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 Supplying the city's skateboarders |
16 Park Row Bristol BS1 5LJ United Kingdom +44 117 914 7783 |
This is another of Bristol's skateboarding shops - if you've been here longer than a couple of hours you'll surely have noticed how big that "sport" is here. This place is always full of young skaters buying their wheels, boards and the clothes that complete the look (i.e. unfeasibly baggy trousers, sweatshirts and trainers). It's full of everything a skater needs, including magazines and videos dedicated to the sport. They also do repairs, so if you've broken your board trying to do a loop-the-loop off a building, here's the place to come. The clientele tend towards the young end of the market - you'll see kids in here hassling their parents to buy them the latest in skateboarding accessories - and it's always busy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Accessories for every occasion |
67 Broadmead Broadmead Bristol BS1 3DX United Kingdom +44 117 929 9097 http://www.accessorize.co.uk |
Ladies, you know those little things that really pull an outfit together? Well, you'll find them all here - hence the name. This is a great place to come to dress up something already in your wardrobe with a funky belt, shawl or scarf. They keep a particularly good selection of hats - warm velvet and woollen ones during the winter season and straw sun hats in the summer. There's also a wide range of fashion jewellery, soft floaty scarves and wraps, handbags and even feather boas, all displayed in various colour co-ordinated sections. Those with long hair will love their range of sparkling hair grips, slides, bands and scrunchies. And let's not forget the all-important final touches - taken care of by their make-up and nail polish range. There is another branch at The Mall at Cribbs Causeway. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Sleek and stylish jewellery |
9 All Saints Lane St Nicholas Market Bristol BS1 1JH United Kingdom |
This small unit, inside quaint St Nicholas Market, contains a wonderful selection of stylish, designer jewellery, most of which is actually made in the shop. You can watch the owner create pieces behind the counter. The window displays are full of bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings of gold, white gold and silver, with precious and semi-precious stones (amber, jade, moonstone and turquoise), as well as some of the less common stones (jasper and onyx). There's a particularly good selection of Art Deco-inspired items. If you don't see anything you fancy - which is highly unlikely - individual items of jewelery can be custom-made, just ask. Access to the shop involves a step, so is restricted for wheelchair users. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Planes, trains and automobiles, in miniature |
8 Fairfax Street Bristol BS1 3DB United Kingdom +44 117 927 3744 |
This store is a model-enthusiast's dream come true! It's packed with all types of model kits and ready-made replicas of various forms of transport. There's a massive selection of model vehicles, from tiny matchbox minis, through Formula One racing cars, to enormous (relatively speaking of course) shiny, remote control oil tankers. Airplanes are equally well-represented, with kits for jumbo jets to spitfires. As for trains, there's absolutely everything for model railways, from the locomotives and track right down to the tiny people for standing on the platform. All paints and brushes etc. needed to decorate your models are also for sale. They also sell historical figures and accessories - plinths for figurines and small electrical components. Everything required for the serious model maker, in fact. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Innovative arts in the heart of the harbour |
16 Narrow Quay Bristol BS1 4QA United Kingdom +44 117 929 9191 http://www.chicuk.net/bristol/... |
Housed in a large 1830s building, formerly a tea warehouse, the Arnolfini was founded in 1961 and is now an internationally-renowned arts complex. Situated on the harbour, it's made up of a cinema (showing art house and foreign-language films), visual art galleries (the only place in the city large enough to cater for major artists), a cafe-bar and a small bookshop. You can also find performance art, children's art sessions and author events going on every so often. The cafe-bar is particularly popular, attracting an arty crowd who share the communal benches with various trendies and professionals. Snacks and main meals, all with a Mediterranean flavour, are available noon-3pm and 5pm-8pm daily. It's especially wonderful in the summer when Bristolians like nothing better than to buy a pint from here and drink it on the quayside outside, legs dangling over the water. For exclusive offers and privileges, please visit ChicUK at: www.ChicUK.net Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Flying high |
137 St. Georges Rd Hotwells Bristol BS1 5UW United Kingdom +44 (0)117 908 7153 http://www.atmospherekites.com/ |
Visit Atmosphere Kites if you have a passion for flying kites. This store provides you the most attractive and user-friendly kites in all shapes and sizes. Whether you are an amateur learner or an expert at the art, it is sure to have something that will interest you. Visit the official website for more details on the types of kites available and their prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Underground Wine Cellar |
9 Culver Street West End Bristol United Kingdom http://www.averys.com |
Averys's underground cellars are so authentic you might think you are in Bordeaux rather than Bristol! The staff are exceedingly helpful, very knowledgeable and host regular courses to help you to distinguish your Chateauneuf du Pape from your Pinot Noir. In the business since 1793, Avery's has stayed true to the two main tenets-top quality, value-for-money wines and efficient, friendly service. As opposed to the high street shops filled with mass-produced brands, Averys continues to focus on small producers who share their passion for quality, character and authenticity. With John Avery (one of the most respected Masters of Wine in the country) travelling extensively to source the finest products, and a delivery direct to your door, we are confident you will be satisfied with every order or visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Bristol's best kept wine secret |
9 Culver Street Bristol BS1 5DL United Kingdom +44 117 921 4146 http://www.averys.com |
At last - a wine cellar you can go into without feeling intimidated! Averys manages to retain an unstuffy and informal air, thanks mainly to being situated on busy Park Street, which has meant that the staff are well-used to humouring clueless punters who've wandered in for a browse! The lack of any kind of rarefied atmosphere is refreshing and they are genuinely helpful - it's tailored for those who aren't quite connoisseurs (although these can easily be accommodated here) but still like a nice glass of red or white with their supper every so often. The historic cellars (access through the shop) boast over 1,000 wines, plus port and champagnes, the majority of which are very reasonable. The sheer size of the place is slightly overwhelming, but their free information booklet helps you to know your way around. Always check their bin-end buckets - there're usually some great bargains to be found. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classic middle-of-the-road store |
39-46 Broadmead Bristol BS1 3HB United Kingdom +44 117 929 2261 |
BHS is a bit of a British institution. You wouldn't expect to find wildly exciting and innovative stuff in here, but what you can expect are basics of high quality at reasonable prices. They have recently revamped their image somewhat with the help of various big-name designers, who have created lines of clothing or stylish home-accessories for them. So, definitely worth a look for designer-inspired gear at department store prices. It's also a good place to get kids' clothes and if you find you've run out of underwear or need a cheap swimming costume whilst you're visiting the city, you'll be spoilt for choice. They also have a range of accessories, hats and footwear. Cold drinks and snacks to takeaway can be bought on the ground floor and there is a self-service restaurant if you need some sustenance after all that shopping. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Exclusively Bristolian designs for the city's young trendies |
