Bristol is a very lively city, full of interesting and exciting things going on. It has been like a hive recently with games, new transport systems, and even a wee smidgen of Halloween flung in for good measure! So let’s take a closer look at what’s been happening in Bristol and why this is such a great city.

A Rugby Derby to Remember
Friday night saw the venue for rugby fans: Ashton Gate Stadium. In front of over 17,000 fans, the Bristol Bears hosted their arch-rivals Gloucester at Ashton Gate. The score was a try-fest as the Bears went down 44-41, but it was all on for close quarters and full of drama with players crossing the whitewash seemingly all the time. Not even Richard Lane was immune; he scored and sent the crowd into raptures. It was a high-scoring battle that clearly reflected the skills and determination of both teams.

Cricket Under the Clouds
Just days after, an important one-day international between England and Australia took place at the cricket ground in Bristol. Fans had accumulated to witness the last game of the five-game series. The bad weather, however, had other ideas. Rain poured in, and the game was cut short. Australia was declared the winner as they were the team in front according to the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, which dictates the decision for interrupted matches by rain. Despite the rain, the spirits of the fans were high, and they had all the fun the match brought.

Ferry Adventures on the Harbour
Bristol is not just about rugby and cricket; it also boasts a beautiful harbour The Bristol Ferry Boats are a real window into seeing the city from the water. These brightly coloured boats take people across the harbour, giving everybody the chance to enjoy views. This week, the ferry company unveiled an exciting new plan: from November to February, they will be offering free harbour tours to local community groups. Fabulous program for connecting with the good people of Bristol and sharing the beauty of the harbour with them. Gives one a warm feeling knowing business is helping out within its communities.

Pumpkin Harvest at the Zoo

As Halloween is just around the corner, pumpkin patches seem to be appearing just about everywhere in Bristol. At Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, staff are collecting an astonishing 10,000 pumpkins. These pumpkins were grown from fertilizers created out of elephant and rhino dung. Yes, you have read that right! The zoo utilizes this, what is seen to be waste, in enriching the soil, and this once again re-affirms a fact that nature can play a big role in farming as well. The staff here was all smiles as they picked the pumpkins for the families to use as Halloween decorations and treats.

Nature’s Beauty at Henleaze Lake
Among the bustle, Bristol also offers places for nature to be peaceful. Henleaze Lake is the serene haven located between Henleaze and Southmead as the top destination for swimming and leisure time. Initially a quarry, it was opened in 1919 and has since been a favorite local retreat. Being a perfect spot to be relaxed, this stunning rainbow over the lake recently just made its feel perfect. Even as temperatures start to cool down, adventure-lovers continue to jump into the lake and enjoy a refreshing plunge in its waters. In fact, this is one of the unsung gems of the city – giving something of calm within the busy urban life.

Meeting the Local Heroes
In other areas, BBC Radio presenter and actor Joe Sims was spotted chatting away with Bristol rugby player Ellis Genge at Redcatch Park. The two local celebrities were catching up after a few weeks since Genge signed a new contract with the Bristol Bears. It is always good to see local sports stars reaching out to the community, showing that they are as much friends as athletes and role models.

New Start for the Commuters of North Bristol
Commuters going north out of Bristol have got a new look this week since the opening of Ashley Down train station. Officials and the West of England mayor as well as kids from school came to witness this day. In fact, it is the first new station in Bristol after more than a century and lies on the line connecting Temple Meads to Filton Abbey Wood. Its opening will be very crucial in improving transportation in the city and will also make traveling convenient for people.

The Spirit of Bristol
Bristol is full of life; from thrills in sports events up to nature’s beauty. With the new train station and other community initiatives like ferry tours free, Bristol really tries hard to stay in touch and care for its people.

As Halloween approaches, the harvest of pumpkins creates the atmosphere in the city. Sports and enjoyment for the outdoors come together to make this a lively community in this lovely city of Bristol. All becomes encompassing, allowing for everything – from the rugby supporter to the day at the zoo for the children or just the afternoon ferry ride and further into the excitement of this city.