top 5 places to visit in 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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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

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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From wildlife parks to maritime icons, Bristol is packed with exciting days out to suit all ages. You don’t have to stick to the city centre either, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do on the outskirts of Bristol.

The city has a fascinating past, and our  historical and heritage sites , such as Bristol Cathedral and the Lord Mayor's Chapel , are not to be missed. If you're looking for things to do with the family, we guarantee that Bristol will let the children run off some steam with so many fun activities on offer. There are also many  free days out  in Bristol to choose from. 

No visit to Bristol would be complete without a visit to the Victorian masterpiece that is Brunel’s SS Great Britain - explore the cabins, scrub the deck, or learn more about its passengers throughout history; this wonderfully restored vessel offers hours of entertainment. Included in the same ticket, museum Being Brunel celebrates the life and work of the great engineer, with plenty of interactive exhibits and games.

Climb aboard  The Matthew , a replica of the very same ship that John Cabot sailed to North America on in 1497 and often docked outside  M Shed, a museum documenting the history of Bristol, transforming an old transit shed on the harbour.

Not to be missed is the most famous of Brunel's masterpieces, the  Clifton Suspension Bridge  that spans the picturesque Avon Gorge. The  Clifton Observatory  is a perfect place to get one of the best views of Bristol. We're not going to spoil it for you; go and see it with your own eyes! If you're a  film ,  music  or  theatre  buff, Bristol hosts some world-class performances covering a wide range of genres.

The Harbourside  offers some fantastic, modern Bristol attractions for small and big kids. Hands-on science centre We The Curious   is a playground of creative exhibits and home to the UK’s first 3D Planetarium. See tropical marine and freshwater creatures from around the world in naturally themed habitats at Bristol Aquarium , which also runs daily talks and seasonal activities, plus adult-only evenings.  We also recommend taking a  boat trip  to see Bristol from the water, or checking out the other options for  tours and sightseeing  around the city.

Prepare for an experience like no other at world-first Amazement Park  Wake the Tiger  in St Philips, a maze of interactive spaces, mazes and secret passages. 

To the north of the city you will find  Aerospace Bristol , giving you the chance to step on board Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the last of the iconic Bristol-built supersonic aeroplanes to fly.

Nearby is  Bristol Zoo Project , a family attraction that provides adventure, play and learning with an emphasis on protecting habitats on our doorsteps and around the globe. You're also within easy reach of inland surfing lake  The Wave , as well as plenty of other attractions and activities in South Gloucestershire and The Cotswolds .

To the south of the city,  Wookey Hole Caves makes for a jam-packed day out, where you can explore mesmerising caves, play adventure golf or watch a film in their 4D cinema. Take the family for a day at the seaside at  The Grand Pier, where you can enjoy some thrilling rides, race on the indoor Go-Kart track or have a go at axe throwing. Or head to Brean to visit the UK's biggest free admission theme park and experience a range of rides, from white-knuckle rollercoaster to a Splash Waterpark and soft play area .

There are plenty of other amazing and award-winning attractions close to Bristol such as  Noah's Ark Zoo Farm ,  Westonbirt Arboretum ,  Slimbridge Wetland Centre  and  Longleat Safari Park .

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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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Over to you!

Do you have a question about visiting Bristol? Have you seen visited before? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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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

Planning to go from Australia in 2023/2024 in Winter, this guide will be very helpful

I’m so happy to hear that. Have a wonderful trip :)

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The 15 Best Things to do in Bristol, England

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Perched on the tidal banks of the River Avon, Bristol is one of the United Kingdom’s most progressive cities. With a recorded history stretching to the Anglo-Saxons, Bristol is today home to street artists and graffiti (have you heard of Banksy?), one of the most diverse food scenes in the country, and iconic sights like the SS Great Britain and the Clifton Suspension Bridge. 

Explore the Georgian terraces of Clifton, be awed by views of the Avon Gorge from the Clifton Observatory, or take a boat ride beneath Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s famous bridge. Join street art tours, take off into the skies at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, or join the festivities at St. Paul’s Afro-Caribbean-inspired carnival. 

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Bristol for you. Try these fun and unique Bristol bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an incredible time exploring this gorgeous British city!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 15 Best Things to do in Bristol

1. stroll along the clifton suspension bridge.

Soaring 100 meters above the River Avon, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of the most recognizable Bristol attractions. This iconic work of engineering is a masterpiece of Victorian ingenuity and design, and ever since it opened in 1864, the bridge has been a vital link from one side of the Avon Gorge to the other.

Perched precariously on top of Bristol’s limestone cliffs, the Clifton Suspension Bridge was based on drawings and schematics conceived by the city’s most famous engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who also designed the largest ships of the day. Brunel never lived to see his suspension bridge become a reality, but it’s safe to say he’d be happy that his plans not only came to fruition but became an enduring symbol of Bristol.

You can walk over the bridge at your leisure, which connects Leigh Woods and Ashton Court on the western side of the gorge to Clifton on the eastern side, although it costs £1 to cross in a vehicle. The views of the Avon Gorge as you stroll over are sublime, and on the Clifton side of the bridge, you can carry on walking to the Clifton Observatory, where you’ll have an amazing panoramic view that includes the bridge itself.

2. Take a Tour of the SS Great Britain

Bristol’s location on the banks of the River Avon, within easy striking distance of the busy Atlantic shipping lanes, ensured that the city became home to one of the United Kingdom’s busiest shipbuilding industries following the Industrial Revolution.

Take a stroll of Bristol Harbour today, and you’ll still see ships being built and yachts moored all along the wharves, although things are much quieter than they were in centuries past. As you walk along the harborside, you’ll also notice the tall, wooden masts of the SS Great Britain, which was once the largest ship in the world.

The SS Great Britain is one of the best sights in Bristol, and at almost 100 meters in length, with an iron hull and kitted out with both engines and sails, it was the most technologically advanced ship of its day when it launched in 1843. The SS Great Britain was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel (who else, in Bristol?) and spent decades crossing the Atlantic Ocean or voyaging to Australia before she made her final journey in 1886.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Bristol, you can visit the SS Great Britain today and learn all about its design, construction, and service life (including what life was like on board). You’ll also learn how the ship was salvaged in 1970 after being left to rot in the Falkland Islands, thousands of miles from Bristol. 

In 1970, a team from the UK refloated the ship and towed it all the way from Port Stanley back to Bristol harbor, where it was rebuilt and transformed into a museum back home in its original berth.

3. See the Infamous Colston Statue

Bristol, with its multicultural and often rebellious outlook, has always been seen as one of the UK’s most progressive cities. In recent years, this ethos took on epic proportions when Bristol made headlines across the world after the toppling of the infamous Edward Colston statue in 2020. 

Colston had been a philanthropist, but he had also been a slave trader, and when Bristolians decided they’d had enough of the man, they tore his statue down and threw it into the harbor. The statue was eventually pulled out, and it was decided the best place for it was in M Shed , a forward-thinking museum, where it could be preserved with the graffiti intact.

The Colston Statue was put on temporary display in the museum, and although it’s now been placed in the storage warehouse, you can still see it by signing up for a Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the museum, which is easily one of the best free things to do in Bristol. 

These unique, volunteer-led tours are run several times a week, and they offer a fantastic insight into the museum’s extensive collection (the majority of which isn’t on display), as well as the process of curation and how the curators decide what is put on display.

You’ll see the Colston Statue and many of the placards that were shown during the protests, as well as parts of the Concord (which was designed in Bristol), vintage bicycles, old coaches and carriages, and so much more. After the tour, take the time to explore the public galleries at M Shed, where you’ll learn about 2,000 years of Bristolian history, including everything from Romans to the city’s role in the Transatlantic Slave Trade. 

4. Take the Slave Trade Walk

If you’re interested in learning more about Bristol’s history, then the fascinating Slave Trade Walk is one of the best things to do in Bristol. This unique walk offers a progressive perspective on the city’s role in one of the darkest periods of human history. 

Much of Bristol’s wealth was built on the misery and anguish of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, as Bristolian merchants (including the infamous Edward Colston) made a fortune shipping Africans to plantations in the Caribbean and Americas. Much of their wealth was reinvested into Bristol, funding (directly or indirectly) many of the Georgian and Victorian-era buildings you see today. 

