visit to bristol

The 15 best things to do in Bristol - from Banksy to bridges

Jan 23, 2022 • 8 min read

Street art – including many works by famous native son Banksy – is a calling card of Bristol © rafalkrakow / iStock / Getty Images

One meander through the colorful streets of Bristol  and you’ll be hooked on the city’s passion for creativity.

From Brunel’s groundbreaking steamships to Banksy’s thought-provoking art, this city on the Avon River prides itself on taking risks and breaking the rules. And that heritage extends far beyond its most famous sons: whether it’s the artisans at St Nicholas Market or the independent restaurants at Wapping Wharf, all of Bristol’s people contribute to its inventive spirit. 

Here are a few of the things not to miss as you explore this vivid city.

Cross one of the world’s most famous bridges

It’s all about location. Visionary Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel oversaw many groundbreaking projects throughout his illustrious career, and few are as spectacular as the Clifton Suspension Bridge . Crossing the 245ft-high chasm of the Avon Gorge, the bridge runs from the handsome Georgian neighborhood of Clifton over to the serene streets and bucolic landscapes of North Somerset. 

Tragically, while Brunel never lived to see the bridge in its final form – completed in 1864, it took 34 years to build – it looks today as magnificent today as it did in his original sketches. Cross the bridge’s 702ft span on food to get a wind-whipped idea of its grandeur. If that still isn’t enough, a tour from its Visitor Centre will teach you more about the history of Bristol’s most iconic site. 

Go belowdecks on a 19th-century ship

Another masterpiece of design by Brunel, the SS Great Britain  has resided in Bristol since 1970. A heroic salvage operation in the Falkland Islands thousands of miles away brought the ship back to the Bristol harbor, where she was first built in 1856; it’s remarkable she still exists in one piece. Today, visitors can explore almost every inch of the almost 100m-long vessel. 

The tour of the first ship in the world to be both built of iron and powered by a screw propeller begins belowdecks with a slightly unnerving walk beneath the vast hull and around that huge propeller. It’s a perfect introduction to your discovery of this pioneering ship.

Experience the counterculture in Stokes Croft

The epicenter of Bristol’s creative movement, the Strokes Croft neighborhood offers a smorgasbord of jaunty art, cool cafes, quirky pubs, vintage shops and more. Just north of the city center, this district has a palpable sense of counterculture, community and artistic drive that few other neighborhoods in the UK can match. 

Home to some original Banksy pieces and local institutions like the Crofter’s Rights and Canteen , Stokes Croft is perfect for a wander day or night. 

Enjoy the views from Cabot Tower

From the tumbling cliffsides of the Avon Gorge to the breathlessly steep walk up Nine Tree Hill, Bristol promises wild topography. So there might be nowhere better to get a panoramic view of this cinematic city than from the top of a hill.

Built at the end of the 19th century to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s historic voyage to Newfoundland, Cabot Tower at the top of Brandon Hill offers gorgeous views of Bristol and the surrounding countryside. 

Stay in an artistic haven

Bristol has bold artistic traditions, and the Artist Residence on Portland Square does right by them. Located on the square’s northwestern corner in a handsome Georgian townhouse, this boutique hotel has spacious stylish rooms dotted with unique art and period features. 

With mid-century modern furniture and high ceilings allowing plenty of natural light, its breezy Library bar is a fine neighborhood spot for a quiet drink. (We recommend the divine Smoky Martini.)

Take a walk in the woods

At a compact two square miles, Leigh Woods Nature Reserve packs a lot into its small size. Located just across the Clifton Suspension Bridge on the western side of the Avon Gorge, these ancient woods provide a tranquil escape from the city and boast stunning views of the bridge from an angle few visitors ever see. 

As well as rare flora and fauna, the woods are also home to Stokeleigh Camp, an Iron Age hill fort dating back to 350 BCE whose rising green ridges are clearly visible today.

See some of the best street art anywhere

Few cities in the UK have an identity as purely visual as Bristol’s. Using the city’s streets, buildings, walls and parks as an enormous canvas, Bristol’s street artists have given the city a color and richness that capture the eye almost immediately. The street art visible just about everywhere embodies the city’s vibrant and creative culture.

The enigmatic Banksy is the local whose work really put Bristol on the map over 20 years ago. You can explore his oeuvre in glorious yet succinct detail on tours run by Where The Wall . Taking you by Banksy classics like Mild Mild West and Well Hung Lover , global graffiti art authority John Nation explains the history and significance of these works, and why they could only have been made in Bristol. 

Sip some cider

England’s West Country is one of the world’s most foremost cider regions, so unsurprisingly its largest city is home to some sublime cider pubs. Quietly situated at the end of a low-lit street in Clifton, The Coronation Tap  – CoriTap to locals – is a 200-year-old cider house famous for serving the fearsome 8.4% Exhibition cider (only available in half pints).

Other superb spots for sampling the fermented apple beverage include the charming riverside barge The Apple in the Old City. On  Spike Island ,  The Orchard Inn  is a traditional pub dating back to 1834 with over 20 different dry and sweet ciders available. 

Lie back at the Lido

An oasis in the heart of Clifton’s busy residential streets, Bristol Lido is a restored Victorian outdoor swimming pool with a unique open-air setting. Flanked by wooden changing rooms on one side and a modern European restaurant on the other, this modern bathhouse is a gorgeous retreat that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day. 

Especially pretty in the evening under the glow of the lights, the Lido also features a hot tub and a sauna, very welcome amenities during the winter months. 

Learn what makes Bristol, Bristol

Some city museums display gaudy art and artifacts from far-flung corners of the globe. On the other extreme, Bristol’s M Shed  goes deep into the fascinating, hyper-local makeup of this city, from its unsung heroes to proud neighborhood heritage. 

M Shed celebrates everything that makes Bristol what it is today – without shying away from difficult episodes from the past. Handled with particular care is the city’s historical relationship with the slave trade, especially the sobering exhibition on the (in)famous Bristol merchant and colonial trader Edward Colston. 

Sample the diverse food scene

With Bristol’s cultural range and creative mindset, it makes perfect sense that the city has a rich food scene, too. From the zesty Jamaican favorite ackee and saltfish at Carribean Croft to Coconut Tree’s fiery Sri Lankan Jaffna goat curry, there’s a wild variety of flavors to choose from.

If you want to choose from a selection of alluring flavors in one location, head to the famous St Nicholas Market in the Old Town, or the shipping containers converted into food stalls at Wapping Wharf . 

Make some waves

If you’ve ever dreamed of surfing outdoors but far from the rough sea, meet The Wave . Just outside Bristol, this pioneering 180m-long inland surfing lake is the first of its kind in the UK, and is powered by 100% renewable energy. 

It’s also a hugely welcoming environment with encouraging coaches who get just as much of a kick from seeing beginners ride their first wave as the surfers do themselves. Yes, you’re sure to wipe out a few times – but that first stand-up surf above the waves makes every tumble worth it. 

Question your own ways of thinking

Bristol’s We The Curious does things a little differently from typically didactic science museums. Intended to get kids thinking about the world around them, this science center asks visitors questions in an interactive, visual and playful manner. 

Located by the historic harbor, We The Curious engages young people’s natural curiosity, even encouraging them to leave their own questions pinned to the wall as a way of expanding the conversation. Don’t miss the remarkable 3D Planetarium shows on the first floor. 

Pedal around a bit

With so much green space, Bristol’s a fine city for enjoying the great outdoors. And there might be no better way to enjoy the fresh air than by cycling the 14-mile Bristol and Bath Railway Path. Entirely free of cars, this converted railway right-of-way offers an eco-friendly path to Bath’s ancient Roman spas and majestic Georgian streets. 

Within Bristol’s city limits, Pedal Progression will take your cycling to the next level by showing you the finer techniques of mountain biking amid the lush trees and hills of Ashton Court Estate. 

Get high (in a hot-air balloon)

Bristol’s long relationship with aviation is proudly displayed at Aerospace Bristol , where visitors are able to explore, among other mechanical highlights, the last Concorde to ever fly. 

For something more genteel than supersonic, hot-air balloons take to the skies around Bristol throughout the year. Organize a trip with Bailey Balloons or Elite Air to see the city from thrilling new heights. 

You might also like: Bristol’s former police HQ is now a chic hostel on a mission to help the homeless How to get around in England this winter Top 9 road trips in England

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Why we love Bristol

Cool creative Bristol is a must-see destination if you’re a fan of art, culture and action-packed adventure. And when it comes to great grub and welcoming pubs, the city’s no slouch. For a true taste of Bristol, head out on a street art tour to discover the works of the city’s most famous resident, Banksy. Delve into maritime history at the legendary SS Great Britain steamship, or discover awe-inspiring views on a tour of the historic Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Feel your adrenaline pumping at The Wave, the city’s inland surfing site, see historic works of art at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, or savour local ale and cosy up in one of its eclectic bars, pubs or breweries. With shopping ranging from budget to blowout and an impressive music scene to boot, one thing’s for sure – Bristol doesn’t disappoint.

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Discover a world of art

Bristol needs no introduction to the street art scene , home to the world renowned stencil artist, Banksy - the city is bursting with colour creations round every corner. Hit up a street art workshop or explore the area on a walking tour to uncover the stories behind the city’s bright, and bold walls.

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A festival for the taste buds

Great beer, delicious food and a brilliant playlist: what could be a better way to celebrate summer? The Bristol Craft Beer Festival showcases the city’s huge range of artisan breweries, alongside top British and international names. Enjoy diverse flavours as well as live music, DJ sets, and access to the street food market.

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Bristol, England

Whether it’s a cold winter’s day or a blissful summer evening, Bristol’s Lido has got you covered. Make a splash in the outdoor pool that’s located right in the heart of picturesque and historic Clifton. For a real treat, pamper yourself with a spa treatment, or find your zen in the hot tub and steam room.

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Hit the waves for a surfing session on Bristol’s in-land wave pool . Pick up the adrenaline with a ride out onto the water, or for a more relaxed trip, tuck into some tasty grub from the on-site Clubhouse. 

Eat like a local

At lunchtime, hungry Bristolians descend on St Nicholas Market . Dating back to 1743, this food market had city’s largest gathering of independent retailers: from artisan cheesemongers and award-winning bakers, to stalls piled high with spicy noodles, plump dumplings and much more. The cuisine hails from all over the world, but the ingredients are fresh and locally sourced.

Things to do in Bristol

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The Wave Bristol

Take to the waves and head inland for some serious surfing thanks to Bristol’s innovative inland wave-creating lake.

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Come and see 100 balloons take to the sky at Bristol’s International Balloon Fiesta.

Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Step aboard the world’s first great luxury liner, and discover the ship that changed the world.

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Clifton Suspension Bridge

Spanning the beautiful Avon Gorge, this is one of the world’s most architecturally ambitious bridges – a true work of art.

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Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

From dinosaur skeletons to local inventions, this free museum puts one billion years of art, culture and nature at your fingertips.

SUP Bristol

On a paddleboard, you’ll witness the nature, beauty and relaxed pace of life on Bristol’s waterways.

Adventure Bristol

This outdoor activity centre is packed with challenges – so grab your mates and get stuck in.

Wake the Tiger

Step into ‘the world’s first amazement park’ – a place unlike anywhere you’ve ever been before.

Wake The Tiger

Bristol is famous for its graffiti – so why not have a go too? Get hands-on at these expert-led workshops.

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Christmas Steps Art Quarter

It’s a real adventure to dip into these tiny boutiques, many of which serve as artisans’ workshops too.

Delve into Bristol’s history at this locally-focused museum, discovering the human stories behind its most pivotal moments.

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Bristol Craft Beer Festival

Great beer, delicious food and a brilliant playlist: what could be a better way to celebrate summer?

Grab your mates for a night of live music, bowling, karaoke and more, at this fun-loving Bristol nightspot.

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Old Market Quarter, Gay Village

Whether you’re looking for a sociable drink with like-minded people, a night of cocktails and dancing till dawn, or adults-only fun at a discreet bar and sauna – the Old Market Quarter is the place.

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Ashton Court Estate

This impressive stately home isn’t just full of history – it has mountain biking, orienteering and golf courses too.

This collection of boutique hotels is synonymous with luxe bedrooms, fantastic food and brilliant service.

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Jekka’s Herb Farm

Look out for supper clubs, art workshops and craft classes – all with a herbaceous twist.

Jekka's Herb Farm

Thornbury Castle

King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn stayed here on their honeymoon – and you can enjoy its luxury too.

Wills Memorial Building Tower

Enjoy magnificent views from this mighty landmark, opened by King George V and Queen Mary in 1925.

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Royal Fort House

This historic spot is a haven for walkers and wildlife, and features art installations too.

Wapping Wharf

This up-and-coming shopping, dining and entertainment quarter has breathed new life into Bristol’s waterfront.

Bristol Shopping Quarter

With over 400 retail and dining brands, this city-centre mall has something for every style.

Park Street and The Triangle

Top fashion brands rub shoulders with independent vintage stores, jewellery boutiques and gourmet delis.

Poco Tapas Bar

Tuck into a menu of tapas, brunches and sharing plates, which champions sustainably-sourced local ingredients.

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Bristol and Bath Railway Path

Rather than driving or taking the train between these great cities, why not cycle instead?

Bristol Pride

Featuring a star-studded line-up of singers and drag cabaret – plus an awe-inspiring protest march through the city.

Bristol Bear Bar

One of the UK’s only purpose-built bear bars, it attracts a varied crowd and brings the beats of pop and dance music to the table.

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Queenshilling

Be dazzled by a 1920s Art Deco style and a welcoming atmosphere. Expect disco lighting and a swanky dance floor complete with podiums and a stage.

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UPFEST, Bristol

Welcome to Europe’s biggest graffiti festival, where the streets of Bristol are the canvas.

Glastonbury

This legendary gathering is on every music-lover’s bucket list – featuring a star-studded mix of bands, comedy and cabaret.

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Whether you’re horse riding, cycling, playing football or walking, this green space is glorious year-round.

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Cheddar Gorge and Caves

Discover soaring cliffs and spectacular caves, sculpted by the elements over many thousands of years.

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Sherlock Locations Trail

Released by the Bristol Film Office, this official walking guide reveals the city’s key Sherlock locations.

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Frogmore Street

Be part of the city’s legendary LGBTQIA+ scene, with buzzing bars, nightclubs, entertainment and more.

Bristol Harbour Festival

A whole weekend of entertainment, with circus, music, dance and more – all for absolutely free!

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Bristol Marina

The city’s maritime roots run deep, and its waterways host festivals, floating restaurants and more.

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Bristol Lido

Dip your toe into Bristol’s history at this beautifully restored bathhouse, luxury spa and restaurant.

Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

With its hydrotherapy pools and luxurious treatment areas, this city-centre idyll is hard to resist.

Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road

Calling all bargain hunters and trend setters: these shops, galleries and delis are anything but ordinary…

Bristol Tours – Walking Tour

Exploring with an expert local guide, you’ll be immersed in the city’s sights, sounds and stories.

Where the Wall

Whether for walking tours or stencilling workshops, immerse yourself in the city’s spectacular street art.

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Bristol Cathedral

Discover the soaring Gothic architecture and exquisite stained-glass windows of this city-centre landmark.

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This is the place to revel in Bristol’s free-spirited vibe, while shopping for clothes, antiques and crafts.

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Bristol’s harbourside

See Brunel’s iconic vessel to one Banksy’s most famous works at Bristol’s picturesque harbour.

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Featured things to do

Street art walking tour

Add a splash of colour to your trip to Bristol on a tour of its creative graffiti and murals – from Banksy originals to international artists, you’ll find the city’s walls popping with eccentric artwork.

International Balloon Fiesta

Look up as the sky fills with hot air balloons for Bristol’s International Balloon Fiesta, from sunrise flights to night time glows - the city is filled with a balloon extravaganza.

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See Bristol from the water

Hop aboard an iconic yellow and blue Bristol Ferry for a unique way to see the city from its Harbour. For an added splash of fun, look out for a Gin Cruise for a liquid fuelled boat trip.

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Christmas in Bristol

Discover frosty winter walks around the city, and follow twinkling lights along the bustling streets for a real festive feel.

Places to stay in Bristol

Stokes croft.

Find the coolest vibe in Bristol, from local boutiques and artist studios to traditional pubs, hip eateries and trendy cafés.

Harbourside

Once where merchants and traders set sail, the Harbourside is now a trendy enclave with a great selection of places to eat, shop and stay.

Take in views of the awesome Clifton Suspension bridge, eat in bistros and stroll around its impressive Georgian architecture.

Explore nearby

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

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A wellness retreat for the Romans and Georgian architecture around every corner.

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Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

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Lush rolling pastures, pretty stone villages and rambling rivers - the Cotswolds has it all.

Cotswolds, England

Small but mighty, Exeter is a city with seriously cool credentials. Discover the top attractions and best things to do and see during your next visit here.

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Getting to Bristol

England’s south west city is easily accessible from across the UK by train and car, and boasts fast, efficient transport connections, from regular buses to trains running from Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway Railway Stations. The city is served by Bristol International Airport, with easy connections to the city centre on the Airport Flyer bus service.

Getting around

With bus services a plenty, find ticket prices and discounts across the city and the south west with FirstGroup . Being the UK’s first cycling city, Bristol is easy to explore by bike and on foot. Or head to the water aboard a ferry with Number Seven Boats and Bristol Ferry Boats for a unique way to visit major attractions.

With ticket stations at every stop, you can buy tickets for the city’s environmentally-friendly metrobuses before you board.

Save money on train and bus travel in and around Bristol and explore more with a Freedom Travelpass .

You can discover the best cycling routes and find out how to hire bikes and equipment at Better by Bike . 

Want to know more?

Get the inside scoop of all things Bristol from those in the know at Visit Bristol.

12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bristol, England

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Among Bristol's many tourist attractions are numerous art galleries and a number of pleasant parks and green spaces. It's also an extremely fun city to walk around, with some of the best routes taking in Bristol Harbour, with its preserved and rejuvenated old wharves and promenades.

For families, there's Bristol Zoo Gardens and We The Curious , a science and arts center that's especially designed to engage and educate young minds. Also worth a visit is Ashton Court Estate, a facility that provides a wide variety of fun outdoor activities for families.

You can also take day trips to places just outside of town, such as the amazing Cheddar Gorge.

Between all these points of interest and countless places to visit, you'll find plenty of fun things to do in Bristol.

See also: Where to Stay in Bristol

1. Bristol Harbour & Bristol City Docks

2. brunel's ss great britain, 3. clifton suspension bridge, 4. bristol cathedral, 5. enjoy city views from brandon hill park & cabot tower, 7. st. mary redcliffe, 8. llandoger trow, 9. bristol old city, 10. bristol museum and art gallery, 11. blaise castle house, 12. take a drive to cheddar gorge, a brief history of bristol, where to stay in bristol for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in bristol, england, bristol - climate chart.

The old Port of Bristol on the Avon River has been given a new and imaginative lease of life, with many of its old wharves and warehouses restored or converted for contemporary uses. Traditionally known as the "Floating Harbour" for the fact that a tidal bypass was constructed in 1809 to ensure water levels remained constant, the harbor covers 70 acres and is fun to explore on foot.

Today, Bristol Harbour, home to Bristol City Docks, is where you'll find numerous museums, galleries, entertainment, and dining opportunities suitable for all ages. It's also where you'll find top attractions like the Bristol Aquarium ; the We The Curious science center; and the Arnolfini, the city's world-class visual arts, music, and performance center.

Thanks to its lack of a tide, the harbor has also become a very popular area for personal pleasure craft such as kayaks and paddleboards, as well as local rowing clubs. From here, you can row a large navigable section of the River Avon.

Travel in and around Bristol Harbour is made easy thanks to Bristol Ferry Boats , which operates a number of ferry services on the Avon River. This convenient mode of transport offers inexpensive passes that let you hop on and off at key points of interest around the harbor area and across other parts of the city.

Location: Welsh Back, Bristol, England

The SS Great Britain , the world's first iron-hulled passenger ship, lives on at the same dry dock where the great vessel was built and launched in 1843. The work of the famed engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it was also the first ship to use screw propellers.

Famously rescued from oblivion after being scuttled off the Falkland Islands , the ship is now located at Bristol's Great Western Dock and is a testament to Brunel's engineering ingenuity. Today, you can stroll the ship's upper decks or explore below deck and peep into the luxury cabins of First Class passengers, as well as the much more humble accommodations provided for other classes.

Part of the fun here is exploring an authentic facsimile of the original dockyards dating from the time the vessel was built, complete with goods waiting to be loaded. An exhibit entitled Being Brunel also offers a fascinating peak into the great inventor's mind.

The site is also home to the Brunel Institute and the David MacGregor Library , an archive of thousands of books, documents, plans, and objects related to England's greatest engineer and inventor. A gift shop, a café, and a picnic area is also located on-site.

Address: Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Road, Bristol, England

Official site: www.ssgreatbritain.org

Another work of the famed British engineer I. K. Brunel, and one of his first, is the spectacular Clifton Suspension Bridge. Spanning the 260-foot-deep Avon Gorge on the west side of the limestone plateau known as Clifton Down and Durdham Down, this spectacular structure measures 702 feet between its piers.

The bridge was completed in 1864, 33 years after Brunel had first submitted his prizewinning plans.

Stop at the visitor information center to learn about the bridge's construction or join a weekend behind-the-scenes tour. You can also grab a coffee and snack here and walk back across the bridge to sit on the grass or a bench to enjoy the incredible views of the bridge with the city in the background.

Located just a short climb up Observatory Hill from the bridge is the former Clifton Observatory. This historic building now houses a great restaurant with spectacular views, as well as the Camera Obscura attraction. Giant's Cave is located nearby and is worth a visit, too. While you're up there, watch for peregrine falcons flying above the Clifton side.

Address: Bridge Road, Leigh Woods, Bristol, England

Official site: www.cliftonbridge.org.uk

Built originally as the church of the Saint Augustine Abbey, Bristol Cathedral took almost 600 years to achieve its present form. The east end, superbly rebuilt in the Decorated style by Abbot Knowle, dates from between 1298 and 1330.

The central tower and transepts were completed in the 16th century, and the nave and towered west facade are from the 19th century. The church was elevated to cathedral status in 1542. Among the many other interesting features of the cathedral is the rectangular chapter house, with its late Norman decoration of zigzags, fish scale patterns, and interlacing.

Also look out for the Great Gatehouse . Built in 1170, it served as the gatehouse for the St. Augustine Abbey. It also features early examples of the use of pointed arches. You'll also want to visit the cathedral café for a sweet treat to enjoy in the tranquil cathedral garden.

Guided tours are available with advance booking, as are audio guides for those who prefer to go at their own pace (these can be picked up when you arrive)..

Address: College Green, Bristol, England

Official site: http://bristol-cathedral.co.uk/

Perched high atop Brandon Hill, Cabot Tower strikes an impressive pose over the city. Constructed in 1897 to mark the 400th anniversary of explorer John Cabot's voyage to North America from Bristol, the tower stands 105 feet tall and, while easy to spot, does involve a bit of a climb.

Once here, though, the city views from the base of the tower are breathtaking. The best views are from the top of the tower, reached by a spiral staircase. It's worth expending the additional energy, as the panoramic views here take in not just the city, but the harbor area. The climb to the top is one of the best free things to do in Bristol.

When you're done with the views, Brandon Hill Park is certainly worth hanging around. The city's oldest park, it's a great place for a scenic picnic, or simply to chill on the grass. Other notable features include a pleasant network of paths and trails and a kids' playground.

Address: Brandon Hill Park, Park Street, Bristol, England

Part of the Bristol Museums group, M Shed on Prince's Wharf is a must-visit when exploring Bristol Harbour. You'll not easily miss the museum thanks to the huge historic cranes set outside the building. The oldest such crane left in England, the Fairbairn Steam Crane was built in 1878 and was used continuously until the 1950s, when the shed itself was built.

Set in the large "shed" behind the crane, M Shed offers visitors a fascinating multi-media look at the city's rich history through a mix of colorful permanent and temporary exhibits. Highlights include displays related to the stories of everyday people placed in context with major events, as well as transportation and maritime history.

This "living museum" also includes a variety of fun experiences that feature some of the original machinery that once worked in the docks. A highlight for the kids is the chance to take a ride on the Bristol Harbour Railway. Built in the 1870s, this museum-run attraction offers fun rides along the quayside, offering great views of the harbor and SS Great Britain .

Another fun experience includes the chance to operate one of the original steam cranes lining the dock outside M Shed. This unique experience, though, is dependent on the availability of crew, so be sure to check ahead to ensure they're operating.

Address: Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, England

Official site: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/m-shed/

When Queen Elizabeth I visited Bristol in 1574, she described St. Mary Redcliffe as "the fairest parish church in England." Built in the 13th century and extensively renovated in the 15th century in the Baroque style, the church is located on the south side of Floating Harbour and takes its name from the red cliffs on which it stands.

