What to see and do around Bristol County Ground

Bristol County Ground is the home of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club and will play host to three matches in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019. It’s the same place where cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar hit an incredible 140 runs off 101 balls versus Kenya in the 1999 World Cup. But beyond the cricket, you’ll find yourself in the arty enclave that is Bristol, home to a wealth of galleries and a flourishing restaurant scene.

What to do

Bristol Harbour

Straddling the River Avon, Bristol Harbour is an excellent place to head to when you’re not at the cricket. Home to a range of world-class museums, it’s the art scene that makes this a worthwhile stop – after all, Bristol is the home of the notorious Banksy. Arnolfini gallery is one of the standouts; housed in an old tea warehouse, it has three floors dedicated to contemporary art that leans towards the experimental. It’s got a reading room, an excellent gift shop and a café that pulls in the crowds thanks to its indulgent brownies and pints of cider. Beyond Arnolfini, Spike Island can be found on the Left Bank, a contemporary art museum that specialises in audio installations. And if you’re still looking for more of a culture hit after both of these, take a boat to M Shed across the water, a transit shed-turned-museum which maps the history of Bristol and the people who’ve lived here. And the best part? All of these museums have free admission.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

One of Bristol’s major sights, Clifton Suspension Bridge really is worth making the time for. A looming wrought iron structure that’s become synonymous with the city, the bridge is positioned on the cliffs of the Avon Gorge. In order to get some of the best views of it, chart a course to the Clifton Observatory – a historic windmill that’s now a popular viewing point. It’s a 15-minute drive away from Bristol County Ground or a 20-minute cycle, so plan to arrive at dusk when the bridge forms a ghostly silhouette against the sky. The observatory is located right next to the prim hilltop suburb of Clifton Village, where you’ll find a collection of small eateries and bars, many outfitted in pared-back contemporary styles. But if you’d rather go for something a little more lively, The Coronation Tap is a pub that’s moments from the observatory and is the place to swig some local cider.

Where to eat

Pinkmans Bakery

With a long day out at the cricket in store, you’ll need to make sure you fuel up ahead of the game. Luckily, Pinkmans Bakery – A winner and nominee of multiple best bakery in the UK awards – has you covered. The decor is worthy of attention too, furnished with copper pipe pendant lighting, stark industrial frames and creeping wall plants. Sit down early and tuck into a selection of homemade breads and cinnamon buns or for something more substantial, the custard-dipped brioche with blueberry compote & crème fraiche should hit the spot. And if you can’t make it until later in the day fear not – sourdough pizza and beer is offered from 5pm onwards.

Wilson’s Restaurant

If you’re looking for a quiet evening (or lunch) during or after the match day excitement, Wilson’s Restaurant is an intimate and inviting neighborhood bistro that will satisfy those cravings. Warmly decorated and low-lit, Wilson’s has an ever-changing menu (it’s tweaked every week) that focuses on thoughtful, simple food. Think steaming bowls of red mullet and orange soup to start and radiantly yellow tagliatelle doused in rich parmesan cream and sprinkled with wispy shavings of truffle to follow. Pair any dish with one of the organic wines on offer and you’ve got yourself a victory regardless of the day’s scoreline.

Where to stay

Number 38 Clifton

As with many of Bristol’s trendier hangouts, you’ll find Number 38 Clifton in Clifton Village. A boutique hotel within a grand Georgian townhouse, it expertly weaves elegance into everything it does. Decorated in a range of muted colours that accentuate the property’s heritage details, the style is contemporary meets classically British. Opt for a double room with a cavernous copper tub and soak up the luxury. Follow that with a drink by the window seat, which – depending on your room – either overlooks Clifton’s toytown rows of houses or the bucolic Clifton Downs.

Kyle Blue – Bristol Harbour Luxury Hostel Boat

For those after a stay by Bristol’s harbourside, this luxury boat hostel is a convenient choice. Complete with river views, a shared kitchen and free WiFi, it’s an ideal base for exploring the city. Most of the rooms are shared, though twin cabins and double cabins with shared bathrooms are available, too. And as the boat’s in the very heart of the city, you’re well connected to Bristol County Ground when match day comes around.