People / My Bristol Favourites
My Bristol Favourites: Emily Koch
Emily Koch is an author and writer whose third novel, What July Knew, is published by Harvill Secker on February 9.
What July Knew is described as a “moving mystery about family secrets, grief and growing up”.
On publication day, Emily will be introducing the book and then hosting a 90s-themed pub quiz at the Eastville Inn in Henleaze, at an event organised by Max Minerva’s.
is needed now More than ever
These are Emily’s top-five Bristol favourites:
Golden Hill Community Garden
Golden Hill Community Garden is welcome to anyone and everyone to come and get involved and get growing – photo: Golden Hill Community Garden
“This is an absolute gem of a place. Tucked away in the allotments by the prison in Horfield, Golden Hill Community Garden is run by a force of nature, Lucy Mitchell, and has some amazing events. I’ve taken my kids to their toddler group, made Christmas wreaths there and been to spring fairs, harvest festivals… you name it.”
Mountain bike trails in Ashton Court and Leigh Woods
“I don’t wish to misrepresent myself; I’m certainly no mountain bike pro. But I do love the trails in Ashton Court and Leigh Woods, and think we are really lucky to have them. In the summer, whenever we could get a babysitter, my husband and I would hit the trails and then grab some dinner at Wapping Wharf. A perfect evening.”
Bianchis
Bianchis was opened in 2019 by the same team behind Pasta Loco – photo: Martin Booth
“For a really special dinner, we always head to Bianchis in Montpelier. The food is sublime, but it’s the atmosphere at this restaurant (in the building where the legendary Bell’s Diner used to be) that makes it really stand out for me. The staff are brilliant and there is always a ridiculously good selection of music being played. Love it!”
Gloucester Road Books
Gloucester Road Books owner Tom Robinson – photo: Gloucester Road Books
“There are so many amazing bookshops in Bristol these days. Gloucester Road Books is just around the corner from me and is a hugely valued addition to the Gloucester Road high street. You can pop in for a browse (they always have a great selection), email in an order or put the lovely owner Tom on the spot with a specific request. I’ve never heard him fail to come up with something brilliant, and I’ve heard him get some very niche requests for recommendations! Its décor is perfect too; it always feels so cosy and calming.”
Horfield Leisure Centre pool
Horfield Leisure Centre facilities includes a swimming pool, gym and fitness studio – photo: Everyone Active
“From the outside, this may not be anything special to look at. It’s functional, right? A leisure centre doesn’t need to look pretty. But hear me out. I have been swimming at Horfield Leisure Centre for years, on my own and with my kids, and I have a real soft spot for the building the pool is in. There are big windows each end where, at certain times of day, sunlight streams in. I often swim early in the morning and there are times of year when you get the most beautiful light. The vaulted wood panelled ceiling is the best feature though – much nicer to look at when you’re doing backstroke than metal or white plaster. It’s no Clifton Lido but I feel pretty lucky to be able to go here for my weekly swims and only have to pay a few quid to do so.”
Main photo: Barbara Evripidou
Read next:
- Bristol is the backdrop to new novel
- ‘We need independent bookshops more than ever’
- Breakfast With Bristol24/7: Emily Koch
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