34 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JG United Kingdom +44 117 930 4836 |
Although the trends might come from London, this store is exclusively Bristolian, making this a definite place to check out what's new around town. It's all fairly disposable stuff - you won't find highly crafted, durable garments in here, but what you will find are the latest styles at fairly cheap prices. That's why its customers are the young and pretty, typically students and teenagers. Housing three different labels under one roof, it's split over three levels, with men on the first, women on the ground, and shoes in the basement. 'Sirens' offers evening wear, casuals, shorts and logo T-shirts at fairly reasonable prices to the tune of deafening music. 'Box' is more girlie, with skirts and blouses. 'Sobeys' is for all things vintage and retro - their range of jeans and cords is massive - and finally, the shoes in the basement range from glam to chunky, with platform boots being the most popular buy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Graham Green |
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Male Grooming Company |
124 St. Georges Road, Bristol United Kingdom 0117 9277127 |
Imagine being treated like Al Pacino in "Scent of a Woman": laid back, carefully shaved, appropriately tidied, and then set to face the world and you come close to the offering at Bespoke. Male grooming in the new millennium is fast becoming a popular service in its own right, and Sam and Jamie of Bespoke Male Grooming Company have created a distinctive service, from haircuts to body scrubs to facials and massages. When you arrive, a plasma screen with a Playstation 2 greets you while you wait for your consultation. Jamie and Sam are both very passionate about what they do and if it's local gossip you are after, Jamie will definitely have something interesting to tell you! And ladies – if you want to buy your other half a present or have him looking extra-special for the next important occasion, Bespoke also offers gift certificates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 You never know what you might find |
Stalls 66-9 and 77, Corn Street St Nicholas Market Bristol BS1 1LJ United Kingdom +44 117 925 7277 |
Having expanded several times in recent years, this second-hand bookshop offers a vast selection of titles. There are enormous piles of general fiction (from trashy romances to highly respected modern authors) plus a number of featured subjects including art, theology, science, and other academic disciplines including classical literature - all of which overflow off the shelves, sit in piles on the floor and are even stacked up outside the shop in the market alleyways. Maps and sheet music are also bought and sold and a number of first editions and other rarities are also on offer. It's a great place to browse and the owner is one of those eccentric and friendly second-hand bookshop proprietors that have almost all died out - it's well-worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A little bit of Africa in Bristol |
47 Colston Street Bristol BS1 5AX United Kingdom +44 117 926 0902 |
Walking into Biashara evokes a warm, exotic feeling - the whole place is a blend of earthy, spicy colors, rich textiles, warm and faintly exotic incense and wonderful music. It's a Fair Trade Co-operative and a world music specialist, boasting the largest range of African, Latin American, Asian and European music in Bristol. Upstairs is Joliba, which specializes in textiles, crafts and instruments from Niger and Mali, made at workers' co-operatives which are supported by the shop. Other products stocked include organic tea, coffee and chocolate, unusual cards and jewelery, clothes, bronze Buddhas, musical instruments etc. There's something here to suit every pocket and you'll be supporting an essential cause as well. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Crystian Cruz |
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Large academic and general bookshop |
89 Park Street Clifton Bristol BS1 5PW United Kingdom +44 117 927 6602 http://www.blackwells.co.uk |
This excellent bookshop has four levels and is the premier academic text supplier in Bristol. If you're on a University/college course, your text books will be on the shelves here, all arranged by subject - geography, computing, law, medicine, sciences, psychology etc. They also stock lots to interest the general reader however, including travel, art and literature, modern fiction, cookery and children's books. There's also a particularly large English-as-a-foreign-language section - perfect for visitors from overseas. If you can't find what you need, ask the staff and they'll order it for you. Look out for the frequent author events and give the coffee shop, Goodbean, located in the basement, a try. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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For all your stationery needs |
25 St Stephen's Street Bristol BS1 1JY United Kingdom +44 117 927 7407 |
Blandfords is a long-established, comprehensive stationer right in the heart of Bristol's old centre. The shop stocks everything expected of such a store, from diaries, calendars and two different sizes of Filofax stationery and accessories, through pens and pencils, files and folders, to calculators - everything you need to get your life, or at least your schedule, into order. The proprietors have managed to cram an awful lot of stock into a relatively small area without it feeling claustrophobic - it's surprising quite what you can find, or what the staff can find for you! However, this does mean that the aisles are quite narrow, making movement very difficult for those in wheelchairs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ever-changind Women's fashion |
9 Perry Road (Park Row) Bristol United Kingdom 0117 330 8445 http://www.boaboutique.co.uk |
Boa introduces exciting new labels to the Bristol fashion scene as the seasons change. They complement their own brands with other exclusive labels such as Desigual, the ultra-cool Barcelona designer and Alexandra Parrett, who produces works inspired by the feminine silhouettes of the 1950s. Owner/designer Jacqui Reeves and her team have developed their collection of hand made skirts, t-shirts and dresses in a pallet of peacock, pea green and scarlet, often using recycled fabrics. You will find cute apron skirts to wear alongside cool cotton dresses embellished with antique lace and sublime, linen crop trousers. Boa can also come to your home and discuss your wardrobe and show you how best to combine your clothes, with tips on accessories and what suits your figure. Boa private clothes party are also a favourite, consisting of the best of its collection, plus some bubbly and nibbles! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Funky boots and trendy trainers |
22 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JA United Kingdom +44 117 922 5455 |
Inside this futuristic shop, lies a selection of footwear for the young and trendy female of the species. Popularised mostly by teenagers and 20-somethings, it's a great place to get some stylish and trendy shoes for a reasonable price. There are big, stacked-heel trainers and boots—some so high that you wonder how people walk in them—by brands such as Buffalo and Acupuncture, which are probably the shop's best sellers. But, if you're not into that, don't write this place off just yet, as they also sell some gorgeous and surprisingly dainty shoes - examples include pointy stilettos with kitten heels in mock croc, and sequinned strappy sandals. Their range of boots is great as well, particularly the snakeskin cowboy boots in hot pink or bright blue! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A Mecca for classical music lovers |
59 Broad Street Bristol BS1 2EJ United Kingdom +44 117 927 6536 |
As its name suggests, this is a specialist shop offering a comprehensive selection of classical music CDs—it's one of those now rare, slightly eccentric places where the staff's knowledge of all things classical is outstanding and the atmosphere is slightly esoteric. Although it's not large its considerable stock is well laid-out and clearly categorized, making browsing particularly convenient—they have a particularly good selection of opera. They also offer a mail order service. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Everything for the artist |
