How to make the most of the national lockdown in Bristol

Neil Thorpe13/11/2020

A walk through Bristol City Centre right now is a heart-breaking sight: the shops are shut except for take away or click and collect, and the streets are deserted. Working from home, for many, has become the norm as we buckle down to another lockdown. Morale may not be the best in your home, but there are things you can do to help others, give you a sense of pride, and dare we say, bring back a smile or two. We love this city, with the support it has shown and continues to show those around us, which is why we came up with some ideas for how to make the most of this national lockdown.

The best things come in small packages

As signs change from open to closed, we feel for those small businesses who are trying to survive through this pandemic. There are so many artisans creating such beautiful handmade gifts, ideal for a unique Christmas present. You only have to look at local Facebook pages to see them sharing their wares, from exquisite wreaths to delicious cakes (we could buy several), beautifully crafted furniture and irresistible home furnishings. So whilst in lockdown, why not do your Christmas shopping in Bristol. By doing so you will be giving twice and helping keep a small business alive.

A new chapter

The sale of books has gone through the roof this year as we rekindle our love of reading, and find we have the time to delve into those fascinating pages we have been longing to read. But did you know that you can now buy your books online and support local bookstores at the same time? Bookshop is a new rival for Amazon, and described as a “revolutionary moment in the history of bookselling.” When you buy a book from their website, you are supporting your local independent bookseller. Next time you feel the need to read, head to Bookshop.

New discoveries

One of the differences between this lockdown and the last is that, instead of only being able to exercise once a day, there is no longer a limit. This means you have no excuse not to get outside and explore. You may have discovered many new walks, cycle trails and running routes over the last few months, but we have come across a great new app that gives you a variety of options that you may not have yet discovered. Our team have been talking about the GetOutsideApp app, designed by Ordnance Survey, which was developed due to the pandemic as “we’ve found ourselves having to thing differently about how we spend time outdoors…”

Pre-Christmas Clear-out

Celebrating Christmas this year may look different; you may be thinking of a simpler celebration or going Christmas Crackers with a grotto-style home. One thing is for sure, especially if you have children, Christmas brings many new things that need to find a home. Now is a great time to have a good clear-out, but bear in mind that many charity shops Bristol are not taking donations at the moment, but you could try selling locally or find an alternative place to donate. Having a great clear out is a cleansing experience, banishing the old and getting ready for the new.

Last minute makeover

The festive season is fast approaching, and this strange and unusual year will soon be at an end. We know so many people in Bristol embarked on DIY projects through the first lockdown – gardens were landscaped, outdoor bars were constructed and rooms were reinvigorated. Before the Christmas decorations take over, why not get another project finished in your home, so you can enjoy the fruits of your labour this winter? Any work you do to improve your property can only benefit you, should you decide to sell your home in the future.

We are open

As you may be aware, we are still open, home moves can still happen and, should you wish to buy or sell a property, we are here to help. Join us in supporting local businesses, and making the most of this autumn national lockdown in Bristol.