The Clifton Arcade
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in the heart of Clifton Village, home to independent boutiques, art galleries, and unique gifts.
Tucked away in the heart of Clifton Village, The Clifton Arcade is a beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade that feels like a step back in time. Opened in 1878, it houses more than 20 independent boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops, from vintage fashion and antiques to modern art, jewellery, and an excellent independent bookshop. With its elegant glass roof, ornate ironwork, and cobbled-style flooring, the arcade offers a charming, sheltered stroll through a curated collection of local creativity and craftsmanship. It’s a delightful place to browse for unique gifts, enjoy a coffee upstairs at Curbside Ethos, and soak up the relaxed, village atmosphere of one of Bristol’s most picturesque neighbourhoods.
A brief summary to The Clifton Arcade
- Boyce's Ave, Bristol, Clifton, BS8 4AA, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning or early afternoon to enjoy the arcade with fewer crowds and more time to chat with shopkeepers.
- Don’t miss the Upper Gallery and Curbside Ethos upstairs for contemporary art, local designer clothing, and a good coffee in a creative setting.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Clifton Village, where you’ll find excellent cafés, pubs, and restaurants just steps away.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking from Clifton Village
From the centre of Clifton Village, follow Boyces Avenue on foot; the arcade is a short, level walk along this pedestrian-friendly street, taking about 2–3 minutes from the main village crossroads.
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Bus from Bristol city centre
Take a local bus towards Clifton (such as the 8 or 9) and alight near Clifton Village; from there, walk along Boyces Avenue for about 5 minutes on flat, paved paths to reach the arcade entrance.
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Walking from Clifton Suspension Bridge
From the bridge’s eastern end, walk down the steep path into Leigh Court Road, then along Clifton Road and into Clifton Village; the total walk takes around 15–20 minutes on mixed surfaces, including some steps and inclines.
The Clifton Arcade location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Clifton Arcade
Victorian elegance in a village heart
Tucked into the leafy streets of Clifton Village, The Clifton Arcade is a beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade that feels like a step back in time. Opened in 1878, it was designed as a covered promenade for shopping and socialising, and today it retains much of its original charm. Tall glass skylights flood the space with natural light, while ornate iron railings, decorative stonework, and cobbled-style flooring create an atmosphere of old-world elegance. The arcade is relatively compact but thoughtfully laid out, with a central walkway flanked by small, independent shops that open directly onto the arcade. Its intimate scale and sheltered interior make it a pleasant escape from the weather, whether you’re seeking shade on a sunny afternoon or shelter from a sudden Bristol shower.A curated collection of independent shops
The arcade is home to more than 20 unique businesses, each adding its own character to the space. You’ll find a mix of antiques, vintage fashion, jewellery, art galleries, and specialist boutiques, including a well-regarded independent bookshop that draws in readers and browsers alike. There are also creative studios, a microgym, a luxury bridal boutique, and a barber offering stylish cuts, reflecting the blend of practical services and creative retail that defines Clifton Village. Upstairs, the Upper Gallery and Curbside Ethos space host modern and streetwise art, local designer clothing, and rotating exhibitions, making the arcade not just a place to shop but also a small cultural hub. The emphasis is firmly on independent, often locally owned businesses, giving the arcade a distinct personality compared to larger, chain-dominated shopping centres.More than just shopping
While shopping is the main draw, the arcade also functions as a social and cultural space. The upstairs gallery and event space regularly hosts exhibitions, workshops, and live music, often extending beyond the arcade’s regular opening hours. Curbside Ethos, in particular, doubles as a coffee spot and creative hangout, where visitors can enjoy a drink while browsing art or attending an event. The arcade’s location in Clifton Village means it’s surrounded by cafés, pubs, and restaurants, making it easy to turn a browse through the arcade into a longer village visit. The area is largely pedestrianised, especially on weekends, which adds to the relaxed, village-like atmosphere and makes it a pleasant place to wander with children or in a group.Atmosphere and visitor experience
The Clifton Arcade offers a calm, unhurried pace that contrasts with the busier shopping streets of central Bristol. It’s the kind of place where you can take your time, peek into each shop window, and strike up a conversation with a friendly shopkeeper. The lighting, architecture, and mix of businesses create a sense of discovery: a vintage dress here, a striking piece of art there, a beautifully bound book or a unique piece of jewellery. It’s particularly appealing to those who enjoy browsing independent boutiques, hunting for unusual gifts, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a well-preserved historic shopping space. Families with older children often appreciate the arcade as a dry, interesting place to explore, while couples and solo visitors find it ideal for a relaxed, low-pressure stroll through a distinctive corner of Bristol.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
William Draper Memorial
0.2 km
Explore Britain’s oldest war memorial, honoring 18th-century soldiers on scenic Clifton Down in historic Bristol.
The Lookout Lectern
0.5 km
Historic vantage point with sweeping views of Brunel's iconic bridge and Bristol's storied past.