74 Park Row Bristol BS1 5LE United Kingdom +44 117 926 0344 |
This art shop has everything for artists, whether they're professionals, budding Van Goghs, complete amateurs or just kids experimenting. Accompanying these is a wide choice of papers plus traditional sketchbooks, mannequins, easels, varnishes and fixatives, not forgetting of course the many different types of paintbrushes. You can also buy starter kits of various different materials—their watercolour starter kit is particularly good and contains everything you need to learn the craft. Now there's an idea—take the kit to some of the wonderful countryside around the city and spend a day painting, Ashton Court would be a good place to start. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Berry |
 Photo: Mark Berry |
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An Aladdin's cave of coloured light |
15 Perry Road Bristol BS1 5BG United Kingdom +44 117 929 8765 |
Bristol has a bit of a passion for all things glass - it's in our history, you see. At one time, back in the 1700s, the city's landscape was characterised by conical glass-making kilns and the glass industry provided the city with some of its wealth. So, for a truly authentic souvenir, visit here. It's packed with exclusive, handmade stained glass and lead crystal items. There are exquisite stained-glass lampshades, which give out a gorgeous warm glow, plus tableware, mirrors, paperweights etc. Look out in particular for Bristol Blue Glass - this dark blue glass began production in the 17th century and is still made locally today at premises just 15 minutes walk away, where you can watch it being created. There's also Cranberry Exmoor Glass, Bath Aqua Glass and items from individual craftspeople. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Let's go fly a kite |
16 Pitville Place, Cotham Hill Bristol BS6 6JY United Kingdom +44 117 974 5010 http://www.kitestore.co.uk |
This is Bristol's only specialist kite store, stocking everything for the kite enthusiast - from single-line kites for beginners, to stunt kites and Flexifoil power kites for the more advanced. They also sell lines and spares, accessories, frisbees, yo-yos and much more. The adrenaline-junkies among you should ask them about their kite surfing equipment - then make for nearby Devon and Cornwall to try this new sport. Once you've bought your kite, head up to the beautiful bit of countryside that is Ashton Court Estate - the city's prime flying location. The owner of this store is also the person to contact about the fabulous Kite Festival, held at the aforementioned estate each year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Lots of big-name shops, under one roof |
69 Broadmead (Office) Bristol BS1 3DX United Kingdom +44 (0)117 925 7053 http://www.bristolbroadmead.co... |
Positioned right in the middle of the Broadmead shopping area, The Galleries Shopping Centre has more than 100 shops under its roof and plenty of car parking spaces. There are big names like Boots, Waterstones, zavvi, The Gap and WHSmiths, plus a few more quirky and individual outlets. Very popular is the large cut-price clothing store TK Maxx, selling various labels for bargain prices. There's also a large food area serving various different foods (Chinese, coffee, baked potatoes etc.) on the top floor—all floors are served by lifts and escalators. It's the city centre's answer to the massive shopping mall at Cribbs Causeway - but it has to be said that the older Galleries is not only smaller, but less slick and slightly more down-market. Despite that it has got a good number of decent shops inside and is definitely worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Griffiths |
 Photo: Fred Homewood |
 Photo: Insilgo |
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For all your smoking needs |
35 Baldwin Street Bristol BS1 1RG United Kingdom +44 117 927 3676 |
The shop for the dedicated tobacco-fan, Wrigley's is filled with just about every type of tobacco imaginable, both loose and as packets of cigarettes and cigars. The shop also stocks all varieties of lighter, tobacco tins and pouches, cigarette papers of various kinds, pipe cleaners, cigarette and cigar holders, pipes of all descriptions - all the accessories a smoker could require in fact. Specialist shops such as Wrigley's are now in short supply, since smoking has become less socially acceptable, which is a pity, as they constitute a small part of the history of the UK, especially in Bristol, whose wealth owes much to the tobacco trade. So, visit while you still can! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Everything you need to sleep under the stars |
9-10 Transom House, Victoria Street Bristol BS1 6AH United Kingdom +44 117 926 4892 |
For those of you who are braving the English weather and spending your time here living under canvas, this place is definitely worth a trip. It has absolutely everything for the outdoor enthusiast - high quality clothing, footwear and all the paraphernalia that goes with living outdoors, such as tents, ground sheets, camping stoves, walking boots, water and wind-proof coats etc. The fact that this shop is the official Scouts uniform and accessory outlet for the area shows that you can't go wrong here if sleeping under the stars and singing songs around the campfire is your plan for next weekend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Elegant shoes and clothes |
26 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JA United Kingdom +44 117 925 7495 |
Cara caters for female shoppers looking for classic, elegant and well-made shoes and clothes. Their stock takes note of the trends of the day but isn't dictated to by the latest fads. So, there's a range of boots - knee-high and ankle, in snakeskin and leather of all different colours; and shoes, such as a few Camper varieties (trendy Spanish brand), strappy sandals, work shoes, shoes to wear to a party and every day shoes of their own Cara label. They're all rather elegant and you won't find any clumsy trainers or platform heels here. They also sell a small range of clothes which echo the style of the footwear - soft knits, skirts and tops, along with some lovely embroidered handbags. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fair-traded fabrics, rugs, clothes and cushions |
66 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JN United Kingdom +44 117 930 0059 http://www.chandnichowk.co.uk |
Chandni Chowk stock household textiles - heavy, handmade rugs and chunky cushions - and comfortable but stylish clothes, many in Oriental and Indian designs. Everything in the shop is Fairtrade, which means it was made by people local to the area in which the products are produced, who are treated fairly and paid a fair wage for their labour. This does mean that the prices of the goods in the shop may be slightly higher than elsewhere, but the quality is excellent, and the fact that nobody has been exploited in their production seems to add an extra pleasure to their use. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Handmade, custom-designed footwear |
68 Colston Avenue Bristol BS1 5BS United Kingdom +44 117 921 4247 |
Established back in 1977, this unique shop offers handmade, custom-fitted footwear, which can either be bought off the shelves or made-to-measure. It's this latter service that makes the shop so special - using the dimensions of your own feet, a last is made, kept at the shop, and used time and time again to make shoes that fit you perfectly. You can choose from a wide choice of colours in leather or suede, but their designs all have a slightly eco-friendly look about them, i.e. they won't be able to create a pair of stilettos for you here! They also offer a re-soling service for their own produce and can remove and stretch the uppers of their children's shoes, and replace them on a sole a full size larger, avoiding the need to buy an entirely new pair of shoes (this can only be done once). If you can't visit, try their mail order. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fascinating and unique vintage clothes shop |
5 Lower Clifton Hill Clifton Bristol BS8 1BT United Kingdom +44 117 929 0644 |
