Michael Lloyd-Jones is trader manager for the Bristol Pound, the UK’s first city-wide local currency which currently has more than 400 businesses signed up.

Here are Michael’s top-five Bristol favourites:

Ashley Road and Stokes Croft junction
“A junction may seem odd as a favourite place, but I love to think how every day this space plays host to thousands of different people. Linking Stokes Croft, Easton, St Werburgh’s, St Paul’s, Kingsdown and more, the area  is decorated by thought-provoking street art, and great places to eat within hopping distance of each other – the Runcible Spoon, Love Bristol Bakery, Cafe Kino and the Pipe & Slippers.  The nearby Bristol Credit Union, which in a time of global financial turmoil offers truly local, ethical financial services; and all not for profit! If, like me, one your favourite pastimes is people-watching, then grab a window seat in Cafe Kino and drink in the variety of characters passing through.”

Gloucester Road
“When I moved to Bristol from Liverpool three years ago, my first discovery was the glorious Gloucester Road. Liverpool is a great city but it lags far behind Bristol for vibrant high streets and independent traders. Often, my only food shopping options were Tesco, big Tesco or Iceland. Exploring the amazing array of local shops as a newbie gave me a real sense of affinity with Bristol, its character and culture. Favourite traders of mine include Shake Wrap & Roll, Harvest, The Gallimaufry, Gardner’s Patch, Joe’s Bakery, The Fish Shop, La Ruca, Grape & Grind, and a new favourite, El Colmado. All great places to spend Bristol Pounds!”

St Nick’s Market and the Old City
“Described as Bristol’s beating heart, it’s been a joy to watch the Old City reinvigorated in the past few years. Decorated with historic and beautiful architecture and historic, the area has begun to reclaim its identity, helped by regular events and an influx of new independent traders – the Looking Glass, Cafe Revival, Small Street Espresso, Full Court Press, the Birdcage and Urban Fox, to name a few. Over on Quay Street, Roll for the Soul, Bristol’s first community bike cafe, is my favourite new addition. The Old City also holds a special place in my heart as it was on the famous nails outside the Corn Exchange that the Bristol Pound was launched in September 2012. How time flies! I’m really looking forward to Corn Street’s full pedestrianisation and the opportunities that will come as a result.”

Claverton Weir via the Bristol & Bath Railway Path
“One of my favourite things about Bristol is its proximity to green spaces and connectivity with nature. 20 minutes on a bike will often get you away from the city and into some beautiful natural landscapes. The Bristol & Bath Railway Path is great for this, and it’s well worth cycling beyond Bath to Claverton Weir. Cycle there on a hot day with friends and food. End it with a cooling wild swim in the weir. Perfect.”

My secret perch off the Downs
“Just off a footpath on the Downs is a secret spot where you perch safely overlooking the Avon Gorge and the Suspension Bridge. It’s a lovely, tranquil place to sit and watch the world go by – just mind your step!”