Memorial Arch
0.7 km
A solemn Grade II listed arch honoring Clifton College’s fallen heroes of the World Wars, blending history, tradition, and architectural grace.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
1.2 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Statue of Cary Grant
1.4 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Watershed
1.5 km
Experience Bristol's vibrant arts scene at Watershed, where cinema, food, and culture come together in a breathtaking riverside setting.
Statue of Edmund Burke
1.5 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
The Centre
1.5 km
Explore The Centre in Bristol, a vibrant tourist attraction and historical landmark, where culture, shopping, and scenic beauty converge.
Cascade Steps
1.5 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
King George V Memorial Fountain
1.5 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Pero's Bridge
1.5 km
A striking pedestrian bridge honoring an enslaved man's memory and Bristol's complex past with the slave trade.
The Matthew of Bristol
1.6 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
St John's Church
1.6 km
Experience the architectural wonder and serene atmosphere of St John's Church in Bristol, a must-visit tourist attraction rich in history and beauty.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
1.6 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and history of Palestine at the Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre in Bristol, a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
M Shed
1.7 km
Explore Bristol's maritime past at M Shed, a vibrant museum with engaging exhibits, a delightful cafe, and a unique gift shop on the waterfront.
Unmissable attractions to see
Victoria Square
0.1 km
Elegant Victorian square in Clifton, Bristol, blending historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and cultural heritage in a prestigious setting.
The Mall Gardens
0.2 km
A serene and charming green oasis nestled in Clifton, offering peaceful gardens framed by historic architecture and community spirit.
The Paragon
0.5 km
Discover the charm of The Paragon in Bristol, a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity for every traveler.
Butt polished rock
0.5 km
Discover the subtle geological wonder of Butt Polished Rock nestled in Bristol’s historic and scenic Clifton district.
Clifton Observatory
0.6 km
Historic observatory with one of the UK’s few working Camera Obscuras, Giant’s Cave adventure, and stunning views of Clifton Suspension Bridge.
St Vincent's Rocks
0.6 km
Historic cliffside landmark in Clifton offering dramatic views, ancient caves, and rich cultural heritage above the Avon Gorge.
Giant's Cave
0.6 km
Descend into legend and emerge with views of Bristol's most iconic bridge from an unforgettable angle.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
0.7 km
Iconic Victorian suspension bridge spanning the Avon Gorge with stunning views, free museum, and engaging guided tours in Bristol.
Bristol Docks
0.7 km
Historic Bristol Docks at Hotwells: Engineering brilliance and maritime heritage meet vibrant waterfront life.
Cabot Tower
0.8 km
Discover the historic Cabot Tower in Brandon Hill Park, an iconic landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Bristol's maritime heritage.
Brandon Hill
0.8 km
Bristol’s oldest park with panoramic city views, a nature reserve, and family-friendly spaces just minutes from the city centre.
Clifton Suspension Bridge Visitor Centre (Free Entry)
0.9 km
Explore the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge’s history and engineering at the free Visitor Centre with interactive exhibits and guided tours.
Capricorn Place
0.9 km
Modern riverside living in Bristol’s historic Hotwells district, blending scenic views with urban elegance on the vibrant Harbourside.
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
0.9 km
Explore Bristol’s rich heritage and art treasures in a stunning Edwardian Baroque museum with free entry and diverse exhibits.
Wills Memorial Building
1.0 km
A towering neo-Gothic icon of Bristol and the heart of the University of Bristol’s academic and ceremonial life.
Essential places to dine
No.4 Clifton Village
0.1 km
Charming Georgian hotel in Bristol’s Clifton Village with cozy rooms, a private garden, and the acclaimed No.4 Clifton Village restaurant.
Clifton Sausage
0.1 km
Experience expertly crafted British sausages and seasonal local dishes in the warm, inviting heart of Bristol’s Clifton Village.
New Moon Tapas
0.2 km
A stylish tapas spot in Bristol’s Clifton Village blending global flavours with inclusive, creative small plates and vibrant cocktails.
The Ivy Clifton Brasserie
0.2 km
Elegant British brasserie in Clifton, Bristol, blending local heritage with refined dining and vibrant afternoon teas.
Coppa Club, Clifton
0.2 km
Stylish Italian dining and vibrant social hub in Clifton Village, Bristol, perfect for all-day meals and lively evenings.
Giggling Squid - Clifton
0.2 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and vibrant dining in the heart of Clifton Village at Giggling Squid, Bristol’s beloved Thai restaurant.
Côte Clifton Village
0.2 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets modern dining in the heart of Bristol’s Clifton Village.
1 York Place
0.4 km
An intimate European bistro in Clifton offering seasonal dishes and a warm, stylish atmosphere for a refined dining experience.
Racks Bar & Kitchen
0.6 km
A vibrant Clifton hotspot blending historic cellar charm with gourmet British and Mediterranean cuisine in a lively, stylish setting.
Lost & Found Bristol
0.7 km
Theatrical cocktails and creative cuisine in Clifton's most Instagram-worthy venue.
