The Boy in the Bubble!.. Bands Bridges & Chips in Bath

Chipshape and Bristol

In search of Fish & Chips, Music & Retro Clothing

By Austen Dack

Iam passionate about visiting the best fish & chip shops across the UK. I also love to combine this with a weekend break in vibrant cities across Europe. Recently we visited Clifton & Bristol for a weekend with friends.

Clifton village is one of the most beautiful suburbs of Bristol, lined with 18th and 19th-century terraces and home to majestic Georgian architecture and picturesque streets lined with independent shops, boutiques and cafés. Clifton is brimming with things to do and see. Whether you have an affinity for outdoor activities or a keen eye for fashion and trends, Clifton has more than enough to keep you occupied for more than just one visit. It also has some fine public houses; we frequented both The Mall and The Royal Oak.

The Clifton Suspension Bridge has been open to the public since December 8th, 1864, and has since become a distinctive symbol for the city of Bristol. Connecting Clifton to Leigh Woods, Somerset, the majestic bridge spans the River Avon and the Avon Gorge, providing majestic views of the city (although it was a misty day). If you visit take in the Clifton Observatory with its 360 café, museum, which houses the Camera Obscura; and the mythical Giant’s Cave with its panoramic views of the Avon Gorge.

In the evening we headed off to find the Clifton Village Fish Bar. Here we met up with owner Marco Maestri (and his wonderful staff) to enjoy some of his fine haddock and chips.

As a family they have been at the shop for nearly 40 years! Before that his wife’s Nan was in the fish & chip trade in Abertillery South Wales where the frying range was powered by local coal from the mines! She worked in the Clifton shop until her late 80’s, they certainly don’t make them like they used to!

“We’ve seen massive changes through the years and especially when the American fast-food companies exploded onto the scene fish and chip shops really had to up their game. I remember when I used to cycle over to help my dad on a Friday evening for a few hours, Cod & chips were just £1:20!” Marco said.

“My preference for our fish is Icelandic as I think you can’t beat the quality deep clean waters. Potatoes I really like them from Cambridgeshire rich dark pear like soil, but have tried other varieties especially when we’re looking for the best quality available. “

“Trade is a bit unpredictable at the moment, we’ve seen big increases in click and collect orders and deliveries through Deliveroo & Uber eat partners. We’re aware that we’re in for some extremely difficult times ahead, trying to remain positive is the key which is difficult at times especially with Oil, Energy, fish prices and the Vat. The people at the NFFF are brilliant, Helen and David especially, most of our staff including myself have benefited from their numerous training courses available.”

Fashion!

We stayed once again in the wonderful Radisson Blu (close to Bristol centre and Clifton). Housed in an iconic 18-storey high rise, the hotel places you at the centre of one of England’s most captivating cities, close to a number of popular attractions. It’s the city’s tallest hotel so please if you stay ask for a room near the top to take in the breath-taking views.

Across the road from the hotel were a group of fine vintage memorabilia shops to amble around. Housed close to the university they stock a fine array of retro clothes & general brick a brac.

The main reason for our trip on the Thursday & Friday was to see a band I have loved since 1989. They are called the Blue Aeroplanes, and they once supported REM in the 1980’s. They are native to Bristol, and more often than not play at The Fleece. This year we were lucky to see a double helping from the band. First night was an intense yet intimate gig at the Exchange in Bristol with less than 250 people in attendance (sold out).

On Friday we were joined by Andrew Crook who was in the area working. As it was his birthday, we frequented a few local hostelries including The Hatchett (Bristols oldest pub) & the wonderful Bank Tavern before dining at the Bristol Christmas market. Then we were off to see the Blue Aeroplanes second flight. Their main Christmas gig is a must see, and along with support band Karen, they did not disappoint. Their action packed ‘flight’ lasted over 90 minutes and they included main stays Jacket Hangs & Breakin’ in My Heart, plus new songs from a new album Culture Gun.

Once again, we had a fantastic weekend away in the Bristol area. Combining music, walks pubs and fish & chips, what could be better.