Less like a second-hand clothes shop and more like a costume museum, this amazing place is well worth a visit. It's run by Gill Hodder, a woman with an encyclopedic knowledge of both where everything is in the shop (two floors, both overflowing with antique clothes on rails and boxes) and the styles and fashions of various eras. The clothes are pre-1960s and most is way before that. It's an absolute treasure trove of unique garments from Edwardian and Victorian eras and 1930s-50s. Some, however, have succumbed to the ravages of time, so watch for holes and stains before buying. You can spend hours searching through the massive cabinets, with their drawers full of buttons, stockings, silk underwear, ties, scarves and jewellery. Absolutely inspirational shopping! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Trendy clothes for trendy people |
57 Park Street Bristol BS1 5NU United Kingdom +44 117 929 0850 |
This is where Bristol's hip and happening come to get their clothes. Split between the men's section at the front of the shop and the women's at the back, it stocks labels such as Diesel, Hope and Glory, Red or Dead, Urban Stone and Replay amongst others - offering whatever young, urban hipsters are currently wearing. There's a good selection of street/club wear - trousers, lots of different types of jeans, shirts, coats, skirts, jumpers etc. There's also a great £15-and-under box in the women's section that can often yield a bargain. Whatever you're looking for, this place usually comes up with something original and funky, but it's on the expensive side - being cool costs, you know! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sam Martin |
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Crystal gifts for all |
The Galleries Shopping Centre, Broadmead Bristol BS1 3XE United Kingdom +44 117 929 7466 http://www.crystalshop.co.uk |
This unusual shop, specialises in precious and semi-precious minerals. A wide variety of minerals are stocked, ranging in price from around £1 (for a tumble polished piece of hematite) to around £500 for a carved water agate Buddha. The stock changes regularly, so it's worthwhile ringing to see if they have anything new or special. Crystals also sells beautiful silver and semi-precious stone jewellery - amber, moonstone, turquoise, spectrolite - and occasionally provide unusual items, such as jade chopsticks. It's an ideal place to visit for an unique gift. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A stamp-collectors dream |
12 Christmas Steps Bristol BS1 5BS United Kingdom +44 117 929 2677 |
Tucked away in a little corner at the top of Christmas Steps is the fascinating world of D Forbes-Smith, specialist in Queen Victoria and Great Britain stamps. It's a small shop, extremely secure, with grilles and an intercom at the door - entry is almost by personal invitation after ringing the bell (ring for entry during office hours). The windows are filled with images of rare stamps - prices here range up to £600 - in subtle colours, modestly displayed. It's a collector's dream, and well worth a visit if only to marvel at the fact that something so small and simple could be worth so much! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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As individual as they come |
24 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JA United Kingdom +44 117 934 9173 |
You'll soon notice that Park Street is very popular with trendy student-types and this shop is one of the reasons why. It offers all the basic necessities - logo T-shirts, denim jackets, coloured leather wear and for the more adventurous, there are outrageous creations courtesy of designer Paul Frank. Plus, glamorous jewellery, bags, ashtrays and other odds and ends that would look perfect in student bedrooms. What's on offer here is not found anywhere else in Bristol, and this is definitely the place in which to seek out that certain something to differentiate yourself from the chainstore groupies. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: nemtom2 |
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Department store that's on the up |
1-5 St James Barton Broadmead Bristol BS1 3LT United Kingdom http://www.debenhams.com |
Originally quite bland and old-fashioned, this vast store has updated its image and now attracts a younger, more fashion-conscious crowd, as well as its traditional devotees. This is largely thanks to the various outlet units on its three floors, such as Topshop, Oasis and Levis. Along with fashion for men, women and children, they sell a good range of china and glass - Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, Coalport as well as everyday kitchen items and glassware. There is a cafe on the ground floor serving light refreshments and a self service restaurant on the fourth floor. It's a particularly good place to come for cosmetics, as it houses a Clinique Beauty Station, as well as other counters from all the big names in the beauty world, complete with assistants offering make-overs and advice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Keith Stanley |
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The latest styles in footwear |
The Galleries 91 Broadmead Bristol BS1 3DT United Kingdom +44 117 925 3367 |
There aren't too many good shoe shops in Bristol - go up Park Street and you'll find a couple of rather expensive, highly trendy outlets, but where to go if you're after funky footwear on a budget? Faith is the answer - it fills a gap in the city for those young women (nothing for men I'm afraid) looking for shoes to wear either at work, out clubbing or to formal occasions. The styles are versions of the latest fashions and occasionally some designs can look slightly clumpy and ungainly, but there are also some very dainty little numbers, including exotic-looking, strappy sandals and sparkly mules. But, it has to be said that its biggest sellers are the wedged-heels and high-heeled boots - the kind of thing you see hundreds of young females tottering about on in the city centre come Friday night, in fact! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Buy local organic produce straight from the farm |
Corn Street Bristol BS1 1JQ United Kingdom +44 117 922 4017 http://visitbristol.co.uk/site... |
This rather wonderful and extremely popular market sells a wide range of organically produced, local produce. There's yoghurt, taboulleh, salads and sandwiches from the Radford Mill Farm stall, freshly pressed apple juice, delicious breads and cakes, honey from local beekeepers, herbs and wild flowers for your garden, free-range meats such as pork, venison, lamb, duck, and pates and sausages made from the same. Don't miss the fish stall, which sells absolutely divine smoked trout and salmon, fish cakes and smoked haddock chowder - there's always a queue. The stall-holders are extremely friendly and helpful, just ask them any question about their produce and they're happy to tell you more - even exactly which of their cows your pot of yoghurt came from! Get there early, it starts winding-down at around 1.30pm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Townsend |
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Brand-new, booming music store |
43-45 Park Street Bristol BS1 5NL United Kingdom +44 117 987 0685 |
This recently-opened music shop is currently giving all the other record shops on Park Street a bit of a run for their money. Like them, it's cheap, overflowing with stock and staffed by youngsters who know their music: unlike them it's very large, modern and has the look and feel of a major corporation - with all the pitfalls and the benefits (being able to sell in bulk very cheaply) that this entails. It's the kind of place to come if you've always wanted to buy Blondie's greatest hits, or Bob Dylan's fourth album, but somehow never got round to it. Back-catalogue albums like this are their speciality and they cost just £5.You'll also find all the chart albums, obscure box-sets, blues, jazz, classical, reggae, hip-hop and world music - no vinyl though, just CD and tape. On the first floor they also sell a range of cult and current best seller books. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A must for all sci-fi enthusiasts |
Clifton Heights Triangle West Bristol BS8 1EJ United Kingdom +44 117 929 8692 |
Forbidden Planet is by far the best place to visit in the search for anything to do with science fiction. They stock a wide and fascinating range of posters, action figures, model kits and books on the following - Star Wars, Star Trek, Manga, Pokémon, X-Men, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and probably every other sci-fi character that's ever existed. There are also hundreds of sci-fi comics, from the mainstream to the rare and obscure (both new and second-hand). Plus, videos, cult TV collections, books, trading cards, sci-fi and fantasy DVDs and Pikachu rucksacks, this shop has it all - and if doesn't have it in stock, it can be ordered. In short, it's a sci-fi buff's paradise. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard S |
