Features / Bristicles

21 photos of Bristol from above

By Freya Spear  Monday Jun 6, 2016

As Bristol International Balloon Fiesta drifts closer this weekend we delve into the records for an areal perspective of the city and its most recognisable locations.

Photographed from a tethered balloon for postcards and kept in the archives of the Bristol Office Record, the images show what Bristol used to look like from the sky.

 

EatDrink24/7 Launch Party is back on July 8 2026!
Exclusive collabs from Bristol’s favourite food vendors, available for one night only. Be first to grab your free copy of the EatDrink24/7 guide – plus every ticket comes with a free limited-edition beer can.

1. St Augstine’s Bridge, now The Fountains

2. Market Street, Bristol

3. Victoria Street and Temple Church

4. Bristol city centre, circa 1923

5. Bristol General Hospital, Bathurst Basin

6. Bristol city centre

 

7. Bedminster and Hotwells

 

8. Cabot Tower, Brandon Hill

 

9. Floating Harbour where it meets the Avon, with Clifton Suspension Bridge in the background  

 

10. Aerial view of city docks at what is now the fountains

11. Queen Square and the Floating Harbour

 

12. Clifton Down, circa 1928

 

13. Clifton Suspension Bridge, 1910

 

14. Clifton and Clifton Suspension Bridge

 

15. Clifton College

 

16. Clifton, 1910

 

17. Clifton

18. Clifton Down

 

19. Clifton Down

 

20. Whitehall Road, Easton

 

21. Wills Hall, Stoke Bishop

 

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EATDRINK24/7 LAUNCH PARTY
CALLING ALL FOODIES!

Bristol's only truly independent food & drink guide is back, and we're throwing a party to celebrate on July 8 2026 at Wiper and True Brewery & Taproom, Old Market.

  • Exclusive collaborations from Bristol's favourite food vendors (you can't try these special dishes anywhere else)
  • Be the first to pick up your free copy of the EatDrink24/7 Guide
  • Music + great drinks
  • Each ticket includes a beer from Wiper and True, a special limited-edition can created just for the occasion.

One night only - don't miss out

Get Your Ticket

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