I always find that port cities feel like home to me, with me growing up in one that might not come as a surprise.
The city of Bristol is less than half an hour on the train from Bath making it a great idea to visit them both if you’re making the journey - but honestly?
I think to find yourself satisfied you’d need a few days in Bristol minimum.
My home for the night was at the stunning Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel and I am honestly amazed that it’s only a four star hotel - it felt a lot like what I’d expect from a five star.
You can get a bus straight from Bristol Temple Meads station or a taxi, it’s a really smooth journey.
Once I got to the hotel my jaw dropped, it’s a beautiful building and the hotel restaurant is a Miller and Carter so you really do feel a sense of luxury.
In my room there was a really incredible ceiling feature that made me feel like I was sleeping in an art exhibit.
I stayed in a Junior Suite on the top floor which truly felt decadent, in the small opening room there’s a wardrobe where you will find your robes and slippers, which were very good quality.
The spacious suite had a sofa area, a desk, a kingsize bed and a small seating area.
When I entered the room there was a bottle of a prosecco, box of delicious chocolates and a handwritten note welcoming me to my stay, I always love a personal touch when I check into a hotel.
Donning my new favourite shirt from ISAWITFIRST's Valentines collection, I headed out to Coppa Club for dinner.
Based in the Clifton area of Bristol, the restaurant is a stone's throw from some beautiful spots that are definitely worth having a look at if you have the time.
I found the chicken to be incredibly juicy although the Peri Peri sauce was served on the side and seemed too runny to pour straight onto my dish.
The star of the show was the dessert - I got a vegan salted caramel ice cream that was rich and creamy without being obviously vegan.
It really stood out to me, if there's only one thing that you get while you're there - make it the ice cream.
I don't think I spent anywhere near enough time in Bristol, I could easily spend a full week exploring the artwork that fills the city walls - and I've already asked my friend if she wants to do a weekend trip at some point.
I did the Where The Wall self-guided Banksy tour - or half of it at least, the suggested start point was somewhere near the middle and I found myself wanting food by the time I reached the end rather than going to the start point.
I popped into Bird & Blend's shop to get a drink on one of the stops - the staff were really friendly, providing free samples and wafting the different tea blends' scents with a special fan just for the occasion.
Opting for something a little different to my usual, I got the Chocolate Digestives tea as a latte.
They steamed Oatly's Barista Blend to make the drink for me, and even popped a sprinkle of chocolate powder on top.
I was really thrilled with it and it kept me company as I toured the city in search of artwork making up appearances on walls.
The walking tour takes you through some great art spots that you might've missed otherwise, and even at least one stop that no longer has the art in place.
It gave a really interesting context into the history of Banksy's art in Bristol, giving insight into how the mysterious artist managed to pull off some of the iconic pieces around the city.
Honestly it's a genius way to see more of the city, while it is quite hilly (wear comfortable shoes!) on foot is a great way to really take in your surroundings.
If you're going to Bristol, I would strongly recommend taking part in the tour (and if you do the self-guided version you can go at your own pace).
I finished up the tour near the M Shed, the views from outside of the museum were incredible - it's definitely worth a stroll in the sunshine.
After I finished taking in the sites, I was famished and craving some Caribbean food - after asking for recommendations I found myself at Caribbean Croft.
They have a pretty wide menu and I opted for the Oxtail - the dish came with peas and rice and steamed vegetables - with a portion of festivals on the side, some salt fish fritters and grape soda.
It really satisfied my craving, I would've liked if the meat stew had dumplings already inside of it but it was still quite enjoyable.
I rounded out the meal with Sticky Toffee Pudding which was really sweet, in exactly the way I'd want from that type of dessert.
And then it was time to go home.
I honestly wish I'd had more time in the city, the train out was simple enough but I couldn't help but think I'd need at least three days there to even scratch the surface.
Have you ever been to Bristol?
