But like all urban areas it has its challenges especially around environmental impact. But it is also one of the most progressive and energetic cities looking at way to make itself truly greener. For a start it is the home of great organisations like Sustrans (the British cycling charity) and the Soil Association (the UK's leading charity promoting organic food) and indeed the headquarters of UK's Environment Agency amongst others. Despite the hills it is the leading cycling city after London. There is a big local food movement. The "floating harbour" supports water taxis and one is now hydrogen fuelled. And there is also a plethora of smaller groups working on all aspects of environmental, social and economic sustainable projects. These all come together under the council's umbrella organisation Bristol Green Capital. It was formed when Bristol entered the European Green Capital of the Year awards a few years back. The got through to the final six short-list. They tried again last year and came second. And this year they are trying one more time.
No British city has won through, and we dearly hope Bristol's unique and energetic efforts succeed this time. This is why we are backing the bid. To find out more click on the image. If you are staying at Gorge View Cottage also check what's on: Bristol hosts a great series of green events throughout the year, culminating in the Big Green Week in June.
Bristol is a 30 minute drive away. Of course to be faultlessly green you could borrow our bikes, cycle the 10 miles of Strawberry Line to Yatton and take the train in.