Originally an agricultural village called New Cambridge, the town was incorporated in 1785 and given the name Bristol. In the mid-19th century, the town flourished with the rise of manufacturing companies like J.H. Sessions and Son and Ingraham Clocks. It incorporated as a city in 1911. Known as a manufacturing hub, some of the most successful businesses got their start in Bristol from world-famous ESPN to the Barnes Group.

Just two hours from Boston and New York and an hour from the shoreline today, it’s a hidden New England treasure abundant with attractions, special events, and history to enjoy.

Bristol is situated in Central Connecticut, 20 miles southwest of Hartford with easy access to all major highways. It is a wonderfully diverse and family-friendly community that offers a wide range of historical, entertainment, and dining opportunities. Our quality-of-life benefits from the 700+ acres of beautiful parks, a high-rated education system including two high schools with upgraded buildings and surrounding athletic fields, and an aggressive promotion of economic development that attracts reputable industry which in turn increases our grand list.

The Bristol community is active in the arts, a wide range of sporting activities, and preserving our city’s rich history of architecture, revolutionary clock making, and general manufacturing.