UK Rework: Historic Bristol

Today, we're heading to Bristol, a historic city in the south-west of England known for its harbour, maritime & industrial heritage and iconic landmarks. 

We’re excited to bring Bristol to life as a brand new city in our UK Rework project for Euro Truck Simulator 2. Our talented map and asset teams have been working hard to recreate its distinctive character, landmarks and industries for players to discover. So, what can you expect to find? Let us show you!

Located in the south-west of England, Bristol has long been shaped by its connection to the water. The city grew around the River Avon and became one of Britain's most important ports, playing a major role in maritime trade and engineering. Its location close to the Severn Estuary also places Bristol on an important route towards South Wales, making it a natural gateway between England and Wales.

Our recreation of Bristol is divided into two main areas, the city centre and its surrounding road network, and the harbour and logistics area. While everything you see is still in early development, the city centre portion is already progressing well.

Drivers will be able to travel along a variety of road networks including Brunel Way, the A4, Hotwell Road, Merchants Road, and the A4018. These routes offer some fantastic views across different parts of Bristol, from its residential streets and riverside scenery to several of the city's best known landmarks.

One of the most recognisable sights is the Clifton Suspension Bridge, which spans the Avon Gorge and has become one of Bristol's defining landmarks. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the bridge has overlooked the city since the 19th century and can be seen from parts of the road network around the River Avon.

Brunel's influence can also be found closer to the harbour with the SS Great Britain. Launched in Bristol in 1843, the ship was one of the most advanced vessels of its time and today remains preserved in the city's historic dockyard. Drivers passing through the area will be able to spot the famous ship and enjoy views across Bristol Marina.

Elsewhere in the city centre, you'll come across landmarks such as Cabot Tower, which stands above the city on Brandon Hill, and the Wills Memorial Building, one of Bristol's most distinctive buildings and an important part of the University of Bristol. Queen Elizabeth's Hospital can also be seen along the route through the city.

The road network itself includes several notable junctions and intersections too. Among them is St James Barton Roundabout, commonly known as The Bearpit, an instantly recognisable part of Bristol's inner-city road network.

Closer to the waterfront, drivers will also discover our Marina Plaza depot, situated among the historic dockside surroundings of Bristol Marina. This part of the harbour has a long connection with shipbuilding, with the nearby Albion Dockyard tracing its history back to the early 19th century. 

Of course, Bristol's maritime character also plays an important role in its in-game economy. The harbour and logistics area will feature three main depot locations. A logistics warehouse, a car shipping terminal, and a marina yacht dock. Be sure to have a good look around while you're there too, you never know what you might find hidden among the dockside buildings!

The Bristol Bus & Coach station is also being recreated, giving players another destination to visit as part of the upcoming Coaches DLC for Euro Truck Simulator 2. Whether arriving in the city or setting off on a new journey, it will form part of the growing network of coach destinations being prepared across the reworked UK.

We hope you've enjoyed this first look at Bristol, one of the brand-new cities being introduced as part of the UK Rework. We're excited to share more from this project, which will arrive as a free update for all owners of Euro Truck Simulator 2 in the future. Be sure to let us know in the comments what UK city you'd love to see next! Keep on truckin', cheerio!