Life in Bristol

Bristol is a cosmopolitan city. With a population of almost half a million it is the largest city in the South West, and the 8th largest city in the UK. It has a diverse and multi-ethnic population and is the home of many world-famous festivals and events.

It is 90 minutes from London with easy access to nearby cities, beaches and rolling landscape. It boasts a history of Georgian architecture, gritty graffiti and harbourside living

Bristol is a vibrant, friendly place to live: discover the city at the heart of our university. 

There are many things to see and do: Visit Bristol lists tourist information, restaurants and attractions.

Public transport

Buses

Most of Bristol is served by First Buses. Their website has a journey planner and timetables.

The University is a member of the First Bus Commuter Travel Club which offers staff discounts of up to 10%. 

Metrobus

Metrobus is a new modern express bus service for the greater Bristol area which sits between regular bus services and the rail network. It uses environmentally friendly vehicles with free Wifi.

Taxis

Bristol has both Hackney carriage vehicles which can be flagged down in the street and picked up at taxi ranks, and private hire vehicles which have to be pre-booked. Follow this link for further information and taxi safety tips.

Bristol is also serviced by Uber.

More transport information

More information on public transport in Bristol can be found on the University’s Travel and Transport pages.

Season ticket loan

The University operates an interest free loan scheme for bus and train season tickets. 

Electric scooters and electric bikes

TIER electric scooters and electric bikes are available to rent in Bristol. 

Download the TIER app and create an account. Users must be over 18 and have a valid full or provisional driving licence. 

Parking

It is not easy to park in Bristol. Most of the on-street parking in the central area is restricted to resident’s parking zones and car parks are expensive. If you don’t live a walkable distance from the University, it is sensible to make sure you have a good public transport route. 

There is a Staff Parking system and all staff have the opportunity to apply for a permit, but applications far outweigh permits and a permit does not guarantee you easy parking.

Socialising

The University organises an extensive programme of public events that you (and guests) are very welcome to attend. This is a good way to network with other members of staff at events that interest you.

In addition to this there are a number of clubs and societies for University staff. 

Sport in Bristol

Bristol is known for many professional sports teams and many active amateur sports clubs. The University of Bristol also has a performance squad.

The city celebrates two Football League clubs, Bristol City FC and Bristol Rovers FC as well as a Rugby League club, Bristol Rugby.

Bristol City FC and Bristol Rugby both host their games at Ashton Gate Stadium and Bristol Rovers host their home games at the Memorial Stadium. Gloucestershire County Cricket Club also have their grounds in Bristol.

Bristol City Council operate a number of sports centres and swimming pools.   

Bristol also participates in the stages of the Tour of Britain cycle race and facilities in Bristol were used as training camps for the 2012 London Olympics.

Volunteering

There are many opportunities for volunteering in your free time, whether you (or your family) want to make a difference to the local community, learn new skills, meet new people, or just have fun.

Find volunteering opportunities:

• VOSCUR - the umbrella organisation for Bristol’s voluntary and charitable sector
• Do-it Trust - the UK’s national volunteering database

Places of worship

Bristol is a multi-faith community and there are many places of worship close to the University and throughout the city.

• Places of worship local to the University
• Places of worship throughout the city

Reporting crime

If you’ve been a victim of crime or have witnessed one you should report it straight away. 

In an emergency always call 999. 

If you’ve been mugged, badly hurt, or attacked in any way, or if you’ve seen a serious crime being committed, then you should dial 999 as soon as possible.

To report a minor crime call 101 or go to your local police station.

Dial 101 for anything not requiring an emergency response, including:

• a stolen car or mobile phone
• damaged property
• suspected drug use or dealing
• giving the police information.

Refer to Police UK information on reporting crime including:

• victim support
• how to report a crime anonymously
• how to report anti-social behaviour
• how to report a hate crime
• how to report a fraud.

Smoking

Smoking is not allowed in any enclosed workplace, public building or on public transport in the UK.