The greater Southville area has enjoyed something of a renaissance over the last few years, becoming arguably one of the best places to live in Bristol. The so-called gentrification of North Street has become a hot topic, but whatever your opinion, there are many, many benefits to living in the area.
You know you live in Southville when...
You buy your brioche burger buns from a graffiti-accompanied Aldi
Since Aldi have added their swish new extension on North Street, there’s no need for you to compromise on your choice of burger bun, as they now stock a wide selection of brioche varieties. Everyone’s favourite budget supermarket also still manages to maintain a Bristolian charm in the form of the Herakut mural directly opposite, painted on the side of the Tobacco Factory.
Lily Doble
Your local is an old factory… owned by the Mayor of Bristol
Historically, Bedminster was the heart of the tobacco industry, of which one of the last remaining warehouses is now home to the mighty arts-space-cum-theatre-cum-bar, the Tobacco Factory. Saved from demolition by our own red-trousered Mayor George Ferguson, since 2001 this Southville institution has been serving the locals well, and has led the way for much of the redevelopment of the North Street area.
Flickr: Joanne Conlon
You’re treated to a trip to Morocco every weekend for brunch
There’s a dozen and one great places to grab a bite to eat when in need of a well-deserved treat brekkie at the weekend, but absolutely nothing rivals the fantastic Souk Kitchen. Their home on North Street, opposite the Tobacco Factory, has become a Bemmie (that's Bristolian for Bedminster, if you didn't already know) favourite. Transport yourself to Marrakesh with the runny eggs of a shakshuka washed down with a mug of mint tea.
Lily Doble
There’s never a shortage of quinoa
Ah, Southville Deli. With its self-service muesli system and more local cheeses and fantastic ales than you can shake a handmade hemp tote bag at, it really is one of the highlights of Southville. Never fear of running out of quinoa, tofu, organic vegetable-based cosmetics and haircare ever again – this place has got you covered.
Lily Doble
You don't have to think about schlepping north… ever
Ever since people got wise to the fact North Street is one of the nicest bits of Bristol, some well-known Bristolian favourites have made the trip over the river. As well as new branches of the Thali Cafe, The Burger Joint and Zazu’s Kitchen, we can also boast a brand-new shiny Coffee #1. Honestly, you never have to leave the place.
Lily Doble
More things to do (outside of Southville) on Time Out Bristol.