The area is residential, primarily with row upon row of well-preserved Victorian houses huddled together in narrow, steep streets. But once you begin to investigate the alleyways and mews, you will find a thriving night scene of clubs, pubs, and bars, plus a huge array of upmarket galleries, gift shops, restaurants, and tea rooms, all catering to the well-heeled visitor.

Clifton is, of course, associated with its bridge, but there is a lot more to see, as well. Clifton Downs are a beautifully managed park land area, providing tranquility and peace, where you can walk your dog or even ride out on a horse for the day. Bristol Zoo is also situated on the Downs, and although I've not visited personally for a few years, it does have a wonderful record of conservation and an ongoing captive breeding programme for endangered species. The zoo is surrounded by Victorian houses, and it seems quite surreal to be there in the centre of such a residential area.

The best way to enjoy Clifton is to walk. You'll see everything in a few hours, but it is the atmosphere there, almost "a village within a city", that never fails to impress the visitor.

Music clubs abound, and you can take in jazz, blues, folk, or whatever your penchant is for the price of a beer or coffee, although that price tends to be rather high here. But the pubs are quaint, the locals friendly, and the ambience great, so treat yourself to a tour around, should you ever come to Bristol.