But much of this history was later covered up, as Bristolians felt it unnecessary to delve into the source of the city’s affluence. Bristol’s role in the Slave Trade, though, is now being discussed in as honest a way as it ever has been, largely thanks to the toppling of Colston’s statue in 2020.

Rob Collin, a local Bristolian history enthusiast, developed his Slave Trade Walk in 2019 after beginning to understand that this was a history the city never told. His walk takes you to sights associated with slave traders or the Slave Trade, including Pero’s Bridge (named after Pero, a slave who was brought to Bristol), Bristol Cathedral, the Wills Memorial Building, Queen Square, and many more famous landmarks. Along the way, you’ll hear about Bristol’s role in the Slave Trade and why it matters today. 

5. Discover Banksy’s Graffiti on a Street Art Tour

Nobody knows the identity of world-renowned street artist Banksy, the person (or perhaps, the group of artists) that turned graffiti into a mainstream, creative pursuit. All we know is that Banksy began their career tagging Bristol landmarks, and they’ve returned time and time again to host exhibitions and add to the street art.

For art lovers, then, a street art tour is one of the must-do things in Bristol. You’ll be guided around Bristol’s creative districts, finding hidden graffiti and not-so-hidden murals in places like Stokes Croft or North Street.

In central Bristol, you’ll also find some of Banksy’s most iconic works, including “The Grim Reaper,” “The Girl with the Pierced Ear Drum,” and “The Well Hung Lover.”

6. Visit the ‘Giant’s Cave’ in the Clifton Observatory

One of the best things to see in Bristol is the Clifton Observatory , which has stood on the top of the Avon Gorge since 1766. 

The observatory’s tower offers fantastic views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, while the three-floor museum within the tower takes you all the way back to the Iron Age when the Celts built a hillfort on this same spot. At the top of the observation tower, you’ll even find William West’s Camera Obscura, an invention installed in 1828 to provide unique panoramas for Victorian tourists. 

But the real fun is below ground. From the Clifton Observatory, you can access a 61-meter-long tunnel that allows access to the fabled Giant’s Cave. Said to be the home of legendary giants Goram and Ghyston, the cave opens out into a natural viewing area 76 meters above the Avon Gorge.

7. Climb to the Top of Cabot Tower

For one of the best views in Bristol, climb to the top of Cabot Tower. Standing 32 meters tall, Cabot Tower has a lofty perch at the top of Brandon Hill, offering sweeping panoramas of the city below.

The tower itself is a beautiful piece of local history. It was originally constructed in the late 19th century as a tribute to John Cabot, a European explorer who had set sail from Bristol some 400 years earlier and crossed the Atlantic Ocean. Cabot’s voyages took him to Newfoundland and other parts of what eventually became Canada, making him one of the first Europeans to visit this part of the world.

Cabot Tower almost fell down in the 2000s, though, but a costly repair job fixed up the famous Bristol landmark and kept it open for the public. Make the climb to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with an excellent view of the skyline.

8. Jump aboard for a Bristol Packet Boat Trip

This is a city that’s long been defined by the River Avon and its “Floating Harbour,” so a boat ride is one of the best things to do in Bristol. While you can hop on the Bristol Ferry for quick crossings from one side of the harbor to the next, we recommend signing up for a longer Bristol Packet Boat Trip .

Bristol Packet Boat Trips have been operating old narrow boats and heritage ships along the River Avon since 1974. Their unique fleet of boats all have a long history behind them, and they’re continuing a tradition of “Pleasure Boating,” which extends back to the Victorian era. 

Hop aboard, and you’ll be plied with cream teas, soft drinks, and cider as you explore the waterways around Bristol. The shortest trips take you around the “Floating Harbour,” a work of engineering genius that allows Bristol’s harbor to stay open despite the low tides of the River Avon.

When the tide is high, though, you can also join longer trips along the Avon Gorge, where you’ll pass under Brunel’s famous bridge before traveling west toward the Bristol Channel. If you’re looking for more fun things to do in Bristol, there are also dedicated “Pub Lunch Tours,” taking you to riverside beer gardens in summer, as well as the famous “Cream Tea Cruise!”

9. Take a Walk along Clifton Down

Clifton – where you’ll find the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, Clifton Observatory, and the grandest Georgian terrace houses in Bristol – is home to one of the city’s best public spaces. 

Clifton Down, a large area of open grassland, punctuated by the odd woodland, has been a public park since it was purchased for the people of Bristol in 1861. The Down really begins at the top of the Avon Gorge and then extends across the top of Clifton for several miles. 

Clifton is the perfect place for a walk, jog, or bike ride, while the open space is often used for exercise classes, music festivals, and public events all throughout the year. 

10. Go for a Swim at Bristol’s historic Lido

Hidden among the Georgian terraces of Clifton, overlooking the steep sides of the Avon Gorge, is Bristol’s historic Lido. First opened in the 1850s, when Clifton was in the midst of a construction boom as Bristol’s wealthiest families moved to this affluent neighborhood, the Lido was designed as the peak of Victorian leisure facilities.

The outdoor swimming pool was open for almost a century and a half until it was finally closed in the 1990s and, unfortunately, scheduled for demolition. But the historic Lido, with its unique Victorian architecture, was saved by Bristolians and was reopened in 2008 after a massive refurbishment.

Now, the old Lido has been transformed into a modern spa pool, complete with saunas, steam rooms, and masseuses. But the ethos of the Victorian Lido is still there, and you’ll love swimming in the outdoor pool, which is kept at a comfortable temperature of 25°C all year round. 

11. Eat Your Way Around St. Nicholas Markets

If you’re a keen foodie, then you’ve picked the right British city for a vacation because Bristol has one of the most exciting culinary scenes in the country. The city’s diverse communities ensure that you’ll never be bored when you’re eating out in Bristol, with everything from modern Anglo-Indian cuisine to feisty Caribbean curries on offer.

Bristol has two Michelin-starred restaurants (but you’ll need to book weeks, perhaps even months in advance), while no less than 35 restaurants (ranging from traditional English pub grub to Spanish-Mexican fusion restaurants) are listed in the Michelin guide. But despite these accolades, the best food in Bristol is still found among the humble, yet historic, stalls of the St. Nicholas Markets .

Located right in the middle of the city, the St. Nicholas Markets have been feeding hungry Bristolians since 1743. Take a walk through the narrow alleyways of the undercover market, and you’ll be tempted by the sizzling smell of fried gyoza, the colorful toppings of freshly made falafel pita sandwiches, and the fiery spices of Szechuan hot pots. 

The market is open from Monday to Saturday, while on Tuesdays and Fridays, there’s an additional lunchtime street food market that sees even more worldly cuisine added to the menu. If you’re looking to sample the best of the best of the city’s diverse food scene, eating your way around St. Nicolas Markets is easily one of the best things to do in Bristol.

12. Cycle from Bristol to Bath

Tackling the cycle path to Bath is one of the best Bristol activities to add to your bucket list, especially when it’s a sunny day. Bristol’s association with cycling is a long one, and the city is proud to be the home of Sustrans, a charity that oversees Britain’s extensive “National Cycle Network.”

Their first project, way back in the 1970s, was the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, which follows an old rail route that once connected the two cities. Sustrans transformed the disused railway into a cycle path, which is now one of the best short bike rides in the UK. 

At 13 miles long, you can easily cycle there and back in a day, with plenty of time to stop off en route at old stations that are now cafes. Once in Bath, you can visit the Roman ruins, the thermal spa, and Bath Abbey before turning around and cycling back to Bristol. Alternatively, you could hop on the modern train line which connects the two cities and be back in Bristol in 17 minutes!

13. Enjoy a Pint at the Bristol Beer Factory

After all that Bristol sightseeing, we won’t be surprised if you’ve worked up a thirst. Beer lovers are in luck because you can quench that thirst with a trip to the Bristol Beer Factory . This excellent brewery epitomizes the independent spirit of Bristol, and you’ll love sampling the different brews, hops, and flavors that are blended to perfection inside the tap rooms. 

The Bristol Beer Factory produces a popular range of beers that you’ll find all over the city, including favorites like the Southville Hop, The Independence, and the Clear Head (the last one being an alcohol-free beer). The best beer, however, is always going to be the Milk Stout, a creamy, dark porter that’s packed with milky goodness. 

