"Bristol" Bristol by Andrew_W_K

To pay "on the nail" is a frequently used expression in England meaning to pay cash for something when you get it. Few people in England would be aware though that this saying is said to come from the Corn Exchange in the city of Bristol where deals would be made outside the building on brass studs (about the size of a cafe table) that still stand there today and give the appearance of being nails. The building was built in the 18th century and is today a grade 1 listed building.

The Cabot Tower

One of Bristol's most famous sons was the explorer John Cabot who discovered Newfoundland among other places. He is commemorated throughout the city but most notably in the tower that bears his name in the park on Brandon Hill (between the cathedral and the university). The tower is a fine example of an Italian campanile and was erected in 1897. It was very apt as John Cabots real name is Giovanni Caboto and he is of course Italian. We Brits have never been slow to claim a notable person as one of own!!

The Church of Mary Redcliffe

Although Bristol has a cathedral (and a very fine one it is too) its most notable religous building is the Church of Mary Redcliffe. A beuatiful gothic church of cathedral like proportions that dates from the 12th century (with major modifications in the 15th century) the church is a classic example of English ecclesiastical architecture that is now sadly surrounded by major roads. Still it is a fine building and well worth the trip.