My Bristol Favourites: Rachel Sutherland

Rachel Sutherland is Bristol24/7’s newly appointed news and business writer.

Rachel, originally from the Wirral in Merseyside, has been involved in charity communications and worked as a trainee news reporter in Derby after completing her studies at the University of Sheffield.

These are Rachel’s top-five Bristol favourites:

1020 Radio

‘I really think 1020 is paving the way for emerging talent in Bristol across a number of genres’ – photo: Rachel Sutherland

“1020 is always buzzing with people who are passionate about music and radio. There’s always a great atmosphere in the studio and everyone I’ve met there is super friendly and invested in the music scene. I really think 1020 is paving the way for emerging talent in Bristol across a number of genres, giving people a platform to play their music and mixes live on air.

“I recently started volunteering at the station and would totally recommend for anyone interested in the behind the scenes of radio, production and live mixing. Along with it being a great place to network and meet like-minded people. Always such a vibe.”

The Bristolian

The Bristolian in Montpelier is a bonafide Bristol institution – photo: Rachel Sutherland

“Hands down one of the best vegan breakfasts I’ve ever had was at The Bristolian. Not only was it bursting with fresh flavours, but my plate was stacked with a very generous portion of scrambled tofu, crispy aubergine and other hearty components. An epic hangover cure!

“This cafe on Picton Street in Montpelier is home to the city’s most chilled out staff. It’s a decent size so there’s lots of space to sit both inside and outside – which covered by a canopy and an array of plants, gives it a real European feel.”

Goat Gully 

Goat Gully is tucked away between the Downs and the Portway – photo: Rachel Sutherland

“Bristol makes getting out into nature and green spaces pretty easy. I’m lucky to live just around the corner from the Downs, so I’m out there walking, jogging and cycling much as possible. One of my favourite wanders to take is along Goat Gully; dropping down from Circular Road, through a gate and onto a narrow path, it’s a little oasis and an escape from the road traffic and people.

“It’s an amazing opportunity to take a moment for a few breaths while gazing out towards the stunning greenery across the River Avon which makes up Leigh Woods. It’s always a good day when you spot its herd of resident goats. An unlikely sight in the middle of a city.”

The Port of Call 

Everything about the Port of Call in Clifton is cosy – photo: Rachel Sutherland

“Everything about this pub is cosy. It’s so enchanting that once you step foot inside, it’s very hard to bring yourself to leave. In the colder months, the heat from the fireplace warms your soul while you have a catch up over a pint of Guinness. Heavenly.

“If any friends or family of mine are visiting Bristol, I always take them to the Port of Call, which is tucked away just off Blackboy Hill. You really can’t go wrong. The food is tasty, the staff feel like your mates and not to mention, it’s dog friendly. What’s there not to love?”

Hotpod Yoga

There’s a variety of classes which cater to mixed abilities – photo: Hotpod Yoga

“Going to Hotpod Yoga on Fairfax Street after a long day and sweating out any stress or worries that have built up really feels cleansing. Moving through a vinyasa flow in 37-degree heat may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s done wonders for me both physically and mentally.

“The low-lighting, lo-fi music and lavender scents leave you no choice but to wind down. That being said. once the flow of the class gets going it definitely feels like a challenge, but it’s so worth it for the rush of endorphins and moments of relaxation at the start and end of the class. All abilities are welcome, and the wonderful teachers there make it very clear that each individual can adapt the class to suit their needs.”

Main photo: Rachel Sutherland

Read next: 

• Famous goats tasked with grazing Avon Gorge gully
• The reality of life in a Bristol tower block
• Underground feasibility reports released by Rees likely to be ‘inaccurate’
• Visual arts, magazine and stationery shop opening soon

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