The Bristol Beer Factory offers tours of their brewery on North Street once a week, which includes a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process in addition to a tasting session in the bar. Their Tap Room is open all week, where you’re welcome to stay for a pint, a tasting board, or to take a crate of beers home with you.

14. Embrace Multiculturalism at St. Paul’s Carnival 

Bristol is easily one of the UK’s most diverse cities, and you can embrace the multicultural side of life at St. Paul’s Carnival. 

Held once a year in St. Paul’s, the carnival started in 1968 as a celebration of Bristol’s Afro-Caribbean communities. Since then, it’s evolved into a wider celebration of Bristol’s diversity, focusing on food, art, dance, and culture from all over the globe, but that’s found here in the city. 

If you’re looking for festive Bristol activities, join the parades, mingle with 100,000 other carnival-goers, try some of the best Caribbean food in Bristol, and then stay up late partying the night away in St. Paul’s!

15. Attend the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

One of the most famous sights in Bristol is the early morning ascent of hundreds of hot air balloons as they lift off from Ashton Court to hang like a painting above the city’s skyline. This is the start of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta , when hot air balloons fill the skies for the annual festival every August.

The festival is a celebration of Bristol’s hot air ballooning industry, and it’s been taking place every year since 1979. It now attracts as many as 500,000 spectators and 100 hot air balloons over four days, with every day starting with the iconic morning ascent as the sun rises.

Throughout the day, you can watch hot air balloons rising into the skies while live music and entertainment keep the crowds amused at Ashton Court. The balloons take off en masse in the evening, too, just before sunset, while the highlight of the festival is the Night Glow (usually held on Saturday), when the balloons light up the night sky. 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Bristol. What’s your favorite thing to do in Bristol?

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Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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26 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. Attend a concert by Candlelight

Candlelight is something you’ll want to experience at least once in your lifetime. Thousands of candles, breathtaking live-music performances and the beauty of some of Bristol’s most fabulous venues makes for a winning combo. These candlelit concerts are dedicated to music’s biggest stars, from Adele and Taylor Swift to Vivaldi and Mozart, and you don’t want to miss out.

12. 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

13. 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

14. 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!

15. 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

16. 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 .

17. 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.

18. 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

19. 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

20. 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

21. 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 .

22. 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 .

23. 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 .

24. 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

25. 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

26. 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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15 Best things to see & do in Bristol

Bristol, United Kingdom (UK)

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Bucket List Experience

Architect and engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s beautiful masterpiece has become a true symbol of Bristol, and the view of its cables stretched tight between two brick towers over the gaping Avon Gorge is a breathtaking one.

Begun in 1831 and finished in 1864, the bridge was originally designed for horse-drawn carriages and pedestrians, but a whopping 12,000 cars now cross it daily on the journey from Clifton Village to Leigh Woods. A separate pavement allows pedestrians to safety stand tall and take in panoramic views, 75 metres above the River Avon.

Free guided tours and an interpretation centre unravel the history of this Grade I listed glory.

Good for age: 8+

We the Curious

The revamped museum and planetarium now known as ‘We the Curious’ puts a big focus on interactive and hands-on exhibits, exploring science and philosophy’s biggest conundrums.

Adult price: £16

Good for age: 4+

Clifton Village

The city’s smartest postcode is home to cobbled streets, elegant Georgian townhouses and great boutiques and delis, all crowned by the Suspension Bridge – the perfect bolthole in busy Bristol.

Good for age: 18+

Bristol’s Street Art

Bristol is synonymous with vibrant street art. We aren’t talking graffiti daubs here – hundreds of beautiful and thought-provoking illustrations are painted on walls throughout the city, and what’s on display is ever-changing. From Stokes Croft to Montpelier to Bedminster, the walls tell stories of the history and culture of the city.

Bristol’s most notorious export is the elusive graffiti artist known only as Banksy . His work has been lauded as the beginning of a revival of ‘intelligent graffiti’, and his anti-establishment cartoons and slogans have popped up all over Bristol and the world.

Good for age: 13+

SS Great Britain

Historic dockyard and museum ship – come aboard the world’s first great ocean liner, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Bristol’s most famed engineering export.

Adult price: £18

St Nicholas Market

St. Nick’s, as it’s known to locals, is a maze of stalls and shops selling antiques as well as global foodstuffs – everything from Bristol’s finest pies to fabulous pasties de nata (custard tarts).

Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Perhaps Bristol’s most colourful festival, each August the city’s skies fill with balloons launched from Ashton Court. Climb on board for a dawn ride or catch the Night Glow display after dark.

Duration: 2 weeks

When: August

Freq: annually

Bristol Cathedral

Set on College Green in the heart of the city, Bristol Cathedral dates back to the 12th century, and is famous for its spectacular stained glass windows.

Aerospace Museum

Science buffs shouldn’t miss this careful chronicling of the history of air and space travel. The museum showcases a remarkable collection of aircraft and artefacts, including vintage planes, jet fighters, and helicopters. The highlight is the chance to climb aboard a retired Concorde.

Adult price: £17.50

Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

An eclectic collection of treasures and good seasonal exhibitions await inside one of Clifton’s most beautiful buildings. Entry is free – a nice destination on a rainy afternoon.

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The 8 best Bristol attractions

Sightseeing in Brizzle? From architecture to big holes, here’s our guide to the best Bristol attractions you have to see

Photograph: Keith M Ramsey / Shutterstock.com

Brizzle is one heck of a good-looking place. From the harbourside to Clifton and the Downs, much of the best (and most beautiful) stuff in this city is to be found outdoors. But with all those amazing  museums , historic  pubs   and other attractions dotted across the city, there are plenty of cool things to explore if the weather   doesn’t   play ball (this is the West Country, after all).

The city has long been a magnet for creative folks from all over the land, but there’s more to the place than ideas and atmosphere. It’s also a tourism tour-de-force, with architectural splendour and fascinating history on every corner. Looking to plan jam-packed day out here? These are the best attractions in Bristol you have to tick off.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the  best things to do in Bristol

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Bristol attractions

1.  clifton suspension bridge.

• Attractions
• Historic buildings and sites

This isn’t just a convenient way of getting from Clifton Village to Lea Woods or a dizzying vantage point from which to admire astonishing views – it’s an internationally recognised symbol of the city and a source of great pride to anyone who calls Bristol home. Opened in 1864, the bridge was completed as a tribute to its designer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who died before it could be finished. You’ll now find a visitors’ centre on the Somerset side in Leigh Woods, and perched up on the hill on the Bristol side, you’ll find the Clifton Observatory.

2.  SS Great Britain

Even from the outside, the SS Great Britain is impressive, but an official visit is well worth the ticket price. No matter your age, it’s impossible not to be delighted by the entrails of this reconstructed steamship. Restoration has been carried out brilliantly; best of all, you can witness the noise and the huge, moving pistons of the engine room. There are evocative period soundscapes everywhere and in the kitchens a whiff of freshly baked seafarers’ bread. With storytellers in period dress, workshops on conservation and even a chance to climb the rigging in the warmer months, there really is no excuse not to visit this outstanding achievement of historical preservation.

3.  Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Trying to list all the attractions at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery makes you sound like a carnival showman. Egyptian and Ancient Assyrian artefacts! Diamonds and fossils! Alfred the stuffed gorilla! Contemporary ceramics and glassware! Not to mention the balcony gallery and an art collection ranging from Pissarro to the Old Dutch and Italian Masters. Stepping into the high atrium and seeing the Bristol Boxkite suspended above your head in flight, there’s a feeling of childish excitement. Think the Natural History Museum, but with added Victorian and Edwardian paintings.

4.  Blaise Castle House Museum

This place is very tricky to sum up. Where to start? The eighteenth-century Grade II-listed mansion building? The museum of social history oddities, from toys to toilets? The domed picture room, with its fine art collection? The 600 acres of stunning parkland? For convenience, the museum. Kids (and adults, probably) will be alternately delighted and freaked out by the displays of old toys, dollhouses and games, some of them more than 200 years old. There are beautiful fabrics and dresses from the 1730s to pore over in the costume collection, as well as an exhibition showing how everyday domestic living has changed over the past 300 years. You’re looking at a couple of hours well spent.

