Bristol, a city bursting with creativity and culture, is one of the most vibrant destinations in England. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, there’s always something new to discover here. From its rich history to its thriving arts scene, Bristol has plenty of fascinating facts that will surprise you. So put on your walking shoes and get ready to explore this dynamic city – we’ve got all the juicy details for you right here!
Bristol is the world’s biggest manufacturer of hot air balloons
The city has been home to the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta since 1986, which is the largest annual hot air balloon event in Europe.
Ribena was invented in Long Ashton
Ribena was invented in Bristol in the 1930s by a University of Bristol scientist John Charles Harington. The name “Ribena” comes from the Latin word for blackberry, “ribes.”
Bristol was home of the pirate Blackbeard
Blackbeard is one of the most famous pirates in history, and he has a strong connection to Bristol. He was born in Bristol in 1680 and spent his early years there before going to sea.
The world’s first bungee jump took place from the Suspension Bridge
On April Fools’ Day in 1979, the world’s first bungee jump took place from the Suspension Bridge in Bristol. People watched as two members of the Oxford University Dangerous Sports Club made the leap. The event was a huge success, and bungee jumping has since become a popular extreme sport around the world.
JK Rowling was born in Yate
JK Rowling, the world-famous author of the Harry Potter series, is one of the most famous authors of all time and has a strong connection to the city of Bristol. She was born in Yate, just outside of Bristol, and she lived in the city for a short time when she was a child. Her family then moved to Tutshill, near Chepstow, but she still has fond memories of her time in Bristol. In an interview with The Guardian, she said: “I have happy memories of living in Bristol as a child.”
The first solid chocolate bar was invented in Bristol
Another fact about Bristol comes with the famous chocolate bar! In 1847, the first solid chocolate bar was invented in Bristol by Joseph Fry & Son. The chocolate bar became popular in the UK and Europe and was eventually exported to the US. The Fry family were Quakers and had been making chocolate since 1728. The company is now known as Cadbury!
Bristol is the home of nature documentaries
Bristol is world-renowned for its nature documentaries. The city has been home to some of the most iconic and groundbreaking documentaries ever made, including Attenborough’s Life on Earth and The Blue Planet. 25% of the world’s nature documentaries are produced in Bristol.
