Bristol is unique in that it is not part of a traditional county as most cities are. It is a unitary authority and a county in its own right located in the southwest region of England. Historically, before 1974, Bristol was part of the historic county of Gloucestershire, and it is situated on the border between Gloucestershire and Somerset. However, with local government changes in 1974, Bristol became administratively independent, governing itself as a county-level authority with its own local government and mayor. It is considered part of the wider South West region of England but does not belong to a traditional county such as Gloucestershire or Somerset, instead holding a unique status as a separate county entity.

If the question refers to Bristol in the United States, there are also Bristol Counties in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, but those are distinct from the city of Bristol in England. To summarize:

• Bristol (England) is a unitary authority and a county in its own right.
• It is located between and historically associated with Gloucestershire and Somerset but is administratively separate.
• It lies in the South West region of England, distinct from traditional county structures.