5.  Cabot Circus

Bristol’s very own cathedral of consumption opened back in 2008, completely transforming a depressingly shabby central shopping area into one of the prime attractions for locals and out-of-towners alike. Sweeping away the discount stores and carpet shops that previously occupied the site where the M32 ends and Broadmead begins, Cabot Circus brought decent shopping, restaurants, designer stores and a cinema fit for the twenty-first century to the middle of town. The main covered Circus area boasts all the usual shopping-centre keystones, from American Apparel to Zara. And unusually for a city-centre shopping centre, it’s all very tastefully done.

6.  Bristol Harbour

For centuries, Bristol’s greatest asset has been the docks and floating harbour around which it is built. From pirates and sugar traders to the pleasure-seekers of today, the waterways at the heart of the city have drawn trade and talent to Bristol from around the world to help create the city we all know and love today. The days of huge galleons mooring up in the docks have long gone, but the floating harbour remains and today provides a unique waterside setting for a very modern city. For visitors and locals alike, the museums, restaurants, bars, galleries and cafés that fringe the Harbourside area of the city are some of the city’s greatest attractions.

7.  We The Curious

Rather than traipsing around a museum that has installed a kids’ trail as an afterthought, this place is built on educating and entertaining children of all ages (and adults, if you have a sense of fun). Think everything science, from invention labs to a mini Aardman animation studio, a planetarium and, yes, a real human brain on display. They try to please everyone here, with specific days for under-fives – reduced ticket prices for parents – and whole sections aimed at under-eights. If the thought of a child-filled science centre fills you with horror, they hold adults-only evenings, too, where you can wander through the exhibits, beer in hand.

8.  Wookey Hole

The multiple limestone caves that make up Wookey Hole (in nearby Somerset) have been a source of fascination and intrigue for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. From prehistoric cavemen and pagan druids to Victorian explorers and excitable modern-day schoolchildren, the caves and the River Axe that mysteriously flows from them have caught the imagination of generations of visitors. The caves themselves are stunning, their stalagmites, stalactites and natural lakes beautifully lit up for all to marvel at. Guides delight in filling you in on the many mysteries and tall tales that have been ascribed to this place down the centuries.

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21 of the Best Things to do in Bristol – A Local’s Guide

• Last Updated 13 May 2024

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Take a look at my privacy policy for more information.

This in-depth travel guide to the best things to do in Bristol is brought to you by locally-based expat Laura, as part of my UK travel guides series. 

Bristol is a vibrant and bustling city in the South West of England . It’s also a must-visit on your trip to the UK. Visitors tend to make for London, often skipping all the other incredible cities in the country , but Bristol is not a city to be missed.

This city boasts a fascinating maritime history, wicked street art culture, drool-worthy food & drink scene and so much more. While I was born in Montreal, Canada, I made the move to England two years ago and spent the majority of my time calling Bristol home.

The creative community here is one not to be rivalled, and the abundance of things to do means you’re never bored. I may not have been born and bred in Bristol, but I fell in love with the city. I did my best to explore every corner I could during my time there. So, I like to think I’m an ex-pat expert on what to do in Bristol, and now I want to share it with everyone.

Best Things To Do In Bristol

Unusual/alternative things to do in bristol, places to eat in bristol, things to do in bristol at night, festivals and events, where to stay in bristol, clifton suspension bridge.

When it comes to Bristol landmarks there are none more iconic than the Clifton Suspension Bridge . Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, this toll bridge has been open since 1864 drawing visitors to check out the views from the bridge and walking its length. The bridge spans the Avon Gorge, offering some incredible views over the gorge into Bristol and the beautiful Clifton homes nearby.

Top Tip: if you fancy yourself a photographer or love a good show by mother nature, be sure to head out to the bridge for sunrise/sunset on a good weather day. Prepare to have your mind blown!

Clifton Village

This beautiful suburb of Bristol is only a short way from the main downtown core and home to some of the most picturesque houses in the city. Check out Royal York Crescent for some great ones. Some of the city’s top restaurants and pubs are in their area as well. Bosco & The River Cottage Kitchen are two must-visits. If coffee is more your thing then be sure not to miss out on Twelve for your caffeine fix.

Tons of lovely shops line the charming streets around Clifton, offering fresh produce, beautiful flowers, fantastic book shops, dress shops, and more. You’ll also find some really impressive charity shops too.

Bristol Harbourside Walk

No matter the time of year, Bristol’s Harbourside is always a fantastic place for a walk. Start at Prince’s Street Bridge and make your way around the loop stopping at every perfect photo op along the way (there are quite a few).

Marvel at the rainbow row houses of Clifton Wood, ir watch out for sailboats or rowers on the river. If you get lucky you may even see The Matthew (a caravel sailboat) out for a cruise on the water too. Baltic Wharf will gift you with beautiful benches on the waterside to soak in all the views and sunshine on a good weather day. Stop into The Cottage for a pint before continuing the loop on the other side of the harbour where you’ll be able to see the SS Great Britain in plain view too.

Street Art in Bedminster & surrounding areas

The street art culture in Bristol is one of the most impressive I’ve ever seen. The city hosts a street art festival most years, welcoming international and local artist to create some incredible works of art. This vibe carries throughout the city so a street art tour of Bristol is an awesome way to explore.

There are even a few Banksy pieces dotted around, as he’s said to be a local Bristol boy. While there is a huge concentration of murals along North Street in Bedminster, the whole of the city has a fabulous amount of artwork to take in.

Top Tip: If you’re on a budget or prefer not to do a walking tour to find the murals then do yourself a favour and pop into the UPFEST office on North Street for a map and use that as your guide instead.

Located on the waters edge and the perfect place to learn about Bristol. The M-Shed is a museum all about Bristol. It’s done in a creative and engaging way, with colourful and vibrant exhibits showcasing the history in an old dockside transit shed. There are special exhibits throughout the year as well well including the National Geographic Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibit and the British Tattoo Revealed exhibit.

Wapping Wharf

Wapping Wharf is a new and trendy hub for shopping, eating & drinking just off the historic Bristol Harbourside. You’ll find World-class restaurants in quirky cargo containers stacked perfectly on top of one another to give you a unique dining and shopping experience.

For fab coffees & cakes stop in to Little Victories or Mokoko. Wild Beer is the perfect place to try out a number of different beers on tap. Gopals Curry Shack might be small but the flavour in every dish is massive! Pizza from PizzaRova, Greek dishes from The Athenian, and infamous burgers and lemonade from Squeezed are just a few of the places worth checking out.

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Right in the heart of the university neighbourhood stands a pretty impressive building housing some of the World’s – and Bristol’s – biggest treasures. Bristol Museum and Art Gallery has exhibits over several floors ranging from contemporary art, modern art, natural history, and Bristolian history. With new exhibits opening throughout the year there is always something new to see, and an added bonus there are a few Banksy pieces here on display as well!

Bristol Lido

If you fancy turning your trip to Bristol into one of all things luxury and pampering then look no further than the Bristol Lido . Originally opened in 1850 in the heart of Clifton, this oasis is tucked at the end of a street. It almost feels like a well-kept secret! After many years open the lido fell into despair in 1990 and was closed for many years. But it was eventually completely refurbished and opened as the Lido that Bristol has today.

A restaurant for great lunches & dinners or a cheeky glass of wine after a swim & soak plus the new space has a fantastic spa service as well. Open to the public Monday – Friday from 1pm to 4pm this includes access to the heated pool, sauna, steam room & jacuzzi for £25.00/person. Or if you just fancy a bite to eat with a great view you can access the restaurant at any time without a membership.

SS Great Britain

This former passenger steamship was the longest of her kind from 1845 – 1854. It’s another iconic Isambard Kingdom Brunel creation, which sailed the passage from Bristol to New York City. Now the SS Great Britain sits in a dry dock on Bristol’s Harbourside as a museum and one of Bristol’s best-loved family-friendly attractions .

It’s not just for the kids either! The history here is incredible and the fact that you have access to most areas of the ship is just amazing. Explore the belly of the ship and see where animals were kept, and the kitchen staff worked. Move up to the different floors and see how the style of accommodation changed depending on your status. And, of course, go above deck to see the views of Bristol. Maybe even climb the rigging if you’re brave enough!

St-Nicks Market

The oldest and most loved market in Bristol can be found in the old part of the city off Corn Street. With over 60 stalls offering all sorts of local foods, produce, baked goods and independently sold products it’s not hard to see why St Nick’s Market was named one of the 10 best in all of the UK. In addition to the abundance of food options, there are also vendors selling their craft in the covered portion of the market and a farmers market that takes place every Wednesday too.

