The Clifton Arcade
Discover Victorian splendour and indie treasures in Bristol's Clifton Arcade, where over 20 unique boutiques offer vintage finds, art, and artisanal gifts in a charming covered passage.
Nestled in the heart of Clifton Village, The Clifton Arcade is a Victorian-era shopping gem opened in 1878. This covered passageway boasts over 20 independent boutiques offering vintage fashion, antiques, artisanal gifts, jewellery, bridal wear, art galleries, and speciality teas. Its ornate architecture, including a striking rose window, creates a charming, timeless atmosphere perfect for leisurely browsing amid Bristol's upscale neighbourhood.
A brief summary to The Clifton Arcade
- Boyce's Ave, Bristol, Clifton, BS8 4AA, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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 the Upper Gallery via the rose window staircase for street art and local designer clothing at Curbside Ethos.
- Browse vintage dresses and antiques for unique, history-infused souvenirs.
- Enjoy coffee from the in-arcade hub while browsing; it's affordable at around £2.50.
- Explore on Saturdays when Boyces Avenue becomes vehicle-free for a relaxed stroll.
- Check Fears boutique for exclusive British watches with Bristol heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take bus number 8 from Bristol city centre to Clifton Village stops on Whiteladies Road, 10-15 minutes journey, then 5-minute walk along Boyces Avenue; frequent service every 10 minutes, single fare £2.
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Walking
From Clifton Suspension Bridge, walk 10-12 minutes uphill via Clifton Down to Boyces Avenue; mostly paved paths with moderate incline, suitable for most fitness levels.
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Taxi
Taxi from Bristol Temple Meads station takes 15-20 minutes depending on traffic, costing £15-20; readily available but fares rise during peak hours.
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Cycling
Cycle from Bristol Harbourside via cycle paths to Clifton, 20-25 minutes; secure bike racks nearby, but narrow pavements limit options en route.
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 Clifton Village
Step into The Clifton Arcade, a beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade that opened its doors in 1878 in the affluent Clifton Village of Bristol. Tucked away on Boyces Avenue, this covered passageway exemplifies 19th-century architecture with its intricate ironwork, glass canopy, and elegant detailing that evokes the grandeur of a bygone era. Unlike modern malls, the arcade maintains an intimate scale, inviting visitors to wander slowly through its gently curving corridor lined with small, independent shops. The structure's design prioritizes light and airiness, with a soaring glass roof that floods the space with natural illumination, highlighting the delicate mosaics and ornate features. This architectural heritage blends seamlessly with Clifton's bohemian vibe, making the arcade a serene oasis amid the village's bustling cafes and boutiques.Diverse Independent Boutiques
Over 20 unique shops populate the arcade, each curated by passionate independents offering wares far from the high-street norm. Discover sustainable vintage fashion in cosy emporiums, where racks brim with retro dresses and accessories evoking early 20th-century charm. Jewellery stores sparkle with handmade pieces, while bridal boutiques showcase luxury gowns for special occasions. Antique dealers display curiosities that spark curiosity, from vintage watches hand-built by Bristol's historic Fears company to eclectic collectibles. Art galleries like Curbside Ethos in the Upper Gallery feature street art, graffiti, and contemporary works by local and international creators, alongside urban clothing from indie brands.Artisanal and Lifestyle Treasures
The arcade caters to eclectic tastes with creative art supplies, independent bookshops stocking rare finds, and speciality tea merchants blending exotic flavours. Plants and homewares add a touch of greenery, while a microgym and barber offer practical indulgences. The expanding Upper Gallery, accessed via the rose window staircase or nearby Joseph King House, hosts innovative spaces like social hubs with affordable coffee for remote work or events. These outlets emphasize quality and originality, from sophisticated British watchmaking rooted in Bristol's 1846 legacy to microblading services and stylish hairdressing. It's a haven for gift hunters seeking one-of-a-kind items.Relaxed Atmosphere and Surroundings
Surrounded by Clifton's cafes serving all-day fresh food, the arcade fosters a laid-back vibe ideal for relaxed exploration. The pedestrian-friendly zone, especially lively on vehicle-free Saturdays, enhances the charm, with quirky displays like oversized gorillas captivating passersby. Rainy days pose no deterrent, as the covered design shelters browsers year-round. This community of creators thrives in Victorian splendour, blending commerce with culture in a space that feels both historic and vibrantly alive.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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Rocca
0.8 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
Lizard Lounge
0.8 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
The Pearl NightClub
0.8 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Bristol Lola Lo
0.8 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
1.1 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Silk Nightclub
1.1 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Antix
1.1 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
OMG
1.2 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
1.2 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Basement 45
1.3 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
PRYZM
1.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Popworld - Bristol
1.6 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
1.6 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Thekla
1.8 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Lakota
2.1 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
- Entertaining
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly