STREET LIFE
L
et’s skip back in time for a moment. Before Banksy, before Brunel, before Blackbeard, before Bristol itself, there was Westberrye-super-Trim – as it was known in 1621. Eponymously named after the river Trym, its origins go way back to the 8th century, but it wasn’t until the early 18th that it became a suburb of the city. Next-door neighbour Henleaze is the newer kid on the block, being an inter-war residential development thought to be named after property owner Robert Henley. (Henley’s – get it?) Fast-forward to the present, and both areas are a uent and coveted property hotspots in northwestern ristol, o ering the perfect compromise of life away from the frenetic city centre while remaining within easy reach of its amenities. Independent spirit is strong in these parts, and WoT and Henleaze are well served by a host of resilient local businesses. Both areas are known for steadfastly batting away the advances of big businesses – they may never have thrown a full-on Stokes Croft style riot, but in 2001, local villagers in WoT kicked up such almighty uproar over plans to install a large Sainsbury’s that construction was eventually scrapped. Over time, a few smaller chains have crept in but both the WoT & Henleaze remain populated by plenty of independent and local businesses that are well supported in their communities. Let’s meet the traders, then, shall we?
(LOCAL) RETAIL REIGNS HERE
C THE WORLD, 33 North View The only local, independent travel agency in the area, C The World will see you safely from Bristol and beyond. The extensively travelled and knowledgeable team of travel agents take the time to really understand what clients want from their trip in order to o er the best e periences at the best rates – giving you peace of mind while you roam the globe. FISH WITH FEET, 12A North View A community gem of an art gallery selling exquisite Italian crockery and high-quality, handcrafted ceramics at bellissimo prices.
IN THE BEGINNING… THE STORY OF THE LAKE
After it ceased production, Southmead Quarry was allowed to flood and became an informal swimming and ice-skating spot sometime around 1903. To this day, Henleaze Swimming Club, formed in 1919, is still going strong and remains a favourite spot for freshwater swimming and diving in the area. We think we’ll wait for warmer weather before dipping our toes in, though.
HOW THE DIAL HOUSE GOT ITS NAME Easily distinguished by its inlaid clock, WoT’s Dial House was once a former toll house, with the road leading to the ferry across Bristol Channel on the left. Legend has it that the lady who lived in the house was courting a young man in the village, who had second thoughts and jilted her. Devastated, but determined to get her own back, she had the dial of a clock painted on the house, set to the exact time he left her – to show him up to the village and make an example of his ungentlemanly behaviour.
JULIE ANNE PALMER JEWELLERY, 129 Stoke Lane From concept to completion, Julie works closely with her clients to produce unique pieces of jewellery in her studio workshop. KONDI GIFTS, 103 Henleaze Road If you’re a magpie for pretty things, Kondi Gifts on Henleaze High Street will catch your beady little eye instantly. A veritable cornucopia stocked full of handpicked gifts, Kondi artfully avoids the tacky kitsch territory that many high street counterparts purvey; you won’t find a ‘world’s best mum’ mug in sight here, but you will uncover a host of joy-sparking products – many from local and independent suppliers, designers and artists. LLOYD’S GREENGROCER, 81 Henleaze Road nsuring Henlea e never goes without its five-a-day this independent, family-run greengrocers have been in the fruit and veg trade for over three generations, selling only the freshest selection of produce to customers at fair prices.
WEATHERING THE STORM
Being an independent trader isn’t without its challenges... “We’re completely reliant on the weather”, explains David at Smithfish. “If it’s blowing a gale outside our fishermen can’t get out on their boats and we don’t get our fish.” David, Smithfish “Our main challenge has always been staying ahead of the supermarkets. We have managed this through standout local products such as game and Gower Salt Marsh lamb and our level of advice and service.” Peter, Molesworth of Henleaze Butchers “It’s sometimes hard to keep positive when the streets are empty of all people because of Brexit/January/snow - basically because of things you can’t control. Retail is tricky!” Jess, Max Minerva’s Bookshop “At one point we had a scare with the road traffic system being changed, which would have had devastating effects on all the local retailers and the village life in general. Everyone started to campaign against the road changes and the changes have fortunately been squashed for now.” Emma, The Laundry Basket Wrap star: Kondi Gifts
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