendor tables, retro gaming arcade, live auctions at 11am and 2pm, and a dedicated kids zone with free face painting.
Geoff Norcott Comedy Show - The Redgrave Theatre (Percival Road, Clifton) presents "Basic Bloke 2" at 8pm. Norcott is known from shows like Have I Got News For You, The Last Leg, and Would I Lie to You?.
Sunday, September 21st
UK Beatbox Championships Day 2 - The championships continue at Trinity Centre with more vocal arts performances and competitions.
Bristol Card Show Day 2 - The trading card event continues at EP1, Enterprise Park with more vendors, auctions, and activities.
Dead Ringers Comedy Show - Bristol Beacon hosts the satirical impressionist comedy show at 7:30pm as part of their 25th Anniversary Tour.
Music Events at Bristol Folk House - Multiple events including performances from 11am-4pm and evening shows from 8pm-10:30pm.
Ongoing Through the Weekend
Heritage Open Days - Running September 12-21, venues across Bristol open their doors for free or reduced-price access to historic buildings and cultural sites.
Bristol Cocktail Weekend Preview - While the main Bristol Cocktail Weekend runs September 25-28, some participating bars may begin early promotions. The festival features £6 signature cocktails at over 30 participating venues including Milk Thistle, The Granary Club, and Harvey Nichols Second Floor Bar.
Theatre and Music Venues
Bristol Old Vic continues its run of "Starter for Ten" (September 18-October 11) and offers theatre tours. St George's Bristol has various music events scheduled, while Bristol Beacon hosts multiple performances throughout the weekend.
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Riley unless otherwise specified.
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