People / My Bristol Favourites
My Bristol Favourites: Gemma Amor
Gemma Amor is a Bram Stoker Award nominated horror fiction author, podcaster and voice actor.
Previously self-published, her debut traditionally published novel, Full Immersion, is available from September 13 from Angry Robot Books.
On publication day, Gemma will be taking part in an event at Storysmith on North Street.
is needed now More than ever
These are Gemma’s top-five Bristol favourites:
Purdown
Gemma says that the BT tower “makes me think of a dystopian monument to some long-crumbled civilisation” – photo: Martin Booth
“The open, green spaces, flowery meadows and wonderful views of Purdown genuinely saved me during lockdown. It was the only leafy, wildish place within walking distance that felt large enough to accommodate all the other Bristolians who also needed to escape and remind themselves of the world outside. There’s such an abundance of flora there; it’s hard not to smile when you’re walking through the thick of it. And the views back towards Bristol are amazing. Not forgetting of course, the iconic BT tower, which always makes me think of a dystopian monument to some long-crumbled civilisation. Evocative in a weird, rather brutal way.”
Box E
Box-E is celebrating its sixth birthday in October with a paired tasting menu in collaboration with the Little Aperitivo Co – photo: Box-E
“Hands down the best food I’ve eaten in Bristol. No fuss service, wild, imaginative combinations and flavours, fresh, local ingredients, banging wine list. Box-E in Wapping Wharf is an amazing experience from start to finish.”
Sidney & Eden
Sidney & Eden has 20 taps of craft beer and cider – photo: Sidney & Eden
“Sidney & Eden on Gloucester Road is my new favourite drinks spot. A solid cocktail menu, grand selection of beers, easy going staff, a nice intimate, ‘local’ joint.”
The top of Trenchard Street car park
“I recently saw in Bristol24/7 that there’s a petition to turn this space into a cafe or bar, which made me feel a bit protective. It’s always offered my favourite view of Bristol and feels like an intimate secret of sorts. I drag anyone who visits me from out of town up there for the sunset. Great spot for fireworks night too.”
The Old Duke
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ce8-NOEg2np/
“I used to work on Queen Square and the Old Duke on King Street was my favourite place to go after knock-off. I loved it all: the sticky floors, crowded bar, live music. I’ve sweated buckets in here to the Severn Jazz Men and Sheelanagig and countless other bands. It’s like an old friend, one I have neglected lately. I’m going to remedy that ASAP. My second favourite music venue after Fiddlers in Bedminster.”
Main photo: Gemma Amor
Read next:
- Storysmith to host more in-house literary events
- Moses McKenzie wins best breakthrough writer at Soho House Awards
- Max Minerva’s moving to new home
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