With its slender, clustered pillars and reticulated vaulting, hexagonal porch, and richly decorated doorway, it perfectly displays the wealth of Bristol's rich merchants. A great triptych, Sealing The Tomb , designed and executed for the main altar by William Hogarth, is now at the offices of the Bristol & Region Archaeological Services in the former St. Nicholas Church.

Also of note is the memorial tablet and tomb of Admiral Sir William Penn, father of the William Penn who founded Pennsylvania. Be sure to pay attention to the church's organ, too. Built in 1726, it's regarded as one of the best preserved of its type in England.

Address: 12 Colston Parade, Redcliffe, Bristol, England

Official site: www.stmaryredcliffe.co.uk

The famous triple-gabled, half-timbered Llandoger Trow building in King Street, built in 1664, is where Alexander Selkirk is said to have told the story of his shipwreck to Daniel Defoe, who immortalized the tale in Robinson Crusoe .

The Llandoger Trow was also the model for the Admiral Benbow , the inn frequented by Long John Silver in Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island . Carefully restored in 1991, the building is linked by an underpass to the Theatre Royal, home of the Bristol Old Vic and the oldest playhouse in England to have had its stage in continuous use.

Address: King Street, Bristol, England

Official site: https://llandogertrow.co.uk

Bristol Old City is a warren of historic buildings from a long stretch of the city's history. One of the most photographed landmarks is St. Stephen's Church on St. Stephen's Avenue, the parish church of Bristol, which dates from 1476. Look inside for the tomb of Martin Pring, the discoverer of Cape Cod Bay in Massachusetts, and for the colorful effigy of George Snygge.

The medieval St. John on the Wall is close by and is the last of the many churches once built into the city wall. It is noted for its vaulted crypt and interactive displays added in 2016. It is near St. John's Gate , originally part of the old city wall, famous for its figures of Brennus and Belinus, mythical founders of Bristol, and Christmas Steps , an ancient alleyway paved in 1669 and now lined with antique and souvenir shops.

At the corner of Broad Street and Corn, you will find the neoclassical Old Council House , constructed in 1827. Across Corn Street, the Palladian-style Exchange (built in 1743) is noted for its four outdoor tables, the brass "nails," upon which Bristol merchants settled their transactions and gave rise to the expression "paying on the nail."

The covered St. Nicholas Market , with more than 60 stalls, is adjacent to the Exchange on St. Nicholas Street. A Farmers Market is held on Corn and Wine Streets on Wednesdays.

Official site: http://bristololdcity.co.uk/

Part of Bristol Museums, an association of six fine museums in the city, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery has three floors filled with Egyptian mummies, wildlife, dinosaurs, gemstones, glass, pottery, oriental arts, and a collection of Old Masters. An entire section is devoted to I. K. Brunel and his many technical achievements.

The nearby Red Lodge Museum (closed Jan to April), with its old furniture and fine Elizabethan room, focuses on the human side of history.

Also at a separate location and open seasonally, the Georgian House Museum tells the story of an 18th-century merchant, sugar plantation owner, and slaveholder through his house and possessions.

Address: Queens Road, Bristol, England

Official site: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/bristol-museum-and-art-gallery/

A late 18th-century mansion house and estate, Blaise Castle House provides a feel for the lifestyle of a prosperous family on a country estate. The Picture Room, with a domed glass ceiling, is decorated with paintings, and the house is known for its collections of children's toys, including doll houses and furniture, trains, and toy soldiers.

On the estate are ruins of Kings Weston Roman Villa , with baths, a heating system, and mosaic floor. The house and Roman villa are closed January through March.

Address: Henbury Road, Bristol

Official site: https://www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/blaise-museum/

Located just 18 miles from Bristol, the spectacular Cheddar Gorge makes for an excellent day trip. Highlights of this National Nature Reserve include its dramatic 450-foot cliffs and stunning stalactite caverns.

Other attractions include the spectacular Gough's Cave, with its hidden chambers, as well the soaring chambers of "St. Paul's Cathedral" and the towering spires of "Solomon's Temple."

A word of caution: you do need a degree of fitness to tackle some parts of the gorge, including the 274 steps up the side of the gorge and the 48 more to the top of the Lookout Tower . Entry includes the cliff-top walk and the Cheddar Man Museum of Prehistory.

Official site: www.cheddargorge.co.uk

The city of Bristol, set inland on the Avon River and with access to the Bristol Channel, has an illustrious history as one of England's oldest and most important ports.

It was a favored port of departure for the New World following John Cabot's voyage to North America in 1497. To celebrate that event, Cabot Tower in Brandon Hill Park was erected on the 400th anniversary of Cabot's voyage in 1897. Bristol was also an important trading center and served as Royalist headquarters during the English Civil War.

Shipbuilding has been a pillar of Bristol's economy for centuries, reaching its pinnacle with Isambard Kingdom Brunel's famous SS Great Britain . Built in 1838, this was the first steamship to make regular Atlantic crossings. In addition to designing the famous suspension bridge spanning the Avon Gorge, Brunel was also the engineer in charge of completing the Great Western Railway between London and Bristol.

We recommend these centrally located hotels in Bristol near top attractions such as Bristol Harbour:

• Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa : This fine luxury boutique hotel is set in a Venetian-style building with an illuminated indoor pool and upscale spa; it's popular for its afternoon tea.
• Holiday Inn Bristol City Centre : A good choice for its mid-range pricing, the Holiday Inn is located near shops and features great showers, contemporary decor, and 24-hour room service.
• The Bristol : Featuring affordable rates and great harbor views, this stylish hotel boasts comfortable beds and Nespresso machines.
• Premier Inn Bristol City Centre : This budget hotel is set in a convenient location and features modern room decor and multilingual staff.

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The 23 best things to do in Bristol

Check out galleries, drinking spots and the great outdoors in Bristol, this year's best place to visit in the UK

There’s a reason we named Bristol  the best place to visit in the UK in 2024  (well, there's many, actually). Its arts and culture scene is ever-growing, with plenty of new galleries lighting up the city this year, including brand-new gallery space Undershed. 

On our list you'll find all the deets on Bristol's new festival Forwards, its newly-expanded immersive art experience Wake the Tiger, plus all the classics for a cracking Bristol weekend. For nightlife, good food and the great outdoors, here are the best things to do in Bristol. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍴 The best  restaurants in Bristol 🏠 The best  Airbnbs in Bristol 🍷 The best bars in Bristol 🛍️ The best vintage shops in Bristol

This guide was last updated by Bristol-based writer Kavita Ashton. At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

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Best things to do in Bristol

1.  Marvel at the Clifton Suspension Bridge

What is it?  Much more than just a masterpiece of design and engineering. 

Why go?  Widely considered to be Brunel’s greatest work, Clifton Suspension Bridge first opened in 1864, and the Grade I-listed structure is an internationally recognised icon of the city. No matter how many times you’ve climbed to Clifton Village to gawp at it, the giant wrought-iron structure never fails to inspire sheer vertiginous awe. 

There’s a lesser-known subterranean angle from which you can admire this symbol of Bristol. Head on a tour from the official visitor centre to marvel at two of the bridge’s twelve hidden underground chambers, only rediscovered in 2002. Hard hat and high vis at the ready. 

Don’t miss:  Perched up on the hill, you’ll find  Clifton Observatory . Within this former snuff mill is one of only two working camera obscura left in the UK and a subterranean passageway leading to  Ghyston’s Cave , which looks out from the cliff face with unrivalled views of the bridge and gorge.

2.  Get lost on the Clifton Downs

What is it?  Get your green fix in the lungs of the city. 

Why go?  Stretching from the top of Whiteladies Road all the way to the Suspension Bridge is the huge open green space known as the Downs. This massive area has been helping Bristolians feel a million miles away from the hustle and hassle of the city centre for generations. There’s more than enough room for endless teams of sporty types and Sunday leaguers to kick a ball around without bothering each other. 

Don’t miss: One of the newest and most exciting additions to the city’s jam-packed festival calendar happens here on August bank holiday weekend, Forwards . The two-day event mixes rock, alternative and electronic music with political discussions from big thinkers. 

3.  Track down Bristol's graffiti

What is it?  Get to know Bristol’s graffiti hotspots. 

Why go?  One of Bristol’s most famous cultural exports is street art. From fiercely protected murals on shop shutters and public walls to chrome-and-black ‘throwies’ and tags on vans and windows, Bristol is covered in graffiti. Definitely take a look at the art all the way up Stokes Croft and looming large on Nelson Street, and if you’re looking for even more top-quality street art, you can head to Dean Lane skatepark in Bedminster. You may see a Banksy or two along the way.

For a deep dive into the street art scene, join a Where The Wall tour. They introduce you to some of the city’s most notable pieces, while giving you the lowdown on the stories and artists behind them. There’s even a self-guided tour, so you can track down artwork at your own pace. 

Don’t miss: Every other year Bristol puts on Europe’s biggest street art and graffiti festival, Upfest , ensuring street art is in the spotlight in south Bristol.

4.  Mess about on Millennium Square

What is it? Two of Bristol’s best things to do with kids are handily placed together on Millennium Square, where you can also take a pic of yourself in the great shiny sphere that holds an observatory. Epic science centre We the Curious is reopening in early 2024, inviting children and their grownups to experiment with ideas via colourful interactive installations once again. Just across the Square, Bristol Aquarium holds watery wonders like sharks in a sunken ship, a bay of rays and a learning lab.

Don’t miss:  In summer, there’s a  pop-up roller disco  over the harbour. Brilliant for making some bum-bruising memories.

5.  Cycle up, down and around the city

What is it?  Whizz around in the UK’s first ‘cycling city’.

Why go?  With more sharply rising inclines than a ski resort, cycling around Bristol can be hard work. Still, there are plenty of great things to do here on two wheels. Head to the open spaces and wooded mountain bike trails of Ashton Court, where you can  hire a mountain bike  for the day or cycle out to the beautiful Snuff Mills and take in the greenery. There are plenty of resources online to illustrate possible cycling routes – so get wheelie (sorry) into it.

Don’t miss:  Set off on the Bristol to Bath Railway Path that follows the route of an old train line through the serene countryside for a manageable 13 miles from city to city.

6.  Get your caffeine fix

What is it?  Satisfy your caffeine cravings at an independent coffee shop. 

Why go?  Bristol is packed with incredible coffee shops. From cold-pressed filter coffee to Italian-style espressos and flat whites, you’re never too far from a great coffee, and much of it is freshly blackened in the city by one of the many roasters that call Bristol home, like  Clifton Coffee Roasters ,  Wogan Coffee Roastery   and  Extract Coffee Roasters . If you’re a real aficionado, pay a visit to one of the many independents around the city centre –  Full Court Press ,  Little Victories ,  New Cut Coffee  and  Small Street Espresso  deserve particular praise for their complex blends, broad roster and distinctly charming surroundings.

7.  Spend some cash on Gloucester Road

What is it?  Do some shopping on the largest strip of independent retailers in Europe.  

Why go?  One of the many things that makes Bristol so special is the huge variety of independent shops here, many of which are particularly well-clustered along Gloucester Road and Stokes Croft. Sure, there are a couple of Tescos along the way, but we all know how their arrival went down… On your walk from bottom to top, we’d particularly recommend a stop at  Colmado , an award-winning Spanish deli;  Wild Leaf , an indoor plant specialist; and  Fox + Feather , an aspirational fashion and homewares shop.

Don’t miss:  It probably goes without saying that there are many multiples of coffee shops and pubs to wet your whistle on your climb from the Bear Pit all the way into Bishopston and beyond. The pub garden at The Prince of Wales , cosy cocktail and craft beer bar Sidney & Eden and the cakes and coffee at FED 313 are all well worth a pause. 

8.  Learn how to brew like a Bristolian

What is it? Get hoppy on a tour of one of Bristol’s great craft breweries.

Why go?  Bristol’s brewers are a friendly bunch, always keen to throw open their doors so you can get a taste of how they make such brilliant brews. From Bristol Beer Factory to Moor Beer to Wiper and True , beer-makers across Bristol offer an inside look at how those tasty pints make it to a pub near you.

Don’t miss: Twice a year you can complete a beer lover’s dream quest: the East Bristol Brewery Trail . The event usually features six breweries and bookmarks the summer on the first May and August bank holiday weekends. Meet the brewers and enjoy special offers, street food and good vibes. 

9.  Tour the harbour by ferry

What is it?  See the city from the water. 

Why go?  Bristol was built on the slave trade. The docks and floating harbour that slave traders used until slavery’s abolition remain, and nowadays you can tour the city by boat.  Bristol Ferry Boats  operates a waterbus service 364 days a year, letting you jump on and off as you choose from Bristol Temple Meads train station to the SS Great Britain. The stops are well placed, letting you jump on and off at places, including  Spike Island  contemporary art gallery,  The Cottage Inn   and  Underfall Yard ’s working boatyard and visitor exhibits.

Don’t miss: Round off your seafaring day with dinner on-board a (stationary) vessel at Under the Stars , the Grain Barge and Three Brothers Burgers . For drinks, local distillery 6 O’clock Gin has a floating bar at The Glassboat , while pints of the West Country’s favourite beverage are flowing on The Apple cider boat. 

10.  Wander the shipping containers of Wapping Wharf

What is it?  From high-end dining to independent shops selling plants, pastries and proper Bristol cider, it’s all here in this historical and cultural quarter. 

Why go?  You could idle away a whole day exploring the shipping containers of Wapping Wharf – for each one holds its own kind of treasure.  The Bristol Cheesemonger  has an incredible range of specialist delights, Bristol’s first dedicated fermentery  Every Good Thing  is based here, and there are so many amazing restaurants here we don’t even know where to start.  Seven Lucky Gods ,  Root  and Bandook , perhaps? Gert lush, as the locals say.

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Home » Travel Guides » 25 Best Things To Do In Bristol (England)

25 Best Things To Do In Bristol (England)

Bristol is England’s sixth biggest city, home to nearly 450,000 people. The area has been populated since the Iron Age with evidence of ancient forts and Roman villas in the surrounding countryside. Bristol has thrived throughout the centuries, once a popular port for journeys to America, and now a hub for culture, aerospace and industry. Today, Bristol is a colourful and welcoming city with easy access to coastline and natural countryside, making it a great place to start exploring England . Here are some of the best things to do on your next trip to Bristol.

1. Bristol Harbour

Start your Bristol experience with a trip to Bristol Harbour. The harbour has stood since the 13th century due to its excellent location upon the River Avon. In the past, this was the departure point for ships sailing to the ‘New World’ and a popular arrival destination for Europeans.

Today, the main port has been moved further downstream but the harbour remains full of activity, with a number of arts and exhibitions spaces on-site, as well as cafes and interesting attractions. Take a river cruise on a ferry to learn more about Bristol, the River Avon, and nearby towns. Or time your trip to coincide with the Bristol Harbour Festival to see a grand array of boats on display, including Royal Navy vessels and tall ships.

2. Clifton Suspension Bridge

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic Bristol landmark, having opened in 1864. The bridge spans a total of 214m over the Avon Gorge, linking Bristol to the beautiful Leigh Woods. The final design of the bridge was adapted from Isambard Kingdom Brunel, a famous English industrial designer.

Before walking across the bridge, climb nearby Observatory Hill for one of the best views of the bridge in Bristol – a perfect place to stop for photography! Take a free tour across the bridge and see if you can notice it swaying gently, as all suspension bridges do. Finish your trip at the Visitor Centre located on the Leigh Woods side of the bridge. With free entry and a gift shop, the Visitor Centre is also an ideal place to learn more about the history and influence of this infamous Bristol landmark.

3. At-Bristol

At-Bristol is the city’s science centre, featuring hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, workshops and talks. Exhibitions cover fascinating topics including the human body, geography and physics. There are lots of activities for all of the family. You can create your own animated short, build a flying object, and try out optical illusions.

Attend the planetarium for demonstrations on space, or visit the Live Science Zone to explore current hot topics. At-Bristol features a programme of constantly changing events and activities, so there is always something new to experience. End your visit with a break in the café for sustainable and delicious snacks, or get a scientific souvenir from the shop.

4. Bristol Zoo

Bristol Zoo is a lovely place to spend a day out, with a huge variety of animals on show, including Asiatic lions, red pandas and seals. Since 1836, the zoo has been committed to conservation and research. Bristol Zoo was the first in the world to breed okapis, and is also one of the few zoos in Britain where you can find aye ayes and lowland gorillas.

Visit the Twilight Zone for a unique indoors experience that guides you through artificially-created night-time habitats, offering an opportunity to see nocturnal creatures in their natural setting. For the brave, tackle ZooRopia, an adventure rope course that leads you through the zoo alongside gibbons, lemurs and gorillas. And for a truly special zoo experience, book a stay at The Lodge to see the zoo after closing hours, with a private tour and delicious food.

5. Cabot Tower

Cabot Tower is a 32m high tower situated in the beautiful Brandon Hill park. The tower was built in 1897 to celebrate John Cabot’s voyage from Bristol to North America 400 years earlier. The tower is a listed building which you can climb via spiral staircase for impressive views out across the city.

Afterwards, spend some time exploring Brandon Hill, Bristol’s oldest park. The park features a number of gardens which look especially gorgeous in spring. Walk through the park’s small nature reserve, home to a wildflower meadow, a pond for newts and frogs, and a butterfly garden.

6. SS Great Britain

The SS Great Britain is a historically-important ship, once an iron steamship used to ferry visitors across the Atlantic between Bristol and New York. The ship was built in 1845 and was the world’s longest passenger ship for almost ten years.

The ship was designed by the famous designer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and could carry 360 passengers alongside cabins and recreational facilities. This was an astounding achievement at the time. Over the years, the SS Great Britain has transported immigrants to Australia and been used as a warehouse. Today, the ship is a floating museum dedicated to telling the story of this remarkable vessel. A must-visit in Bristol.

7. St Mary Redcliffe

Completed in the 15th century, St Mary Redcliffe is an imposing gothic-style church with beautiful historical architecture. The church was built on an important site of Christian worship that has been used for centuries. Praised by Queen Elizabeth I, St Mary Redcliffe is a delight to witness and a great way to explore some of Bristol’s history.

The church features stained glass windows dating from the 14th century all the way up to the 1960s. Inside you will also find a number of statues and monuments, as well as 15 bells in the church tower, dating from the 17th century. Today the church is still used as a community space and for prayer, as well as hosting regular choir and organ performances.

8. Watershed

Watershed has stood on Bristol’s harbour since 1982, making it Britain’s first dedicated space for media. Housed in ex-warehouses, Watershed holds three cinemas, a café, and a number of open spaces for small businesses and creative use. Watershed is a great place to experience Bristol life, as it is a vibrant place that is popular with the locals, designed to encourage culture and connection.

Come to Watershed to catch the latest blockbuster, a niche indie film, and unique film-based events including talks and workshops. Listen to filmmakers discussing their recent projects, or get hands-on with Watershed’s practical events. Watershed has been home to a number of festivals and is used by the British Film Institute to promote film, culture, and critique. This is a wonderful place for film fans, and the café offers a gorgeous spot to sip a coffee right besides Bristol’s waterfront.

9. Queen Square

Queen Square is a popular green space located in the heart of the city. The Square offers a calming retreat away from the hustle of the city centre whilst still retaining a sense of Bristol’s unique vibrancy. The Georgian park has existed since 1622 when it was a fashionable place for residents to live.

Today, you can still walk down the Georgian promenades and view the beautiful architecture of the surrounding houses. Visit the statue of John Michael Rysbrack in the centre of the park, which has stood here since 1736. The park is a great place to sit and relax on a sunny day, and also hosts many public events including open air theatre and concerts.

10. Georgian House

The Georgian House is a historic building, built in 1790 and currently used as a museum. The house showcases typical life in the 18th century in Bristol, with free entry to visitors. Learn about the servants’ and housekeeper’s chambers, and stroll through the meticulously restored resident’s house, including a drawing room, bedroom and dining room.

There is also a small display outlining the history of the family that once lived here and the sugar trade they worked in. The Georgian House is a unique way to experience a slice of Bristol’s history and culture.

11. Royal West of England Academy

The Royal West of England Academy is Bristol’s first art gallery, built in the 19th century in order to celebrate local and international artists. The academy continues to dedicate itself to promoting arts and culture in Britain, and the gallery features work by important artists such as Vanessa Bell, Julian Trevelyan, and Gilbert Spencer.

The gallery also features regular temporary exhibits and one-off events, showcasing subjects such as landscape paintings, female artists, and even hosting workshops to get visitors into creating their own art! This is the perfect place to experience some culture in Bristol.

12. Ashton Court

Ashton Court is a stately home and grounds that once belonged to a wealthy family living in Bristol. With 850 acres of land, there is plenty to explore and see here. The manor has stood since the 11th century, a beautiful building with an eclectic mixture of architectural styles, evidencing the additions and changes that have been made over the centuries.

Explore the mansion and gain a taste of noble life in this home. Spend some time on the grounds which have been a deer park for over 600 years. See deer frolicking amongst the ancient oak trees, and hike or bike along the specially designated trails. Ashton Court is a gorgeous and historical way to enjoy the countryside surrounding Bristol.

13. Blaise Castle

Blaise Castle is home to a mansion and estate built in 1798 on a site that has been inhabited since Neolithic times. On the estate is a stately home currently used as a museum, the castle itself, and 650 acres of parkland. Start with a visit to the house to learn about life in Bristol since the 17th century. The Picture Room is a gorgeous home gallery showcasing paintings from the inhabitants’ collections over the years. Learn about early children’s toys and games, or stroll through a perfectly-recreated Victorian school room.

Move onto the nearby Roman Villa featuring the only Roman baths in Bristol, original mosaic floors, and a unique touch of Roman history in the city. Be sure to visit the Blaise Castle standing on a hill overlooking Avon Gorge and Bristol, with excellent vistas. Finish your trip to the estate by exploring the woods which are home to beautiful flowers, plants and English wildlife.

14. Arnolfini

Arnolfini is Bristol’s hub for contemporary art, showcasing international and local art and culture. Located on the harbourside, the gallery has featured works by Paul McCartney, Bridget Riley and Jack Yeats. It is regularly used as an events and exhibition space for art, dance, music, and even lectures.

Be sure to check the week’s listings as the gallery hosts film screenings, archive displays and art installations. Stop by the Reading Room for an extensive library of art books, magazines and resources, available to peruse in a quiet environment. Visit the shop for one of the country’s best collections of art books, or grab a bite to eat at the café. Arnolfini is one of the best places in Bristol for contemporary arts and culture.

15. Avon Valley Railway

To experience an important part of Bristol’s heritage, pay a visit to the Avon Valley Railway. The railway was once used to connect Bristol to Bath, but today it is a tourist attraction with around 80,000 visitors every year. Avon Valley Railway features a fully-restored Victorian station to provide an immersive historical experience.

The railway also runs regular steam and diesel train rides for visitors – or, for hiking enthusiasts, you can walk alongside the track. Be sure to stop by the museum to learn more about the railway’s history, and pick up a souvenir in the shop.

16. Bristol Hippodrome

The Bristol Hippodrome is a theatre and performance venue built in 1912, and one of Bristol’s largest venues. The Hippodrome is one of the best places to go to catch a live show. The venue has hosted acts such as Eddie Cochran and Lee Mack, and is a popular spot for touring West End theatre shows, including Cats and Les Miserables.

This historical building provides the biggest names in live performances, all in a beautiful setting. Take some time to admire the architecture before turning your eyes to the stage.

17. Tyntesfield

Tyntesfield is a stately home located just outside Bristol featuring beautiful gothic-style architecture set amongst gorgeous and peaceful gardens. The home is part of the Tyntesfield estate which is home to flower displays, a lake, and plenty of woodland to get lost in.

Begin your journey through Tyntesfield at the house, constructed from 1843 into the current building standing tall on the estate. The house features thousands of objects from the period, reflecting life at the time in Bristol. Wander through immaculate historical rooms with original architecture and details.

Go outside to the gardens which feature a huge variety of plants and flowers, all laid out decoratively in stunning displays. Here you will find a rose garden, an arboretum, a kitchen garden, and a cut flower garden where flowers are taken to form the arrangements inside. Finally, relax with a walk through the estate’s woodland or parkland, the perfect place to find local wildlife including bats, badgers and hares.

18. Blaise Hamlet

Built in 1811 as a home for retired staff from Blaise Castle, Blaise Hamlet features a small collection of buildings that remain well-preserved to this day.

The hamlet is made up of nine quaint cottages laid out around the hamlet’s green, forming a picturesque scene of the English countryside. This hamlet was one of the first of its kind and is also home to an original stone sundial and water pump. The hamlet puts on frequent events that change with the seasons, including wildlife explorations, group runs, and sketching sessions.