Royal Fort Gardens

Owned by the University of Bristol, the Royal Fort Gardens are so much more than a place for students to hang out. With multiple gardens dotted around the grounds, some filled with beautiful wildflowers, there is a serene little pond here and some great art installations too. One must-see installation is called “Follow Me” designed by Jeppe Hein which is a mirror maze and such ha great optical illusion. Bring a book, walk around with a coffee, and just enjoy this perfect green space in the heart of the city.

Cabot Tower

Brandon Hill Park is the perfect place to soak in the sunshine, have a picnic, toss a ball around, run with your dog and get some spectacular views of Bristol. In the middle of the park, you’ll find Cabot Tower , which is impressive in itself but the best part is the view from the top. Built in the 1890s to commemorate the 400th journey of John Cabot from Bristol to Canada (they didn’t know it was Canada at the time), the tower is open to the public. You can climb up the stairs inside the tower to 334 ft and look out to panoramic views of Bristol that seem to stretch out for miles and miles.

Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

Besides colourful houses and a beautiful waterfront, Bristol is best known for its hot air balloons. A huge part of Bristol culture and something so special to experience. There are countless hot air balloon operators in the city (Bailey Balloons, Bristol Balloons & Elite air just to name a few), so you’ll have your pick of locations to take off from depending on the time of year you’re visiting.

While this experience relies heavily on the most perfect of weather conditions, it truly is an experience like no other. If however, you aren’t too fond of heights never fear. You can still see dozens of balloons flying over the city on any given day throughout the summer. It’s a spectacle that never ceases to amaze even the born and bred Bristolians.

Stokes Croft & Gloucester Road

Lying north of the city centre is one continuous road absolutely full to the brim with local independent cafes, pubs, restaurants, and fabulous independent shops. It is the largest/longest street of independent shopping in all of England. Stroll up through Stokes Croft, taking in the street art on towards Gloucester Road. Stop in at every shop along the way, and fill up at any number of restaurants like Hobbs Bakery, El Calmado or Suncraft.

Ashton Court

If you drive out of Bristol towards the airport at the end of your visit there is a good chance you’ll see a yellow mansion. This is the beautiful Ashton Court mansion on the grounds of Ashton Court Estate . Purchased by Bristol City Council in 1959 after the previous family passed on and the house fell into a state of disrepair. Now, the estate grounds are open to the public and the perfect place for a walk, a run, kite flying or sightseeing. There is also a deer park to see and is the site used for the International Balloon Fiesta held every summer.

Top Tip: Sunrise here is something quite special, especially during the Autumn months when the deer are out in full swing.

Bristol Cathedral

Sitting at the bottom of Park street and in the middle of College Green is the gorgeous Bristol Cathedral. The gothic-style building has tall windows letting in beautiful light. A massive organ sits in the centre of the cathedral which you can hear playing on certain days, especially during the holiday period.

It is free to enter the Cathedral and if the view of the outside of the building doesn’t convince you right away to visit, the beautiful stained glass inside should do the trick.

Bristol Botanical Gardens

Housing a collection of nearly 5000 species of plants the Bristol Botanic gardens are absolutely lush. As part of Bristol University, the gardens are tended to year-round. However, if you’re hoping to see all the flowers at their best it is recommended to visit in Spring/Summer.

Separated into several sections including useful plants, local flora & rare natives, and the Mediterranean. There is also a magical greenhouse where you’ll find gorgeous types of cacti, as well as lemon trees producing lemons bigger than you’ve ever seen. An adorable little cafe sits on the grounds, with a patio overlooking the pond for the perfect spot on a sunny spring afternoon.

Murder walks & Pirate Tours

Hosted by Show of Strength theatre company in Bristol, there are several tours to choose from that will show you a completely different side of the city you never imagined existed. Choose Blood and Butchery in Bedminster to hear all about the macabre history of the underworld of Bedminster. Or, opt for Blood, Blackbeard and Buccaneers where you’ll be toured around local haunts by a pirate!

Visit Redcliffe caves

A series of man-made tunnels exist under Bristol and can be visited during Bristol Open Door Days . Hidden behind a small inconspicuous door on the banks of the harbour you’ll be transported to a completely different world underneath the city.

Clifton Suspension Bridge Hard Hat Tour

While admiring the Clifton Suspension Bridge from the observatory or the paths on the bridge are great there is also another way to see it. Dawn a fabulous yellow safety vest and hard hat while you descend into the chambers below the bridge and hear all about the history of the bridge’s construction and the forgotten chambers.

Chocolate workshop at Zara’s Chocolates

Tucked away on North street in a bright a beautiful shop you’ll find Zara’s Chocolates . Since opening, Zara has been bringing the people of Bristol delicious homemade chocolates for all those special occasions, or just a Tuesday afternoon treat. Also on offer are great chocolate workshops including a Truffle & Praline class, a tempering masterclass and special events throughout the holidays (Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s day etc). Perfect for a girls weekend or hen do even!

The Bristolian

Of course, a restaurant called The Bristolian can only complete a trip to Bristol. They have breakfast to beat them all with their breakfast menu: from the Veggie breakfast, to the Bristolian challenge, to avocado on toast – and so much more. Easy to see why this is one of the most popular Bristol brunch spots ! This restaurant has an easy-going atmosphere and a lovely little patio and is open for lunch and dinner too.

This award-winning Asian restaurant is so good that there are several locations within Bristol to choose from! And the creators have even added 2 more restaurants to the Wokyko family to try out too (Jing Xu & Kaiju). The Chicken Singapore Vermicelli is fantastic and the crispy duck bar will leave you wishing you could eat it for every meal.

Homemade sourdough pizza with gorgeous ingredients, what’s not to love? PizzaRova is another establishment in such high demand that there are several locations across the city to choose from. Build your own pizza from the list of ingredients in the restaurant or try the specials announced in-house by the staff.

Winner of the National Burger award for 2019, Alex and the team at Squeezed make everything fresh. Right down to the buns, which are mand on-site in Wapping Wharf! While their location is small, nothing is spared when it comes to the flavour! Try a classic “Mucker” Burger, and don’t worry: there is even a veggie burger on the menu. Oh, and lemonade flavours change throughout the seasons. Flavours range from classic and raspberry to stranger concoctions such as brown sugar and saffron or pear and rosemary.

The Old Bookshop

On North Street south of the river you’ll find the quirky and cosy Old Bookshop , home of the most delicious roast you’ve ever had. Served on a Sunday (of course) you have a choice from lamb, pork, chicken, beef and a Veggie wellington. They’re all served with every side you can imagine, but the cauliflower cheese is the best! Serving up additional menus throughout the week too, this is also a great place for a cocktail or a pint on a chilly afternoon.

Housed in The LoveInn in Stokes Croft, Pasta Slut has become a local favourite in Bristol. A simple yet satisfying menu of Italian classics will have your bellies full and still wanting to come back for seconds. Try the Polpette Al Suga (pasta & meatballs) or the Broccoli Ripassati. But be sure to leave room for the world-class tiramisu.

East Village Cafe

When in Clifton, East Village Cafe is a must. All food and drink here are 100% vegan. The cafe serves up a range of scrumptious cakes, hearty breakfasts, and very Instagrammable rainbow lattes!

This is one of the best all-vegan restaurants in Bristol . The mushrooms on toast will have you wondering why yours never taste quite so good, and the red velvet latte with rose petals and gorgeous crimson colour will definitely need to be shared on your Instagram feed.

The Bristol Loaf

In the often-missed neighbourhood of Redfield lives the bright and beautiful Bristol Loaf . Winner of multiple awards for their wicked bread, they also do some fantastic cakes, sweet treats and drool-worthy toasties.

The sweet treats are something not to be missed at Pinkmans Bakery . Their signature sour-dough-nuts are individually hand-rolled and fried, then piped with delicious fillings. Options include honeycomb mousse, vanilla cream & raspberry jam, and chocolate pecan brownie. Looking nothing like a traditional doughnut these are sure to curb your sugar cravings. Be sure to keep an eye out for the season’s special flavours too.

Koocha Mezze Bar

Translated from Persian, Koocha means corner and this is one of the best corners to stuff your face in Bristol. Showcasing Persian cooking on a plant-based menu, you’ll find items such as falafel, which is fantastic, a vegan kebab, that tastes like the real thing, a range of cocktails & cocktails for all, and an atmosphere that leaves you feeling like you’re having dinner at a friends house.

