New to Bristol? How to Settle After Moving House

Moving to a new city is often as daunting as it is exciting. But make no mistake, if you’ve just arrived in Bristol, you’re in for a treat. This city has so much to offer, from stunning green spaces and historic landmarks to a thriving arts and food scene. But how do you go from feeling like a newcomer to a Bristolian?

Settling in isn’t just about unpacking boxes; it’s about creating a sense of belonging in your new space, exploring your surroundings and connecting with the local community. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to feel at home in Bristol as quickly as possible.

Making Your New House Feel Like Home

The first step in settling in is making your new house feel like a home. While it might be tempting to put off unpacking, getting organised early will help you feel more settled. Start with the essentials, like bedding, kitchenware and toiletries so you can comfortably go about your daily routine. Then, move on to personal touches like photos, books and decorations that make the space feel familiar.

Exploring your local area will also help you get into a routine. Take a walk to find your nearest supermarket or coffee shop. Bristol has plenty of fantastic independent stores, so you might want to swap the usual chains for local gems like Zero Green for sustainable shopping or Better Food for organic produce. If you haven’t already, make sure your utilities are set up and working, including your broadband, electricity and council tax payments.

Exploring Your New City

Once your home is in order, it’s time to explore what makes Bristol so special. The city is packed with history, culture and green spaces, offering something for everyone.

A great place to start is Clifton Suspension Bridge, one of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks. Spanning the Avon Gorge, it offers breathtaking views and is a must-visit for any newcomer. If you’re keen to soak up some local history, the SS Great Britain is another fantastic attraction, bringing the story of Brunel’s famous ship to life.

Bristol is also known for its beautiful outdoor spaces. The Downs, a huge expanse of parkland near Clifton, is perfect for a relaxing walk, while Ashton Court Estate offers 850 acres of countryside to explore. For something a little more tucked away, Leigh Woods provides a peaceful woodland retreat just across the bridge from Clifton.

Of course, no introduction to Bristol would be complete without giving a shout-out to its thriving cultural scene. From the colourful street art in Stokes Croft to live performances at the Old Vic Theatre, there’s always something happening in the city. If you love museums, the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is a great place to start, with a mix of natural history, ancient artefacts and art.

Becoming Part of the Community

Settling into a new city isn’t just about finding your way around – it’s also about feeling like you belong. Luckily, Bristol has a strong sense of community and plenty of opportunities to meet new people.

Joining a local club or group is one of the easiest ways to make connections. Facebook and Instagram are good places to start, with groups based on different interests bringing like-minded people together. If you enjoy the outdoors, the Bristol Ramblers group offers a great way to explore the surrounding countryside while meeting new people. 

Attending local events is also a great way to immerse yourself in Bristol’s culture. The city hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, from the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, where hot air balloons fill the sky, to St Paul’s Carnival, a vibrant celebration of Afro-Caribbean culture. The Bristol Harbour Festival is another highlight, bringing live music, performances, and water-based activities to the city’s waterfront each summer.

Schools, Healthcare and Transport

Getting familiar with essential services will also help make daily life easier. If you have children, researching schools will be a top priority. Bristol has a mix of excellent state and independent schools, with options like Redland Green School and Bristol Grammar School among the most popular. The Bristol City Council website is a good place to check school catchment areas and admissions information.

Healthcare is another key consideration. Registering with a local GP should be one of your first steps after moving. Broadmead Medical Centre and Montpelier Health Centre are both well-rated options, but you can find your nearest surgery using the NHS GP Finder. For emergencies, the Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI) is the city’s main hospital.

When it comes to getting around, Bristol offers plenty of transport options. The city is well served by buses, with First Bus running most of the local routes. If you prefer cycling, you’ll be pleased to know Bristol is one of the UK’s most bike-friendly cities, with plenty of dedicated cycle lanes and rental schemes. For longer journeys, Bristol Temple Meads is the main train station, offering regular services to London, Cardiff and beyond. If you drive, it’s worth checking whether your vehicle meets the city’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) requirements, as charges apply to certain vehicles in the city centre.

We’re Here To Help You Settle In

Moving to Bristol is the start of an exciting new adventure, and with a little planning, you’ll feel at home in no time. Take the time to unpack, explore the city’s incredible sights, connect with the local community and get to know your new surroundings. Before you know it, Bristol will feel like home.

And remember, if you need help with any aspect of your move, On The Dot Removals is here to help. From packing to moving, let us handle the hard work so you can settle in and start enjoying everything this fantastic city has to offer.

Get in touch with us today, we’re always happy to help.