Bristol, on the River Avon, thrived on trade for centuries, especially during the centuries of triangular trade between Europe, Africa & America. After the advent of the Industrial Revolution, which led to a large rail system for the transport of goods within England, Bristol continued to thrive as a shipping port facilitating trade between England & North America. A unique contribution to Bristol's status as major port was the building of the Floating Harbour, a tidal by-pass of the Avon River, which kept ships from becoming stranded by low tide while in port. Bristol was heavily bombed during WWII, & today downtown consists of a mix of vintage & post-war buildings along with contemporary architecture. Bristol's re-developed Floating Dock area, street art & fine museums are its main travel attractions. |