19. Spike Island

Spike Island is a creative space, dedicated to developing and promoting contemporary art and design. Spike Island was once a man-made island but has since been joined to the mainland and is now a hub for Bristol’s active culture scene.

Spike Island has a weekly roster of arts events and exhibits, featuring work from modern artists around the world. There are also talks, activities, workshops, performances and screenings on offer every week so there is always something new and exciting to engage with. Visit the Spike Island Café for organic, sustainable food with plenty of veggie options and delicious baked goods on offer.

20. The Old Duke

For fans of jazz and blues, The Old Duke is a must. This pub is infamous in the jazz and blues scene. The Old Duke features live music every night, and even hosts its own jazz festival each year.

The pub was built in 1775 and features gorgeous architecture and a cosy vibe. Specialising in traditional, New Orleans-inspired jazz, The Old Duke has featured acts such as the Blue Notes, Andy Hague and Code Red. This important venue is a wonderful place to spend an evening listening to some good music in a vibrant atmosphere.

21. Bristol Cathedral

Bristol Cathedral was founded in 1140, but has been built upon and renovated over the centuries. The cathedral features impressive gothic-style architecture and has played an important part in Bristol’s history. The first female Church of England priests were ordained here. You can also find stained glass windows dating from the 14th century to the 1960s.

Visit the cathedral to view the towering vaulted ceilings, or attend a guided tour to learn about the building’s history, including its place in historical riots and archaeological discoveries. The cathedral was also used in the filming of BBC’s ‘Wolf Hall’ and now features a trail to help visitors place themselves in their favourite scenes.

22. Temple Church

The Temple Church ruins have a rich history and are one of the best landmarks to see in Bristol. During the 12th century, the church was donated to the Templars, a medieval religious order of knights tasked with protecting pilgrims. The Templars eventually fell into disrepute and in 1540, the church returned to the parish. During WWII, the church was bombed and gutted by fire, creating the ruins that can be seen today.

Amongst the ruins, you can see the shape of the original Templar church which is considered to be particularly long. On-site, there is also a leaning tower, tilting 1.6m away from where it once stood vertically. The tower was built in the 14th and 15th centuries. The Temple Church ruins are a perfect place to experience some of Bristol’s unique history.

23. Bristol’s Speakeasies

For a distinctive night out, spend some time getting to know Bristol’s hidden speakeasies. Bristol has plenty of lively nightlife, with a host of clubs and bars available to suit all tastes. More recently, speakeasies have become very popular, offering a more intimate nightlife experience.

Seek out The Milk Thistle, hidden in one of Bristol’s gorgeous historic buildings, and decked out with Prohibition-era-style décor. With a rotating cocktail menu, immersive atmosphere, and regular events such as whisky or gin clubs, this bar is sure to provide a unique drinking experience. For a ‘gentleman’s club’ vibe complete with wooden walls and leather smoking chairs, try Hyde & Co for original and themed cocktail concoctions. Speakeasies are a fun way to explore Bristol’s nightlife.

24. Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is one of Bristol’s biggest, exploring local and natural history as well as showcasing extensive art collections. The museum has stood since 1823 with beautiful Victorian architecture throughout the building. The museum features exhibitions on natural and ancient history, including a focus on ancient civilisations, archaeology, local wildlife, dinosaurs and more.

Here you can find stuffed animals to ignite your imagination and relics from centuries ago, such as Egyptian sarcophagi. The gallery is home to both traditional and contemporary work by artists such as Pissarro, Constable and Gainsborough. The museum and gallery host a variety of events for all of the family, including talks, workshops and temporary exhibitions. This is an ideal day out for culture lovers.

Bristol is home to the legendary street artist Banksy, who is now internationally recognised. Banksy grew up in Bristol and some of his earliest pieces can be found on the streets of the city today. Banksy remains anonymous, his artwork seeming to appear overnight and completely unexpectedly. His work has appeared in cities around the world, selling for hundreds of thousands of pounds in some cases.

Tracking down Banksy’s Bristol pieces is an excellent way to explore the city and adventure down smaller streets and passageways. Alternatively, book a guided street art tour to learn more about Bristol’s street art scene. Famous pieces are dotted around the city, including the Grim Reaper, the Well Hung Lover, and the Masked Gorilla, amongst others.

25 Best Things To Do In Bristol (England):

• Bristol Harbour
• Clifton Suspension Bridge
• Bristol Zoo
• Cabot Tower
• SS Great Britain
• St Mary Redcliffe
• Queen Square
• Georgian House
• Royal West of England Academy
• Ashton Court
• Blaise Castle
• Avon Valley Railway
• Bristol Hippodrome
• Tyntesfield
• Blaise Hamlet
• Spike Island
• The Old Duke
• Bristol Cathedral
• Temple Church
• Bristol’s Speakeasies
• Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

25 Of The Best Things To Do In Bristol At Least Once In Your Life

From beer crawling your way along King Street to taking in the stunning views at Clifton Downs, Bristol is packed full of things to do at least once in your life. Here’s our rundown of 20 of the best of them.

While far from the UK’s biggest city, Bristol punches above its weight when it comes to activities. Super artistic, fiercely independent and full of history, the city is jam-packed with excitement everywhere you turn. It’s a vibrant city, to say the least, from its colourful houses to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge . So whether you’re up for sampling local brews to soaring in the skies in a hot-air balloon , there are so many things to do in Bristol you’ve got to try at least once in your life.

1. Soak up the views of the city from Clifton Observatory

This is the best spot to see Bristol’s most iconic sight: Clifton Suspension Bridge . Not a guidebook nor postcard about Bristol can go without an image of Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s engineering masterpiece. So to get the best sights of it, you’ll want to head up to Clifton Observatory – perfect on a sunny day for a picnic too.

Inside the observatory, you’ll also have access to one of only three working camera obscuras in the UK. You can also climb the depths of Giant’s Cave – home to the local legend of Goram and Ghyston – for views of the Avon Gorge . Nearby, you’ll find one of the ultimate free things to do in Bristol too: Bristol’s natural rock slide, locally known as The Slidey Rock .

Clifton Observatory, Litfield Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LT

2. See the colourful houses

It’s a quirk of Bristol that so many of the houses here are brightly coloured . There are plenty of theories as to why, but few hold up under scrutiny. The most popular involves Bristol’s former mayor, George Ferguson . He claims to be the first in Cliftonwood to paint his house in the 1970s before the whole street followed and kickstarted the area’s iconic look. But south of the river, in Totterdown , you also find rows-upon-colourful-rows of houses, so explain that. All that matters to us is that they help turn Bristol into a rainbow-coloured city, taking strolls through the streets a kaleidoscopic adventure.

3. Shop on fiercely independent Gloucester Road

It can sometimes feel like there’s no end to unique shops on Gloucester Road . One of the longest stretches of independent businesses found in the UK, you’ll start by The Arches and soon find yourself on the outskirts of the city before you know it – discovering all the amazing shops, cafes and restaurants along the way. From bookshops to Spanish supermarkets, vintage shops to plant stores and pubs, there’s so much to discover. Check out our guide to Gloucester Road here .

4. Walk across every bridge

Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic image of Bristol, even if it’s a little overused (yes, we know we’re guilty of it too). But it’s far from the only bridge in the city. The city’s name, originally Brycgstow , literally means ‘the place at the bridge’ and there are currently 45 walkable bridges that make the city tick. But did you know you can walk across all of them in a single trip without doubling back?

The Bristol Bridges Walk Challenge is a circular 28-mile walk that leads all around Bristol’s waterways – from Redfield to Clifton and back to the City Centre. While not technically possible at the moment due to a few bridge repairs, much of it is still open and it is one of the best walks you can do to see all sides of Bristol.

5. Sample the local speciality of cider

Bristolians are an eclectic bunch, no two are the same. But there’s one thing most can agree on and that’s cider. But where’s the best place to get it? Well, that’s an argument in itself. The Coronation Tap in Clifton is said to be Bristol’s oldest cider specialist – older than Clifton Suspension Bridge. Its exclusively brewed Exhibition is a must-try but is strong stuff at 8.2%.

The Apple on Harbourside is arguably a bit more accessible, with a variety of local ciders to try. While sitting on the corner of Spike Island and overlooking the marina, you’ll find The Orchard Inn . See our full list of Bristol’s best cider pubs here .

The Coronation Tap, 8 Sion Pl, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4AX

The Apple, Welsh Back, Bristol BS1 4SB

The Orchard Inn, 12 Hanover Pl, Bristol BS1 6XT

6. Take in the culture at Bristol’s amazing art galleries

If you do go for a pint at The Orchard Inn, then heading to the art gallery , Spike Island , is a must. Founded in the mid-1970s by a group of painters, sculptors and printmakers looking for affordable studio spaces in Bristol, it has since remained a cultural hub for the city’s art scene. There are always new and unexpected exhibitions to discover here.

Another free gallery worth checking out too is Arnolfini , a short walk away on the Harbourside. Its ambitious exhibitions often feature everything from world-renowned artists to local talent from in and around Bristol. Thanks to its location, the cafe is also a favourite hangout spot for locals. See all of Bristol’s best art galleries here .

Spike Island, 133 Cumberland Rd, Bristol BS1 6UX

Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA

7. Climb aboard the SS Great Britain

Once the largest passenger ship in the world, and another Brunel marvel, SS Great Britain is among the best things to do in Bristol with children . Learn the life and legacy of Britain’s greatest engineer at Being Brunel ; Go Aloft! and climb the rigging over 25 metres above ground level; explore the Historic Dockyard & Museum ; and head below for ‘glass sea’ view of the SS Great Britain in the original dry dock .

SS Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Rd, Bristol BS1 6TY

8. Cycle up Vale Street for a sense of achievement

Bristol is notoriously hilly. You’ll need calves of steel to cycle around all day. (Not really, just a little.) Anyone who has had to cycle up Park Street or Brandon Hill will attest to that. But Bristol’s true cycle challenge is Vale Street . Only 0.10 km long, it’s not the length that’s tough. No, it’s the steepest residential street in England . Perfect for getting a sweat on.

Luckily, the peaceful Arnos Vale Cemetery is nearby for some well-earned respite. One of Britain’s best examples of a Victorian garden cemetery , it is set in a leafy 45-acre landscape dotted with classical buildings, historic monuments, leafy walks and wildflowers. Also see some of Bristol’s other best parks here .

9. Climb Cabot Tower for panoramic views

Want the best panoramic views of the city ? Well, you’re going to need to climb a very narrow tower at the top of a hill in the middle of a park. The 105ft, century-old Cabot Tower sits on Brandon Hill – built in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot’s voyage from Bristol to North America. Its steep, twisting steps can feel arduous, but believe us, it will be worth it. At the very top, you can soak all of the city, especially Harbourside.

Cabot Tower, Brandon Hill Park, Park St, Bristol BS1 5RR

10. Head to King Street for the easiest pub crawl of your life

Every great city needs a place to pub crawl. And making it easier on your legs, some of the best pubs in Bristol can all be found on one street: King Street . There are 10 pubs on this street (including The Apple at the very end). But each offers a uniquely different vibe too, so you never feel like you’re repeating yourself.

There’s the haunted The Llandoger Trow (once the drinking hole of Blackbeard , which these days throws techno nights); the quirky and colourful Hey Dude bar; The Old Duke for jazz and blues music; and the King Street Brew House for football, to name a few. But The Beer Emporium , Kongs , Small Bar and the rest are all worth your time.

11. Head to the theatre for amazing shows in Bristol

Beyond all the pubs on King Street, you’ll also find the Old Vic . Built in 1766 as a place for Bristolians to come together, it is “the oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world.” Today you’ll still find a mix of experimental storytelling and family-friendly classics. Head to Bristol Hippodrome for more mainstream shows, and the Tobacco Factory , The Wardrobe Theatre and Redgrave Theatre are fantastic for showcasing smaller shows. But for something truly unusual among things to do in Bristol, visit The Bristol Improv Theatre . It’s the UK’s first full-time dedicated improv theatre and you’ll never be able to guess what it has in store!

Bristol Old Vic, King St, Bristol BS1 4ED

Tobacco Factory Theatres, The Tobacco Factory, Raleigh Rd, Southville, Bristol BS3 1TF

The Wardrobe Theatre, 25 West St, Bristol BS2 0DF

Redgrave Theatre, Percival Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LE

The Bristol Improv Theatre, 50 St Paul’s Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1LP

12. Taste the world at Easton’s Sweet Mart

Too few people head to Easton when they’re in Bristol, including many Bristolians as well. But Bristol Sweet Mart should be a must-visit for all. This iconic shop has been around since 1978 and is a vital part of the community. Sat on St Mark’s Road , it is the biggest supplier of ethnic food and spices in the South West. You’ll find more than 9000 different food and drink products , as well as a huge range of fresh produce. Even if all you’re after is a quick bite to eat, the deli counter is perfect for picking up some freshly cooked, Authentic Indian food.

Bristol Sweet Mart, 71-82 St Marks Rd, Easton, Bristol BS5 6JH

13. Take a balloon ride above Bristol (Or just spot them from the ground)

There’s no doubt that the biggest event in Bristol is the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta . Every August, Europe’s largest annual ballooning event attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world to Bristol. Stunning mass balloon ascents fill the skies during this time of year, so here are some great spots to see them from the ground.

It’s also a great excuse to take to the skies yourself, with several nearby companies running balloon trips in the area. Don’t just save the trip for summer time though, you can go up anytime. You’ll rarely see a hot-air balloon-free sky no matter the time of year. Trust us, the views are spectacular!

14. Hit up St Nick’s Market for trinkets, gifts and street food

Dating back to 1743, St Nicholas Market is the oldest and most beloved market in Bristol. Here you’ll find fabulous cheap eats , like the crispy fried gyozas of Eatchu or the massive Middle Eastern wraps of Matina . But there’s plenty of great street food to find here. There are over 60 stalls to discover at this market, selling everything from hot sauces to wacky hats, and second-hand books to sewing equipment. It’s an Aladdin’s Cave of Wonder.

St Nicholas Market, The Corn Exchange, Corn St, Bristol BS1 1JQ

15. See Bristol’s famous graffiti

You can’t talk about Bristol without mentioning the street art legend Banksy . His iconic works are everywhere from Well Hung Lover on Park Street to Mild Mild West in Stokes Croft. (All as recognisable as anything hanging in the Tate or Louvre.) But while you can find all of Banksy graffiti in Bristol here , the city’s street art scene is so much more than one person.

The annual Upfest sees the best local and international graffiti artists takeover Bedminster each year, painting mesmerizing murals on houses and shopfronts. Meanwhile in the City Centre, particularly on Nelson Street , you’ll find massive artworks leftover from the old See No Evil street art festival in Bristol. Finding a wall not covered in street art is the real tough find in Bristol, however! To see the best street art in Bristol head here .

16. Sail the harbour on a ferry

Whether you’re visiting Bristol or a lifelong resident, Harbourside is an integral part of the city. Many of the city’s best restaurants, pubs, and bars, as well as its incredible activities, are located close by. So you’ll likely end up spending a lot of time down by the waterside. But one of the best (and often overlooked) ways to explore it is by ferry. Bristol Packet and Bristol Ferry both offer a range of Harbourside trips, from cruises up the Avon Gorge trips to riverside pub Beese’s to boat parties and waterbus services.

17. Head to the romantic and secluded Blaise Castle

The secluded Blaise Castle in the north of Bristol is not the easiest place to get too. But nothing worth having comes easy, as they say. You’ll have to climb upwards through woodland to reach the glade where this folly sits. But trust us, it’s worth it. Especially if you are looking for romantic things to do in Bristol. ( Lovers’ Leap there might offer the best view of the city.)

Blaise Castle Estate also offers a museum to discover Victorian objects of the past, while the surrounding 400 acres of parkland – full of babbling brooks and exciting overgrowth – are worth a visit alone. Nearby Blaise Hamlet , a cute collection of cottages, is also only a short walk away.

Blaise Castle Estate, Kings Weston Rd, Bristol BS10 7QS

18. Go for a swim in the UK’s oldest heated pool

Tucked away in Clifton, this refurbished Victorian outdoor pool offers Wes Anderson-vibes and a relaxed swimming spot. The water is always heated between 22-25°C , so ideal any time of year, and you also have access to a sauna, outdoor hot tub, steam room and spa treatments . After a dip, head to the Bristol Lido restaurant in the original viewing gallery for Mediterranean cuisine cooked in a clay oven. Or some tapas-style dining at the poolside bar.

Bristol Lido, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1LP

19. Grab a pint at Bristol’s cat pub

One of the more unusual things to do in Bristol, you’ll find nearly a dozen cute cats roaming this traditional pub. Bag Of Nails is about more than just its feline friends though. You’ll also find some of the cheapest pints in Bristol here. (There are pints of real ale costing as low as £3.70.) Be warned, however, the cat pub has some strict rules you can learn more about here.

Bag of Nails, 141 St George’s Rd, Hotwells, Bristol BS1

20. Grab some food from Wapping Wharf

Recently voted one of the coolest places to live in the UK, everyone in Bristol spends summer days (and some winter days too) down by the harbour. It’s perfect for sitting down with a few cans of beer, dangling your legs over the water and soaking in the sight of passing kayaks, canals and yachts.

It’s also home to Bristol Harbour Festival once a year, bringing a mix of circus performers, local musicians and water activities to the area. While nearby, you’ll also find Wapping Wharf . These cargo containers are full of the best restaurants in Bristol .

21. Watch classic movies in Bristol’s strangest locations

The ongoing Bristol Film Festival offers one of the strangest cinema experiences in Bristol, possibly the UK. From watching David Lynch’s psychological horror Eraserhead in Redcliffe Caves to Top Gun at Aerospace Bristol , Evil Dead at Arnos Vale Cemetery to Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid at Clifton Observatory . You’ve seen these movies a thousand times. But we promise you, never like this. To see what’s scheduled, head here .

22. Support Bristol’s music scene at these free venues

Bristol’s music scene is legendary. From The Pop Group to Idles , via Massive Attack , the city had produced more than its fair share of amazing bands. But what about the music that will come to define the city in the future? Well, there are lots of exciting up-and-coming bands to discover, many of them frequently playing the local circuit. If you’re feeling a little thrifty , many of Bristol’s venues host free music regularly too. Check these free music venues out here .

23. Discover Bristol’s independent craft breweries

At first, St Philip’s Marsh can appear like a fairly barren suburb. But those in the know see it as the burgeoning capital of Bristol’s independent breweries . Sat just behind Temple Mead s, you’ll find the likes of Arbor Ales , Dawkins Ales, Good Chemistry Brewing , Wiper & True , Left Handed Giant , Moor Beer and Little Martha Brewing . They often have their tap rooms open over weekends and each year host The East Bristol Brewery Beer Trail too. Nearby you’ll also find Lost & Grounded in St Anne’s, recently named the best brewery in Britain!

Arbor Ales, 181 Easton Rd, Easton, Bristol BS5 0HQ

Dawkins Ales, Easton Brewery, Unit 2, Industrial Units, Lawnwood, Lawnwood Rd, Bristol BS5 0EF

Good Chemistry Brewing, 2 William St, Bristol BS2 0RG

Wiper and True, Unit 11, City Business Park, St Jude’s, Bristol BS5 0SP

Left Handed Giant, Wadehurst Industrial Park, Unit 3 St Philips Rd, Bristol BS2 0JE

Moor Beer Co, Days Rd, Bristol BS2 0QS

Little Martha Brewing, 23 Oxford St, Bristol BS2 0QT

Lost And Grounded, 91 Whitby Rd, Brislington, Bristol BS4 4AR

24. Pet a sheep at Bristol’s city farms

We’re not all farmers in Bristol, but some are! If you want to meet some cute animals head down to one of the two wonderful city farms. Windmill Hill City Farm was founded in the mid-70s and provides some inner city access to goats, pigs, sheep and cows, as well as gardens and shops selling handmade crafts and local produce. Meanwhile, on the other side of Bristol, St Werburghs City Farm also has lots of livestock, as well as woodlands, allotments and a community garden to explore. A taste of the countryside without leaving the city.

Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip St, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 4EA

St Werburghs City Farm, Watercress Rd, Bristol BS2 9YJ

25. Visit the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

It’s free entry to the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery , so there’s no real excuse not to go if you’ve for some time to kill. Contained within, you’ll find sections on everything from ancient history to modern art . Across three floors of exhibitions, discover Egyptian mummies, explore the wetlands of the southwest, meet extinct wildlife from the UK and soak up stunning collections of British and European art. It’s also home to Banksy’s iconic Paint Pot Angel! To see all the free museums in Bristol head here .

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Queens Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1RL

As you can see, Bristol is absolutely brimming with exciting things to do . Whether you’re after a bit of interesting history , incredible activities or delicious food , you can hardly put a foot wrong in this city. Even still, we barely feel like we’ve scratched the surface, but hopefully, this list will set you on your way. Just head into Bristol and you’re bound to discover something we even don’t know about!

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Things to do in Bristol: A Bristol Itinerary and Planning Guide

Last updated: March 25, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 10 Comments

I almost went to university in Bristol, which would have been a great choice, as it’s a fantastically beautiful city. As life turned out though, I ended up at Nottingham, home to the oldest pubs in Britain. Which wasn’t a deciding factor, honestly.

Still, Jess and I have explored Bristol thoroughly as part of our mission to explore as many corners of the UK as possible. We visited when we were living in Edinburgh, and then we moved to Bath which is just a short drive away.

As a result of our time spent in Bristol over the years, we’ve put together our suggestions of some of our favourite things to do in Bristol.

This covers some of our favourite sights in Bristol as well as places to eat and a few photography locations you’ll want to visit.

We’ve laid this guide to things to do in Bristol out in the form of an itinerary for 2 days in Bristol to help you plan, but this list can be used for any length trip to Bristol of course.

Following this, you’ll find some advice on when to visit Bristol and other planning advice for putting together the perfect trip. Let’s get started!

Things to Do in Bristol

Things to do in Bristol: Day 1

1. Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

We’re starting off our two days in Bristol with a visit to the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery , which covers a wide range of subjects, from natural history through to Egyptology.

There are also exhibitions with a more regional focus, including work by local artists, information on the history of interesting fossil finds in the Bristol area, and a gallery which showcases how Bristol has changed over the centuries. For a more Bristol focused museum though, you’ll want to head to M-Shed, which is on the itinerary for the second day.

We particularly enjoyed seeing the Banksy statue “Paint pot Angel” and the dinosaur fossils, although there is a lot to see here with something for everyone. A good way to start off your Bristol adventure! Entry to the museum is free with a suggested donation. Special exhibits are separately priced.

2. Climb Cabot Tower

One thing I always like to do when visiting an unfamiliar city is to get to a place where I can get a good view of it, to help me get my bearings. In Bristol, the place to do that is at Cabot Tower.

This is a 19th century tower which commemorates the journey of John Cabot from Bristol to what later became Canada, in the year 1497. It’s found near the top of Brandon Hill, just a short walk from the Bristol Museum, and the 32 metre tower offers an excellent view of much of Bristol and surrounds, including the river area.

Climbing the tower is free, and you can see opening times here.

3. Georgian House Museum

We’re going to head towards the old city centre of Bristol now, but on the way you have the opportunity to stop in at the Georgian House Museum , which is on the way down the hill from Cabot Tower on Great George Street.

This house was built in 1790 for a man named John Pinney, who owned a number of sugar plantations in the Caribbean, as well as the slave labour that allowed these plantations to be so profitable. When Jess and I visited the deep south of the USA, we visited a number of plantations along the river road , where we learned a lot about the lives of plantation owners and slaves.

The Georgian House offers a small insight into slavery in England. Bristol profited heavily from the slave trade and slave-run plantations. Slave ships were operated out of Bristol, running the infamous “slave triangle”, taking goods to Africa from the UK, slaves from Africa to the USA, and then the plantation products from the USA back to the UK. Ships were also built in Bristol, which further added to the city’s wealth.

The Georgian house shows what that wealth would have looked like to a man like John Pinney who profited from the slave trade. Eleven rooms spread across four floors reveal the luxuries available in the late 18th century, as well as the stark difference between life “above stairs” and “below stairs”. Entry is free, and is definitely worth some of your time.

4. Christmas Steps

Next on our list is going to be a photo stop, before we swoop into lunch. Christmas Steps is a small and narrow stepped lane in Bristol’s city centre, dating from the mid 17th century, and lined with beautiful old buildings.

It’s the centrepiece of the Christmas Steps Arts Quarter, eight streets filled with independent shops, bars, cafes and art galleries, many of which don’t seem to have changed too much over the centuries. It’s worth exploring and an excellent photo opportunity.

5. Lunch at St. Nicholas Market

There’s no shortage of places to eat in Bristol, but one of our favourites was definitely the Glass Arcade at the St. Nicholas Indoor Market , which you’ll find on Corn Street. Winner of the award for Britain’s best large indoor market in 2016, and in operation since 1743, this is Bristol’s oldest market, with over 60 stall holders.