 Photo: sunxez |
 Photo: Nick Smart |
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General sports shop, specialising in cricket |
19 Jacobs Wells Road Bristol BS6 1DS United Kingdom +44 117 929 3444 |
This is the leading cricket and football equipment and clothing supplier in the region. Not only does it carry the largest range of cricket bats in the country, it also offers a re-handling and repair service—so come here if you need to give your favorite bat a new lease of life. Cricket accessories are also available, such as pads, gloves, helmets etc. If you know nothing about the "gentleman's game" but would like to learn, take advantage of their coaching sessions—available for all age groups and with access to indoor net facilities and bowling machines. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Radical bookshop specialising in alternative issues |
82 Colston Street Bristol BS1 5BB United Kingdom +44 117 921 1369 |
Situated a few minutes walk from the city centre, this shop specialises in books dealing with politics, psychology, feminism, lesbian and gay issues, environmental topics, alternative health and a wide range of so-called fringe subjects. If it's too removed from the mainstream to find in the other bookshops in town, chances are you'll get lucky in here. It also stocks a large selection of nonconformist magazines, which you won't find anywhere else in the city, including anarchist literature (these sections contain material that is particularly sought after by social scientists). Look out for their witty T-shirts and cards. They offer a mail order service and in accordance with its ethical stance, this shop is a workers' co-operative. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Unisex Hairdresser |
8 St.Nicholas St Bristol BS1 1UQ United Kingdom |
Guy Fawkes Hairdressing opened in 1971 as Bristol's first unisex salon and has continued to live up to its reputation as a Centre for Technical Excellence by keeping up-to-date with the latest hair trends and technical services. This includes being the only salon in Bristol to offer TANAGRA, the Permanent Hair Repair Treatment system, as well as the advanced hair straightening system YUKO - and all complimented further by contemporary and traditional beauty treatments. The one-to-one client and stylist relationship is an essential part of the service, and you can take it from us that each client is given a professional and personalized service. Managed by Glenn Holmes, with 22 years experience in hair and make-up, the team has maintained its name and reputation as one of Bristol's best colour salons around. For needs that range from colouring to hair straightening, and also caring for Afro-Caribbean hair, Guy Fawkes can offer clients the best in every field. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A major chain with a reliably comprehensive stock |
21-23 Broadmead Bristol BS1 3HF United Kingdom +44 117 929 7467 |
Comprising two floors dedicated to all genres of music, this city centre store (there are over 100 nationwide) offers a wide range of music including that from all the top pop groups as well as more obscure dance and soul tracks, and indie/rock bands. That's probably why it's usually full of youngsters after the latest single, middle-aged folk after back-catalogue albums and the occasional aesthete after an rare box-set of Bulgarian opera - it's where almost everyone comes for their aural fix. They stock CDs, cassettes, DVDs and a good selection of videos and a few 12 inch singles, although vinyl is pretty rare in here. It also has a programme of special events, including album signings by artists and you can buy tickets for local gigs here too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Racket-sports specialist |
38 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JG United Kingdom +44 117 926 4852 |
This is a sports shop with a slightly old-fashioned feel, staffed by elderly and polite assistants. That doesn't mean their stock is equally antiquated - on the contrary, this is one of the best sports shops in the city, partly because they sell stuff that the more mainstream sports stores, which tend to concentrate on trainers and a few football shirts, don't. You'll find a wide range of tennis, squash and badminton racquets, along with a racquet restringing service, plus a large selection of swimming wear, football boots, shorts, shirts and shin pads, rugby and hockey shirts, loads of hockey sticks and aerobic clothing. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 An old curiosity shop |
149 St Michael's Hill Cotham Bristol BS2 8DB United Kingdom +44 117 973 8972 |
This is one of those quirky, fascinating shops selling all manner of curious objects, where you can spend a happy half-hour browsing. It specializes in antique laboratory-type equipment (weird and wonderful glass jars, microscopes and bottles), has a large collection of old telephones and stocks old ink-pens and ink-wells, spinning wheels and all manner of curio. In fact, it looks a bit like the inside of Dr Frankenstein's laboratory! Nevertheless, if you're looking for unusual gifts or mementos, this dusty old shop is a good place to find things that your friends almost certainly won't already have. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Excellent Stylist & Colourist Salon |
50 Park Row Bristol BS1 5LH United Kingdom |
Since opening in 1996, Hobbs has established a reputation for creative design and innovative styling. The Hobbs team specialise in cutting and colouring at such a level they were signed up as 'guest artists' for Matrix, the largest professional hairdressing products manufacturer in the US. This has seen owner and head stylist, Doug Hobbs feature regularly at national and international hair seminars and events. Whether you are transforming or simply maintaining your image, in need of a relaxing massage, or just wanting time out from the hectic pace of city living, Hobbs salon and the tranquil surroundings of the Hobbs-ervatory and landscaped gardens are an ideal destination. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Excellent Stylist & Colourist Salon |
50 Park Row Bristol BS1 5LH United Kingdom |
Since opening in 1996, Hobbs has established a reputation for creative design and innovative styling. The Hobbs team specialise in cutting and colouring at such a level they were signed up as 'guest artists' for Matrix, the largest professional hairdressing products manufacturer in the US. This has seen owner and head stylist, Doug Hobbs feature regularly at national and international hair seminars and events. Whether you are transforming or simply maintaining your image, in need of a relaxing massage, or just wanting time out from the hectic pace of city living, Hobbs salon and the tranquil surroundings of the Hobbs-ervatory and landscaped gardens are an ideal destination. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A healthier way of life |
83 The Horsefair Broadmead Bristol BS1 3JP United Kingdom +44 117 929 3170 |
If you've got a cold and need some vitamin C, head here, to the nation's most accessible healthfood shop - they've got plenty of natural remedies, vitamin supplements, tablets and capsules for a whole range of conditions, deficiencies and remedial therapies. They also sell aromatherapy oils for massages and treatments for hair such as tea-tree oil. You can get some great health foods here too - soya milks, nuts and grains, dried fruit, frozen veggie sausages/burgers and a good range of snacks that are healthier than your average packet of crisps or chocolate bar. There are other branches at The Mall at Cribbs Causeway and Clifton Down Shopping Centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Large, classy store |
The Horsefair Broadmead Bristol BS1 3HT United Kingdom +870 160 7228 http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk |
