People / My Bristol Favourites
My Bristol Favourites: Jessica Hambly
Jessica Hambly is women’s captain at City of Bristol Rowing Club, who on Sunday were due to host their winter head race on the Floating Harbour – which has now been cancelled due to high winds. When she is not rowing, cycling, surfing or competing in triathlons, Jessica is a researcher at the University of Bristol’s law department.
Here are Jessica’s top-five Bristol favourites:
The city from the water
“We row from down by The Cottage pub right up past Temple Meads, out onto the Feeder canal and (when Netham Lock is open) out onto the Avon. There are times during the year when we do this every day, sometimes even twice a day, so we get to know the waterways very well. I love seeing the birds, especially the cormorants and the kingfishers.”
Vegetarian and vegan food
“My top favourite haunts are Roll for the Soul (I’m also mad keen on cycling) and Cafe Kino, but I also love some of the newest additions to Bristol’s growing veggie scene. For example, The Adam and Eve in Hotwells, Flow on Haymarket Walk and Vx in Bedminster.”
The Island
“I discovered The Island when I started doing ballet last year after a 12-year break. It houses such a vibrant mix of creative arts; there’s always something new and exciting going on. The reoccupation and transformation of space in the former Bridewell Police Station is fantastic.”
The Cube
“There is rarely a film on at The Cube that I don’t want to see, and they host some great music events. Added to that, tickets are always affordable (and free for asylum seekers), the history of the building is fascinating and they even make their own cola.”
Bristol Refugee Rights
“When I moved to Bristol I was lucky enough to meet some great friends and truly inspiring people through volunteering at this brilliant organisation. Bristol Refugee Rights based at the Malcolm X Centre (above) provides a welcoming, safe space for Bristol’s refugee and asylum seeking community to hang out, chat, eat, learn English and access help with housing and money problems. There’s a really strong sense of solidarity and friendship.”