But we’re here for lunch, so head to the Glass Arcade – a large open glass-covered area with seating that offers plenty of food stalls to pick from, cuisines that vary from local to worldly. Take a look at some of the stalls available here , to get yourself excited. I went with Moroccan from the Moorish Cafe , whilst Jess had a healthy salad option from the Olive Works . But whatever food you’re into, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed!

6. Explore the Old City

Since our itinerary has brought you down into the old city, our suggestion for your post-lunch activity would be to wander Bristol’s old city for a little while.

The crossroads of Corn Street and High Street was the centre of the medieval city, and as you explore this small area you’ll be able to see traces of the old city boundaries, including the walls and gateways that used to mark the edges of the city. Of course, today Bristol has expanded far beyond these old walls, but it’s fun to walk around and imagine what the city might have been like in the past.

Naturally, you can explore the old city on your own, but there are also other options. For example, this self-guided tour you can download to your smartphone is a cost-effective way to learn about what you are seeing in the city.

7. Take a Street Art Tour

Bristol is famous for its street art, not least because it was where legendary street artist Banksy first came into the public eye. It is also believed to be the childhood home of Banksy although there is still speculation about his identity. So we think it’s appropriate to spend some time exploring the street art of Bristol!

You can either do this by yourself, or you can take a specific tour like this .

If you choose to do it by yourself, we highly recommend dropping into a tourist office and picking up a copy of the Bristol Street Art Map by Where the Wall, which has detailed information about where to find all the most famous pieces of street art in Bristol, as well as popular areas to find new street art.

That was what I did, and I documented my adventures in my post on Bristol’s Street Art .

Alternatively, you might consider this interactive street art exploration game .

If you’d rather take a tour, then we suggest the Where the Wall street art walking tour company, who operate the longest running street art tour in the UK. Timings for their tours are up on their website, but based on our itinerary, we’d suggest going for their Banksy tour , which start at 2pm. They also do another tour , which starts at midday, so you’d have to re-arrange this schedule a little to accommodate that.

Whichever tour you choose, we suggest booking in advance and always checking tour times and information on the official website.

8. Watch Sunset at the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Depending on the time of your visit, sunset will be at varying times. But whenever it is, either before you eat or after, we highly recommend that you take the time to go up to the Clifton Suspension Bridge and enjoy the sunset from there.

This iconic bridge is the symbol of Bristol, with a design based on drawings by one of Britain’s greatest Victorian engineers: Isambard Kingdom Brunel . Whilst it is today accepted that the final version of the bridge differs from Brunel’s original vision, it is certainly the bridge that most associate with Brunel, and when built, had the longest span of any bridge in the world.

Today the bridge is still very much in use, and you can both drive and walk across it. We’d suggest that you head up to the park on the east side of the bridge though, where you’ll find the Clifton observatory, and lovely views of both the bridge, and the sunset. On warm summer days this is a very popular location with locals and visitors alike, who come up here to enjoy the evening warmth and views. A lovely way to end your first day exploring in Bristol!

Things to do in Bristol: Day 2

9. Bristol Cathedral

Our second day in Bristol has you starting off at Bristol Cathedral , seat of the Church of England in the city. This was founded as an Augustine abbey in 1140, although the version you see today largely dates from work undertaken in the 14th –16th centuries.Some parts of the original do survive though, including the Chapter House (dating from 1160!) and the Abbey Gatehouse.

In its present form the Cathedral is a stunning building both inside and out, with beautiful vaulting, medieval stonework and 14th century stained glass, to name but some of the features. It’s also one of the few churches in Britain to be designed as a “hall church”, where the nave, choir and aisles are all the same height. There’s an on-site cafe too, where you can grab a coffee to fortify you for the rest of your days explorations!

10. Bristol Aquarium

Down in the harbourside area just a short walk from the cathedral there are a number of excellent museums and attractions. Which of these you decide to visit will of course depend on your interests and who you’re travelling with, but we’re including a few highlights to give you ideas, ordered in a logical fashion.

First on that list is the Bristol Aquarium . This is home to over forty marine life displays, with everything from local specimens through to tropical environments on show. Unusually for an aquarium, there’s also a giant botanical house on site, that you walk through as part of the tour. The aquarium is open year round, and is an excellent attraction for families especially. Check out their official website for opening times, prices, and special events.

11. We the Curious (Bristol Science Centre)

Right next door to the Aquarium is We the Curious (formerly known as the At-Bristol Science Centre), which focuses on highly interactive science themed exhibits. There’s a lot of really hands on stuff here, and we had a lot of fun playing with the various displays.

There’s also a whole part of the attraction dedicated to animation. Bristol is home to Aardman Animations , the animation studio responsible for Wallace & Gromit as well as UK TV character Morph . This attraction was put together by Aardman, and lets you become an animator for the day – even creating your own TV show.

This is definitely a museum for people who like a more hands-on, interactive attraction, and you could easily spend a whole day here. Again, check the official website for opening times and ticket prices .

If you want to get deeper under the skin of what make Bristol tick, then a visit to M-Shed is an absolute must. This free museum, housed in a former transit shed, has exhibits that focus exclusively on telling the story of the city, from prehistoric times right up to the present day.

We don’t like to play favourites, but M Shed was definitely a highlight of the various museums and attractions that we visited. We loved how it explored the history of the city, with everything from the people to the geography to Bristol’s experiences in the war on show. There are even working exhibits on show, including the giant cranes outside the museum, and the museum even has its own Banksy on show. Not to be missed.

13. Visit the SS Great Britain

No visit to Bristol would be complete without a visit to the SS Great Britain – Bristol’s top visitor attraction. Designed by Brunel, the SS Great Britain was built in Bristol and launched in 1845. She was the first ship with both an iron hull and a screw propeller, and was also the longest passenger ship in the world.

Initially built as a transatlantic passenger ship, the cost of building and tweaking such a radical design combined with the cost of rescuing her after she ran aground ended up bankrupting her owners.

As a result she has a varied service history, including 30 years spent taking immigrants to Australia from Liverpool in the UK and coal-hauling. Finally, in 1937, she was scuttled and abandoned in the Falkland Islands.

Of course, the story doesn’t end there, as otherwise there wouldn’t be much to visit! In 1970, a great rescue operation took place, and what remained of her hull was floated onto a pontoon and returned to her place of construction in Bristol.

Following an extensive restoration process, she re-opened to the public, and today you can visit and tour her in a form that resembles her glory days as a transatlantic ship. Tickets are slightly cheaper if you book them online, which you can do online here .

14. Take a picture of the colourful houses

One thing that will catch your eye when you visit Bristol is the variety and colour of many of the homes and buildings in the city. This is one of Bristol’s signature features, and you definitely need to get a photo of these homes.

We actually visited Bristol during the Bristol Balloon Fiesta , and were lucky enough to go up in a balloon, and see all these houses from above.

But don’t worry if a balloon ride isn’t on the cards. If you walk a little further west along the south side of the river from the SS Great Britain, you’ll come to a lovely harbour area where many boats are moored. On the opposite side of the river, you’ll see a lovely selection of colourful houses for you to get a picture of.

15. Underfall yard

The last stop on our two day Bristol itinerary continues the marine theme. Underfall Yard is a historic Victorian-era boatyard in Bristol. The name “underfall” comes from the design solution that Brunel developed to resolve the issue of silt filling up Bristol’s floating harbour, which used a series of sluices to suck away the mud – a system that is still in use today.

Much of the original yard has been preserved, and is home today to a boat building cooperative, as well as various exhibits on the history of the floating harbour and the sluicing technology. I certainly learnt a few things that I didn’t know before, and I’m sure you will too!

With that, we’ve finished our ideas for how to spend two days in Bristol! Let’s take a look now at some practicalities for your visit.

Getting to Bristol

Bristol is a well connected city. There’s a fast train connection to London, which takes less than two hours, and of course it’s connected to a number of other cities in the UK as well.

Bristol also has an airport, with connections to a number of UK and European cities.

Finally, Bristol is easy to drive to, although in the city centre, we’d advise leaving the car safely parked somewhere else, as parking can be tricky to come by and fees can add up.

How to Get Around Bristol

Bristol is an easy city to get around, although it does have a few hills. The itinerary we’ve put together can be easily done on foot though, and it’s largely set up to have you travelling downhill for the most part.

Of course, there’s an excellent public transport network, as well as a ferry boat service that will take you to various points along the harbour.

Where to Stay in Bristol

Bristol has lots of accommodation options, pretty much something to suit every budget, from hostels through to boutique hotels and five star luxury.

There’s also a wide range of apartment rentals, and we opted for an apartment rental on our most recent visit as it gave us the flexibility to dine in as well as some working space and laundry facilities.

Check out all the Booking.com listings for Bristol, we find they usually come up with the best deal on a wide range of properties.

We also recommend Plum Guide if you’re looking for an apartment rental. Plum Guide carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. We’ve stayed at a number of their properties around the world, and you can see our  review of the Plum Guide here . See their  listings for Bristol here .

For more vacation rental options in the UK, see our guide to our favourite holiday rentals websites in the UK .

When to Visit Bristol

Bristol is a pleasant city to visit year round, and there are plenty of indoor attractions to keep you entertained should the weather turn against you.

Probably the busiest time of year to visit is during the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta , which takes place in early August. Whilst this is a fantastic time to visit the city and see the skies filled with beautifully coloured balloons, it’s also definitely going to be a very busy time to visit as well.

We visited during the Fiesta, and had a wonderful time, but do be aware that accommodation, traffic and visitor levels are certainly higher at this time of year.

Otherwise, for the best weather we’d recommend visiting from May through to September. Also, do check out the official Visit Bristol website for all the events taking place throughout the year, to get an idea of what’s on.

Day Trips from Bristol

If you’re in Bristol for a little while and wondering if there are any good nearby spots for a day trip, then you’re in luck. Bristol makes a great base for exploring a number of nearby attractions, including the following.

• Bath. This beautiful Roman-era spa town is filled with beautiful Georgian architecture. It’s also just a 13-minute train ride from Bristol, so very easy to reach.
• The Cotswolds. This beautiful part of England is filled with postcard perfect villages and lovely countryside. Explore with your own vehicle or take a tour like this .
• Stonehenge . An incredible ancient monument, the origins of which are still debated to this day. Can be visited by car or public transport from Bristol, or as part of a tour like this .
• Cardiff. The capital city of Wales is easy to reach by train from Bristol, and offers museums, castles and plenty more to fill a day.
• Glastonbury & Somerset. Glastonbury is famous for its Tor and links to St. Arthur. A day out from Bristol can easily cover other highlights of Somerset as well, including Cheddar Gorge and the incredible cathedral at Wells. You can drive yourself, or take a tour like this .

Further Reading for your Bristol Visit

That sums up our suggested things to do in Bristol for two days! As you can see, there’s plenty to see and do in Bristol, and you’ll easily be able to fill two days – or extend your trip for a few more days!

We’re got more content coming up on Bristol, so do subscribe to stay updated. In the meantime, here’s a series of resources to help you plan your trip to both Bristol and the wider UK!

• The official Visit Bristol tourism page , which has loads of ideas on what to do, where to stay, transport information as well as event information.
• Our detailed guide to attending the Bristol Balloon Fiesta
• The official Bristol International Balloon Fiesta website
• The Rough Guide to Bath, Bristol and Somerset , which is available in both digital and physical book formats
• My guide to the best locations to find Street Art in Bristol
• Our detailed one week itinerary of the UK , as well as a two week version
• A guide to driving Scotland’s epic North Coast 500 , as well as accommodation options on the North Coast 500
• A guide to 10 of the best Stately Homes in England , to give you some ideas as you plan your itinerary
• We also have number of other guides to UK cities, including things to do in Cambridge , things to do in Edinburgh  and  things to do in Belfast , amongst others.
• For London, we have some detailed itineraries to help you plan your visit. These include a 1 Day London Itinerary , a Two Day London itinerary and a six day London itinerary
• The top Harry Potter sites in London
• Tips on Buying and Using the London Pass
• A guide to Visiting Oxford on a Day Trip
• Visiting Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds
• A guide to things to do in Portsmouth
• Getting online when travelling in a foreign country can be daunting – check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options for your trip
• If you’re interested in getting better photos when you travel, take a look at my online photography course , where I’ll teach you everything you need to know about getting better photos – whatever camera you have!

And that’s it for our suggestions for the best things to do in Bristol over 2 days! Have you ever visited Bristol? Do you have anything you’d add to the above? Just let us know in the comments below!

So you know: For some of the attractions we visited in Bristol, Visit Bristol provided us with complimentary entry. We covered our own accommodation, transport, meals, and other expenses.

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There are 10 comments on this post

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28th January 2023 at 2:29 pm

Thank you so much for this wonderful itinerary! I’ll be traveling with my husband to Bristol from the US in about a month. It’ll be my first time in the UK. He’s going for his work so the first 4 days of our 10 day trip I’m on my own to explore. I may need to spread this out for 3-4 days vs. 2 but it looks like plenty to keep me busy seeing all the sights :)…Thank you!

Laurence Norah says

29th January 2023 at 9:05 am

It’s my pleasure! I think you will easily be able to spread this out over a few days. However, as you have 4 days I can highly recommend jumping on the train and riding for 11 minutes or so from Bristol to the historic town of Bath which is a world heritage site and well worth a half day or full day of your time. It’s very different from Bristol, all Georgian architecture and lovely streets. Well worth it!

Safe travels!

Macarena says

13th January 2023 at 12:45 am

Thanks you so much for this guide! My husband and I are visiting UK for the first time from Argentina, and I was not very sure about including Bristol in our itinerary, but reading your blogue has convinced me! best wishes!! Macarena

14th January 2023 at 10:08 am

Thanks Macarena, have an awesome time in Bristol and the UK 🙂

17th December 2022 at 1:39 pm

This is a lifesaver! My girlfriend is coming to Bristol for the first time over Christmas, and I had no clue where to take her until reading your blog. Thanks again. Any to-do lists for Bath? 🙂

18th December 2022 at 11:45 am

It’s my pleasure! So we lived just outside Bath for three years, but haven’t really written much about it! However that’s not to say we don’t have recommendations. Obviously the town centre is pretty to walk around, and sights like the Royal Crescent, Circus and Bath Abbey are a must to see. There is an excellent free walking tour that meets most days in front of the Abbey that is worth doing. If you like walks, the Bath Skyline walk is really lovely. The Roman Baths are also of course worth a visit, and there also the thermal spa if you prefer a more relaxing experience. That should get you started hopefully!

Have a lovely Christmas 🙂

Mahmud says

1st January 2022 at 8:53 am

thank you so much Laurence and Jessica. We are on our way now. It was a fantastic blog really helpfull.

Thanks Mahmud & Şendül

1st January 2022 at 12:31 pm

Hey Mahmud & Şendül! Thanks so much guys 🙂 Have an awesome time in Bristol, what a great way to start 2022 🙂

All the best,

Dory Merriman says

8th May 2021 at 7:56 am

Thank you so much Laurence and Jessica for taking the time to put together this fantastic guide. It has helped me greatly for my forthcoming short visit to Bristol. Best wishes Dory

8th May 2021 at 11:18 am

Thank you so much Dory – have a wonderful trip to Bristol!

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Bristol Travel Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2022

O ur  Bristol Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, best day trips, accommodation options, tips and more for this English city. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Bristol.

Plan your visit to Bristol

Located in England’s south west the city of Bristol is associated with 2 very famous (but very different individuals) namely Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Banksy! (And I shouldn’t forget it is also the birthplace of Wallace & Grommit as Nick Park the creator of Aardman Animations is also from Bristol)

Whether you plan to visit Bristol to enjoy the engineering genius of Brunel or the creative genius of Banksy there is plenty to do and see in the city to keep you busy.

Popular attractions include the SS Great Britain, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, M Shed, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Known for its excellent cafes and craft beer Bristol is the perfect destination for foodies too.

What you will find in this complete Bristol Travel Guide

Map of Bristol

When is the best time of year to visit bristol, how many days do you need in bristol, what is the best way to explore bristol, 🚆 by train from london – bristol, 🚙 by car, ⭐️ attractions, things to do in bristol & surrounding areas, the bristol hotel, avon gorge by hotel du vin, 3 berkeley square guesthouse, 🎟 tickets, tours & attractions in bristol, best day trips and tours from bristol, books set in bristol, 💛 enjoy your visit to bristol.

📖 Bristol travel guide – Visiting Bristol FAQ’s

As with anywhere in the UK the summer months are a popular time to visit. This makes it more crowded and pushes up prices. This is also the time of year when many festivals and events are held in Bristol.

If you can visit at any time of year perhaps the best time to go is during the spring or autumn. The temperatures may be a tad cooler but the city will be quieter and less busy.

• Read more about the best time to visit the UK in my detailed guide.

There are a number of festivals and events held in and around Bristol during the year including one of the most famous music festivals in the world – Glastonbury (hopefully returning in 2022)

• Bristol Shakespeare Festiva l – TBA
• Beats and Eats Bristol – TBA
• Love Saves The Day – 27 May to 28 May 2023
• Foodies Festival – 12 May to 14 May 2023

We recommend a couple of days to explore Bristol (the perfect weekend staycation ) and to properly enjoy the culture, history, art and good food and drink Bristol has in abundance.

Bristol is a great city to explore on foot. There is a Metrobus which runs between the train station and city centre. There are also 4 Park and Ride locations available if you prefer to avoid driving into Bristol.

Take the ferry which runs two routes including stops at popular destinations such as the M Shed museum, SS Great Britain and Temple Meads.

What is the best way to travel to Bristol from London?

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline . Take the train to Bristol for a short break or incorporate it into your UK train travel itinerary.

• Distance from London: 170 km
• Time taken by train: Just under 1 hour 30 mins
• Leave from: London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

If using the motorways Bristol is a 2 hour drive from London on the M4. If you are thinking of parking in the city you will be pleased to hear there are over 11,000 parking spaces including many around the popular attractions such as the Harbourside and Bristol Shopping Quarter .

If you prefer to avoid the hassle of driving into a large city like Bristol there are 4 Park and Ride locations in Bristol where you can leave your car and catch a bus. Click here for more information about Bristol Park & Ride

Read – UK transportation guide

Click the links for more information about the best places to visit in Bristol and surrounding areas and counties.

THINGS TO DO IN BRISTOL

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

BATH TRAVEL GUIDE

DORSET & JURASSIC COAST TRAVEL GUIDE

CORNWALL TRAVEL GUIDE

DEVON TRAVEL GUIDE

COTSWOLDS TRAVEL GUIDE

CARDIFF TRAVEL GUIDE

🏩 Bristol Accommodation

Accommodation quick picks for bristol.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superb location for marina, bars, restaurants and city centre.

Best beer garden view in the UK! Luxury hotel with fabulous decor.

Beautiful property with fabulous breakfast. 

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

⭐️ CLICK FOR MORE INFO ABOUT OUR TRAVEL ITINERARY PLANNERS

As well as the many great things to do in Bristol itself the city is also a great location from which to explore the nearby cities of Bath or Cardiff.

Why not book a tour to Stonehenge or the Cotswolds?

We use Get Your Guide when choosing tours – they have a huge selection plus one of the best cancellation policies in the business (so no stressing if your plans change at the last minute)

Viator is another company we have used around the world. I have listed the best tours available from both companies to give you a lot of choices!

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Bristol. These posts will also provide practical advice for travelling around the UK:

• UK train travel guide
• Salisbury Travel Guide
• Britain by train – top 10 UK rail journeys (+ map & tips)
• 17 Things to do in the Cotswolds
• Oxford Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• 25 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall (+ map & tips)

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Bristol Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

Bristol is an energetic and artsy city bursting with a robust restaurant scene, fascinating history, and lots of art. A college town with a youthful feeling, the city is full of great budget experiences, plenty of parks to relax in, interesting museums and historic homes, and a waterfront lined with art galleries and eateries.

Bristol is one of my favorite places to visit in England, and I’m not the only one who thinks so: in both 2014 and 2017, Bristol was named the best UK city. And that’s not the only award Bristol can claim — it won the European Green Capital Award in 2015, and in 2017 became a UNESCO City of Film.

In short, Bristol has a lot to offer. It’s an underrated city often overshadowed by England’s more international hubs but it’s definitely worth visiting for a day or two.

This travel guide to Bristol can help you plan a fun, affordable trip to this unappreciated gem!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Bristol

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Bristol

1. See the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Bristol’s most famous landmark is suspended 100 meters (330 feet) above the Avon River. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it is considered the mark of a turning point in the history of engineering, took 33 years to complete, and is now one of the oldest surviving iron suspension bridges in the world. The bridge provides sweeping views of the river and surrounding parks and buildings. The first modern bungee jump took place here in 1979 (though it was illegal at the time). It costs 1 GBP to cross the bridge in a car but is free for pedestrians and cyclists.

2. Visit Bristol Cathedral

Dating back to the 12th century, Bristol Cathedral was originally the abbey of St. Augustine. Parts of the Cathedral include Romanesque architecture and large vaulted ceilings in the nave, choir, and aisles, although the nave wasn’t built until 300 years after the rest of the cathedral. It’s open daily and admission is free. There aren’t currently any tours on offer but the welcome leaflet is useful to discover more about the building.

3. Learn nautical history aboard the SS Great Britain

Also designed by Brunel, the SS Great Britain was the world’s first steam-powered passenger liner. It was also the first screw-propelled, ocean-going, wrought iron ship. Built in 1843, it used both sail and steam power simultaneously, allowing it to travel across the Atlantic in half the time of other ships. You can visit the boat, its dockside museum, and even climb the rigging. Tickets are 19.50 GBP and you have to book an admission slot when you buy them. Tickets also permit free re-entry for one year from the date of first use in case you want to come back another day.

4. Visit St Nicholas Market

This bustling market has more shops than you could go through in an afternoon. Spend some time checking out the endless number of stalls offering seasonal local produce, second-hand books, vintage clothing, and more. It’s been trading since 1743 and now runs multiple different markets a week: St Nicholas Indoor market (Mon-Sat, 9.30am-5pm); Bristol Farmers’ and Producers’ market (every two weeks); Street Food Market (Tues and Fri, 11am-2.30pm) and Bristol Indies’ Market (Fri-Sat, 10am to 5pm).

5. Enjoy the street art

Other things to see and do in bristol, 1. take a pirate walks tour.

The Bristol Pirate Walks are short guided tours that take you to some of Bristol’s oldest neighborhoods. You’ll learn about Bristol’s early history in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries when slavery, maritime trading, and piracy were part of daily life. Tours cost 12.50 GBP and include visits to sites related to the legendary Long John Silver and Blackbeard’s Lair. Call ahead to check availability.

2. Hang out on King Street

King Street is a fascinating, historic part of Bristol dating to the 17th century. It used to be where the old sailing barges docked after their journeys from South Wales. Now the area is the heart of Bristol’s theater district and features numerous bars and restaurants too. The oldest continually operating theatre in England, Bristol Old Vic, is located on King Street. Tickets to a show start at 8 GBP.

3. Daytrip to Bath

The site of the ancient Roman baths is just a quick train ride away. The Romans used this area as their spa retreat up until the 5th century. Whether you’re interested in seeing the baths, cathedrals, or Jane Austen’s home (her family lived here in the early 19th century), Bath is an easy and enjoyable day trip from Bristol. Trains from Bristol to Bath run all day and it’s just a 16-minute ride for 8.80 GBP (return).

4. Explore the Wookey Hole Caves

This unique geological area, comprised of a series of limestone caves formed by an underground river, is another short day trip from Bristol. During your visit, you can take a 35-minute tour, stop in the historical museum, and view artifacts that archaeologists have uncovered in the caves. You can also take a boat ride through the murky cave waters and learn about spelunking. Don’t miss the famous Witch of Wookey Hole, a human-shaped stalagmite that legend says is a witch who was turned to stone. Most of the attractions are geared for children and families (other attractions at the site include animatronic dinosaurs). Admission is 19.95 GBP and you need to book a timeslot.

5. Take a stroll along the Bristol Harbour

The historic Bristol Harbour along the Avon River was traditionally known as the Floating Harbor because the water levels neither rise nor fall, keeping everything constant. Today, the harbor is home to most of Bristol’s busy street life and many of the city’s tourist attractions, including the Watershed Media Center and the M Shed Museum. In July, the free Bristol Harbour Festival features a weekend of activities on the waterfront including live music, dance performances, spoken word, food markets, circus acts, and more.

6. Tour the Bristol Aquarium

In a city with such close ties to the sea, it’s no wonder the Bristol Aquarium has several unique exhibitions on display. There’s an underwater tunnel that takes you through a recreated environment and even a sunken ship inside. The real attraction, though, is the Urban Jungle which features hundreds of exotic plants and trees, including mangroves. The jungle’s underwater environment is home to stingrays and freshwater fish from the Amazon rainforest. Tickets to the museum are 19.25 GBP, though you can also buy a 4-pack of adult tickets for a discount if traveling in a group. It’s a good place to visit if you’re traveling with kids.