Standing right in the heart of the city's shopping area, this is the biggest and most swish department store in town. Remember the old days when perfectly coiffured ladies breezed around spraying you with perfume? Well, they still exist here and the old fashioned maxim still applies that more or less whatever you need, you can find it here under one roof. There are five floors: ground floor is cosmetics, handbags, hats, shoes etc. and also houses a Clarins Beauty Studio; lower ground are where you'll find men's and boy's clothes; first floor it's womens wear, lingerie and swim wear; second floor is home wear and finally, the third floor houses furniture, toys and audio-visual equipment. There is also a cafe and a restaurant inside the store. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy Munzer |
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A great place for quirky gifts |
20 Park Street Bristol BS1 5AJ United Kingdom +44 117 925 2544 |
This delightful little shop is full of fun and quirky gift ideas and is particularly popular with youngsters, as their prices start at just a couple of pounds. The kind of thing you'll find here are handmade soaps, mobiles of all shapes and sizes including some wonderful mirrored kinds, bright and chunky jewellery, assorted candles and metal sconces - seahorses, lizards and other assorted designs - and a good selection of unusual and amusing cards for all occasions. It also sells a small range of old-fashioned, wooden children's toys, sturdily constructed and in bright colors. All in all, it's the perfect place to go if you want to treat yourself, or someone else, to a gift, but don't have much money to spend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classy clothes for the discerning dresser |
80 Park Street Bristol BS1 5LA United Kingdom +44 117 926 5775 |
Jigsaw sell classy, well-made clothes with a nod to current high fashion but not dictated by it and their clothes are simple and distinctive. It's particularly popular with well-heeled professional women of all ages and a good place for smart work pieces as well as for outfits for special occasions. There's not a great choice of styles, they tend to sell "key-pieces" each season and the colors focus on what is decided is "in" at the moment. So you may find only pastel colors in summer and dark burgundy and greens in winter. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Dress up in Versace and Armani |
108 Broadmead Bristol BS1 3DN United Kingdom +44 117 922 0799 |
This is Bristol's only true designer clothes store, and is where all the city's rich, appearance-conscious folk come to dress up in expensive labels - they stock clothes by Armani, Dolce & Gabana, Versace and Firetrap, amongst others. Downstairs is the men's section, selling a large range of suits, shirts, trousers, jackets etc. and a few shoes. Upstairs is the much smaller women's section, which sells very glamorous and unique tops, skirts, dresses and trousers, plus a range of shoes and boots. Both floors only stock garments that are elegant, expensive-looking and it has to be said, slightly flashy. Expect to pay around £60 upwards for a top and around £100+ for shoes/boots. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Catwalk class on the high street |
68 Queens Road Clifton Bristol BS8 1QU United Kingdom |
What would we do without Karen Millen? Serving the affluent 20/30/40-somethings of the area, this small designer outlet contains all the timeless classics and one-off must-haves for any woman's wardrobe. It specializes in classics with an edge - so you'll find wonderfully distinctive tailored suits with extras like sequins, leopard-skin prints and leather trims - making it equally popular with those looking for a wedding outfit, a smart suit or a glamorous dress to go clubbing in. They also sell a small range of glam and sophisticated shoes. This is one of those 'if you need to know the price, you probably shouldn't be shopping here' type places. Those on a tighter budget should watch out for their sales (usually early July and in the New Year), when things are often half-price or less. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Everything for budding David Baileys |
3 Alliance House, 12 Baldwin Street Bristol BS1 1SA United Kingdom +44 117 929 1935 |
A tiny shop crammed with wonderful equipment, the London Camera Exchange is definitely the place to go for truly knowledgeable advice, film processing, or just to drool over the cameras on display. As its name suggests, they exchange cameras, buying from customers who want to update their equipment or buy something better, and then re-sell the equipment at very reasonable prices to new customers. They also supply just about every accessory you can think of and provide an efficient film processing service (around £3 for films up to 36 frames: hand them in before 10a and they should be ready to collect the following morning). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hip and funky shoes, boots and clothes |
71 Park Street Bristol BS1 5PB United Kingdom +44 117 934 9444 |
Having recently moved into these more spacious surroundings, this shop is going from strength to strength and proving very popular with Bristol's young and trendy shoppers. It stocks a discerning range of clothes for both men and women, including labels such as Diesel, Replay and French Connection, the favoured brands of the city's rich students and young professional types. They are also stockists of some unique and funky shoes and boots and are one of the few places in the city to sell the Camper brand of footwear. Bags, jewellery and other accessories are also available. None of this comes cheap of course - expect to pay from £50 upwards for a pair of shoes and even the little accessories, such as flower hair clips, will set you back around £10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Not just a shop, it's a British institution! |
78 Broadmead Broadmead Bristol BS1 3DS United Kingdom +44 117 927 2000 http://www.marks-and-spencer.com |
Marks & Spencer - the quintessential British department store and the nation's favorite place to buy its knickers! Mixing the traditional (twin-sets, slacks, cardigans etc.) with up-to-date fashions (a recent innovation that sees leather jackets, denim and sparkly, halter-necked clubbing tops on the shelves), it attempts to cater for everyone. One thing that has remained the same is the high quality, which is still a benchmark amongst retailers. There are all sorts of garments for both sexes (including some very good value suits), a fantastic lingerie selection, children's clothes, sportswear, shoes and toiletries. From the Food Hall you can buy basic groceries (more expensive than any other supermarket) plus gloriously indulgent foods, wines and chocolates. There is another branch, which also stocks larger household items, at Mall at Cribbs Causeway (The). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: don pedro |
 Photo: whambrands |
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Get into Dr Martens and Birkenstocks |
52 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JM United Kingdom +44 117 929 2020 |
This place looks deceptively small from the outside - but inside there are rows and rows of shoes and boots, stretching into the back of the shop. Don't come here if you're looking for dainty sandals or smart work brogues, because they are specialists in chunky styles. There's a wide range of shoes, boots, trainers and sandals by Dr Marten, Caterpillar, Birkenstock, Kickers and Wranglers (plus a few others) - this is footwear that is hard-wearing, kind to your feet and with a certain hippie/back-packer appeal, perfect in fact for all you travellers out there who'll be tramping round the city streets. If you can't find your size or preferred colour, the staff will order it in for you at no extra charge. There is a second branch at 52-62 Bond Street, in the Broadmead area of the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A nostalgic view of Bristol |
St Nicholas Market, Corn Street Bristol BS1 1JQ United Kingdom |
A thoroughly delightful place for the nostalgic. The stall deals primarily in beautiful, black and white, mostly mounted photographs of old Bristol. It's fascinating to find images of the way your home or place of work used to look. Of particular interest are the photographs of St Augustine's Parade, the centre of Bristol, showing how far the dock used to extend into what is now a pedestrianised area. It also sells a selection of gift items, including Jellycat soft toys, cute and quirky animals for kids of all ages and some fine examples of Bristol Blue Glass. Memories has also, recently, started stocking items made of Bath Aqua Glass (a beautiful pale turquoise colour reminiscent of the hue of the hot springs in this historic city). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ships' artefacts to antique pistols |
