I’m staying with friends in north Bristol, who live in Montpelier, an area with a reputation for being bohemian and ‘alternative’. Picton Street is a haven for lovers of organic and vegetarian cuisine. 

Perfectly chosen as a home location by my vegetarian friend, who paints, does yoga and loves acrobatic rope work – and her husband, who has played in various bands; with both loving music, folk festival attendance, and ‘dressing up’. Here is John in one fine example….

Previously, Montpelier was carved by French prisoners of war (P.O.W’s) from the Napoleonic conflicts. All the streets and avenues are named after famous generals or have military connotations, such as Wellington, York and Banner Roads. Picton Street was built and named in honour of Sir Thomas Picton in 1783 endeared himself to Bristolians by bravely facing the rebellious 75th Battalion on College Green and averting a military mutiny.

There is a strong feeling of community spirit in Montpelier, that you feel as you wander around the neighbourhood.