Immerse yourself in Bristol’s unique character by exploring its diverse network of independent retailers. From artisanal foods to eco-conscious fashion, these homegrown businesses are a testament to the creative spirit of the city. Supporting local businesses has never been more crucial. When you shop local in Bristol, you not only contribute to the community’s economy, but you also help to keep the city’s personality alive and kicking.
Let’s delve into a selection of Bristol’s exceptional independent retailers, categorised into food, bakeries, gift shops and fashion boutiques.
Read on, or choose from the links below to go straight down to a category:
Food retailers
The Bristol Cheesemonger, Wapping Wharf
The Bristol Cheesemonger offers an exceptional range of British and European cheeses, providing the perfect accompaniments such as charcuterie and olives to complement your selection.
Better Food (various locations)
Better Food, a Bristol-based retailer and café, has for over 25 years passionately provided organic, local and ethical food and products from various city locations (Wapping Wharf, St. Werburghs, Clifton, Gloucester Road), demonstrating a steadfast commitment to community, health and the environment.
Otomi, Clifton
Otomi, nestled in the heart of Clifton, brings you a taste of Mexico with its range of authentic ingredients and delicious dishes.
Divino Deli, Clifton
Lastly, stepping into Divino Deli transports you straight to Italy. This family-run Italian delicatessen offers a wide range of authentic Italian food and produce, giving you a genuine taste of the Italian kitchen.
Bakeries
Ahh Toots, Central
Ahh Toots is a delightful vegan bakery known for its cakes, pastries and other dessert treats. Don’t miss their variety of coffee and tea options to accompany your choice of dessert.
Hart’s Bakery, Redcliffe
Nestled in the railway arches under Bristol Temple Meads train station is the family-owned Hart’s Bakery. Warm, cosy and highly popular, expect a queue out the door at peak times for their artisan sourdough breads, vegan sausage rolls, sandwiches, cakes and pastries.
The Bristol Loaf (various locations)
Spread across Redfield, Bedminster and Bristol Beacon, The Bristol Loaf is an artisan bakery offering handcrafted, certified organic breads, savouries, pastries and cakes. They take pride in using the highest quality, locally sourced organic ingredients, with vegetarian, vegan and non-gluten options also available.
Farro, St Pauls
Championing traditional sourdough methods, Farro offers a variety of pastries, cakes and quite possibly some of Bristol’s finest croissants. Situated in St Pauls, this bakery has been recognised as one of the best in the country by the Financial Times.
ANNA Cake Couture, Clifton
ANNA Cake Couture, located in Clifton, is a bakery known for its handmade cakes, cupcakes, macarons and other desserts. Run by self-taught baker Anna, these cakes are a feast for the senses, designed beautifully and made using the freshest ingredients.
Gift shops
Fig1, Wapping Wharf
Fig1 captures the essence of modern design, offering a wide array of contemporary homewares, gifts and accessories that will add a touch of elegance to any home.
Room 212, Gloucester Road
Room 212 is a place where art meets life. It is a gallery and shop that showcases a diverse range of art, photography and design pieces by local artists, each telling its own unique story.
Eclectic Gift Shop, Hanham
Eclectic Gift Shop, as its name suggests, offers a carefully curated collection from 100 independent creative businesses and local artists, ensuring every purchase is a unique find.
The Prior Shop, Cabot Circus
The Prior Shop takes the concept of a department store and adds a dash of independent spirit. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of homewares, gifts and accessories, all sourced with thought and care.
Fashion/clothes shops
That Thing, Stokes Croft
That Thing focuses on women’s fashion, with a passion for vintage and upcycled clothing. Each item tells a story, bringing a sense of history and uniqueness to your wardrobe.
Loot Vintage, Park Street & Haymarket Walk
Loot Vintage, with two locations in Bristol, is a treasure trove of vintage clothing for men, women and children. From dresses to jackets, you’ll find pieces that allow you to express your style uniquely.
Fox + Feather, Gloucester Road
Fox + Feather is a clothing and lifestyle store, in the heart of Gloucester Road, that stocks a range of independent brands. Their aim is to “bring a breath of fresh air to the high street”.