13 Lower Park Row Bristol BS1 5BN United Kingdom +44 117 929 8205 |
This place is perfect for those bored with the usual high street shops - you never know what you'll find in here. It's a genuine, dusty, "old-curiosity shop" with a military and sea-faring angle - if you've always wanted an antique ship's-lantern, then here's the place to come! They stock a wonderfully eccentric selection of antique items from old ships, such as the aforementioned lamps, wheels, brass diving helmets, portholes and even propellers. They also have items such as swords, old pocket-pistols and old-fashioned policemen's helmets. There is a particularly interesting selection of old scientific equipment, including microscopes and cameras, plus the odd piece of furniture. Well worth a look. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Celtic jewellery and crafts |
St Nicholas Market Corn Exchange Bristol BS1 1JQ United Kingdom |
Orient Express specialises in bold and dramatic Celtic jewellery and other silver pieces - like the beautiful selection of flasks, of varying shapes and sized, designed to hold everything from the traditional whisky to cool and refreshing eau de cologne. High quality workmanship, attractive knotwork designs, and sturdy construction make it a good place to hunt down that special gift. The stall also sells chunky silver neck chains, silver bangles, clocks, and some very attractive watches, as well as replacement watch straps and batteries. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Unisex Hairdresser |
16 Park St Bristol BS1 5HR United Kingdom |
Paul Stein Hairdressing is in fact owned by Paul Ashdown, "Stein" being his Norwegian second Christian name. Paul trained as an apprentice here and has been hairdressing and managing salons in Bristol for the past 21years. He took over the running of the salon as owner in 1989. This is a modern, relaxing environment staffed by an experienced team who demonstrate a relaxed but professional attitude. We must admit we are those type of people who quite literally fear the visit to the hairdressers – however, the only decent haircut one of our team has had in 9 years (we kid you not!) was at the hands of Paul himself. And it was not just the end product that satisfied, for the chat with Paul and his listening carefully to what was required meant that our friend enjoyed the whole experience immensely! This team has the knowledge and expertise to make a difference, designing on a personnel level. And trust us, these styles make an impact. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mediterranean delicacies to delight |
40-42 Glass Arcade St Nicholas Market Bristol BS1 1LJ United Kingdom +44 117 909 9587 |
A very big favourite with Bristolians, this stall is piled high with large wooden barrels, all full of different kinds of olives - black, green, Kalamata, stuffed, plain or smothered in herbs and garlic. They also sell delicious home-made pesto and harissa sauces, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, dolmades, couscous, artichoke hearts, pimientos and hummous. Buy to take home, or go for their bargain lunch offer - three items from the above, with granary bread or ciabatta. There's no seating, but a couple of minutes away is a quiet cobbled street called Welshback, where you can sit at the riverside wooden benches opposite Bar Med and watch the river traffic go by - usually a swan or two - as you enjoy a Mediterranean lunch, Bristol-style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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London Fashion Comes to Bristol |
84 Park Street Bristol United Kingdom 0117 927 6605 http://www.chicuk.net/bristol/... |
Positioned at the top of Park Street and positioned at the top of the male boutiques offering in Bristol, Reiss is the first exclusive, own-brand quality fashion mens and womenswear to make the trip from London to Bristol. The Reiss brand is recognized as a progressive, fashionable and unobtrusive label for style-conscious men and women, and is rapidly becoming a must-have for those who require that individual, clean-cut, stylish look. We would describe the Reiss range as "understated", in the best possible fashion - their cuts and designs speak for themselves and need no fancy additions (in the sense that, when dressed to the hilt in Reiss you just know everyone else thinks you are fashion-savvy and chic, and they do!). Split on two levels and run by a friendly, knowledgeable team, Reiss is a welcome addition to the Bristol fashion scene. For more information and special offers please visit ChicUK Bristol. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Gifts and Goodies |
6 Perry Road Bristol United Kingdom |
With white washed walls and a wonderful white decorative arch striding the shop, in contrast with the incredible array of brightly coloured design-led interior products, contemporary gifts and homewares, it is easy to see why you might just get distracted when popping in for a browse. Everything from cards, cushions, lamps, clocks and frames to kitchenware, clothes, novelty items and stuff that is just plain cool, such as the Jesus action figure! Ideal for presents, and perfect wedding gifts, as they can even arrange wedding lists for your special day. The next time you are wondering around town, don't forget to get distracted by all the goodies at Ripe! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Store for roller-skating and skateboarding maniacs |
62 Park Row Bristol BS1 5LE United Kingdom +44 117 927 9981 http://www.rollermania.com |
This is the place to come if you like to travel by wheel - no, not cars, but skateboards, inline skates and roller-skates. As these activities are extremely popular in Bristol (look out for all the skaters practicing their moves outside the Cathedral on College Green), this shop is always very busy with youngsters looking for the latest accessories for their sport. All shapes and sizes of boards and skates are for sale, plus spare parts and repairs (and advice from the young staff) and all the clothes that seem to be essential for 'the look' - no self-respecting skater would be seen without his or her baggy trousers! Helmets, knee and elbow pads, hats and skateboarding videos are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Promoting the Christian perspective |
79 Park Street Bristol BS1 5PF United Kingdom +44 117 927 3461 http://www.spck.org.uk/bristol/ |
This unusual bookshop specializes in books about Christianity and is the only one of its kind in the city and indeed in the surrounding area. Stocking a comprehensive range of books and accessories for enjoying and sharing the message of Christianity alongside traditional classics, you'll find contemporary accounts of missionary activities that both inspire and challenge the reader. There is a second-hand section at the back of the store which can yield some fascinating and esoteric titles and it also stocks various ecclesiastical garments (which can also be ordered) and items, if you need a cross to wear around your neck or one to hang on your wall, look no further. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Calling all surfer dudes |
68 Park Row Bristol BS1 5LE United Kingdom +44 117 929 9211 http://www.sharkbite.co.uk |
A member of The Federation of Surfers Surf Shops, this place is owned and run by surfers, for surfers, so if you're planning to hit the waves, get yourself here first - it's like a mini Bondi beach! They sell wet suits, surfboards and videos of the greatest surfing action - it's a popular sport here in the south west thanks to the great waves around the coasts of Devon and Cornwall. They also sell all the clothing that makes you look like a surfer dude, even if you've never so much as dipped a toe in the sea, stocking brands such as Quicksilver, Ripcurl and Billabong. The city's skateboarders (also very big in Bristol) come here for their essentials too - boards, wheels, spare parts and the obligatory baggy pants, plus wheels of the roller-blading variety. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old market tradition |
Corn Street Bristol BS1 1JQ United Kingdom +44 (0)117 922 4017 |