Speakeasies

In the last few years, the speakeasy trend has hit many major cities and Bristol is definitely on that list. Turn your night out on the town into a Speak Easy Pub crawl by checking out Hyde & Co, Milk Thistle, Red Light, and Kinkajou. Remember these aren’t easy to find but are worth the trouble. Expect a prohibition-style atmosphere and some fun touches, like using a phone box to call in for access.

Silent Disco

Friday and Saturday night down at Bristol Harbourside are some of the best nights out. But for a unique and fun experience look out of the silent disco. Grab a pair of headphones and switch through some killer tunes to jam to with dozens of other people as you watch the city come to light after dark.

Catch a show at the Hippodrome

Lion King, Matilda, Les Miserables, Riverdance, Dreamboys and even a live version of My dad Wrote a Porno. All these shows and so many more grace the stage at the iconic Hippodrome theatre in downtown Bristol and make for a great addition to any trip. After a day of exploring, settle into a plush seat with a cocktail and prepare to be entertained.

Live music at the Old Duke

Old Duke is of the oldest pubs in Bristol. It’s also one with the best selection of live music every night of the week. You’ll find a new musical act every night, showcasing some of Bristol’s incredible local talent in this cozy pub.

Smoke and Mirrors Boutique Pub & Magic Theatre

Who doesn’t love a bit of magic, right? In the heart of Bristol’s theatre district, Smoke and Mirrors will treat you to house magicians who will transfix guests with their tricks and slight of hand. Shows run Wednesday-Saturday. There are also live music and comedy nights, and a fabulous range of cocktails and food being served.

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

A long weekend of hot air balloons at Ashton Court, could there be anything more magical? Over a period of four days, the sky fills with over 130 different hot air balloons as pilots from all around the world gather for the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta . 

Weather understandably plays heavily on this event. But if the conditions are just, right the mass ascent as over 100 balloonists take to the skies of Bristol at dawn is a magical experience. 

Next dates: 8th – 11th August 2024

Downs Festival

Downs Festival is a two-day music festival on the Downs in Bristol. In the past, they’ve had the likes of Lauryn Hill, Noel Gallagher, The Heavy, and Talkshow grace the stages – expect more great names in future!

Next dates: 31st August and 1st September 2024

Harbour Festival

Every year, Bristol’s Harbourside sees hundreds of thousands of visitors. But busiest is the weekend of the iconic HarbourFest . Celebrating the city’s maritime heritage, the festival showcases the importance of the dockside in Bristol. Expect boat races, live music, games, food stalls and so much more! 

Next dates: 19th – 21st July 2024

(This section contains affiliate links.)

When it comes to making the most of your time (and money) in Bristol be sure to look to The Bristol Wing Hostel . Located in the heart of the city centre this hostel exists in the city’s former Police headquarters. It was taken over by the YMCA and turned into a gorgeous boutique hostel.

You’ll find private rooms as well as dorm beds, keeping you close to all the city has to offer. The cosy common areas are the perfect places to meet new friends or relax after a day of exploring. The hostel also offers a community-style meal every Thursday. It’s a great way to meet people and save a few quid too.

If a hotel is more your style look no further than Mercure Grand hotel . Located close to the old part of the city, this Grade II listed building oozes historic charm. And that’s before you even step foot through the front door!

With beautiful murals painted by local artists throughout the hotel and gorgeous decor everywhere you look, its style and charm on a whole new level. Fully equipped with a fabulous spa and beautiful swimming pool you’ll be left feeling relaxed. Keepers Kitchen & Bar is a favourite even by Bristol locals. It boasts a menu of locally sourced ingredients and fabulous cocktails to toast your visit to the city.

Extend your trip with some of these fab suggestions for nearby destinations…

Planning the Perfect Weekend in Bath

Best Afternoon Tea in Bath

19 of the Best Beaches in Dorset

This post was part of a series of “locals guides” to UK cities I’m running on my blog. My goal is to promote tourism all over my home country, and to help people discover the best of a city with the help of a genuine local. If you’d like to take part with a post all about your own city, please get in touch . I’d love to grow the section to cover every destination in the UK! 

Laura is a Canadian travel writer and photographer who has called Australia, New Zealand, and the UK “home”. Throughout all her travels her passion for sharing her stories has only increased as has her wanderlust. In addition to creating She Who Wanders, her work can also be found on HI-Hostels, NOMADasaurus and Penguin & Pia.

Do you have any recommendations for the best things to do in Bristol – or nearby? Scroll down to leave a comment or shoot me an email! 

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6 thoughts on “21 of the Best Things to do in Bristol – A Local’s Guide”

I love when restaurants have catchy names like Pasta Slut. That’s good to know that Bristol has good street arts. I would take the chocolate making class even if I only had one day.

Haha I thought that was a funny name too! Thanks for reading and commenting – I hope you get a chance to visit Bristol soon :)

i only briefly visited Bristol 20 years ago and I dont remember much other than I liked it. Im not sure I saw much at all though!

Haha you’ll have to go back! It’s one of my fave cities in England, very cool and loads to do!

Informative post! It will be very useful to most of the travelers. I really want to plan to visit once to Bristol. So, that I can view all the places you have mention in this post! Once again thanks.

Thanks so much Joe, I hope you get to visit Bristol soon!

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The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

While most travelers who visit England only visit London, there are actually a lot of other gems in the country worth exploring.

One such place is Bristol.

“Bristol? There’s not much there.”

That was the standard reply from locals whenever I mentioned I was heading to Bristol.

Most travelers seem to use it as a base for day trips to Stonehenge or Bath but never fully explore this city, giving it only a brief glance before heading back to London .

Needless to say, I had low expectations. But I visited anyway. After all, there’s no such thing as “must-see” — and that means there’s no such thing as “must skip” either.

On arrival, I found a hip college town with amazing eateries, wonderful things to see, and plenty of green space.

With a population of around 500,000, Bristol is the largest city in southern England (after London) and is also one of the largest shipping ports in England. It received a royal charter in 1155 and, until the rise of Liverpool , Birmingham, and Manchester during the Industrial Revolution, was one of England’s largest cities.

Bristol suffered extensive bombing during World War II and a subsequent decline in its manufacturing industry. Today, the city is a vibrant college town. The University of Bristol dominates the city, and the students provide a lot of income and jobs for the community.

To help you make the most out of your visit, here’s a list of my favorite things to see and do in Bristol:  

1. Bristol Cathedral

College Green, West End, +44 117 926 4879, bristol-cathedral.co.uk. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am -4pm and 11:30am-3pm on Sundays. Dress respectfully as this is a place of worship. Admission is free.  

2. Wander King Street

Originally laid out in 1650, King Street is a fascinating, historical part of Bristol. It used to be where the old sailing barges docked after their journeys from South Wales. Now the area is the heart of the theatrical district and features outstanding bars and restaurants. There are even some pubs from the 17th century that are still standing, such as The Hatchet Inn which was built in the Tudor style in 1606!  

3. See the Clifton Suspension Bridge

There’s a small visitor center nearby where you can learn more about the bridge and its history too (it’s open daily from 10am-5pm). To see the bridge from a different perspective, you can take a guided tour of the recently discovered vaults beneath the bridge (10 GBP).  

4. Check out St. Nicholas Market

This is a lively, bustling market with more shops than you could go through in an afternoon. There seems to be an endless number of farmers’ stalls with amazing local produce, second-hand bookshops, and vintage clothing stores. The market dates back to 1743 and is the perfect place to wander, explore, and people watch. While it’s a great place to wander on your own, you can visit and learn more about the market on this guided walking tour , which also visits an underground WWII air raid shelter.

Corn St, +44 117 922 4014, bristol.gov.uk/web/st-nicholas-markets. Open Monday-Saturday from 9:30am-5pm.  

5. Visit the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

Established in 1823, this museum covers a little bit of everything — from archaeology to dinosaurs to English history to art. The expansive variety keeps things interesting so even non-history buffs will enjoy it. It’s the area’s largest museum and one of my personal favorites. While there are tens of thousands of items in the museum’s collection, it’s not too overwhelming and easy to see in a few hours. Plus, like all public museums in England, it’s free!