7. Wander the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

Bristol’s largest museum is home to an extensive collection of art and artifacts, including works from Bellini, Renoir, Hepworth, Sisley, and Bomberg. The ground floor has a collection of Egyptian mummies and other ancient artifacts, as well as displays dedicated to rare gems and crystals. Possibly the oddest yet most beloved part of the museum is Alfred the Gorilla, a mascot for the city. The gorilla originally lived in the Bristol Zoo, but since his death in 1948, he has been housed in a glass case on the second floor of the museum (he was even stolen for a few years in the 50s). Admission is free.

8. Visit M Shed

For a more in-depth look at the city of Bristol itself, visit this free museum. Over 3,000 artifacts comprise the museum’s exhibitions, which focus on the people and history of the city. The exhibition includes a collection of historic vessels, such as a fireboat and the oldest surviving steam tugboat (which is moored outside the museum). Admission is free.

9. Take a harbor tour

For an even closer look at the harbor, Bristol Ferry Boats offers daily harbor tours leaving from the city center. You float past all of Bristol’s maritime sights during the hour-long tour and learn more about the city. They also offer specialized cruises (such as a gin cruise) on certain days of the week. Tickets to the daily harbor tour are 9.75 GBP. There’s also an option to do a tour on The Matthew, a replica of John Cabot’s 1497 ship that he used to discover Newfoundland, or you can do a cruise of the Avon Gorge that goes under the Clifton Suspension Bridge (23 GBP).

10. Meander through Castle Park

Before being destroyed in World War II, Bristol’s main shopping district was located on the site of what is now this large harbor-side park. The park is home to several ruins: the 14th-century tower of St Mary-le-Port Church, the 12th-century St Peter’s Church (now a memorial to those who died in the Bristol Blitz), and vestiges of Bristol Castle itself. Stop in for a hot drink at the Vaulted Chambers Café, located within the last above-ground remnants of Bristol Castle.

11. Take a free walking tour

One of the first things I do in a new destination is to take a free walking tour. It’s the best budget-friendly way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Bristol Free Walking Tour hosts two-hour tours (they don’t run in winter) that can show you all the highlights. They meet in front of the Victoria Rooms, next to the fountains. There’s no need to book; just turn up a few minutes before it starts. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

For more information on other cities in England, check out these guides:

• Bath Travel Guide
• Brighton Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• London Travel Guide
• Manchester Travel Guide
• Oxford Travel Guide

Bristol Travel Costs

Hostel prices – There aren’t too many hostel options in the city and some close in the off-season. A dorm with 4-8 beds costs 20 GBP. Several of the hostels are still currently only offering private rooms from 70 GBP and up per night due to COVID -19. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities.

There is only one campground in the immediate area (Ennywevers Campsite), but if you branch out from the city you can find others. Expect to pay around 10 GBP for a basic tent plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels cost 70 GBP per night (its closer to 80-90 GBP in high season). Free Wi-Fi is standard and breakfast is often included.

There are also lots of Airbnb options in Bristol. Private rooms start at 35 GBP per night (although 50 GBP is more realistic, particularly in peak season), while a full apartment averages 90-100 GBP per night.

Food – While British cuisine has evolved in leaps and bounds due to immigration (and colonialism), it’s still very much a meat and potatoes country. Fish and chips remain a popular staple for both lunch and dinner while roasted and stewed meats, sausages, meat pies, and the quintessential Yorkshire pudding are all common options as well. Curry (and other Indian dishes, such as tikka masala), are super popular too.

For falafel or sandwiches, prices start at around 6 GBP. A cheap pub meal of fish and chips costs around 10 GBP.

A meal at a casual pub or restaurant costs 12-16 GBP for a main course while a pint of beer costs 5-6 GBP. Dining on the waterfront or at a mid-range restaurant costs around 30 GBP for a multi-course meal with a drink.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 6 GBP for a combo meal while pizza starts at 9 GBP. Indian food starts at 10 GBP for a main dish.

Lattes/cappuccinos cost around 3.40 GBP while bottled water is around 1.20 GBP.

If you choose to cook your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs 40-50 GBP . This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Bristol Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Bristol, expect to spend 55 GBP per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, taking public transit, limiting your drinking, cooking your own meals, and doing mostly free activities like museum visits and seeing the suspension bridge. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 GBP per day to your budget.

A mid-range budget of 135 GBP per day covers staying in a private Airbnb room or private hostel, eating out for most of your meals, taking the occasional taxi, having a few drinks, and a few paid activities such as a harbor cruise or street art tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 220 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

Bristol Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

With cheap pubs, public parks, an accessible waterfront, and a few hostels, there are plenty of ways to save money in Bristol. Here are my top ways to save money when you visit:

• Chill in the park – It seems like Bristol is one giant park, with many great places to relax, play Frisbee, read, and picnic. It’s a low-cost way to spend an afternoon, hang out, and people-watch.
• Eat cheap – Bristol is a college town with lots of cheap sandwich shops and restaurants. Flock to where the students go to save money on your meals. Popular places for students include St. Nick’s Market, the Harbourside Market, and places along Wapping Wharf (Bertha’s for pizza is a great stop).
• Visit the museums – Learn about Bristol’s fascinating history by going to the museums, all of which are free.
• Take a free walking tour – If you’re there on a weekend, be sure to take a free walking tour. It lasts a couple of hours and is a nice way to get a sense of the city. Bristol Free Walking Tour offers free tours that cover the highlights. Visit Bristol also offers several free self-guided audio tours for download on their website.
• Stay with a local – If you’re on a budget, use Couchsurfing to stay with a local. It’s a great way to cut costs while getting insider tips and advice. Just note that many students are away during the summer so be sure to apply early.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Bristol

Bristol has a few hostels; however, most are not currently booking dorms due to COVID safety protocols. Nevertheless, here are my favorite places to stay in Bristol for when things open up again:

• The Full Moon Backpackers
• YHA Bristol
• Clift Guest House

How to Get Around Bristol

Public transportation – Public transit for Bristol and the surrounding area operates on a zone system, so bus prices depend on how far you go. A single fare in Zone A (Bristol and the immediate area) costs 3.50 GBP, with a daily cap of 6 GBP (the price of a Zone A day pass). The city center is easily walkable but to get to some of the outer parts of the city you need to take a bus.

Bicycle – Bristol is a bike-friendly city, ranking as the UK’s best city for cycling. Cycle the City and Bristol Cycle Shack both offer day rentals for 15-18 GBP. If you’re planning to cycle outside of the main city area to enjoy the riverside country trails, consider getting an electric bike or a mountain bike to make the trip easier. You can even cycle all the way to Bath (there’s a bike path and it’s just 13 miles). Electric bike rentals cost 35 GBP per day (8 hours).

Taxi – Taxis are readily available, with prices starting at 2.60 GBP and going up 2.13 GBP per mile. Given how expensive they are, I wouldn’t take one unless absolutely necessary.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Bristol but again walking or cycling are the easiest (and cheapest) ways to get around in the compact city.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 20 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. Keep in mind that traffic flows on the left and that most cars have a manual transmission. You don’t need a car to explore the city, however, it might be helpful if you want to explore the region.

When to Go to Bristol

Bristol doesn’t get too cold, but like most English cities, it also doesn’t get too hot. Summer is peak tourism season and temperatures are the warmest during this time – but rarely are they ever above 22°C (72°F). People make the most of the warm weather and during July and August, there are tons of events and festivals happening along the Bristol harbor. One of the most famous is the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta when hundreds of hot air balloons fill the sky during the first two weeks of August.

Spring (late March-June) and autumn (September-November) are also fantastic times to visit, as temperatures are mild and the summer crowds have thinned out. You can still walk everywhere and hang out in the parks. Just bring a rain jacket.

Winter lasts from December to February and temperatures can dip below freezing (0°C/32°F). While prices are a bit lower, I wouldn’t visit during the winter as you’ll miss out on the parks and other outdoor activities.

How to Stay Safe in Bristol

Bristol is a safe city and the risk of violent crime here is low. Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Scams and pickpocketing can occur around high-traffic areas, especially on busy weekend nights in the city center when partygoers are a little less aware. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight just to be safe.

If you’re partying in the student pubs, be aware of your surroundings and avoid dimly lit alleys and pathways when heading home. Pickpockets tend to work in teams, so stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Bristol Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Bristol Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling England and continue planning your trip:

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

29 Best Things To Do In Bristol, UK | The Ultimate Bristol City Guide

From Banksy to bridges, markets to museums, and churches to castles, this Bristol city guide shows you all the best things to do in Bristol, plus tips on where to eat, drink and stay.

With its small-town vibe with an international twist, award-winning speakeasy dens, and a tangible history, Bristol is full of heritage attractions and incredible street art. Bristol has produced some of the world’s best talent, including Hollywood screen legend Cary Grant (Archibald Leach) and thought-provoking street artist, Banksy. Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the harbour, watch deer roaming the hillside, or learn about Bristol rich history in its world-class museums and galleries, Bristol has something for every kind traveller.

A Brief History of Bristol

The oldest recorded name given to Bristol was Caer Odor, meaning the “city of the gap”, a reference to the Avon Gorge. Bristol then became known as Bricstow , from 1064 to 1204, with the Saxons thereafter changing the city’s name to Brcyg Stowe, meaning “a place by the bridge”.

As early as the 11th century, Bristol had a port. In 1247, the Bristol Bridge and Docks were built and trading in woold, wheat, fish and salt began.

In the 14th century, Bristol was the departure point for many exploration voyages to the New World. By the 18th century, Bristol played a significant role in the triangular trade of exporting guns and metalware to Africa, transporting slaves across the Atlantic, and bringing back sugar, rum, tobacco, cotton, and molasses. At its height from 1700 to 1807, more than 2,000 slave ships carried an estimated 500,000 people from Africa to slavery in the Americas.

Bristol is comprised of various districts each offering something unique and worth seeing. This Bristol city guide is broken up into districts and categories to help you navigate different pockets of the city.  Starting with the historic center, here are the best things to do in Bristol.

Watch my vlog on the best things to do in Bristol

Looking for something in particular? Use these links to jump around.

Included in this Bristol city guide

• Map of Bristol

Bristol Pounds

Stokes croft, harbourside and spike island, long ashton, where to eat in bristol, where to drink in bristol, how to get to bristol.

• Where to Stay in Bristol
• Bristol Day Trips and Tours

Map of best things to do in Bristol, UK

Want to know where you’ll be going? Take a look at the detailed map below.

Tip: For a larger view of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner.

Click on this interactive map and see where this itinerary will take you. I’ve created this map using Google Maps which you can save and use as you travel around. The coloured pins represent different pockets of the of the city to explore. Click on any pin for more information. Things to do in Bristol – Blue pins Where to eat in Bristol – Green pins Where to drink in Bristol – Pink pins Where to stay in Bristol – Yellow pins

Bristol Pounds can be used in both paper and electronic format, just like conventional money. The only difference is that the paper form isn’t legal tender and expires after 3 years. At which point, locals submit their creative designs to appear on the notes.

One Bristol Pound is equivalent to one Sterling Pound. Locals can use Bristol Pounds to pay their Council Tax, electricity bills and public transport.

1. Wander around Corn Street

Forming the heart of Bristol’s Old Town is Corn Street, Broad Street, Wine Street, and High Street. These four cross streets met at what is called the Bristol High Cross, a monumental market cross that was erected in 1373 at a time when Bristol was a walled medieval town. The monument was erected to commemorate the Edward III’s grant to make Bristol a county, separate from Somerset and Gloucestershire.

Today, Corn Street is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants and is just as important as it was back in the 13th century.

Corn St, Bristol BS1 1JG, United Kingdom

2. Visit The Exchange

A corn market was held inside The Exchange from 1813, but there is also evidence that corn has been bought and sold on this street as far back as the 13th century when it was called Old Corn Street.

Today, The Exchange is home to the famous St Nicholas Market that’s spread across three major halls, but more on that soon.

55 Corn St, Bristol BS1 1JG, United Kingdom

3. See “The Nails”

Merchants of the time would meet and discuss business in what was known as a ‘Merchants’ Tolzey’ or ‘Tolsey’. What they used as a table were one of nine brass tables known as ‘nails’.

You can see four of the original nine nails located right in front of The Exchange on Corn Street which date between 1625 and 1631.

4. Check the time on The Exchange Clock

It’s not every day that you see a clock with two-minute hands. Which is why the clock at The Exchange Clock gets a special mention. First installed in 1822, the clock only tracked local time in Bristol. Yes, Bristol had its own time zone!

But with the introduction of the railways a standardised time for timetabling around the country was required. Otherwise better known as railway time. So, on 14 September 1852, Bristol adopted railway time and added a second-minute hand to show the time in London as well as the local time in Bristol.

With Bristol being located 2º 35′ west of London’s Greenwich, when it was noon in Bristol, it was and still it just after 12:10 p.m. in London.

If you’re wondering which hand is which, the red minute hand shows Greenwich Mean Time and the pink minute hand shows Bristol time. Pretty cool, huh?

5. Go shopping at St. Nicholas Market

The market is broken up into three major sections. In the Exchange Hall, you’ll find a large open plan area full of stands with various items for sale from clothes to bikes, electronics to jewellery.

Next, is the Glass Arcade, located in between the three sections this is where you’ll find all some of Bristol’s best food offerings. I was particularly impressed with their choice of vegan options for both mains and desserts.

Adjoining the Glass Arcade is the Covered Market, a mishmash of individual shops and alleyways. Also here is Kalahari Moon – split across two stores, Kalahari Moon sells South African and Zimbabwean foodstuffs and other items from the region as well as organising community braais and events.

Opening times

St. Nicholas Market is open Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5pm, excluding bank holidays. Alongside the main markets, addition markets include:

• Vegan and Wellbeing Market – Monday, 11am to 2.30pm
• Street Food Market – Tuesday and Friday, 11am to 2:30pm
• Bristol Farmers’ and Producers’ Market – Wednesday, 9.30am to 2.30pm

If you’re visiting around December, a Christmas-themed outdoor market is held every day from  December 11 until Christmas Eve from 10am to 5pm.

Check the official St. Nicolas website for more details

6. Stroll around Castle Park and see St. Peter’s Church

Located in the center of the park are the ruins of St. Peter’s Church, which was bombed during the Bristol Blitz of 24–25 November 1940. Today, it is maintained as a monument to the civilians who lost their lives. Excavations of the church’s foundations suggest it dates back to 1106, making it the site of Bristol’s first church.

Unfortunately, the church itself isn’t open to the public, but Castle Park is always open.

Castle Park, Bristol BS1 3XB, United Kingdom

7. Visit the Georgian House Museum

The Georgian House is particularly important significant to Bristol’s history as this is where the enslaved African, Pero Jones lived. At just 12 years old, Pero was bought by John Pinney to work on his Mountravers plantation in Nevis. In 1784, he moved with the family to Bristol, where they lived in this Georgian House.

Pero’s Bridge

Pero was John Pinney’s personal servant, serving him for 32 years. In commemoration of one slave who lived and died in the city, Pero’s Bridge (a footbridge running across Bristol’s floating harbour) was named after him.

The Georgian House Museum is open Saturday to Tuesday 11am to 4pm. Closed Wednesday-Friday.

7 Great George St, Bristol BS1 5RR, United Kingdom

Check the official Georgian House Museum website for more details

Free entry or by donation.

8. Wander through Queen Square

Bristol BS1 4LH, United Kingdom

9. Visit Bristol Cathedral

Located outside of the Cathedral is The Great Gatehouse, also known as the Abbey Gatehouse. Dating back to around 1170, this was the gatehouse for the original St Augustine’s Abbey.

Look out for the stained glass windows in the South Transept where you’ll see a depiction of King Alfred the Great, the writer Richard Hakluyt, the priest Richard Hooker and the poet and playwright William Shakespeare.

From Monday to Friday the Cathedral is open to visitors from 8.00am until 5.00pm, unless you wish to attend Choral Evensong or Evening Prayer at 5.15pm.

College Green, Bristol BS1 5TJ, United Kingdom

Check the official Bristol Cathedral website for more information and events.

10. Trace Our World’s History at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

On the ground floor, you learn about ancient Egypt and Assyria. The first floor takes you on a journey through the last billion years where you can see incredible dinosaur fossils including the best-preserved dinosaurs ever found in Britain – the Scelidosaurus. Also here are precious stones and crystals including the Bristol Diamond. In the wildlife galleries rare, endangered and extinct wildlife from the UK and around the globe are found on display.

From the first floor balcony, you get an excellent view of the Bristol Boxkite suspended from the ceiling. This was the first aircraft produced by the British and Colonial Aeroplane Company

On the second floor are the museum’s seven art galleries featuring the works of Bellini, Cranach, Renoir, Pissarro, Sisley, Bomberg, Hepworth, and Beryl Cook – amongst many other great artists

Don’t miss the Banksy’s Paint Pot Angel in the foyer

Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am- 5pm. Closed Monday.

Located in the foyer of Bristol Museum & Art Gallery on Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1RL, United Kingdom.

Check the official Bristol Museum and Art Gallery website for more information.

11. Climb up Cabot Tower on Brandon Hill

Cabot’s 1497 discovery of the North American coast was under the commission of Henry VII of England and is the earliest known European exploration of coastal North America since the Norse visits to Vinland in the eleventh century.

According to legend, America was actually named after a Bristolian! Richard Amerike was responsible for funding a large part of John Cabot voyage to America.

This anniversary of his discovery is engraved in Roman numerals CCCC (400) on each of the four sides of the tower, beneath various crests. Located on the apex of the tower is a winged figure representing Commerce.

The tower’s construction was paid for by public subscription and cost over £3000. Not only is visiting Cabot Tower one of the best things to do in Bristol it’s absolutely free and you can climb this 105-foot tower and enjoy excellent views over the city and Harbourside area.

Brandon Hill is open at all times. Cabot Tower is open Monday to Sunday: 8:15- 9.15pm.

I would recommend keeping an eye on the weather as the tower is known to be closed when there is heavy rainfall that makes the steps very slippery and unsafe. I was up there for a good 20 minutes in the rain before a park ranger came to close the tower.

Brandon Hill Park, Park St, Bristol BS1 5RR, United Kingdom

12. See incredible artwork at Royal West of England Academy (RWA)

Set inside a stunning Grade II listed building, the Royal West of England Academy features five naturally-lit galleries making it one of the best exhibition spaces in the country.

Its lively programme of exhibitions celebrate the best of historic and contemporary British art, including artists from Turner and Constable to Fedden and Nash, and work by its own Academicians, who include some of the country’s leading artists.

Royal West of England Academy is open Tuesday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm, Sunday 11am-5pm. Closed on Mondays.

Queens Road and Whiteladies Rd, Bristol BS8 1NU

Adults: £7.95 (includes an 80p donation) Concessions: £6.75 (includes a 70p donation), over 65s, students, jobseekers, registered disabled, 18-21 year olds

Check the official Royal West of England Academy website for more information.

13. See all the Street Art in Stokes Croft and Beyond

Street art can be found all along the main road, Stokes Croft, and in the side streets. Alternatively, for something more structured, join this popular street art and Bristol history tour .

Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QY and in side streets.

14. See 10 original Banksy street art

15. See the colourful houses in Hotwells from Bristol’s Harbour

Merchants in Bristol began to think of ways to make the harbour non-tidal by damming the river. In 1809, 80 acres of tidal river was impounded to allow visiting ships to remain afloat all the time, hence a ‘Floating Harbour’. Over the next two centuries the Harbour grew as a busy commercial port until it closed in 1975.

Today, Harbourside is a core part of the city where you’ll find museums, galleries, exhibitions, Sunday markets, waterside restaurants and bars and a whole host of sports and activities including yachting, paddle boarding, cycling and rowing.

Make a stop by Millennium Square’s to see its fountains or head to one of the many restaurants or bars on the waterfront. As you duck in and out of the museums, keep an eye out for the wonderful vibrant houses hugging the hilltops in the Hotwells district.

16. Wander around Watershed

Under a sheltered walkway lining the harbour are a series of restaurants, shops and the tourism office where you can pick up some Bristol Pounds. When I visited, there was even a Christmas market here.

Watershed is open Monday today from early morning until late in the evening. The various restaurants lining the harbour all have their own individual operating hours.

Admission to the cinemas are £8.00 full / £5.00 concessions (screenings before 16:00) and £10.00 full / £8.00 concessions (screenings after 16:00)

Check the official Watershed website for more information.

17. Learn about Bristol’s history at M Shed

M Shed is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am – 5pm. Closed Monday.

M Shed is located at Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN

Check the official M Shed website for more information.

18. Go on a cruise aboard The Matthew of Bristol

This stunning replica was built in Bristol to mark the 500th anniversary of Cabot’s voyage. Upon its completion, she even set sail to reconstruct Cabot’s original journey. Following the same course, with the same number of crew members and taking exactly the same amount of time to complete the crossing. When it returned to Bristol on 24 June 1997, the Matthew of Bristol was welcomed by Queen Elizabeth II.

Take a look around the boat and the upper decks or join one of The Mathew of Bristol’s various tours and experiences including a 1.5 hour Harbour Trip which includes Tea or Coffee, Cakes and Scones.

The Mathew of Bristol is open:

• Tuesday to Sunday (March – November) : 10 am – 4 pm
• Saturday and Sunday (December – March) : 10 am – 4 pm
• Open bank holidays, including Mondays.

The Matthew of Bristol is located at Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN.

Check the official Mathew of Bristol website for more information.

19. Visit Contemporary Art at Arnolfini

Arnolfini has a wide-ranging programme of contemporary art exhibitions, artist’s performance, music and dance events, poetry and book readings, talks, lectures and cinema. A number of festivals are hosted by the gallery and a specialist art bookshop and a café bar are a local favourite.

Arnolfini is open Tuesday-Sunday 11am – 6pm. Closed Monday.

Arnolfini is located at 16 Narrow Quay, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 4QA

Check the official Arnolfini website for more information.

20. Climb aboard Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Today, she is permanently moored in Bristol’s harbour and transformed into an impressive museum featuring six galleries and authentic recreations of what life was like aboard this former passenger steamship.

SS Great Britain was advanced for her time and the longest passenger ship in the world from 1845 to 1854. She was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel (1806–1859), a prolific British civil engineer who revolutionised public transport and modern engineering.

While other ships at the time had been built of iron or equipped with a screw propeller, Brunel’s SS Great Britain was the first to combine these features in a large ocean-going ship. She was the first iron steamer to cross the Atlantic in 1845 and later carried thousands of immigrants to Australia from 1852 to 1881.

Visiting SS Great Britain is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Bristol. Don’t miss this celebration of the engineering genius who ‘built Britain’ and helped shape the world.

If you’re feeling daring, you can even try your hand as being a Victorian sailor and climb the huge mainmast. From the viewing platform 26 meters above ground, you get beautiful views over the floating harbour.

Brunel’s SS Great Britain is open daily as follows:

Monday 4 November 2019 – March 2020

• Open: 10am to 4.30pm
• Last entry: 3:30pm (one hour before closing)

March 2020 – November 2020

• Open: 10am to 6pm
• Last entry: 5pm (one hour before closing)

Brunel’s SS Great Britain is located at Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Road, Bristol, BS1 6TY

• Child (4 year olds and under) FREE
• Child (5 – 16 year olds) £10
• Student (valid student identification is required) £15
• Senior (aged 65 and over) £15
• Save 5% and purchase your ticket online on the official Brunel’s SS Great Britain website
• Tickets to climb the mast cost £10 and can be purchased on the day on the Weather Deck.

21. Wander around Clifton Village

How to get to Clifton

From Bristol Temple Meads train station:

• Bus: Take 8, 9, 501 & 505
• Train: Get off at Clifton Down Station
• Taxi/Uber: Is approximately £7-£10

22. Go Shopping in Clifton Arcade

Clifton Arcade is open:

• Mon-Fri: 10:00am – 5.30pm
• Saturday: 10:00am – 6:00pm
• Sunday: 11:00am – 4:00pm

Clifton Arcade is located at The Clifton Arcade, Boyce’s Avenue, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4AA

Check the official Clifton Arcade website for more information.

23. Eat at Primrose Café

Primrose Café is open:

• Mon-Sat: 9:00am – 5.00pm
• Sunday: 9:30am – 5:00pm

Primrose Café is located at Boyce’s Ave, Bristol, BS8 4AA

Check the official Primrose Cafeé website for more information.

23. Walk along Birdcage Walk at St Andrew’s Church

Birdcage Walk is open at all times.

Enter the Birdcage from The Fosseway and Clifton Rd end Bristol BS8 3AE.

