Bristow served an apprenticeship in taxidermy before working in the family business, established in 1845, at an unpretentious shop at 15 Silchester Road, St Leonards-on-Sea.
Bristow began his career as an apprentice in taxidermy before joining the family business, which had been operating since 1845, at a humble establishment situated at 15 Silchester Road, St Leonards-on-Sea.