Queens Road, +44 117 922 3571, bristolmuseums.org.uk/bristol-museum-and-art-gallery. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm. Admission is free but donations are encouraged.  

6. Take a Walking Tour

If haunted walks aren’t your cup of tea, take a street art tour (13 GBP). The famous Banksy is from Bristol, and the city is home to several works by him (as well as tons of other murals by artists from all over the world). To learn how to create your own spray paint stencil art (Banksy’s signature style), Where the Wall offers spray painting workshops every Saturday.

Bristol Pirate Walks are another fun option, especially for history buffs. These short walking tours allow you to experience some of Bristol’s oldest neighborhoods and will teach you about the early history of the city during the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. You’ll also get to see sites associated with legendary pirates like Long John Silver and Blackbeard. Tours last 1 hour and cost 12.50 GBP.  

7. See the S.S. Great Britain

Located in the harbor, the S.S Great Britain was the world’s first steam-powered passenger liner. It took its maiden voyage in 1845 and was actually the longest ship in the world for almost a decade. (It’s 322 feet long).

Unfortunately, since it was so big it took a long time to build (it took 6 years to complete) and the owners went bankrupt not long after it was launched. It ran aground not long after and was sold for salvage. After being repaired, the ship was used to ferry passengers to Australia from 1852-1881 when the ship was converted to all-sail. It was scuttled and sunk in the Falkland Islands in 1937 where it stayed for 33 years until it was recovered, hauled back to the UK, and turned into a tourist attraction.

Great Western Dockyard, +44 0117 926 0680, ssgreatbritain.org. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-4pm in autumn/winter and Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm . Admission is 22 GBP.  

8. Have Fun at WetheCurious

This science and art center is an educational charity dedicated to cultivating curiosity. Opened in 2000, it’s home to over 250 interactive exhibits, making it a fun and educational place to visit if you’re traveling with kids. They have a planetarium, 3D printers, and exhibits covering the human body, magnets, animation, and more! The building is currently closed for repairs after a fire but plans to reopen sometime in 2023.

1 Millennium Square, +44 0117 915 1000, wethecurious.org. Open Wednesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm. Admission is 16.50 GBP. They are currently closed but will reopen summer 2024 .  

9. Relax at the Downs

The Downs (Clifton Down and Durdham Down) are a protected parkland on the edge of the city. Spanning over 400 acres, they’re within walking distance of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge and make for a nice place to relax, stroll, and watch the locals play sports. The area known as the Sea Wall is the perfect place to take in the views, and there is plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a natural retreat without straying too far from the city.  

10. See Cabot Tower

Brandon Hill Park, +44 0117 922 3719, bristol.gov.uk/museums-parks-sports-culture/brandon-hill. Open daily from 8:00am-5:15pm. Admission is free.  

11. Visit Blaise Castle

Built in 1798 in the Gothic Revival style, this “castle” is actually a sham — it’s not a real castle but rather a look-alike built by a wealthy family just for the fun of it. It’s essentially an ornamental building, offering sweeping views over the surrounding 650 acres and the Avon Gorge. There is also a nearby historic home that has been converted into a museum where you can learn more about the castle and its quirky history.

Kings Weston Rd, +44 117 922 2000, bristol.gov.uk/museums-parks-sports-culture/blaise-castle-estate. Open daily from 7:30am–5:15pm (5:15pm in the winter). Admission is free.  

12. Ride the Avon Valley Railway

This railway, which dates back to the 1860s, once connected Bristol to Bath. Today it’s a three-mile heritage railway where you can ride a steam-powered train. There’s also a fully restored Victorian train station where you can get a sense of what traveling was like at the turn of the last century. For hiking enthusiasts, there’s a walking trail beside the tracks if you’d rather explore on foot.

Bitton Station, +44 117 932 5538, avonvalleyrailway.org. Open daily from 9:00am-5:00pm. Tickets are 11 GBP.  

13. Visit the Wookey Hole Caves

The Mill, High St, Wookey Hole, +44 1749 672243, wookey.co.uk. Opening hours vary based on holidays and seasons but are generally 9:30am-5:00pm in peak season and 10am-4:30pm in low season. Check the website for specific times. Admission is 22.95 GBP.  

14. Explore Gloucester Road

Bristol’s Gloucester Road features Europe’s largest stretch of independent shops. The whole street is walkable, and you’ll find plenty of places to stop and people-watch. You’ll find unique one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques every few steps, and it’s a great place to enjoy some tasty local food. There are also plenty of hip cafes and lively pubs in this area as well.

I thought Bristol , with its old industrial-turned-Bohemian charm, made for a great place to spend a few days. There were historic houses to visit, a few good museums, and some wonderful parks. Its image as an industrial center still lingers on in most of England, making it a place few go or want to explore.

But that works out for the rest of us. For while everyone else heads off to Bath , we can have the city of Bristol to ourselves.

I suspect the word will get out, but for now, Bristol remains a hidden gem and a city that is well worth a visit.

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Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect 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. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on England? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on England for even more planning tips!

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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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Best 5 Places to Visit in Bristol

Synonymous with the West Country accent and home of famous artist Bansky, ensuring you plan your visit to Bristol is a must. Offering unique culture, the arts, and open green spaces, if you haven’t had the chance to visit Bristol yet, take this as your sign to start planning your trip. What’s more, being just a stone's throw away from the historic roman city of Bath, double up your adventure and experience the beauty these two English cities have to offer. Still undecided? Let us share the top 5 places you must know before you visit, as well as our top tips for planning your trip to ensure you don’t miss anything. Table of Contents:

• Top 5 Places to Experience in Bristol

Best Places to Eat in Bristol

5 places to visit near bristol, how to get to bristol.

• When is the Best time to Visit Bristol?

Top 5 Places to Experience in Bristol

Bristol is home to countless things to see and do. In fact, it can be quite overwhelming to know where to start. To help you out, here are five top places to visit in Bristol:

• The Clifton Suspension Bridge . With a free visitor centre open 10am - 5pm daily, the world famous Clifton Suspension Bridge is an icon of the city. It’s almost a crime to visit Bristol and not see it. Designed by the great Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the bridge dates back to 1831. Visitors can walk across and marvel at the city below or climb up to the Clifton Observatory to admire the bridge and its gorgeous setting across the Avon Gorge.
• Ashton Court Estate . A place to explore both individually or as a way to spend time with the family, Ashton Court Estate is located about ten minutes out of Bristol city centre. Covering 850 acres of woodland, holding seasonal festivals and a host of free events, such as the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, we couldn't think of a better place to add to our must-see list than this estate.
• The Bristol Lido . Visit Bristol and take a plunge into the Bristol Lido . This beautiful outdoor pool is a peaceful urban oasis. And you’ll be happy to hear the water is heated. Enjoy a swim, treat yourself to a spa treatment, and have a delicious meal all in this romantic setting.
• The Theatre . Bristol has an incredibly impressive theatre scene. The Bristol Hippodrome is one of the largest theatres in Britain and often shows large hit musicals. Or try the newly revamped Bristol Old Vic which is celebrated for its wonderful performances from experimental theatre-makers. The Wardrobe Theatre offers a whole range of shows from comedy to family shows in an intimate, heartwarming setting. Try and fit a show in during your visit to Bristol.
• The Harbourside . At the heart of Bristol is a dock and floating harbour. The area is surrounded by funky bars and restaurants, cool shops, and intriguing attractions. Hop aboard a ferry to take in the scenery whilst you explore the different offerings along the Bristol Harbour - from the Spike Island art gallery to the SS Great Britain . Whilst you are enjoying the area, take a moment to reflect on its sombre origins. Bristol was built on the slave trade and the docks and harbour that remain today were a key port.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Wapping Wharf (@wappingwharf)

Bristol has a very inventive and cutting-edge food scene. You can find something to satisfy every palette in this city. Bristol is also very vegan friendly , drawing on multiple cultural influences with simple delights through to fine dining options. Here are five of the best places to eat at in Bristol:

• Souk Kitchen . Offering food inspired by the eastern mediterranean and middle east, Souk Kitchen is sure to impress. Their menu changes seasonally and makes the most of local ingredients in colourful dishes that will leave you wanting to lick the plate. It’s almost worth visiting Bristol just for Souk Kitchen alone.
• Oowee Vegan . Oowee Vegan opened its first store on Picton Street in Bristol in 2016. Since then, these dirty burger specialists have been so successful they’ve already opened four more restaurants. Plant-based and utterly delicious, this is food every traveller can enjoy.
• Bosco Pizzeria . If you like Italian food at a reasonable price look no further than Bosco Pizzeria . Their wood-fired Neapolitan style pizza says goodbye to all pretentiousness and lets simple quality ingredients do the talking. You’ll struggle not to adore a meal here. With their Regent Street location due for re-opening soon, Bristol is fortunate to have two Bosco restaurants on their doorstep. Be sure to discover this cuisine in their Whiteladies Road location on your next visit to Bristol.
• Paco Tapas . A Michelin-starred tapas bar, Paco will transport you from Bristol to spicy southern Spain . Their outstanding menu includes classics like patatas bravas as well as special dishes like Spanish hams carved to order. It would be a shame to visit Bristol and miss this truly amazing dining experience.
• Box-E . Part of the fantastic Wapping Wharf scene, Box-E is a miniscule eatery in a converted shipping container. Offering seasonal menus, you can find some of the best in modern British cooking here. If you’re planning to visit Bristol, try and book one of their seven-course tasting menus for a memorable meal you won’t want to stop talking about.

