A Mover’s Guide to Montpellier

Montpelier is one of Bristol’s most distinctive neighbourhoods. Tucked just north of the city centre, it’s full of colourful terraced houses, independent shops and a real sense of community. It’s popular with creatives, young families and people who want to live somewhere with a bit of personality – and plenty of heart.

If you’re planning a move to Montpelier, or you’re already here and want to get to know the area better, this guide should give you a solid starting point. From housing and transport to food, shops and settling in, here’s what to expect from this unique part of the city.

A Neighbourhood with Character

One of the first things people notice about Montpelier is the colour – houses painted in soft blues, greens, yellows and pinks line the streets and street art pops up in unexpected corners. It’s a visually vibrant place, but it’s also got depth. There’s a strong sense of community and an independent spirit that runs through everything.

Picton Street is the heart of the area, home to a small collection of shops, cafés and pubs that are always busy with locals. Just beyond that, you’ve got Cheltenham Road and Stokes Croft, which bring a bit more energy with bars, restaurants and music venues, while still feeling close to home.

It’s not a large area, but that’s part of its charm. It feels self-contained, easy to walk around and well connected to the rest of Bristol.

Housing: Colourful Homes and Victorian Charm

Montpelier is mainly made up of Victorian and Georgian terraced houses, many with original features and a slightly quirky feel. You’ll also find flats in converted houses and the odd more modern build, but most of the homes have that older Bristol character.

In terms of price, it’s on the higher side – demand is strong and the area’s popularity has pushed prices up in recent years. At the time of writing, the average house price sits around £400,000 to £450,000. Larger homes can easily go for more, especially if they’ve been recently renovated.

Renting is still possible, though it can be competitive. A one-bed flat usually starts at around £1,000 a month, with two-bedroom properties starting from roughly £1,400, depending on condition and location.

Getting Around

One of the best things about Montpelier is how easy it is to get into the city centre. You’re looking at a 15–20 minute walk to Cabot Circus or Stokes Croft, and even less by bike or bus. Montpelier train station is small but well-connected – it’s on the Severn Beach line, which links up with Temple Meads, Clifton Down and other parts of the city.

Buses run regularly along Cheltenham Road and Gloucester Road and cycling is a popular option, though the hills around here can be a bit of a workout. If you don’t drive, you’ll still find it easy to get around.

Food, Coffee and Independent Shops

Montpelier has a strong independent scene when it comes to food and drink. There aren’t loads of big-name chains here – instead, you’ll find cafés, restaurants and shops that have been part of the community for years.

For coffee, check out Elemental on Stokes Croft for ethically sourced brews and a relaxed atmosphere. Café Kino, just around the corner, is a long-standing vegan café that also hosts community events and live music. If you’re after something sweet, The Bristolian is a solid shout for brunch or a quick bite.

When it comes to eating out, you’ve got plenty of options. Rice & Things on Cheltenham Road is a favourite for no-fuss, flavour-packed Jamaican food, while the Thali Café (just outside Montpelier) serves up vibrant Indian-inspired plates. There’s also a strong takeaway scene – everything from pizzas to falafel wraps.

Shops tend to be small and independent, with a focus on local, ethical and sustainable goods. You’ll find greengrocers, delis, second-hand shops and a few great spots for vintage finds if that’s your thing.

Art, Music and Green Spaces

Montpelier is often described as creative, and it’s easy to see why. Street art is everywhere, from big murals to small hand-painted signs. It’s close to Stokes Croft – often considered Bristol’s cultural quarter – and there are regular community arts projects and events throughout the year.

If you’re into music, it’s a short walk to some of Bristol’s most loved live venues. The Canteen, Crofters Rights and The Jam Jar are all nearby and offer a mix of gigs, DJs and open mic nights.

While Montpelier isn’t overflowing with parks, you’ve got St Andrew’s Park close by, which is great for a walk, picnic or just stretching your legs. Montpelier Park is smaller but handy for a bit of green space right in the heart of the neighbourhood.

Moving Here with On The Dot Removals

We’ve helped loads of people move to Montpelier over the years – and we totally get what makes the area special. From the narrow streets to the steep driveways, we know how to manage moves into this part of town without stress or hassle.

At On The Dot Removals, we’re all about making your move as smooth as possible. Whether you’re moving a whole house or just a few bits into a flat, we’ve got the experience, local knowledge and flexibility to make it work.

We also use low-emission vehicles and eco-friendly packing materials wherever we can, so if sustainability matters to you (and it does to many Montpelier locals), we’re a good match.

Final Thoughts

Montpelier is a neighbourhood with real character. It’s lively but not overwhelming, creative without being too loud, and full of people who genuinely care about their community. If you’re looking for somewhere that’s well-connected, full of independent spirit and just a little bit different, it’s a great place to call home.

Thinking of making the move? We’d love to help. Get in touch for a friendly chat about your plans – and let’s make moving day feel a little easier.