This 250 year-old market is divided into three parts—Exchange Hall, Glass Arcade and Covered Market—each with a slightly different focus. The Exchange Hall is the only part completely enclosed and contains a wide variety of stalls selling clothes, candles, jewellery, second-hand books, crockery and sweets. It also houses a cafe and even a resident psychic! Glass Arcade features Real Olive Company, and South west Fine Foods and a selection of vegetables, flowers, food and vintage clothing. Covered Market offers second-hand book shops, a milliner's, cafes, jewellery and a computer repair unit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Chapple |
 Photo: Dru Marland |
 Photo: Graham Tait |
 Photo: Balas Trychydts Mark |
 Photo: Margaret Richardson |
 Photo: Andrea Piscopo |
 Photo: Nick Bartlett |
 Photo: junkyard_dog28 |
 Photo: Normann |
 Photo: Carlos Leira |
 Photo: MG/4 |
 Photo: Sarah Wimperis |
 Photo: Geoff Burns |
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Not stationery, but official books and documents |
Southey House, 33 Wine Street Bristol BS1 2BQ United Kingdom +44 117 926 4306 |
This place is also known as the HMSO bookshop - which stands for Her Majesty's Stationery Office - which should give you a clue as to what's inside. It specialises in non-fiction, in particular official documents relating acts of parliament. Not especially exciting, but don't write it off just yet - it also offers a good range of Ordnance Survey maps, business titles, teacher's curriculum documents, guide books (including geology) and a very good local history section - so head here if you want to learn more about Bristol's past. There is also a good selection of user-friendly titles on computing and software. If history is your thing, look out for the series of recently published documents from official archives, relating to subjects such as the "Irish Uprising" and "The Loss of the Titanic". Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Prints for the discerning shopper |
15 Christmas Steps Bristol BS1 5BS United Kingdom +44 117 929 8671 |
This is the place to go for a truly comprehensive collection of old prints and maps. The shop itself is small, but positively crammed with treasures, and the staff friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable. The walls are covered with beautiful (and beautifully framed) prints, many of them sketches and water colours of Bristol. For the less affluent lover of fine prints, however, there is an extensive selection of unframed items stored in boxes around the walls - maps of counties of England, of countries of the world, military and hunting scenes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The new age in Bristol |
1-2 Perry Road Bristol BS1 5BQ United Kingdom |
Established in 1970, Taro is perhaps the main supplier of esoteric goods to the psychics and New Age practitioners in the Bristol area. A small shop filled with all kinds of crystals - seerstones, healing and empowerment stones, decorative crystals and mobiles - a huge variety of packs of Tarot cards, beautiful and unusual jewelery, runes, and a comprehensive selection of books on a large variety of esoteric topics. Taro is a delight to visit, with friendly and informative staff and just about everything you could want for an investigation into the mysteries of life. It is also possible to arrange personal Tarot readings here - ring to ask for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Vintage American clothing |
54 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JN United Kingdom |
Isn't it great how we take what are effectively American reject garments and make them look cool! Every item of vintage clothing in this funky shop, is imported from the United States and because they are generally unique and already aged, it's very popular with the city's 20-40-somethings who want to look a bit different from the crowd. If you're after vintage jeans, it's definitely the place to come - they've got loads, including Levi's and some wild flares, plus cords in all different colours and some very wacky checked slacks. When winter kicks in, it's a great place to find suede or leather jackets of all different styles, shapes and colours, plus a great selection of coats, many sheepskin - perfect for people wanting to look cool (or should that be warm!) on a budget. Last, but not least, there are bowling shirts, patterned shirts, skirts and dresses for the American pie look. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Trendy streetwear for men |
The Galleries Broadmead Bristol BS1 3XD United Kingdom +44 117 927 6002 |
If you're looking for something to wear which is smart but not boring, trendy but not faddish and definitely slightly different from the norm, look no further. Catering mainly for the 18-45 age group, this shop stocks a great range of shirts, jackets, coats, casual tops, jumpers and all different types of jeans. Don't expect any bright colours, everything here is black, grey or dark blue without exception, but do expect high quality and correspondingly high prices. Labels stocked include the super-hip Diesel and Replay, plus the erstwhile upper-class and traditional but now painfully-trendy Thomas Burberry. They also sell record bags - the final touch for the modern man-about-town! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Unusual and vivid home decorations, and crazy clocks |
The Top House, Christmas Steps Bristol BS1 5BS United Kingdom |
This small shop is filled with wonderfully eccentric and quirky items. Veron Ikon sells original clocks, lamps, mirrors and plaques in vibrant colours and unusual shapes - sunburst and starburst clocks, lamps that look like extraterrestrial plants and an almost mansized mirror, triangular but standing on its point and with a mosaic edging of small vivid blue and green glass squares, positively glow against the sombre paintwork of the walls. It's probably safe to say that as well as being a talking point in your home, it's extremely unlikely you'll ever see anything like your purchase in anyone else's!. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Well-loved and well-stocked bookshop |
The Galleries Bristol BS1 3XD United Kingdom http://www.waterstones.co.uk |
Bristol's book-lovers really rate this place, partly because it holds such a vast stock and they can usually find what they want without having to order, but also for its air of quiet gentility and learnedness. Part of a national chain, it's a general store but with an educated slant and covers almost every subject you could think of - modern fiction, classics, travel, art, cookery, history, sociology, education, children's, travel etc. The staff are clearly book-worms as well and if you do need something not on the shelves, they'll order it for you, which takes 10-14 days. This particular store hosts many author events, as do most Waterstones around the country, being very highly regarded in the publishing world. There are two other branches - one at College Green and the other at The Mall at Cribbs Causeway. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A world of stamps |
9 Christmas Steps Bristol BS1 5BS United Kingdom +44 117 927 7836 |
Located on perhaps the prettiest and certainly the most quaint shopping street in the city, the steep Christmas Steps, West Region Stamps is a lofty and surprisingly spacious shop, stocked with a comprehensive selection of stamps for everyone from the souvenir hunter to the serious collector. A particular feature of the goods on offer are complete sets of stamps, from both the UK and around the world - and the front sports a very colourful window display! First day covers are also available, and the staff are extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Perfect both for the philatelists and the merely curious amongst you. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Designer clothes for the dudes |
30 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JA United Kingdom +44 117 903 0942 |
Exclusively catering for men, this trendy outlet attempts to house all the big names in designer wear under one rather small roof and attracts Bristol's label-junkies. Whether you like to dress to impress in Prada, Versace, Boss, Cerruti, Moschino, Gallagher, La Coste, Henry Lloyd or any of the other big names then this is the best place, next to London that is, to come. But naturally, these names come with a price - a rather hefty one at that - so only the more affluent of the male population need enter in. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hannah King |
