Bristol – significant people and events

Bristol is an influential city in the South West of England because it has been an important place for travel, trade and new ideas. For centuries, its busy harbour connected Britain to other countries, bringing people, goods and cultures to the city.

Bristol also became a centre for engineering and invention, with famous bridges, ships and creative designs that changed how people lived and worked. Many significant people have lived or worked here, including explorers, scientists, artists and campaigners who spoke up for change.

Significant people with links to Bristol and surrounding area