24. Walk along Royal York Crescent

The crescent wasn’t completed until 1820 after serious money problems brought on by the war with the French halted construction. The site was then bought by the War Department who considered building barracks there. After strong public opinion against the scheme, they eventually sold it to a developer who then finished the work. Today, it’s one of Clifton’s most striking areas and visible from the gorge below and across the harbour.

Royal York Crescent is open at all times.

Royal York Crescent, Bristol BS8 4LE

25. Visit the Clifton Observatory, Camera Obscura & Museum

After a major fire in 1777, the building was left derelict until the artist William West rented the old mill in 1828, for 5 shillings (25p) a year, and converted it into his own studio and installed the camera obscura, which is still working today and open to the public.

Don’t miss the 360 Café with an open roof terrace with spectacular views of the bridge and gorge.

Autumn/Winter From October:  Open 7 days a week from 10:00am – 4:00pm (Last entry 3:45pm) Spring/Summer – from March:  Open 7 days a week from 10:00am – 5:00pm (Last entry 4:45pm)

360 Café: Open 7 days a week from 10am – 5pm all year round

Clifton Observatory, Bristol BS8 3LT, United Kingdom

• Adult: £2.50
• Child (Under 14): £1.50
• Save 5% by booking in advance

Check the official Clifton Observatory website for more information.

26. See The Giants Cave at Clifton Observatory

I’m not sure why it’s called a Giants Cave since the passage is very narrow in parts. The journey down is 200 feet (61m) with 130 steps before reaching the cave and viewing platform 250 feet (76m) above the Avon Gorge.

If you have any pre-existing conditions such as knee or back problems, heart or respiratory impairments or claustrophobia, it’s not recommended that you do this trip.

Autumn/Winter From October:  Open 7 days a week from 10:00am – 4:00pm (Last entry 3:45pm) Spring/Summer – from March:  Open 7 days a week from 10:00am – 5:00pm (Last entry 4:45pm)

• Child (4 – 14 years): £1.50

Full access (Camera Obscura and Giants Cave):

• Adults: £4.00
• Children (4 – 14 years): £2.50
• Due to health and safety, children must be 4 years or older to be permitted entry into the caves.

27. See the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Work on the bridge began in 1831, but the project suffered from political and financial difficulties, and by 1843, with only the towers completed, the project was abandoned.  In 1859 at only 53 years old, Brunel died and the Clifton Suspension Bridge was completed as his memorial.

Originally designed to cater for horse-drawn traffic, the Clifton Suspension Bridge still meets the demands of the 21st century with 11-12,000 vehicles crossing it every day. It also has a pedestrian walkway you can take too.

Clifton Suspension Bridge is open at all times.

Bridge Rd, Leigh Woods, Bristol BS8 3PA

The toll for motor vehicles and motorcycles to cross the bridge is £1.

28. Visit the Blaise Castle House Museum

The highlight is exploring the vast parkland and woodlands where you’ll find the folly castle, as featured in Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey. During summer, it is opened by volunteers so you can explore the inside and head up to the castle roof for panoramic views

Check the official Blaise Castle House Museum for opening times.

Kings Weston Rd, Bristol BS10 7QS, United Kingdom

Check the official Blaise Castle House Museum for more information.

29. See Deer at Ashton Court Mansion

There are two cafés on-site with indoor and outdoor seating serving local cakes and freshly prepared sandwiches, snacks, and refreshments.

Behind the mansion on higher ground are two 18-hole pitch-and-putt golf courses and special trails for orienteering and mountain biking. A miniature railway is also located here, operating on selected weekends throughout the year.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Ashton Court is hot air balloon rides take-off from.

Ashton Court Mansion is open Monday to Sunday from 8am. Closing times vary throughout the year.

• 5.15pm in November-January
• 6.15pm in February
• 7.15pm in March
• 8.15pm in April
• 9.15pm in May- August
• 8.15pm in September
• 7.15pm in October

Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Bristol BS41 9JN, United Kingdom

Bristol has an excellent food scene so it’s hard to put a foot wrong, but there were a couple of places I highly recommend.

Gaol Ferry Steps, Bristol BS1 6WD, United Kingdom

Check the official Cargo website for more information and opening times

From burritos to burgers, Mac ’n Cheese to milkshakes, everything here is vegan and it’s delicious! They also have a selection of vegan food stuffs and products available for purchase.

• Mon-Tues – 10am to 5.30pm
• Wed-Sat – 10am to 8pm
• Sunday – 11am to 5pm

Vx is open as follows:

• Monday – Tuesday: 10am to 5.30pm
• Wednesday – Saturday: 10am to 8pm
• Sunday: 11am to 5pm

123 East St, Bristol BS3 4ER, United Kingdom

Check for official Vx website for more information.

Bristol’s bar scene is equally impressive. Here are a few favourites:

Hyde & Co.

The Basement, 2 Upper Byron Pl, Bristol BS8 1JY, United Kingdom

Getting inside this retro-style drinking den is half the fun. After picking up a dodgy-looking payphone, you’re soon given the signal to enter this hidden speakeasy. Inside its Art Deco interior are red velvet chairs, lounges, vintage radios, and the staff are fully decked out in braces.

1 Unity St, Bristol BS1 5HH, United Kingdom

Her Majesty’s Secret Service (HMSS)

Think wartime espionage, retro decor, and aged leather seats – that’s what you’ll find at Her Majesty’s Secret Service. With menus that look like passports, you can choose from house cocktails including non-alcoholic ‘faux-tails’, each served in quirky items such as watering cans to take out cartons.

Her Majesty’s Secret Service, Whiteladies Gate, Whiteladies Road, Bristol BS8 2PH

The Milk Thistle

Hidden behind an unmarked door, The Milk Thistle is “the flirty younger sister of Bristol’s hippest prohibition bar, Hyde & Co.” according to their website. Spread across 4 floors, you’ll get nothing but the best cocktails in the city.  Don’t miss The signature Milk Thistle Daisy cocktail, a mix of gin, lemon juice and spiced pear syrup with a dash of fizz.

Quay Head House, Colston Ave, Bristol BS1 1EB, United Kingdom

Bristol is one of the easiest cities to get to in the UK whether you’re coming by car, train, coach or plane.

Bristol has a large international airport with connections to over 125+ destinations. To reach Bristol city centre, take the Airport Flyer Express . The journey lasts just 30 minutes. Buy your tickets online in advance or from the  Fast Ticket machine at the airport.

Reaching Bristol by car is fairly straightforward and especially easy from London being located at the intersection of the M4 and M5 motorways. Compare the best car rental prices here .

Bristol Temple Meads railway station is the largest train station in the west of England. Daily and direct services operate between Bristol and London, Scotland, Wales, Manchester and Birmingham. To plan your journey, check timetables, and book tickets visit Trainline.com

Bristol can be reached by coach from all over the UK. Search and Book your tickets here

How to get around Bristol

Bristol is a very walkable city so unless you need to quickly get from one side of the town to the other, you won’t need public transport. Having said that, if you here, here’s what’s available.

Bristol bus network is run by First Bus. I recommend downloading the First Bus app to help you plan your journey and buy your electronic ticket. The app is available for Android and iOS . Adults day tickets are £4.50, or a single adult ticket is £2.25. All pricing and ticket options are available in app.

By taxi/Uber

There are two kinds of taxis in Bristol –  Hackney carriages and private hire.

Hackney carriage vehicles can pick up from taxi ranks and can be flagged down in the street and are painted Bristol Blue. They have an illuminated light on the roof and display white and red licence plates with black printing on the front and back of the vehicle which display details of the vehicle and the expiry date.

You can find taxi ranks on this map or use the BRAXI app to book a taxi in advance. It will also give you an estimate of the fair. Bristol drivers on this app are licensed by Bristol City Council so you are directly supporting local people. Yay! The app is available for Android and iOS .

Private hire vehicles, such as Uber, have to be pre-booked and cannot be flagged down in the street. In fact, it’s illegal for a private hire vehicle to pick you up unless you’ve pre-booked it.

Where to stay in Bristol

Brooks guesthouse.

Each room is equipped with all the typical amenities you’d expect in a hotel including flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, toiletries and the comfortable beds are covered in Egyptian cotton sheets.

For an unforgettable experience, book your stay in Brooks most exciting feature located on their rooftop terrace. It’s here you’ll find a collection of four airstream style caravans which you can book. This is the ultimate urban glamping experience boasting unique views of the city.

Each retro caravan was handmade in Britain and are fitted with Eco-friendly showers and lighting. In fact, Brooks even won a silver award in green tourism in 2014. Want to know more? Read my full review of Brooks here.

Reading to book? Check prices and book your stay at Brooks here.

Avon Gorge Hotel by Hotel du Vin

Some bedrooms will either face the gorge or look towards Clifton village. I stayed in a standard double room with a gorge view room which was fantastic. Upon arrival, the room was dimly lit and felt like I was walking into a classy cocktail bar. On the desk was a lovely welcome plate with small desserts.

The room was equipped with a large flat-screen TV, mini-bar, iron, hairdryer, L’Occitane toiletries and complimentary tea, coffee, and bottled water. Avon Gorge Hotel is conveniently located just 5 minutes walk from Clifton Village and Clifton Suspension Bridge. Want to know more? Read my full review of Avon Gorge Hotel here.

Reading to book? Check prices and book your stay here

For an alternative accommodation option, I would recommend renting out an apartment or room through Airbnb. Cute Airbnb options are popping up all over the town so you’ll find some really beautiful places at very affordable prices. Airbnb has numerous convenient options to choose from. If it’s your first time get US$65 OFF here or get £50 OFF your first stay here , when you sign up using my unique reader referral link.

Got more time? Book a Bristol tour!

• Bristol: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise
• Blackbeard to Banksy – The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol
• Bristol Like a Local: Customized Private Tour
• Hot air balloon flights from Ashton Court, Bristol  
• House Magicians’ Comedy Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors in Bristol

Visiting the UK? Check out my other posts

Self-guided banksy walking tour in bristol: where to see 10 original banksy art.

• Rooftop Glamping & Traditional Rooms: Review of Brooks Guesthouse in Bristol
• Iconic Gorge Views from Bedroom to Breakfast: Review of Avon Gorge Hotel in Bristol
• 22 of The Cotswolds Best Villages You Must Visit [Plus Things to Do & Map]
• 7 Wonderful Things to Do in Burford in The Cotswolds
• 14 Unique Things to Do in Broadway [The Jewel of the Cotswolds]
• 6 Unmissable Things to Do in Castle Combe, The Cotswolds Prettiest Village
• 16 Best Things to do in Moreton-in-Marsh, The Cotswolds
• Top 12 Things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold, The Cotswolds
• 12 Best Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water, The Cotswolds
• 11 Lovely Things to Do in Lower Slaughter & Upper Slaughter, The Cotswolds
• 10 Unusual Things to do in London You Never Knew About
• B Bakery Bus Tour: The Best Afternoon Tea Tour in London
• 31 Fascinating Origins of London Street Names Revealed
• 25 Wonderful Phrases Shakespeare Invented that You Use Every day
• 30 Incredible Stories Behind English Idioms and Phrases You Use Every Day
• 20 Hidden Meanings of English Place-Names You Probably Didn’t Know
• 16 Lovely Things to Do in Stratford-upon-Avon: A Detailed Guide to Shakespeare’s Birthplace

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

Rooftop Glamping & Traditional Rooms: Review of Brooks Guesthouse in Bristol

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Hues Of Delahaye

What to Do in Bristol | 2-Day Bristol Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Planning a trip to Bristol, England soon? You’re going to want to make sure that you read this post on the thing to do in Bristol .

I had the opportunity to visit Bristol recently and spend a few days exploring the city. The city is a treasure trove of places to see and things to do.

I am kicking myself as I wondered why I hadn’t visited this gorgeous city before.

So, if you’ve never been to Bristol, it’s a good thing you’re finally planning your trip there now. Once you arrive, you too will wonder what took you so long to visit.

To help you make the most of your time in the city, this guide to the perfect 2 days in Bristol itinerary gives you all the information you need. It’s all here from, getting there and travelling around the city to where to stay, eat, and visit.

Facts About Bristol

Let me drop some facts on why Bristol should be on your list of must-visit cities in the UK!

Bristol was named the ‘Best City in Europe’ by the Academy of Urbanism in 2017. The city also won the 2015 ‘European Green Capital’ title and was also awarded European City of the Year in 2008.

This English city is also known as one of the friendliest cities in England (they are way friendlier than Londoners), and the local accent is recognisable miles away.

With a deep and fascinating history, Bristol offers plenty for visitors to learn about and immerse themselves in.

This is a popular place, which makes it a worthwhile spot to travel to at least once.

Where Is Bristol, UK?

Bristol is a city in southwest England, south of Birmingham and west of London and the River Avon runs through the city centre.

Bristol’s Old City has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique combination of Georgian and Victorian architecture.

Is Bristol Worth visiting?

Bristol offers a lot in terms of architecture, history, nightlife, and food. The city is a hub of creativity, with plenty of artists and musicians among the population.

This is all apparent in the eclectic mix of bars, clubs, restaurants, and music venues that are dotted around the city centre.

Bristol also has two universities and youthful energy to it, thanks to the students. So, you can expect a wide range of clubs and music events to take place throughout the year.

Away from the friendly energy of people and celebrations, though, is a quieter side that offers stunning photography locations. If this sounds like the kind of place that tickles your travel fancy, then it’s safe to say it’s worth the visit.

For more inspiration read my guide on the best places to visit near Bristol UK

What Is Bristol Most Famous For?

Bristol has a fascinating history involving pirates and service in the British navy. Today, the city is known for its creative character and charming architecture.

The universities also put Bristol on the map, as do the Bristol Balloon Fiesta and, of course, the famous landmarks like the SS Great Britain and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Is Bristol a Good City Break?

Bristol’s unique mix of Victorian, Georgian, and modern architecture makes it a delight to explore by foot.

There are plenty of great boutiques, cafes, bars, pubs, and restaurants to be found too. Add in some interesting art galleries and museums plus the city’s maritime history points of interest, and its clear why Bristol can be considered as a viable alternative city break .

How Many Days Do You Need to See Bristol?

Whether you want to spend just a day in Bristol or two, there are enough interesting things to do and see here that any length of stay is worthwhile.

Thankfully, the best and most exciting attractions in Bristol are all located relatively close together, and you can do a day trip to Bristol from London.

However, I think 2 days in Bristol would be better and should be enough time for anyone looking to get the most out of the city.

And if you’re tempted to stay longer, an extended trip to Bristol gives you time to further explore and visit some of the surrounding areas, such as Bath and Wells in Somerset.

The Best Time to Visit Bristol

Bristol is a city that experiences all four seasons. The highest population of students is here during the fall and spring terms, so these are the most popular months to travel if you’re hoping for something lively.

Winter can be quite bleak; however, it’s ideal if you want to avoid crowds and experience some quieter times in Bristol. Most activities in Bristol can be done year-round, and the varying seasons only change the city’s vibe.

If you’re looking for a vibrant feel, go during the summer months. But if you want something a little quieter and more mellow, come in the spring or when it’s colder.

How to Get to Bristol

Getting to Bristol is easy, no matter where you start from. The quickest way to get to Bristol from London is by train – it’ll take you just over 90 minutes from London to Bristol by train.

Trains leave from London Paddington Station and arrive at Bristol Temple Meads station every half an hour during peak times.

You can also take the bus from London Victoria coach station to Bristol bus station in the city centre. You can bag these coach tickets for as cheap as £3.90, and the journey takes around 2 and a half hours.

If you’re coming from South Wales or Southwest England, then you’ll be able to arrive by train too. It takes over an hour for services to depart Swansea and Cardiff Central stations and get you into Bristol Temple Meads station.

Alternatively, it’s around a three-hour drive from London (if there’s no traffic) and around two hours from South Wales.

Routes to Bristol

The M5 runs between Bristol and Birmingham, with the M4 running in tandem further west for most of its route through South Wales.

At junction 17 you can take the A38 north toward Bath, while at J18 you can take the A37 south toward Yeovil via Glastonbury.

North of Bristol, you can take the A38 south to Exeter via Glastonbury, Wells, and Burnham-on-Sea. If you’re arriving by ferry or on foot then your route will be into Prince Street (Bristol’s old town).

Getting Around – To and From ​​Bristol Tourist Attractions

Bristol is a small city that’s perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Most buildings are close together and it doesn’t take long to get from one side of Bristol to another.

There are plenty of options for buses and taxis. Bristol also has an extensive ferry network (the Bristol Ferry Boat Company) which is great for exploring the River Avon.

If you want to make the most of your time in Bristol, using your contactless debit/credit card is recommended. You can get preloaded cards that will cover both bus and ferry services – remember that it’s not valid on trains.

Parking in Bristol

If you’re driving yourself to Bristol, you can also easily drive in and around the city. Parking your car overnight in a car park or at your accommodation is safe and often free.

For parking, while you are sightseeing in Bristol, it may be easiest to find the nearest free parking spot and then walk between your stops. 

How to Spend Two Days in Bristol – Weekend in Bristol Itinerary

Bristol has plenty to offer for anyone who wants to visit. From the museums and old-time architecture to the nightlife that attracts both students and older, fun-loving tourists.

Trying to fit in all the great places to see in Bristol in just 48 hours is a near-impossible task. But you can hit all of the best parts of the city if you plan well enough.

Here is a detailed 2-day itinerary to help you get a better idea of how to spend your time while visiting Bristol.

Bristol Day 1 – Top Things to Do in Bristol

What to see in Bristol in one day? On your first day in Bristol, there is an excellent mix of history, art, and plain old good fun on offer.

Put on your walking shoes, get your camera out, and make a date with a different kind of first-rate attraction around every corner.

Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Your first stop is the SS Great Britain Museum which is on the dockside. This ship was launched in 1843, carrying passengers to Australia and New Zealand.

It was the first iron-hulled transatlantic steamship, and its success led to more large ocean liners like it. These massive ships changed travel forever.

Visitors can board the ship itself, which is now a museum covering both sides of the ship; you can see the cargo holds and how the crew lived.

In addition to this you can go up onto the deck and see how sailors used to work aloft – just bear in mind that this part of the ship is not accessible to those with walking difficulties.

M Shed Museum

Just a few minutes walk from SS Great Britain. You’ll find the M Shed, a museum that provides an overview of Bristol’s heritage and culture through the years.

There is a fantastic mix of history and culture on display here, including the world’s first hovercraft.

Visitors can learn about the city’s role in the slave trade and even discover what life was like for children during WWII.

You can also see exhibits that look into Bristol’s modern-day culture, such as their contribution to music and digital technology.

I saw a fantastic street art exhibition while visiting the M Shed and it is where you will also find the Banksy piece, the ‘Grim Reaper’.

We the Curious Museum

Next up on the way to Bristol’s Old City is We The Curious Museum . This museum is designed to be interactive and encourage more play within the science spheres.

There are various exhibits here, including ones surrounding the science of food and interactive displays on light and sound.

This museum is great fun for all ages, but it might be worth bearing in mind that things get busy here during school holidays.

There are multiple activities and shows that happen throughout the year, so check the program out online before you go so you know what to expect.

The museum also includes a planetarium with multiple shows each day and stargazing at night, but you will need to book your tickets in advance.

Bristol’s Old City and Harbourside

Just on the other side of We The Curious, on Anchor Road, is Bristol’s Old City. This area fuses together impressive architecture with significant landmarks and highlights here include the Christmas Steps and Kings Weston Roman Villa.

Spend some time here, strolling through the streets and discovering the more magical side of Bristol.

You can stop in at one of the pubs for a drink, take a few photos, or do some shopping.

Finally, your last stop for the day should be Bristol’s Harbourside area which is a lovely place for a walk or to get something to eat after a busy day of sightseeing.

In addition to many restaurants here, there are also some great views across the harbour.

The Beer Emporium

Before you head back to your accommodation, make a stop at The Beer Emporium. This is a unique bar that offers an eclectic range of beers from all over the world to suit both novices and experts.

They have over 400 bottles of beer to choose from in their fridges, so you truly are spoilt for choice.

Pick your favourite or discover a new brew and enjoy a cold beer with the friendly locals who frequent the bar.

These are just a few of the things you can see with the Bristol 1 day itinerary, up as you have more sightseeing tomorrow.

Bristol Day 2 – What to See in Bristol

Once you have finished exploring Bristol’s Old City and Harbourside on day one, it is time to move onto its modern heart.

Head to the other side of Bristol and discover some more of the top attractions and landmarks across the city.

Bristol Cathedral

Bristol Cathedral was founded in 1140 and consecrated in 1148. The site was originally St Augustine’s Abbey, however but after the Dissolution of the Monasteries, in 1542 it became the seat of the newly created Bishop of Bristol and the cathedral of the new Diocese of Bristol.

Bristol Cathedral is a Grade I listed building which includes fabric from the 12th century, with the Elder Lady Chapel added in the early 13th century.

Cabot Tower

Start the day with a climb up Cabot Tower for some splendid views across Bristol. The tower is open daily, and it’s free to climb the steps.

But be warned, they are steep and winding steps – the view from the top makes it worth it, though.

The tower is situated on Brandon Hill in the Clifton area of the city, not far from Clifton Suspension Bridge. It was built in 1897 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s discovery of Newfoundland .

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

After you have enjoyed the views, your next stop should be Bristol Art Gallery. This is a beautiful art gallery with some wonderful paintings displayed inside. Look out for pieces by both local artists such as Banksy as well as pieces by international stars.

The gallery houses a variety of artworks from British and European, French, and Victorian artists. As well as a collection of Eastern, modern and contemporary art.

There are also some great sculptures to see here too, including ceramics and pottery creations.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

This is one of Bristol’s most recognisable landmarks, and you will probably recognise it even if you haven’t visited Bristol before. Built-in 1864, this suspension bridge spans nearly 400 metres over the Avon Gorge.

Visiting the Clifton suspension bridge as the green spaces on either side of the bridge is peaceful. I recommend visiting at the sunset and walking up to the Clifton Observatory to watch sunset over the bridge.

The bridge is still open to pedestrians and cyclists, so you can take your time crossing this landmark to see some fantastic views across the city. Take photos of the incredible engineering, but make sure to be careful on your way back down.

Once you have finished exploring here, take a stroll through Clifton Village and visit some of the independent shops and restaurants around here too.

And if you have time, book a boat trip along the Avon River for a look at the surrounding city from a different viewpoint.

Where The Walls Art Tour

All along the streets of Bristol, you will find numerous spots that have been adorned by street art. The colourful wall art is a part of the city’s history and holds much of the culture within the artistic designs.

The Where the Walls Art Tour is a fantastic way to explore this artwork further and find some of Bristol’s best spots for street art as well as learn about its history. You will visit many famous landmarks across the city, including Stokes Croft and Park Street.

You can find dates and times for available tours online and join a guide who will be able to give you in-depth details and explanations around the art.

You can also download an audio self-guided tour and go at your own pace.

However, I did this Bristol street art tour, and I think that you will miss out on the wealth of knowledge that the tour guide has.

My guide has been in the Bristol Street art scene for more that 20 years and knew some of the biggest Bristol Street artists and was able to detail accounts of different artists and how their work has evolved over time.

If you’re a photographer who enjoys street art walking tours, this is ideal. You’ll go home with new insights on the fascinating art in Bristol and some amazing photographs as well.

Bristol Zoo Gardens

Next up is an experience that will be enjoyed by young and old alike with a trip to Bristol Zoo Gardens.

This zoo has been around since Victorian times, but it continues to be at the forefront of animal preservation and conservation.

This zoo includes some impressive exhibits that are home to creatures from far-flung locations across the world, including monkeys, lemurs, African penguins, and orangutans. There is also a fun space with farm animals so those travelling with children will be well catered for.

Along with the activities and educational opportunities, this is a great spot to stop before leaving Bristol.

Visitors to the zoo can enjoy both outdoor and indoor exhibits with a choice of events, including feeding demonstrations, talks, and behind-the-scenes tours.

Bristol Trip Planning

Along with finding all the best things to do in Bristol, here are some more important things to keep in mind when visiting the city.

Where to Stay in Bristol

Finding accommodation for your Bristol weekend won’t be hard. There are plenty of options for every budget. Here are some great accommodation options in Bristol:

Self-Catering

If you want to go it alone and self-cater, then you’ll need somewhere to stay that offers cooking facilities as well as a place to rest your head. Luckily, there are many apartments available for rent short term.

You’ll find a number of places listed on yourapartment.com which offers homelike spaces close to all of the top Bristol tourist attractions. This allows you independence and freedom but still offers a feeling of luxury and being on vacation.

During my stay in Bristol, one of my accommodations was a one-bedroom apartment complimentary of yourapartment.com in the Clifton area. The apartment was cosy and equipped cooker, dishwasher, fridge and anything you could ever need when away from home.

