Bristol, Christmas Steps c.1935

Photo ref: B212193

I was a 'Red Maid' from 1966-72, and at the end of November it was 'Founder's Day' commemorating the founding of the school by John Whitson in 1634. As Bristolians will well know the Red Maids walked from John Whitson's tomb to the Cathedral on College Green for a memorial service. After that service I remember having lunch with my parents at Christmas Steps - wonderful fish and chips! ...see more

The family that ran this shop in the early 1960's were the Stefano family. I was at school with Peter Stefano who later took a pizza franchise in Baldwin Street. In the mid 60's I and friends bought 2nd hand demob suits from Madame Virtue (theatrical costumiers) around the corner in Park Row, which we wore with collarless shirts and two tone shoes. Other shops on Christmas ...see more

Goddamn fish and chips! At the very bottom of the Christmas Steps lies a building thought to date back to the 13th century, which has housed a fish and chip shop for well over 100 years. One of the first ever 'chippies' to open in England, this shop won a Best in Britain award whilst under the management of the inimitable Grace and Robert. After taking over the restaurant in 1964, the couple ...see more