The Coconut Tree Bristol, Clifton Triangle
0.8 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan tapas and tropical cocktails in Bristol’s lively Clifton Triangle, where bold flavours meet colourful charm.
The Pump House
0.8 km
Historic waterfront gastropub in Bristol’s Hotwells, blending heritage architecture with fine British dining and scenic harbour views.
Botanist Bristol
0.9 km
Plant-filled gastropub celebrating seasonal British cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in Bristol's City Centre.
The Chef's Table
0.9 km
An intimate fine dining experience in Bristol’s historic docks, serving innovative modern British cuisine with expert wine pairings.
Bravas
1.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in Bristol’s cozy and lively Bravas, where traditional flavors meet seasonal creativity.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Village
0.0 km
A compact, design-led gift shop in Clifton Village offering locally made homewares, stationery and small-batch finds with a quietly curated, neighbourhood feel.
Mint Velvet Bristol
0.1 km
Discover relaxed glamour and personalized style at Mint Velvet Bristol, a chic ladies' boutique in Clifton's fashionable Regent Street.
About Face
0.1 km
Discover curated gifts and artisanal treasures in Clifton's charming village heart, where unique finds meet personal service in a cozy Bristol gem.
Indira Rose Vintage
0.2 km
Discover mid-century magic across three floors in Clifton's chic village—timeless antiques and vintage furniture await in Bristol's premier trove.
The Pod Company
0.2 km
Discover cutting-edge wellness with The Pod Company’s innovative ice baths and sauna pods in the heart of Clifton, Bristol.
Grace & Mabel Ltd
0.2 km
Discover handpicked elegance at Grace & Mabel Ltd, the Clifton Village boutique where three sisters craft a world of timeless fashion, quality, and personal style since 2007.
Movement Boutique
0.2 km
Discover curated designer fashion, jewellery, and homewares in the stylish heart of Clifton, Bristol’s charming historic district.
Ashwell & Co
0.8 km
Retro elegance meets homemade indulgence: vintage treasures and legendary scones in Clifton's cozy tearoom.
Ganesha
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
1.1 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Clifton Down Shopping Centre
1.1 km
Bristol's Clifton hub: supermarkets, shops, coffee, and convenience right by the station on leafy Whiteladies Road.
Inca
1.1 km
Discover artisanal wonders and unique souvenirs in the heart of Bristol's chic Clifton Down, where bohemian charm meets everyday elegance.
Alices Secret Empourium
1.2 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Soukous
1.2 km
Eclectic gift shop on Bristol's vibrant Cotham Hill, offering curated homeware and artisan treasures.
Zhyper
1.2 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dirty Bird
0.0 km
A vibrant neon-lit cocktail lounge in Clifton Village, Bristol, mixing classic and creative drinks with a lively, intimate atmosphere.
The Quadrant
0.1 km
Cosy Clifton wine bar with a curated drinks list, small plates and buzzy window seats in the heart of the village.
22 Clifton
0.2 km
A vaulted Clifton wine cellar mixing Georgian bones with a modern wine-bar programme, tastings and sharing plates in an intimate setting.
The Last Word Clifton Village Bristol
0.2 km
Quirky Clifton cocktail haven spanning three cozy floors, perfect for masterful mixes and intimate evenings in Bristol's upscale village.
The Coronation Tap
0.3 km
Bristol's legendary ciderhouse near Clifton Suspension Bridge, famed for potent Exhibition scrumpy, live tunes, and timeless tavern vibes in cozy Clifton.
Barrelhouse
0.4 km
Clifton's hybrid pub where Detroit pizzas, rooftop views, live tunes, and dive-bar cocktails create unrestrained fun in a historic setting.
The Eldon House
0.6 km
Historic Victorian pub in Clifton, Bristol, known for craft beers, live music, and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
The Brass Pig
0.7 km
Clifton's two-floor nightlife gem: cocktails from £3.50, DJ weekends, terrace vibes, and student deals in Bristol's Triangle hub.
The Cocktail Club - Triangle Bristol
0.8 km
Step into Bristol’s Neverland-inspired Cocktail Club for expertly crafted drinks, quirky décor, and nights that never want to end.
Hyde & Co
0.8 km
Discover Bristol’s secretive speakeasy with expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy vintage ambiance in the heart of Clifton.
Be At One - Bristol
0.8 km
Energetic cocktail bar in Clifton, Bristol, serving over 100 expertly crafted drinks with vibrant vibes and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Bag of Nails
0.9 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
The Cottage Inn, Bristol
1.0 km
Historic harbourside pub offering modern British classics, craft ales, and scenic waterfront vibes in the heart of Bristol.
Alterego
1.1 km
A lively cocktail and sports bar in Bristol’s Redland, perfect for creative drinks, karaoke nights, and memorable social gatherings.
Steam
1.1 km
Bristol's premier beer hall in a historic station, serving craft brews, bottomless brunches, and pizzas on a festival terrace amid Clifton's charm.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