The apartment was also only 20 minute’s walk from the Clifton suspension bridge and Clifton Observatory.

Book Into a Hotel

There is no shortage of hotels in Bristol, from complete luxury options to more budget-friendly choices. Take a look at a few below:

Leonardo Hotel Bristol Glassfields is located close to the Bristol docks area. It has excellent family rooms with panoramic views of the marina and city, so you’ll never get bored of your view.

If you want the best luxury experience possible, then book a room at The Marriott Hotel – conveniently located by Cabot Circus shopping mall.

The hotel offers wonderful spa facilities, and you can even book a table in one of the many restaurants.

Select a Bed and Breakfast in Clifton

Staying at a bed and breakfast in Clifton instead. This area is the most beautiful part of the city thanks to its gorgeous views over the Avon Gorge.

Many also offer fantastic dining facilities so you can eat like a local and enjoy some delicious food!

Or Find a Cozy Hostel

If you want the best budget experience possible, then book a room at The Rutland Backpackers – very centrally located and within walking distance of all major attractions. Rooms and facilities are basic but clean and tidy.

Where to Eat in Bristol

A great way to explore an area or city is through its food, sampling local delicacies and enjoying some traditional fare while learning about what makes each place special.

If you’re in the mood to splurge on delectable food, then try Casamia which serves up English cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. The restaurant is exclusive, with space for only 35 diners and offering a 14-course tasting menu.

The Pump House

This charming restaurant is set in a former Victorian pumping station at the waterside. This is a stunning building inside and out.

The food is all made from locally sourced ingredients and there is absolutely no shortage of flavour in these meals.

Number 7 Kitchen

Number 7 Kitchen provides a more casual space to enjoy a lunchtime meal or just a quick coffee and cake in between your sightseeing.

There is indoor and outdoor seating, and if you’re around on a Friday evening, be sure to pop in for some live music.

The Burger Joint

As far as budget options are concerned, you can’t go wrong with The Burger Joint. It uses only locally sourced beef to make all its burgers fresh every day.

They do the standard meat burgers along with some more unusual flavours like Moroccan chicken.

The Royal Oak is a no-fuss place to go if you want some delicious British cuisine made with local ingredients. Enjoy a burger, a wood-fired pizza, or a homemade pie and pair it with a drink as you enjoy it in the garden or on the terrace.

Where to Go out in Bristol – Nightlife

There are some great places to go out drinking or clubbing when visiting Bristol. Whether you’re after a cosy pub to throw back a beer before bedtime or a nightclub to dance the night away, there’s something for everyone.

The Butcher’s Arms

This family-run pub is relaxed but still plenty of fun. Stop here after a long day for some unwinding with your favourite beer, wine, or cider.

The Green Man

If you’re looking for somewhere more traditional, then try The Green Man which is found right in the centre of Bristol. It’s an 18th-century building that serves up hearty English food as well as micro-brewery ales and stouts.

If it’s DJs and dance floors that you’re after, Thekla offers a unique kind of clubbing experience. The venue is set inside a moored cargo ship and covers two floors.

There’s more than enough space to dance, an endless supply of drinks, and you’ll often find live bands here. 

Things to See in Bristol – Photo Stops

For hobbyists, amateurs, and even professional photographers, there are a few Bristol must-see locations. Some you’ll find along the way as you go through the above itinerary, others you may need to make the time to seek out.

Wills Memorial Building Tower

When visiting the University of Bristol, be sure to get a photo at its impressive Wills Memorial Building. This structure towers over the campus and is worth seeing up close.

Christmas Steps

This is an urban flight of steps that lead up to St Michael’s Hill and are most beautiful when they are decorated with festive lights. But regardless of the time of year you visit, this alleyway makes for some beautiful photos.

This elegant and simple structure has stood for centuries, and you can go inside it to admire the architecture and historical features. Photos of the outside of the building are simply mesmerising.

If you seek some greenery during your trip to Bristol, then take a trip down to The Downs – this is a large parkland area that is popular with walkers and dog-walkers. This is great for some people watching and landscape snaps.

University of Bristol Botanic Garden

This garden has an impressive collection of plants from all around the world. There are also numerous rare plants to photograph here.

Where to Day Trip from Bristol

Once your time is over in Bristol, there is still so much of the English countryside to explore. Why not continue on your trip and head to one of these close-by destinations?

The next city from Bristol is Bath which is just 24 miles away. Spend some time exploring Bath and the fantastic history of the city.

Start off by visiting the Roman Baths. This was a temple to the god Sulis Minerva, and you can still see the hot water bath that people used here thousands of years ago.

Next up is The Royal Crescent which dates back to 1767 and offers a glimpse into how wealthy people used to live.

The Circus is the last thing that you should visit here, and this is where you’ll find three curving terraces that date back to 1760.

From Bath, you’re just under an hour away from Stonehenge which is one of Britain’s most famous historical sites.

You could also travel further afield and go to London – this will take around 2 hours by train from Bristol Temple Meads Station. You’ll find so much to do and see here including all of the major sites of this iconic world city.

In London, you can go see one of the most famous landmarks in the world – The Tower of London. This is where you’ll find the Crown Jewels as well as a number of other historical exhibits.

If that wasn’t enough, then check out Shakespeare’s Globe and Westminster Abbey which are both must-see attractions if you’re visiting London.

Also close by is Windsor Castle which is one of the official residences of Queen Elizabeth II. If you get time, also try to go see Hampton Court Palace  – this is another royal property not far from London.

You can also travel from Bristol to Oxford – this will take around 45 minutes by train. This is a beautiful place that deserves some attention too as it’s steeped in history and has some impressive buildings.

Oxford has many great attractions that visitors to this city enjoy. For example, you can check out the impressive Bodleian Library which holds over 12 million books and other items that date back to 1602 (when it first opened).

The city is also home to another library called The Taylor Institution. If you’re a fan of art then Oxford has many great galleries for you to experience too. The Ashmolean Museum is one of the most famous museums.

You’ll see items going back thousands of years including Egyptian artefacts and more.

If history is your thing, then check out Christ Church Cathedral which is one of the most beautiful churches in Oxford.

You can read my guide of things to do in Oxford .

Visiting Bristol for the Weekend

With so many things to see and do in Bristo l, two days doesn’t seem nearly enough time to really get a good feel for this unique city. But there is no rule saying that you can’t come back to the city as soon as you are able.

For your first trip, though, it’s important to choose a plan in order to get the most out of your visit without overwhelming yourself.

Hopefully, this has given you some ideas on how to spend 2 days in Bristol and what there is to do during your stay here.

Let me know how your first time in Bristol goes! Did you find any other gems that you feel should be included in this guide?

If you liked this guide and want real-time London/UK travel information, make sure you follow me on Instagram @huesofdelahaye and subscribe to my Youtube channel for weekly travel videos.

This post was in partnership with VisitBristol.co.uk . Although all thoughts and experiences are entirely my own.

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9 Best Things About Bristol & Why You Should Visit

Europe , Travel , UK | April 2, 2018

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you buy anything mentioned here. It doesn't cost you anything extra.

Quirky, colourful and unconventional in the best possible way: you should 100% visit Bristol if you’re trying to see more of the UK.

The largest city in the southwest of England was recently named by none other than the New York Times as one of the best places to visit in 2018, and it’s being recognised all over the world for its marvellous museums.

Bristol also got the coveted title of Best City to Live in Britain by the Sunday Times in 2017. I visited for a weekend to find out what makes Bristol worth visiting.

After just two days, I wanted to move my life there. I couldn’t get enough of Bristol’s vibrant personality and buzzing nightlife – and it seems my followers couldn’t either.

As soon as I arrived, DMs arrived in droves on Instagram from people telling me how much they love Bristol.

Here’s a list of the best things about Bristol that will make you want to visit the colourful English city.

Is Bristol Worth Visiting? Yes! Here Are 9 Reasons To Go

1. bristol gives independent local businesses room to thrive.

Did you know that Bristol is home to Europe’s longest shopping street with only independent retailers? Gloucester Road is the place to shop if you want to support Bristol’s indie traders. One of the best things about Bristol is its pride in local businesses!

The city has even had its own currency since 2012, when the Bristol Pound was launched to keep money in the local economy.

Then there’s CARGO at Wapping Wharf , a vibrant cluster of shipping containers housing lots of indie businesses on Bristol’s harbourside.  Be sure to stop at Bristol Cider Shop for some west country produce!

You also can’t miss  St Nick’s Market , another brilliant collection of local traders.

2. Bristolians live life in full colour

From the rainbow-hued houses of Cliftonwood Crescent to the row of multicoloured lego blocks on Redcliffe Parade , Bristol’s homeowners could never be accused of being beige. There’s something about a row of rainbow houses that just makes you smile, isn’t there?

Bristol’s bursting colour palette is a great source of pride for the city, and their goal of being named Colour Capital was voted the best idea in Stride Treglown’s 52 Big Ideas for Bristol book.

Bristol’s love of colour distinguishes the city from nearby Bath, and more and more locals are painting their homes in pretty colours.

3. The city is a treasure trove of Instagram worthy establishments

If you travel with Instagram in mind (hey, no judgement here), Bristol won’t let you down.

Newly opened The Florist boasts one of  those  flower walls (and more seriously beautiful interiors throughout the multi-floor venue), while bakery Pinkmans is all ‘grammable’ copper pipes and picture-perfect doughnuts.

4. A cruise on Bristol’s harbour spirits you away to another world

Bristol played an important role in England’s maritime trade and its dock was once a busy trading place for tobacco, wine and cotton. It’s still the epicentre of life in the city.

With markets, waterside bars and restaurants plus some of the city’s best attractions splaying out from the water’s edge, the harbour has transformed into a leisure destination in itself.

Tourists can take a 45 minute cruise on the Bristol Packet , gliding past swans and the city’s various attractions, with commentary from a local.

5. It’s a foodie paradise

From the local vendors flogging food from every corner of the globe in St Nick’s Market to the international flavours served on the harbourside, you’ll never go hungry in Bristol.

Try The Stable for pizza, pies and local cider, or stop at award-winning pie shop Pieminister on Stokes Croft.

If you fancy something a bit different, cool off with a swim and dinner at The Lido .

6. There are unexpected pleasures around every corner

There’s something ever so endearing about a city that tries hard to make its residents smile.

In Bristol, you’ll be confronted with bus stops in obscure places that no bus could ever actually get to, complimentary street signs that remind you just how beautiful the world is, and – if you go at the right time of year – a flock of hot air balloons floating between the clouds.

There are so many quaint spots around Bristol, my favourite being the Diagon Alley-esque Christmas Steps .

7. Bristol is basically the birthplace of UK street art

If you know anything about street art, you’ll have heard of Banksy, the anonymous artist who uses his pieces to make a statement on important issues. He was bred in Bristol and his work caused the city council to change its treatment of street art.

You can still see a few of his later pieces on Bristol’s streets, along with other inspired murals by local artists.

Bristol’s streets will never be a stagnant museum of permanent street art because its artists never rest, so the city’s walls are an ever-evolving exhibition where you’ll always spot something new. More reasons for a return visit, right?

8. The architecture wows

You should always remember to look up in Bristol, and not just because you might spot a hot air balloon high in the sky.

The city boasts some incredible architecture, from Bristol Cathedral and almost-as-impressive St. Mary Redcliffe Church to Europe’s longest residential crescent, Royal York Crescent – and of course, the world-famous Clifton Suspension Bridge .

There’s a visitors centre for the Grade I listed structure and you can take a free tour to learn more about its history, or climb Observatory Hill for a birds eye view.

9. There are enough museums and cultural attractions in Bristol to interest every type of visitor

Bristol houses a generous offering of museums and cultural spaces, so even on a rainy day, there’s plenty to see and do.

People of all ages will love the Bristol Aquarium and we the curious , an interactive Science centre housing the UK’s only 3D planetarium.

Bristol also has a plethora of maritime attractions that hark back to its days as a busy trading port, such as the free-to-enter M Shed and  The Matthew , a replica of the boat used by John Cabot when he discovered Newfoundland in 1497.

You can’t visit Bristol without seeing the SS Great Britain , Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s engineering masterpiece, which was the world’s first great ocean liner.

There’s also the newly opened Being Brunel Museum , where you can learn more about the man himself.

What to do in Bristol

Check out my itinerary for a weekend in Bristol to plan your visit. If you don’t want to walk around the city, buy hop-on-hop-off bus tickets .

You can also book tours and activities for your trip ahead of time on GetYourGuide . I’ve compiled some of the best things to do in Bristol below.

Find a place to stay in Bristol

How to get to bristol.

You can fly to Bristol from all over the UK. Search for flights and compare prices with different airlines on Skyscanner .

If you’re driving from elsewhere in the UK, you can get to Bristol via the intersection of the M4 and M5.

By train, you’re aiming for Bristol Temple Meads railway station.

Plan and book your visit to Bristol using my Travel Resources page .

More UK travel guides

What to do on a Liverpool city break

Best things to do in Leeds

How to have a brilliant weekend in Newcastle

Best cities in the north of England for a weekend break

All UK destination guides

A few things I learned during my weekend in Bristol summed up the city’s unorthodox spirit for me: Banksy never went to art college and two of the main members of homegrown band Massive Attack can’t play instruments.

I later read that Bristol had its own ‘time’ at one point in history – trains travelling between Bristol to London used to operate on two different timetables, 15 minutes apart. You can still see this on a clock at the entrance of The Exchange building.

Maybe it’s the student-heavy population or maybe it’s something in the River Avon’s water, but Bristol does everything its own way and doesn’t let little things like the status quo get in the way. I kinda love them for it.

Love Bristol as much as I do? Please share this post on Facebook and Twitter! 

Click here to join my UK Travel Deals group on Facebook. We share lots of great ways to save money on UK trips and fun ideas for days out and places to visit in the UK.

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newgirlintoon says

April 3, 2018 at 6:10 am

LOVE THIS POST! One of my oldest friends lives in Bristol so I’ve been many times and love it, I’m long overdue a visit though and your post has made me want to go back … definitely saving this for future reference and planning a trip (if only to get myself to that flower wall!)

Stuart Forster says

April 15, 2018 at 11:35 am

There’s certainly lots to do in Bristol and you’ve highlighted some good things to pack into a weekend. I enjoyed taking a look around Bristol last year and loved the view over the Clifton Suspension Bridge in the morning sunlight!

The Perfect Bristol Day Trip Itinerary: Attractions, Food and Sightseeing

From taking in the views of Clifton Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain, to great food and colourful street art, this is the perfect Bristol day trip itinerary!

When it comes to choosing a day trip from London, there are so many great options. Just hop on a train and within an hour or two you can be exploring the vintage stores in Brighton , wandering the historic Shambles in York , seeing Roman history in Bath or punting in Cambridge. It’s a relaxing way to travel, and if you plan a little in advance then you’ll be able to bag some cheap train tickets too.

For our latest trip we were looking for a destination that had a little bit of everything! We liked the idea of being by the water, especially as the weather forecast promised warm sunny days. We also wanted to find a place with a cool food scene and a few attractions.

So, where came out on top? Bristol! We’ve both always loved Bristol. It’s got such a creative spirit, which comes through not only in the vibrant murals you see splashed around the city, but also in its shops and restaurants. It’s one of those cities that feels full of life!

We set off on a day trip from London to Bristol and spent a couple of days cramming lots of sightseeing and food experiences. We hopped on boats, explored ancient monuments, climbed towers, ate a range of cuisines and even found a few speakeasies… all in the name of research of course!

Whether you’ve only got one day in Bristol, or you want to spread my recommendations out over a weekend, this Bristol itinerary has lots of travel tips to make the most of your visit.

How To Get To Bristol

We travelled from London to Bristol by train. The journey takes just over an hour and a half from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads Station. It’s such an easy way to travel and happens to be a good hour or so faster than driving!

As with many UK cities, once you’re in Bristol you’re unlikely to want a car, so the train is a much better option. It’s also a lot more sustainable, which is something we should all be considering right now.

To make things cheaper, Macca and I have a National Rail Two Together Railcard . This is 100% worth buying if you travel with the same person regularly. It saves up to 1/3 on train travel and only costs £30 for a whole year. There are eight other Railcards available if this doesn’t suit you, including one for friends and family and others if you’re aged 16-25 or 26-30.

As an example, for this journey, our tickets were reduced by over £50 with our Two Together Railcard. It’s quite likely you’ll make your money back on one trip (as we did on our recent weekend break in York ), meaning any future journeys will be filled with savings!

Once you arrive at Bristol Temple Meads Station, it’s a short walk to the city’s main sights and attractions.

The Perfect Bristol Day Trip

Coming up are lots of recommendations for places to visit on your Bristol day trip. If you want to take things at a leisurely pace, I’d just pick a few of your favourites, or stay an extra day so you can tick everything off the list.

Take in the views of Clifton Suspension Bridge

One of Bristol’s most iconic spots, everyone should visit this majestic bridge. It’s one of Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s most famous designs, and is an impressive feat of engineering.

Brunel was just 24 when he won a competition to head up the project. It took 33 years to complete and today is one of the oldest surviving iron suspension bridges in the world. It connects two sides of the Avon Gorge, over the River Avon.

For the best views of the bridge, I’d recommend visiting the park by Clifton Observatory. There are plenty of benches here where you can look out and admire the bridge.

For a quirkier view of the structure, how about heading down into the Giant’s Cave? This is a natural cave within the limestone of the gorge. Access is via 100+ steps, and once you emerge, you’ll see the bridge from a whole new angle!

One of the prettiest scenes you’ll see of this bridge is during the Bristol Balloon Fiesta which takes place every August. If you can time your Bristol day trip for one of the days it’s on, you’ll see beautiful hot air balloons dotted throughout the skies. It’s a very special time to be in the city!  

Explore Clifton Village

Clifton is one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in Bristol. With bunting criss-crossing the streets and a range of chic boutiques and brunch spots, it’s a lovely area to mooch around.

Key places to visit are The Mall, Princess Victoria Street and the stunning Royal York Crescent. If you’re a lover of all things colourful, you simply have to visit Sky Bristol on Waterloo Street. With vibrant prints, fun greetings cards and quirky gifts, this is a shop that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face!

Pod is great for homewares and gardening items while Portobella is a fun fashion store with a focus on multicoloured prints.

Clifton Village has a great food scene too. There’s The Mall Deli for tasty meats and cheeses, plus Chandos Deli and Spicer and Cole are ideal for brunching, lunching and caffeine fixes. For a quirky meal, visit The Clifton Sausage, where you can pick from a special menu of homemade sausages. Over 100,000 sausages are consumed every year here, so you know they’ll be good! This guide will point you in the direction of Bristol’s best brunch spots .

Catch the Bristol water taxi or go on a boat trip

Bristol is a city where you’re never far from the water, so it makes sense that some of the best views are from a boat! There are two easy options if you’re visiting for planning a Bristol day trip: catch the Bristol Ferry waterbus or go on a Bristol Packet boat trip .

The waterbus is a really great way to get around the city as it connects places like Castle Park, Wapping Wharf and the SS Great Britain. A short hop will only set you back £2.

Meanwhile, the Bristol Packet boat tours are great if you’re looking for a guided tour. The City Dock Tour takes 45 minutes and has a live commentary.

Visit CARGO in Wapping Wharf

When you see the stack of shipping containers in Wapping Wharf you might wonder what you’re approaching. This is actually a super-cool part of Bristol’s harbourside complex, and inside each container you’ll find something different.

The key reason to visit is for the food! There are so many cuisines with small eateries here including:

• Loki Poké – Poké bowls
• Cargo Cantina – Mexican food
• Bakers & Co – Bread and pastries
• Dog Town – Hot dogs
• Gambas – Tapas
• Pizzarova – Sourdough pizza

If you’re looking for a budget lunch in Bristol, Cargo is a really great option with street food vibes all around. I opted for a poké bowl this time which was delicious and fresh – perfect for a sunny day!

While you’re in the area, I’d recommend squeezing in a bit of shopping too. There are some cool independent stores located in the containers. My favourite was Frankly – a shop filled with pretty jewellery, colourful accessories and ethical gifts.  

Moments away you’ll also find Bookhaus – an independent bookstore where you’ll see notes dotted around the store with recommendations from the staff. This offers a really lovely personal style of shopping experience.

Learn the history of the SS Great Britain

I’ve been to Bristol a few times before but this was my first time checking out one of the city’s main attractions, the SS Great Britain .

This impressive ship (another creation by Brunel) was a leader in her day! She was the largest passenger ship in the world in the 1840s. 750 people could travel on board, across three different classes. The ship was famed for transporting passengers from England to Australia which took a whopping 120 days! How amazing is that?

There is so much to see and do, you could easily spend half a day here. It’s ideal for kids too, as so many of the elements are interactive! You can wander along the edge of the base of the boat in the dry dock, take photos on the deck, learn lots in the museum area and take a look at Brunel’s life at a dedicated museum to the brains behind the ship! If you’re feeling brave, you could even book in for a ‘climb the rigging’ experience!

Enjoy a gourmet lunch at Adelina Yard

I’ve suggested Cargo as a great budget lunch option in Bristol, but now it’s time to reach a little deeper into your pockets! If you’re looking for a restaurant in the city centre for a special meal, book a table at Adelina Yard .

This casual restaurant serves gourmet dishes with a modern European theme. The décor is minimalist, with distressed walls, dried flowers and rugged chopped branches as cutlery stands.

We went for the 4-course set lunch at £38 per person. Over a couple of hours, we tucked into dainty plates of tomato and watermelon salad with goat’s curd, a smoky eel dish with beetroot stars and burnt apple, and a tasty Iberico pork dish with a pungent black garlic ketchup.

The food was presented in a smart manner, and there was a relaxed but professional approach to the service too. All in all, a lovely place for a memorable meal in Bristol.

Stop for ice cream at Swoon Gelato or a doughnut at Pinkmans Bakery

Whenever I’ve asked for recommendations of places to visit in Bristol, these two spots have cropped up over and over! If you have a sweet tooth, definitely add these to your Bristol day trip itinerary!

Swoon Gelato specialises in artisan gelato. They offer 11 standard flavours including salted caramel, mango, pistachio and chocolate, plus a few specials. As it was so warm, I ordered a scoop of the raspberry sorbetti which was refreshing, tart and utterly delicious – as if someone had smashed a load of fresh raspberries up and frozen them!

Meanwhile, a short stroll up Park Street is Pinkmans Bakery, which specialises in sourdough doughnuts. They’re light and fluffy, and very well-filled. Again, you’ll find some standard flavours along with specials such as lemon meringue and pineapple and coconut.

Check out Bristol’s street art scene

Bristol is a really creative city and one of the biggest expressions of that is through the street art. It’s a city to walk around with your eyes wide open. Scan the sides of buildings and look for colourful motifs – they’re everywhere!

The most famous of all the graffiti artists is of course Banksy. You might spot a few works as you wander around on foot, but to gain a bit more insight I’d recommend booking a Where The Wall self-guided street art tour. The tour and map load on your phone and take you on a 3-mile walking tour to see Banksy’s most famous works, alongside some other notable artworks. At each one there’s a short video presentation with information about the piece.

If street art is a big reason for your day trip to Bristol, you simply have to visit Stokes Croft. This neighbourhood is grittier and edgier than many parts of the city, but it’s also covered heat-to-toe in murals. I loved walking the streets around here, taking photos as I went. If you’re a fan of vintage shopping, you’ll love this neighbourhood too!

Alternatively, pop by the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery where there’s always lots of interesting artworks to admire. When I visited there were two works by Banksy inside. This museum is free to enter too! 

Take in the views of Bristol from the top of Cabot Tower

If you’re looking for one of the best viewpoints over Bristol, you’re going to need to use your legs a little! Cabot Tower is a short walk from Park Street. The building itself is 32 metres tall, but as it’s perched on top of Brandon Hill it offers really incredible panoramas of Bristol.

From the top you’ll see all the famous sights including Clifton Suspension Bridge, the colourful houses in Clifton Village, the River Avon, Bristol Harbour and the SS Great Britain. This is another attraction that won’t cost you a penny. It’s definitely one of the best free things to do in Bristol too.

Brandon Hill Park is a really serene and peaceful park, so I’d recommend having a little meander through the gardens before you leave.

Go for cocktails at a speakeasy bar

Are you a cocktail connoisseur? You’ll be happy to hear Bristol has an exciting bar scene! As a Londoner I’ve been to several ‘speakeasy’ style bars, but I didn’t know that this scene was thriving in Bristol too.

The Milk Thistle is one of the coolest and comes with quite the accolade – being named one of the UK’s Top 50 Bars! It’s the kind of place you could walk by without realising that inside is a very cool cocktail bar split across four storeys, with its own hidden vault!

The main bar on the ground floor is filled with unique and unusual items, rather like an old-fashioned house of curiosities. The expert mixologists are happy to work off the fun cocktail menu of intriguing drinks, or they can shake up your favourite classic.

