Can you feel it? The wait’s almost over. It’s getting warmer, the clocks are going forward — and Bristol’s springing to life again. There’s no place like home, especially when the sun’s out.
We’re putting on a mini-festival on March 28th, called Spring in the Bearpit. There will be music throughout the day, and brilliant nosh from BEATS, Bristol’s own street-food collective. We’re pretty excited about it.
To start the countdown to our festival, we’ve pulled together a list of a few of the things we like about this brilliant time of year in this brilliant city. If we’ve missed an obvious one, tell us in a Facebook comment or give us a shout on Twitter.
1. The Arnolfini becomes a suntrap again
Where: The harbourside.
When: The minute the sun comes out.
Dangle your legs over the side and let your worries float off on the water. Meet you there after work? Make mine an Estrella.
2. The Bristol to Bath cycle path
Where: The 13 mile stretch between St Phillips and Pulteney Bridge.
When: Saturdays, when you’re feeling energetic.
Kickstart a summer of cycling fun on this beautiful and interesting former railway line which is enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of people every year. Even if you haven’t had the mettle for a pedal for a few months, the gently undulating route makes for pretty light work and will take you across some great countryside. Don’t forget to swing by the Jolly Sailor in Saltford.
3. Spring in the Bearpit
Where: The Bearpit, St James Barton Roundabout, between Stokes Croft and Broadmead.
When: Saturday March 28th.
For us in the Bearpit, this year’s extra special. Our major facelift, which has opened up the space to make it safer and more welcoming for everyone, is nearly complete. We’re bringing together a calendar of special events, and we’re getting ready to welcome our newest permanent trader, Bearritos. Good times. We’ll be celebrating the progress and potential of this amazing community space right in the heart of Bristol. There will be music throughout the day from local artists and BEATS, Bristol’s very own award-winning street food collective. For more information CLICK HERE.
4. The curtain goes up for Mayfest
Where: various established, temporary and pop-up places around the city.
When: Thursday May 14th to Sunday May 24th.
Bristol’s brilliantly adventurous theatre festival which sets creative sparks going all over the city. It’ll take you out of your comfort zone for sure.
5. Dinner goes alfresco in St Andrews Park
Where: St Andrews, north Bristol.
When: As soon as it’s dry enough to sit down.
The left side has the sun, but we’d argue the right side has the view. Both are good for laying out a blanket and getting a barbie underway. It’s all too beautiful.
6. Dot to Dot takes over Bristol’s venues
Where: Academy, Thekla, Fleece, Exchange, Louisiana, Trinity, Start the Bus and The Birdcage.
When: Saturday May 23rd.
Hear the sound of things to come and meet your new favourite band on the Bristol leg of this expertly curated festival designed with musos in mind.
7. Vegfest brings fresh perspective
Where: The harbourside.
When: Saturday May 23rd and Sunday May 24th.
With only 100 per cent vegan food allowed on site, this vibrant get-together provides food for thought for anyone interested in a life free of animal products. Talks and activism during the day lead on to lively musical entertainment in the evening, offering plenty to get your teeth into.
8. Cricket returns to the County Ground
Where: Gloucester County Cricket Club, Nevil Road.
When: Sunday April 26th.
Return to the place WG Grace called home when Gloucestershire takes to the crease against Derbyshire. One-day and t20 matches are lined up throughout the summer.
9. They set up the tables outside the Primrose Cafe
Where: Boyce’s Avenue, Clifton.
When: Why not from this weekend, if it turns out nice?
Speaking of WG Grace, the Primrose Cafe, tucked in at the end of Boyce’s Avenue near his former home on Victoria Square in Clifton, is a great place to get a cup of tea and scrambled eggs in the morning sun.
10. There are new arrivals to meet at St Werburghs City Farm
Where: Watercress Road, St Werburghs.
When: 9am to 5pm every day.
Spring means new life, so check out our four-legged and feathered friends down at the farm. The Farm pub has a warm welcome waiting across the road.
11. North Street is lovely in the sunshine
Where: North Street, Bedminster.
When: All day, every day.
The Tobacco Factory’s famous Sunday market is becoming ever-more popular and exciting, providing more motivation if it were needed to explore south Bristol’s buzzing social hub. There’s a walking tour of fantastic pubs, including the Hare, the Spotted Cow and the Hen and Chicken.
Join the Bearpit Improvement Group as we celebrate Spring in the Bearpit on March 28th. There will be guided tours and special walks exploring local history and culture, as well as great music and food. For more information visit our website.