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Bristol is a wonderful city in itself but it’s also brilliant for its connections to the rest of south-west England. There are a whole host of incredible destinations just a short journey away from Bristol. Here are five of our favourite places to visit near Bristol:

• Bath . The city of Bath was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and it’s not hard to see why. The city is home to ancient Roman baths, Grand Georgian architecture and the impressive Bath Abbey. It’s easy to visit the City of Bath and Bristol in one trip as they are only about 12 miles from each other.
• The Cotswolds . It doesn’t get much more picturesquely English than touring The Cotswolds . Charming little villages dot the gorgeous rolling hills in this designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty . On a day trip from Bristol, you could see Bourton-on-the-Water, a village nicknamed “Venice of the Cotswolds.” Or visit Lacock Abbey, another iconic Harry Potter filming location alongside Alnwick castle .
• Cheddar Gorge . Just 20 miles from Bristol, Cheddar Gorge should be on everybody’s bucket list. Boasting awe-inspiring cliffs and extraordinary subterranean caves, Cheddar Gorge is not just an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty but it’s also a Site of Special Scientific Interest . Try rock climbing, uncover secrets about our prehistoric ancestors, or just enjoy the views. It’s all possible on a visit from Bristol.
• Devon . Known for its dramatic coastline, sweeping sandy beaches and vast green spaces, the natural beauty of Devon is mesmerising. It’s no wonder Devon is a popular tour destination from Bristol. Be sure to plan time to incorporate the seaside location into your trip, and allow your feet to walk upon the sandy shorelines for a relaxing escape.
• Berkeley Castle . Just north of Bristol is the imposing 12th-century Berkeley Castle . One of the best castles in England , Berkeley Castle was built to defend England from the Welsh. It’s still lived in today by the Berkeley family but you can spend a day exploring its amazing rooms and grounds.

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Touring from the city of Bristol is easy thanks to its well connected public transportation. Whether flying in from overseas, taking the scenic train line route or carpooling with friends and family, each method ends in the same result. An English tour in the city of Bristol. Let's break down each one to make starting off your holiday stress-free.

1. Visit Bristol by Train

Bristol has two main train stations - Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway . Bristol Temple Meads is the more central of the two, about a 15-minute walk away from the city centre. Trains between Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway run very frequently throughout the day and journeying between the two stations only takes about 13 minutes.

Travel to Bristol Temple Meads:

• Direct trains from London to Bristol Temple Meads usually depart every 30 minutes and the journey lasts around 1 hour and 45 minutes
• Direct trains run between Manchester and Bristol Temple Meads and take approximately 3 hours
• You can also visit Bristol by a direct train between Bristol Temple Meads and Edinburgh with the journey taking about 6 and a half hours

Travel to Bristol Parkway:

• A direct train from London to Bristol Parkway usually runs every hour and the journey takes an hour and 20 minutes
• You can also travel by a direct train between Bristol Parkway and Cardiff with the journey lasting about 50 minutes

Taking the train is a quick way to visit Bristol and if you book in advance, ticket prices can be very reasonable.

2. Visit Bristol by Plane

Another way to visit Bristol is to fly into Bristol Airport (IATA code: BRS). There are regular flights to and from other major cities in the UK as well overseas to Europe, allowing guests to experience the culture this city has to offer while keeping transport time low. This short transfer also works the other way, allowing Bristolians quick flight times when they want to tour Europe .

• Direct flights between Bristol and Edinburgh take 1 hour 15 minutes
• Direct flights between Bristol and Dublin take 1 hour 10 minutes
• Direct flights between Bristol and Belfast take 1 hour 10 minutes
• Direct flights between Bristol and Madrid take 2 hours 15 minutes
• Direct flights between Bristol and Lisbon take 2 hours 30 minutes

The Bristol Flyer bus service makes it easy to travel between the airport and the city centre with shuttles running every 10 minutes or so. 

* Airline schedules are subject to change. Whilst the information presented is correct at the time of writing, please check with your preferred airline or route for the latest information.

3. Visit Bristol by Car

It’s possible to drive into Bristol though it’s well worth checking their clean air zone charges before doing so.

• From central London, driving to Bristol takes about 3 hours
• From Oxford, driving to Bristol takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes
• From Manchester, driving to Bristol takes about 3 and a half hours
• From Cardiff, driving to Bristol takes about 1 and a half hours

Once you've arrived in Bristol some of the cheapest car park options are Trinity Centre and Bristol First Hotel Car Park . Both of these are within the city centre.

4. Visit Bristol by Bus

Regular buses run in and out of Bristol to many nearby towns and cities. The main Bristol Coach Station is located on Marlborough Street and is an easy walk to the city centre. Buses or coaches run between Bristol and:

• Weston Super Mare

Hopping aboard a bus to visit Bristol is an easy and affordable option. It can also be an easy and accessible way for solo travellers to see the breadth of the United Kingdom when they may not have friends and family to rely on.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Bristol?

There is no best time to visit Bristol in our opinion. The city is brilliant all year round. In summer, you can enjoy the lovely green spaces of Brandon Hill Park or the Clifton Downs . Touring in the British winter time , the city is lit up with magical lights and Christmas markets . Who wouldn’t want to experience both?

Visit Bristol and Beyond

With Bristol secured on your bucket list, why not explore what you need to know before visiting Belfast ? A tour of Ireland is just as enchanting as England, and is home to unique history everyone should learn about. But maybe Ireland has already been ticked off the list? No fear, why not explore Scotland ? Scenic landscapes draped in stories waiting for guests to ask of its history, and let's not forget you have a chance to spot wild, rugged coos . Sign up to our newsletter to be the first to hear of our newest location and seasonal deals.

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The £5 trip from Manchester to the 'best place to visit in the UK’

A new coach service will launch from Manchester to Bristol with tickets starting from just £4.49. FlixBus has announced the new route which takes three and a half hours - only 20 minutes more than the average Manchester to Bristol rail journey.

The direct service will not require any changes, unlike many rail options, and will operate twice a day each way, daily. It launches on July 20 and will operate between Manchester Shudehill and Bristol city centre (Bond Street), it also adds Manchester Moss Lane to the FlixBus network for the first time. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-fi, charging points and comfortable seating on board.

The routes will be delivered by FlixBus partner Belle Vue, based in Stockport , as part of an expansion of the Flix network. Belle Vue’s Managing Director Phil Hitchen said: "This new exciting service from FlixBus brings great affordability, quality and service for anyone travelling Manchester to Bristol and return.”

READ MORE: From waterfalls to woodland, the best Peak District walks you can get to by train

Launching just in time for the summer holidays, the new coach route is perfect for travellers wanting to take advantage of of events in both cities in the coming weeks. On July 27 Manchester will celebrate Manchester Day, while Manchester Pride takes place between August 23 and 26. For Bristol, find live music at Hospitality On The Harbour on August 3, while the annual Bristol Balloon Fiesta will take place August 9-11.

Bristol was named by travel publication Time Out as the best place to visit in the UK in 2024. The city bagged the top spot thanks to “its combination of picture-perfect streets, a bustling nightlife scene and its cultural offering going from strength to strength in 2024”. Time Out added: “There’s something for everyone in this southwesterly city.”

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