The Scarlet Lantern is another secret bar in Bristol. Located just around the corner from Banksy’s famous ‘Well Hung Lover’, this bar is only identifiable from the red lantern that hangs above the door. Follow the steps down to an underground lair with 4-poster beds, a well-stocked bar and no doubt plenty of debauchery!

Feast on Sri Lankan cuisine The Coconut Tree

We went on our honeymoon to Sri Lanka so I was already a huge fan of Sri Lankan food. I adore the delicate balance of spices, chilli and coconut you find in this part of the world. Crispy hoppers, spicy coconut sambal, fragrant curries, moreish kotthu and rotis – I mean, what’s not to love?!

When I heard there was a top-rated Sri Lankan restaurant called The Coconut Tree in Bristol, I couldn’t wait to try it. With pumping tunes and cocktails served in novelty elephants, I wasn’t sure it was going to be the most authentic meal… but I was wrong!

Over two hours we feasted on crispy hoppers topped with hot sambals, an indulgent salmon curry that was rich with coconut milk, a pork curry that had a smoky sauce, and delightfully moreish spiced potatoes.

I liked that all the dishes were designed for sharing (with dishes priced between £4 and £9), so we could try lots of different things. There are a few branches of this restaurant across the south west of England, including in Bath and Cheltenham. I’d definitely recommend trying one if you’d like to find out why everyone raves about Sri Lankan food!  

Where To Stay In Bristol

If a day trip to Bristol feels a little rushed, you could book a hotel in the centre. I’d recommend staying at The Clayton Hotel which is in an ideal location, walking distance from many of the key sights and moments from St Nicholas Market (where you’ll also find plenty of great street food!)

We stayed in a comfortable superior room on the 8 th floor, which was large with several windows. The lobby area was smart with cool lighting and a vibrant mural by the main entrance. There’s a large selection of items available at the breakfast buffet here too, from fried savoury items to gooey chocolate croissants. It was perfect for a short break in the city centre.

I hope you’ve found my Bristol day trip itinerary helpful. Have a great time in the city – it’s easily one of my favourites in Britain!

A big thanks to National Rail for inviting me to share my thoughts on visiting the city. Don’t forget to buy a Railcard before you travel. It could save you up to 1/3 on train travel.

If you’re looking for more great ideas for days out, check out my guide to the best UK weekend breaks .

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

1 thought on “The Perfect Bristol Day Trip Itinerary: Attractions, Food and Sightseeing”

Thank you this was super helpful ! I love my two together railcard as well, just trying to decide between Bath or Bristol for the day…

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11 Fun Things To Do In Bristol, England

If you're looking for fun things to do in Bristol , let us show you around.

A port city known for its harbor and creative atmosphere with a strong community spirit, Bristol England is a fabulous city to explore.

With a population of approximately 500,000, it's the second largest city in southwest England.

A bustling harbor town, Bristol has been voted the top city to live in the UK for several years in a row. 

Home of Banksy and the founding of the street art movement in the UK, Bristol also has a vibrant nightlife, historic buildings, and an incredible food scene.

Bristol is a great place for walking and it’s the best way to get to know the city center. So, lace up, bring your appetite and an open mind, and explore this city on the Avon River. And if you love walkable cities, be sure to check out this Bath England day trip .

Learning your way around Bristol

A great way to orient yourself in the city is to take a guided tour. 

If you prefer to ride, try the hop-on hop-off bus. Or you can head to the harbor and take one of the ferries and learn your way around from the water.

Bristol Ferries runs a regular waterbus service and Bristol Packet Boats will take you up the River Avon for a view of the Avon Gorge which is definitely worth doing.

As you walk around the old city center be sure to explore King St., a 17th-century street with a number of historic buildings including the Old Vic Theater , still open and one of the best places in Bristol for live entertainment.

For a modern shopping experience go to Cabot Circus, a mixed-use development with covered shopping, offices, and residential spaces right in the heart of the city.

No trip to this city would be complete without a Bristol street art tour, including the world-renowned art of Banksy.

Bristol is the home of the UK street art scene and John Nation is the man in the know. Book his tour through Where The Wall for a historical and cultural tour of Bristol’s street art.

Some are local artists but artists from around the world have left their mark in Bristol. 

John’s passion and enthusiasm for all things creative, especially street artists, writers, and graffiti art, will open your eyes to a world of imagination, innovation, and inspiration.

The tour is about two hours long so wear comfortable shoes and don’t go hungry.

A highlight of the tour is a walk through the bohemian Stokes Croft neighborhood which you’ll want to explore more after the tour. 

The perfect place to explore more of the art scene is the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. The whole family will love the fun activities and interactive exhibits.

Eating in Bristol

If you love good food you’ll love Bristol. With two Michelin-star restaurants and several restaurants with Bib Gourmand recognition, it is hard to find a bad meal in Bristol.

The city is known for great chefs opening their own, affordable eateries after earning their chops elsewhere.

All the better for those of us who like to enjoy memorable meals that don’t ravage the pocketbook. 

If you’re looking for recommendations, here are my top picks for the best areas to eat in Bristol.

Though there are many more good restaurants, I simply couldn’t get to all of them. Next time!

Dining Around the Harbor

Cargo is a development of repurposed shipping containers at Wapping Wharf and an excellent place to seek out cuisine from around the world.

Try Gambas Tapas Bar for shrimp cooked every which way and wonderful Spanish wines.

Root is a great spot for vegetable-focused dishes and other options.

Paco Tapas for a Michelin star experience on the harbor. 

Dining in Clifton Village

Clifton Village is one of my top picks for shopping and strolling. It’s also abundant in good restaurant options.

For a  reasonable price, you can enjoy a Parisian bistro experience at Cote Brasserie.

I also found the staff there to be very accommodating. If you want to drink and dine with a view of the Avon Gorge, try the White Lion Pub by Hotel du Vin .  

Lido is exactly what you think it is, a neighborhood spa and swimming spot with an excellent restaurant.

The entrance is unassuming but once inside the ambiance feels uptown but relaxed.

We went there for dinner and sat upstairs overlooking the pool and, yes, there were people swimming.

Dining at the Lido was my most unique experience in the UK. The food is Mediterranean style, and I even found a cheese from Latteria in Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood on the menu.

There’s a poolside bar downstairs that serves breakfast. You must go. 

Central Bristol

If you can only visit one place in the old city go to the St. Nicholas Market for an eclectic selection of eateries.

The market is housed in a historic Georgian-covered building. You can also find gifts and other arts and crafts items for sale there. Be sure to check opening and closing hours.

Chez Marcel serves French cuisine, both savory and sweet crepes and omelets. And Hotel du Vin Bistro has a good wine list and classic French food. 

Kask is just a little further afield in Bedminster. Kask serves organic and biodynamic wines along with local cheese and charcuterie plates in a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.

If you want to try a local wine ask them for the Limeburn Hill Pet Nat. There are tables indoors, however, if the weather is nice opt for a table on the cute outdoor patio.

If you’re not sure what to order trust the knowledgeable staff to take care of it for you. 

Religious Bristol

Bristol has a rich history with several interesting cathedrals and churches, a minor miracle since the city was heavily bombed during WWII. These are the ones I consider worth seeking out. 

Bristol Cathedral is stunning on the outside but go inside to view what is believed to be one of the finest examples in the world of a medieval hall church.

A hall church is one where the aisles are the same height as the nave creating a light and spacious interior.

Bristol Cathedral is a Grade 1 listed building, meaning it has exceptional national historic and architectural importance.

The cathedral is located across from College Green, a big open park just across from the entrance to St. Nicolas Markets. 

St. Mary Redcliff

Another beautiful cathedral, also Grade 1 listed, is St. Mary Redcliff, a Gothic stunner with a spire that is 89 meters high.

Queen Elizabeth I visited and said this, “The fairest, goodliest, and most famous parish church in England." 

St. John on the Wall

One other interesting ecclesiastical attraction you should see is St. John on the Wall .

As the name suggests the church is built into the very walls of the medieval city.

As early as the 12th century it was a place for pilgrims to offer prayers before a journey.

St. John on the Wall is a good place to visit along with the St. Nicolas Market.

Explore Bristol's Harborside

Bristol Harbour and its maritime history attracts visitors from around the world.

At one time Bristol was a trading port second in importance only to London.

Today it's a place to spend time outside or enjoy some of the Michelin-rated restaurants, take a tour of the harbor, or visit one of the museums like M Shed, which tells the story of the Bristol slave trade and the history of the city.

It also explains the different neighborhoods of Bristol. You'll find some fantastic artwork there, as well.

SS Great Britain

SS. Great Britain is one of the world's first great ocean liners and Bristol’s top tourist attraction.

Built in 1843 by Bristol engineer Isaambard Kingdom Brunel, it was the first luxury passenger ship to cross the Atlantic Ocean between Bristol and New York City.

Brunel is also famous for the Clifton Suspension Bridge, one of the city’s most iconic sites. In my opinion, it is not to be missed, no matter the weather. On a nice day, it’s a beautiful walk. 

Don't miss the Albion dry dock which dates back to 1820. 

Also harborside, you can visit the Matthew, a replica of the ship sailed by John Cabot to Newfoundland in 1497.

The Matthew was a commercial ship that was nothing out of the ordinary until the voyage to Newfoundland.

You can learn about its history and the building of the replica as well as sail around the harbor on the ship. Be sure to book this in advance

Before you leave the harbor be sure to visit the Cargo development at Wapping Wharf.

The Cargo is constructed of shipping containers and includes a variety of restaurants, shops, and bars, all independently owned.

A fun thing to do is go to the Cider Box and get a frozen cider, made locally, then just next door is the only cheesemonger in Bristol.

Part of the fun of travel is trying food you can only taste right there.

Parks and gardens

There is no shortage of parks and gardens in Bristol On a sunny day, a favorite local pastime is making the most of these lovely green spaces.

The oldest park in Bristol is believed to be Brandon Hill, the highest point in the city with nice harbor views.

You’ll also find Cabot Tower on Brandon Hill. The tower commemorates John Cabot’s voyage to America 400 years ago. You can climb the tower for panoramic views of Bristol.

Castle Park

Right in the middle of the city is Castle Park, and as the name implies, there was once a castle there.

The castle was leveled in the 1600s but the ruins of a church remain.

Take some time to stroll through the pretty gardens on the harbor side of the church or do as the locals do and just hang out enjoying nature. 

My favorite green space in Bristol is called The Downs, a 200-plus-acre green area for lounging in the sun, sports events, and hikes.

There’s also an observatory housed within a building that was part of a windmill. 

I didn’t get to see this because it was closed when I arrived but do try to check out the camera obscura at the Observatory.

It’s a room-size version and allows a 360-degree view across the downs and the Clifton Suspension Bridge. 

Be sure to visit Giant’s Cave as well, which opens to the Avon Gorge and the River Avon, a magnificent geological feature of Bristol. The Downs border the neighborhood of Clifton, one of the poshest in the city. 

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Another reason to visit The Downs is the Clifton Suspension Bridge, an iconic site in Bristol. 

Spanning the Avon Gorge and the River Avon, it is 1352 feet long and has a clearance of 245 feet.

There is a narrow walking path across the bridge and you can drive across it as well.

The bridge design was first developed by Brunel, the same Brunel who designed the luxury cruiselliner. The bridge opened in 1864. 

Note that it's about a 45-minute walk from the center of Bristol to the bridge. I took an Uber and then walked back to my hotel which was 50 minutes downhill.

However you choose to arrive and depart the area, you really can not leave Bristol without seeing the bridge.

Day trip to Bath

A day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath is a must. It’s also one of the easiest places to visit by train.

From Bristol Meades station it’s only a 15-minute train ride. Once you arrive in Bath you are a few minutes walk from all the top attractions. 

Spend a day exploring this gorgeous Georgian city with ancient Roman roots.

The famous Roman Baths is the best place to discover the ancient origins of this sublime spa town.

All within a stone's throw of each other you’ll find Bath Abbey, the Jane Austen Museum, the Pulteney Bridge, the Royal Crescent, and the Circus. Take breaks for coffee or tea and soak up the Victorian atmosphere.

Bath is one of the best places to visit in the West country.

Visit Cheddar Gorge

Another good day trip is Cheddar Gorge, an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Located about an hour from Bristol Center, you can go caving, hiking, biking, and rock climbing. It’s the only gorge in the UK.

And if you love being outside, consider taking the two-hour trip to explore outdoor activities near London or discover Cornish hidden gems .

If you have the time, the three-hour trip to the Isle of Wight would be spectacular.

Where to stay

The Leonardo Hotel Bristol Glassfields , which opened in 2021, is within a ten-minute walk of the Bristol Meads train station, convenient for visitors traveling by train from London. 

The 197-room hotel is also an easy walk to the harbor, Castle Hill, and shopping district.

The hotel is low energy/green and features contemporary rooms with sustainable materials.

Rainwater is recycled and lights are activated by sensors. This is an affordable hotel for families, groups, and singles. 

For something completely different and very Bristol, stay at one of the rocket rooms at Brooks Guest House .

The rocket rooms are airstream caravans on the rooftop of the hotel offering a quirky way to stay and some of the best views of Bristol.

Additionally, you’ll be right next to St Nicolas market in the heart of the city. Brooks does offer more traditional accommodations at ground level and a delicious breakfast each morning.

With so much to do, the vibrant city of Bristol makes an entertaining weekend getaway. Why not check out

Let us know if you discover more fun things to do in Bristol so we can check them out.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Clifton Suspension Bridge, the arts, hot air balloons, and its rich maritime history are some of the top things that Bristol is famous for.

You can easily get around Bristol using the train, even taking day trips to Bath and Stonehenge.

Yes, Bristol is generally safe, but as in any city, be careful to be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit areas.

Tips for Visiting Bristol

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the city is a bit spread out.

You'll find a lot of walking routes, but Bristol is also the UK's first cycling city. You'll find plenty of cycling paths that are traffic-free. Voi Scooters are also a fun option.

Taxis are reliable if you'd rather go that route.

All the museums are free, so take advantage of Bristol's generosity and visit them!

This article was written by Penny Sadler in partnership with Visit Bristol. A freelance writer and wine communicator residing in the Lone Star State, Her glass is always full, preferably of something white and bubbly. She writes for Inside Hook, Cheese Professor, and other outlets.

You can follow Penny on her travel blog, Adventures of a Carry-on . 

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The post 11 Fun Things To Do In Bristol, England appeared first on Food Fun & Faraway Places .

Bristol Beacon is open

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As we transform our performance spaces, we continue to present concerts , festivals, events , parties , art exhibitions , live streams , and markets in our foyer alongside our ticketed programme in external venues across Bristol and Bath.

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Bristol Beacon is located on Trenchard Street in Bristol City centre, 200m from the city centre promenade bus stops. Find out how to get here on foot , by bicycle , bus , car , train and boat .

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Our foyer, café and box office are fully accessible. Find out more about venue facilities , joining our access register , access booking online and website accessibility.

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Visit Bristol Beacon in the day for coffee or kick off your evening in style at Bristol Loaf café with delicious natural wines from Native Vine. Find out more about opening times , menus and special events.

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Conferences, corporate events, weddings, celebrations and film location hire – whatever your needs, we tailor your event or booking to exceed your expectations.

Find out more about our many unique, vibrant and versatile spaces at Bristol Beacon or Beacon Music Centre.

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• 7 Of The Most Charming Small Towns To Visit In New England

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of the United States , New England is famous for being one of the country's most beautiful and charming regions. Named by English explorer Captain John Smith in 1614, it is unsurprising that so much of the area's charm comes from its rich history, evident in its quaint small towns. From state to state, each of these towns has its own distinct past, paired with an abundance of natural beauty, from maritime shores to majestic mountains and everything in between. Whether visiting a coastal town with stunning beaches and a fascinating shipwreck museum or a town with Vermont’s highest waterfall and a mountain path used by smugglers long ago, no two attractions are exactly the same, but each will delight visitors in their own way.

Provincetown, Massachusetts

For over 400 years, the free-spirited coastal town of Provincetown , Massachusetts, has stood as a symbol of acceptance. As far back as 1620, the Pilgrims arrived here on the Mayflower in search of religious freedom. It was in Provincetown, at the northern tip of Cape Cod, that they found solace in the region's scenic shores. Throughout the centuries, the town has continued to champion freedom, and today, it embraces visitors and residents of all faiths, ethnicities, and sexualities, making it especially popular with LGBTQ vacationers.

Upon arrival to Provincetown, you will find that the kind locals are just one of the many welcoming features. From sand to sea, natural beauty will enchant and welcome you at every turn. Bike rides are a popular way to see the town, especially along the 5.25-mile Province Lands Bike Trail, which guides you through Provincetown's famed dune system. Not too far from the trail, Arnold’s Bike Shop is a great place to snag a rental if you left yours at home. If you would prefer a hike instead, the Beech Forest Trail is a gorgeous 1-mile loop through a beech tree forest, shading strollers from the sun.

For those craving sunshine, Race Point Beach is the perfect shore to soak up some rays and enjoy the golden sand and bright blue waters, while Herring Cove has calmer waves great for families. For a break from the outdoors, Commercial Street is a fun follow-up, with 3 miles worth of adorable shops, restaurants, and attractions. Stop in at Shop Therapy for a trip memento, The Canteen for classic seafood bites, and the Provincetown Museum of Art to explore its exhibits.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket , a secluded island town in Massachusetts, may require some effort to reach, but the journey is well worth it. Spring and summer draw the most visitors, enticed by this beach town's warm weather and sunshine. But what sets Nantucket apart from other resort destinations is that most of its 80+ miles of beachfront are open to the public, except for the Cliffside Beach Club. Families with young children often choose Children’s Beach for its playground and calm waters, while Brant Point reigns as the most popular shore, renowned for its soft sand, boat watching, and views of the iconic Brant Point Lighthouse.

For those seeking an adventure on Nantucket Harbor, boat agencies like Nantucket By Water offer a variety of unique tours, including Cocktail and Sunset cruises, as well as a Sip and Fish tour where kids can learn to cast a line while adults relax and sample refreshing beverages. Alternatively, land lovers can explore the town's indoor maritime attractions. The Nantucket Whaling Museum is a beloved local spot, and the Egan Maritime’s Nantucket Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum is also a must visit. Shortly after, in June, the Maria Mitchell Association and Loines Observatory will also reopen, offering the whole family a fun and enriching experience. Visitors can tour the Natural Science Museum, interact with a hands-on aquarium, and even gaze at the stars through the Loines Observatory research telescope.

Bristol, Rhode Island

Named after a riverside city in England , Bristol, Rhode Island, has a rich maritime history much like its namesake. To set the scene for your stay, the Herreshoff Marine Museum is a must-visit and a great first stop. The museum features a fascinating look into the area’s maritime and boating history. But for a firsthand experience of the beauty of Narragansett Bay, head to Colt State Park. Here, visitors can enjoy 4 miles of paved paths along the bay, perfect for biking (bike rentals are available at Bristol Bikes on Thames St) or strolling. This idyllic park also features numerous picnic pavilions, a fishing pier, and a canoe/kayak launch, providing ample opportunities to soak in the splendor of the bay all day long.

Next to the park, the Bristol Town Beach is a charming shore. Adjacent to this, the Coggeshall Farm Museum brings 1799 Bristol to life with its living museum depicting pastoral farm life. If you are interested in history and nature, other nearby attractions include Mount Hope Farm, another living history museum dating back to the 1680s, as well as the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum. The 33-acre estate offers tours of the historic mansion and its breathtaking gardens, complete with rare plants and intricate stonework, making it a showstopper in the spring and summertime, so make sure to have your camera ready. In addition, if you happen to visit Bristol in the summertime, their 4th of July parade is legendary. Founded in 1785, the Bristol Fourth of July Parade is the oldest Independence Day celebration in the country.

Westerly, Rhode Island

If you like the sound of a town blending history and nature, look no further than charming Westerly . A little over an hour’s drive from Bristol, this Rhode Island beauty was founded by English colonists all the way back in 1661 and has diligently preserved its rich history over the centuries. The Babcock-Smith House Museum is one example, showcasing a gorgeous Georgian mansion dating back to 1734. As time marched on, the Granite Theatre emerged in 1849, built in the elegant Greek Revival Style. Today, it continues to host a diverse array of performances, from Broadway plays to cabaret.

Venturing into the great outdoors of Westerly, you will find an abundance of natural beauty. Misquamicut State Beach beckons with a half-mile stretch of sandy shore, perfect for families, complete with a playground and gazebos for those seeking respite in the shade. For a more nature-focused outdoor experience, the Napatree Point Beach & Conservation Area also offers a pretty shoreline. However, as a designated “Globally Important Bird Area,” this beach is more of a haven for appreciating nature. So, if you are yearning for that quintessential Rhode Island pier atmosphere, Atlantic Beach Park is your ideal destination. A local landmark since 1921, this boardwalk park is the epitome of classic beachside enjoyment, whether you are indulging in patio dining at the Windjammer Surf Bar, lounging by the beach, or taking a whirl on the park’s star attraction, a Herschell-Spillman Carousel built in 1915.

Woodstock, Vermont

Journeying to "The Green Mountain State," Woodstock is a Vermont village that will capture your heart from the moment you arrive. As a hub for artisans, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs in the 1700’s, Woodstock maintains this legacy to this day. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to experience the vibrant artisan culture, with events like the Made with Pride Arts and Crafts Fair, and the farmers and craft market every Wednesday starting in May at Market on the Green. Year-round craft galleries such as Collective-the Art of Craft feature a diverse range of artisans, from glassblowers and ceramicists to woodworkers and jewelry makers.

Beyond its thriving artisan scene, Woodstock offers an enchanting outdoor experience and an opportunity to delve into the area's history. In mid-to-late August, the Billings Farm & Museum transforms into the largest sunflower house in the United States, with its 20,000 square-foot farm adorned with a breathtaking array of yellow, red, and orange sunflowers. Summertime also beckons visitors to Vermont's only national park, the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. Here, you can explore the historic Victorian mansion, enjoy a picnic in the gardens, and traverse over 20 miles of trails through the surrounding forests, taking in the rolling hills and scenic overlooks.

Stowe, Vermont

Located around 73 miles north of Woodstock, in the foothills of Mount Mansfield, lies the charming town of Stowe . While you may know Stowe for its ski slopes, spring and summer are equally vibrant times to visit this mountain town. Begin your visit in walkable downtown Stowe, where nearly 50 shops, restaurants, and galleries are housed in charming 19th-century buildings. Notable establishments include the Stowe Mercantile souvenir store, Whip Bar and Grill, and the Bryan Fine Art Gallery, to name a few.

For those seeking outdoor fun and a one-of-a-kind view, the Moss Glen Falls hike is only a 5-minute drive from the historic downtown. The waterfall itself is a mere quarter-mile trek from the trailhead and stands at an impressive 85 feet in height, making it the tallest and most beautiful cascade in all of Vermont. Outdoor enthusiasts can also relish in the beauty of Smugglers Notch State Park, known for its narrow pass through the Green Mountains, which was once used as a smuggling route to Canada and, later, an escape route for enslaved people. Visitors can explore the scenic pathway lined with 1,000-foot cliffs and enjoy anything from hiking, rock climbing, cave exploring, and more.

Camden, Maine

Like other charming New England towns, Camden , Maine, is renowned for its vibrant summer scene. Positioned on the shores of Penobscot Bay, an inlet of the Gulf of Maine , it attracts ocean enthusiasts eager to bask in the splendor of the Atlantic . Camden Harbor Cruises offers an invigorating aquatic adventure, while Laite Memorial Beach beckons with its picturesque grassy park and pebbled shore, perfect for beachcombing and boat watching. During the summer, Camden also hosts two annual sailing celebrations: the Maine Windjammer Festival and the Parade of Sail.

For those who prefer to remain on solid ground, Camden offers a plethora of land-based experiences as well. The town's historic district boasts an array of 19th-century homes and the restored 1893 Camden Opera House, a delightful venue for a show. You can also visit Camden Hills State Park to savor harbor views from land. With 30 miles of hiking trails, many opt to witness a breathtaking sunset over the bay after trekking to the summit of Mount Battie. And for those seeking stunning views without the hike, a scenic drive up the mountain on Auto Road offers sweeping panoramic views of the bay and its islands.

Final Thoughts

With a name like “New England,” it is impossible not to compare the region to that of the British country. And while the area certainly shares certain historic and cultural ties, it ultimately stands apart as its own entity, famous for paving the way for the United States. Whether visiting Provincetown, Massachusetts, where the Pilgrims first stepped onto North American soil in search of freedom, or Stowe, Vermont, where a mountain path paved the way to autonomy and independence for smugglers and enslaved people, New England’s wealth of history and natural splendor will enchant all who visit.

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