Cat and dogs

The street maps confuse and disorientate us. We give up on those. It feels kind of mad to walk around following google maps' automated female voice instructions and we quickly abandon that option too. Which leaves us wandering without direction, our full attention needed to navigate narrow pavements parked up with cars while avoiding other peds and fly-by cyclists. When we do look up we're mesmerised by rows of chimney pots and contrails criss-crossing the sky - then assaulted by street art. This is Bristol UK and it's awesome.

We're based in Easton. Our meanderings take us through multi cultural 'burbs and the city fringe. The destination today is the corner of Robertson and Foster Road where we'll find an early Banksy. Just follow Bellevue Road and turn left, easy as that. Within minutes we're lost.

It doesn't matter though. The rows of look-alike houses are all different, some lovingly tended, some broke-down and crumbling, each with its own unique story. We're fascinated. The afternoon wears on as we wind our way through twisting streets, every one a new discovery.

And suddenly, when we've abandoned all hope, we're found. By a cat and two dogs. Not as bright as the photos and (fittingly, I feel) defaced by graffiti. Modestly sandwiched between other people's art. Unremarkable except for the fact that they're famous. And proof that if you wander around Bristol's streets long enough, a Banksy will find you.

Self-guided Banksy Art Tour