Bristol

There are some occasions which remind you how pleasant it is to live here.

Last week, while the good weather lasted, it happened twice. I walked into the city centre one evening to meet friends & go to the Thekla (qv), arranging to see them first at a newish bar by the waterfront. The location was Mediterranean in feel. We had a table on a low balcony overlooking the water, with the sun shining on the racing sculls rowing past us. Further away were the painted narrow-boat homes moored by the docks, the Georgian terraces of Redcliffe, and the spire of the church. It was quiet, peaceful, beautiful and warm. I drank wine and enjoyed the city.

Then, when we were ready, we walked the hundred or so yards to the Thekla, for loud noisy entertainment. Walking back home was stimulating, seeing the dozens of bars full of people enjoying themselves, then leaving the centre for the climb over Cotham to the sleepy inner suburbs. Magic.