Bristol is home to night markets, Victorian arcades, modern shopping malls and winding streets of quirky independent shops. 

From independent boutiques, to big brand household names, Bristol is a shopping utopia. Shoppers can rummage for bargains in the countless vintage shops across the city, potter aimlessly through the charming streets of the upmarket Clifton Village, or shop everything from high-street to high-fashion in Cabot Circus. The Bristol, sitting at the centre of it all, is the perfect place from which to launch a shopping excursion through one of the UK’s most vibrant cities.

The Markets

For some of the best bargain shopping in Bristol, take a visit to St. Nicholas Market. Home to the largest collection of independent shops in the country, this Georgian arcade is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Under its stunning glass roof punters can buy everything from stamps and fossils to independent clothes brands and accessories. Not to mention the amazing street food. The regular night markets are not to be missed.

St. Nicholas' Market by Heather Cowper

Christmas Steps

Just a stone’s throw from the city centre, the Christmas Steps (open all year-round despite its confusingly seasonal name) at first appear untouched by the hand of modern day commercialism. Like something out of a period drama, this tiny little alley is home to more independent boutiques, a video shop (replete with tiny cinema) and of course more stamps.

The Christmas Steps by Andrew Gustar

Clifton Village

Stunning Georgian architecture and fashionable shopping collide in Clifton. The restored Victorian Arcade - selling everything from vintage clothing and antiques to art – is a particular highlight.

The Clifton Arcade by Kennysarmy

Cabot Circus

This modern shopping mecca takes its name from John Cabot, the venetian navigator who set sail from Bristol to discover North America in 1497. Just a short walk from The Bristol’s front door this modern mall is home to over 120 designer and high-street brands and even an 18-hole mini golf course for children. Nip across the road to visit Broadmead – department store central – with Harvey Nichols, Debenhams, Marks & Spencer and more.

Cabot Circus by Ian Hayhurst

Stokes Croft

For everything weird, wonderful and wacky (and even the odd Banksy) there can be only one destination. Stokes Croft. Gloucester Road is the beating heart of this hub of independent shops, artists’ studios and vintage clothes that really needs to be seen to be believed.

The Prince of Wales, Stokes Croft by Shrinkin'violet

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All images from Flickr.