cool 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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The 23 best things to do in Bristol

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

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

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

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

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

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Best things to do in Bristol

1.  Marvel at the Clifton Suspension Bridge

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

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

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

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

2.  Get lost on the Clifton Downs

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

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

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

3.  Track down Bristol's graffiti

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

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

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

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

4.  Mess about on Millennium Square

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

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

5.  Cycle up, down and around the city

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

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

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

6.  Get your caffeine fix

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

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

7.  Spend some cash on Gloucester Road

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

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

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

8.  Learn how to brew like a Bristolian

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

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

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

9.  Tour the harbour by ferry

What is it?  See the city from the water. 

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

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

10.  Wander the shipping containers of Wapping Wharf

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

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

More great things to do in Bristol

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. See the colourful houses

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

3. Shop on fiercely independent Gloucester Road

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

4. Walk across every bridge

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

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

5. Sample the local speciality of cider

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

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

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

The Apple, Welsh Back, Bristol BS1 4SB

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

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

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

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

Spike Island, 133 Cumberland Rd, Bristol BS1 6UX

Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA

7. Climb aboard the SS Great Britain

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

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

8. Cycle up Vale Street for a sense of achievement

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

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

9. Climb Cabot Tower for panoramic views

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

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

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

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

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

11. Head to the theatre for amazing shows in Bristol

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

Bristol Old Vic, King St, Bristol BS1 4ED

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

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

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

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

12. Taste the world at Easton’s Sweet Mart

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. See Bristol’s famous graffiti

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

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

16. Sail the harbour on a ferry

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

17. Head to the romantic and secluded Blaise Castle

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

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

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

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

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

Bristol Lido, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1LP

19. Grab a pint at Bristol’s cat pub

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

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

20. Grab some food from Wapping Wharf

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

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

21. Watch classic movies in Bristol’s strangest locations

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

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

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

23. Discover Bristol’s independent craft breweries

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moor Beer Co, Days Rd, Bristol BS2 0QS

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

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

24. Pet a sheep at Bristol’s city farms

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

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

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

25. Visit the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

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

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

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

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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

Top 10 coolest things to see in Bristol (in a day!)

Bristol is one of the most culturally diverse cities I have ever visited and has a unique identity like no other! From its rich maritime history, world renowned graffiti artists, festivals, vintage scene and distinct music and art culture. There’s lots of awesome things to see and do in Bristol! But with the help of this guide you’ll manage to conquer a big chunk of it in just one day! Here are the top 10 coolest things to see in Bristol.

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1) Clifton Suspension Bridge

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of my favourite sights in Bristol! It’s over 150 years old and is completely unchanged since it was opened in 1864.

At the time of its construction it was intended to be the highest and longest suspension bridge in the world. However, as it took 33 years to build due to ongoing cash flow issues, other bridges sadly beat the record during its construction!

Despite not achieving the world records that engineers had hoped for, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is still an incredible feat of engineering.

It’s so unique that it’s still an amazing sight to behold for tourists visiting Bristol today. As it would have been for tourists over a century ago, observing ships coming down the Avon gorge from 250 feet.

The bridge has been at the centre of many interesting stories and legends over the years too!

One story involves a Victorian woman who attempted to jump from the bridge after a lover’s spat. However, a gust of wind blew her dress up, turning it into a parachute! She ended up landing below the bridge without a scratch on her (incredibly!).

Surviving such a shocking fall must of given her a sense of appreciation for life as she ended up living for a further 62 years, passing away at the age of 85!

2) Banksy street art

Banksy street art is definitely one of the biggest highlights of coming to Bristol! Especially if you’re a massive street art fan (like me!).

Bristol is the elusive Banksy’s hometown and his art can be found all over the city. 

I managed to see two of Banksy’s pieces during my day trip on a Walking Tour of Bristol . These included the “Well Hung Lover” on Frogmore Street and the “Paint Pot Angel” in Bristol Museum and Art Gallery.

The “Well Hung Lover” is my favourite as it’s very tongue in cheek, being sprayed onto the side of a sexual health clinic!

The mural depicts a naked man hanging from a window ledge as another suited man looks out trying to find him. Meanwhile his wife, (dressed in underwear!) holds his shoulder, worrying that her affair will be uncovered!

But it wasn’t the nature of the artwork that caused controversy funnily enough! “The Well Hung Lover” appeared at a time when Bristol Council was cracking down on graffiti.

Following pressure to keep the mural, the council created an online poll and 97% of the respondents were in support of keeping the mural.

This led to retrospective permission being granted – the first legal street art mural in the UK!

3) Bristol Harbour

Bristol has its roots in maritime history with a trading port being located here since 1051!

By the 14th century Bristol was trading with Spain, Portugal and Iceland. However, ships also left for the “New World” here – how cool is that?!

Bristol’s Harbourside is no longer home to sailors and merchants. Instead it’s now a thriving social scene with tonnes of restaurants, trendy bars and hotels.

It’s so picturesque, you could very well spend an entire day just here at Bristol Harbour!

If you’d like to find out more about the harbour’s history and see its most significant sights, I highly recommend going on a Guided Walking Tour of Bristol Old City and Harbour .

You can also explore Brunel’s SS Great Britain (the world’s first great ocean liner), At-Bristol Science Centre and M Shed – a brilliant exhibition on the history of Bristol.

4) Royal York Crescent

No visit to Bristol should be without a walk down Royal York Crescent. They are some of the most beautiful houses I think I have ever seen – and total Insta fodder!

The street features a row of stunning Grade II listed terrace houses overlooking Bristol Harbour. Each with their own colourful door and original features which gives each residence its own personality.

But don’t get any ideas! This is also one of the most expensive streets in town, with a basement flat selling here for over half a million pounds!

Still, enjoy taking a stroll down here en route to Bristol Harbour and get a glimpse into how the other half live – past AND present!

5) Bristol Planetarium

Bristol Planetarium is right by Bristol Harbour and is a great stop for science lovers and curious visitors alike!

They have loads of interactive and hands-on exhibitions for you to explore – most notably, ‘The Big Silver Ball”, which is the UK’s first 3D Planetarium.

You’ll have fun playing with the mirrors on the outside, whilst taking a trip to the stars in an amazing immersive experience on the inside of the Planetarium.

6) Cabot Tower on Brandon Hill

Aside from Clifton Suspension Bridge, Brandon Hill’s Cabot Tower boasts one of the best views in Bristol!

It’s also free to enter and sits in a lovely park with beautiful gardens that visitors will love.

The 105 foot tower was built in 1897 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of famed explorer, John Cabot’s voyage from Bristol to Newfoundland.

There’s even a reconstruction of the ship in the harbour in Bristol’s city centre, that you MUST check out!

7) Victoria Rooms

The Victoria Rooms is a stunning building located en route to Bristol city centre from the main train station.

With ancient Greek inspired columns and statement statues, it’s an incredibly striking Grade II listed building!

Opened in 1842, the Victoria Rooms was built originally as a music hall. However, it fast became the cultural centre of the West of England as an exhibition and conference centre.

It’s had many incarnations over the years, most notably as a meeting place for the suffragette movement, but now belongs to the University of Bristol’s department of music.

8) College Green

College Green is a beautiful open square where Bristol City Hall and Bristol Cathedral can be found.

The square was originally closed off as part of St Augustine’s Abbey as far back as the 12th century.

However, after King Henry VIII became head of his own church in order to marry Anne Boleyn, the abbey became a collegiate church. This meant the square would be opened up for the public to enjoy too.

Now, College Green is like no other central city square. It inhabits so many juxtaposing features which makes Bristol so individual and special.

With a Banksy, a Queen Victoria statue and a 12th century cathedral on opposite corners, it’s a really interesting place to see and hang out!

9) Clifton Arcade

The Clifton Arcade was opened in 1878 and is home to rows of awesome quirky art and vintage shops.

It’s a really unique shopping experience. Not just because of the treasures you can find, but for a chance to wander around this wonderfully preserved historic building.

With an elegant Victorian staircase and Venetian inspired decor, this gorgeous little shopping arcade is one of the coolest and loveliest things to see in Bristol!

10) Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital School (aka Hogwarts!)

You wouldn’t think that a school would be one of the coolest things to see in Bristol! But the Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital School was reportedly one of the inspirations for Hogwarts as JK Rowling grew up near the city.

Although the school was founded in 1586, it’s housed in a magnificent Grade II-listed building.

Built in 1847, the building is a wonderful example of the Victorian era’s gothic revival style architecture.

For more on Bristol, check out my best of Bristol…in a day video on my YouTube channel!

What top things to see in Bristol would put on your list? Let me know in the comments below!

Quick FYI guys – this post contains affiliate links to some tours I recommend. I will receive a small commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you . Thanks so much for your support!

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75 Unmissable Things To Do in Bristol For First Time Visitors

Did you know that a settlement has existed in the city we now call Bristol since as early as the Iron Age ? While this iconic city is exceedingly historic, it’s also one of the trendiest cities in the UK. This means there are plenty of things to do in Bristol to suit every kind of visitor.

Scott and I have lived in Bristol for nearly a decade now, and while it feels like we’ve explored every nook and cranny of this fabulous city, I’m sure there’s much more to be discovered.

That said, if we had to tell you about our favourite things to do in Bristol , then this list would probably be it. Whether you choose to do 5, 10, 15 or all 75 of these things, you’re sure to find something you’ll love doing. Let’s dive in!

Don’t Miss Bristol’s Best Things To Do

So that you don’t miss something epic, please feel free to use the skip-ahead links below to jump to the sections of this blog post you’re most interested in reading:

• Bristol’s landmarks
• Top museums in Bristol
• Bristol’s street art scene
• Top foodie spots in Bristol
• Unusual things to do in Bristol
• Bristol’s hidden gems and secret spots
• Best things to do in Bristol for nature lovers
• Shopping in Bristol
• Where to go for a night out in Bristol
• Iconic Bristol events and festivals

Alternatively, keep on reading for all the info!

See some of Bristol’s iconic landmarks

Given Bristol’s varied history, it’ll probably come as no surprise that there are a myriad of iconic landmarks to see here.

Clifton Suspension Bridge is probably the most iconic image associated with Bristol. The bridge was designed by the great Isambard Kingdom Brunel and has been used as a toll bridge since 1864.

Although it costs £1 to cross it in a car or on a motorbike, it’s free to cross by bicycle or on foot. Plus, the views you get of Avon Gorge and Bristol when walking across it are fantastic.

Speaking of epic views , another of Bristol’s iconic landmarks is Cabot Tower .

Located in Brandon Hill Park, you can climb the 109 steps to the top of Cabot Tower to take in the panoramic city views. Unsurprisingly, the best time to visit is just before sunset or on a sunny day for the best views.

Need To Know: The steps inside Cabot Tower are steep and small and the corridors narrow, so passing others on the stairs can be a little tricky.

Found within a short 10-minute walk of Cabot Tower is another iconic landmark: Bristol’s Cathedral .

While the cathedral was first founded in 1140 (then called St Augustine’s Abbey), much of the architecture you can see and appreciate today dates back to the 14th and 15th centuries.

Speaking of historic architecture, there’s lots of stunning Georgian and Victorian architecture to admire throughout Bristol.

For instance, did you know a popular hotel is housed within a former 20th-century bank? The hotel’s spa is actually located within the bank’s old vaults. Bristol is chock-full of secrets just like this. But I digress…

Let’s talk about Bristol’s Harbourside next, which is home to not one but two iconic ships.

Up first is The Matthew . The ship you can see today is a replica of the original ship that John Cabot used to sail to Newfoundland in 1497. At certain times of the year, you can hop aboard to sail past Avon Gorge.

Then there’s the SS Great Britain , which was designed by Brunel (yes, the same guy that designed the Clifton Suspension Bridge mentioned earlier!) The SS Great Britain is a Victorian passenger boat, which once sailed as far as Australia.

Today, you can see the underside of the boat and explore the first-class cabins inside, as well as the top deck. If possible, the best time to visit is on a sunny day so that you can admire the views across the harbour and enjoy the top deck without slipping and sliding in puddles.

READ NEXT: 23 Epic Facts About Bristol (You’ll Never Believe #6!)

Visit Bristol’s top museums

Another way to experience Bristol’s incredible history is by visiting some of the top museums.

If you’re keen to learn more about Bristol’s culture and heritage, and if you’re also into art, then a visit to the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is well worth it. You’ll even find a Banksy work of art here!

Speaking of art, the Arnolfini Art Gallery found at the Harbourside is another top thing to do in Bristol. Here, you’ll find a number of art exhibitions, which change throughout the year and are free to visit .

The M Shed is another great way to experience Bristol’s history; this time, with a focus on the city’s maritime heritage and what it’s like to live and work in Bristol (both now and in the past).

Interestingly, this museum is also home to an original Banksy. Plus, you can visit the museum for free!

Did you say free?! Another museum that won’t cost you a penny to visit is Blaise Museum set within the extensive grounds of Blaise Estate near Henbury in Bristol.

Here, you’ll find an 18th-century mansion complete with toys, clothes and decor from the same era. While you’re here, Blaise Estate is a stunning place to explore.

Finally, Aerospace Bristol is another museum that’s well worth visiting. Based in Filton (near the Airbus campus), this museum houses a myriad of aeroplane artefacts and exhibits and even entire aircraft you can see up close and go inside.

In fact, the Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the final Concorde to be built and the last to fly can be found here. How cool is that?!

READ NEXT: 30 Free Things To Do in Bristol

Marvel at Bristol’s vibrant street art scene

Given that Banksy himself (or herself!) grew up in Bristol, street art is as synonymous with this city as its maritime history is.

You’ll find some of Banksy’s earliest and unknown works of art throughout Bristol, as well as a more recent one they created to celebrate Valentine’s Day .

Although you can join an official guided walking tour like this one , finding Bristol’s most iconic street art on your own is also a great way to explore the city.

To help you, here are three different self-guided Banksy walking tours you can enjoy >>

But it’s not just Banksy street art murals you can admire. You’ll find incredible street art almost anywhere you wander within the city.

Also, in celebration of this, an annual street art festival called Upfest calls for local artists to make their mark on the various shopfronts and buildings within Southville and Bedminster (in the southern parts of Bristol).

The festival is usually held during the spring or summer months and it’s amazing to watch the artists at work!

READ NEXT: Extraordinary Banksy Exhibition at the Moco Museum

Enjoy Bristol’s best foodie spots

So far we’ve discovered that Bristol has a varied history and thriving art scene, but it’s also a great city for foodies.

While you’ll find many of our favourite restaurants listed in our local’s guide to Bristol , there’s so much more to discover.

Such as a little cafe in Downend (a suburb of Bristol) that specialises in freakshakes!

Or the popular Hart’s Bakery , which is housed within a Victorian railway arch.

Not to mention the charming Beese’s Riverside Bar & Restaurant , which you have to get a boat to.

Or, if you love street food, then St Nick’s Market is the place to be!

Scott and I are also big lovers of afternoon tea . I mean, come on, who doesn’t love scones with lashings of cream and jam, washed down with a good old cuppa?

Some of our favourite places to go for afternoon tea in Bristol are The Jetty Restaurant , Berwick Lodge and No 4. Clifton Village .

Given the city’s close proximity to Somerset, Bristol is also an excellent city for cider drinkers. So pick a bar, any bar, during your visit and try some good old-fashioned cider.

Some of our favourite cider bars in Bristol include The Apple , The Orchard Inn and The Stable .

Or, if gin’s more your thing then you might also enjoy The 6 O’Clock Gin Distillery Tour , which is just slightly north of Bristol in Thornbury.

READ NEXT: A Local’s Guide To Bristol: Insider Tips + Things To Do

Try some of the more unusual things to do in Bristol

We’ve already touched on the fact that Bristol is one of the UK’s trendiest cities.

It makes sense, then, that you should definitely try some of Bristol’s more unusual things to do.

Of which, there are many! Read on for a few of our favourites.

Up first is one of Bristol’s newest attractions, Wake the Tiger , which opened in the summer of 2022.

With its incredible art installations, dazzling lights, mystical sound effects and impressive feats of mechanical engineering, this stunning amazement park will make you feel like you’re stepping into another world.

Read our full review now to find out more >>

Bristol is also recently home to its very own urban axe throwing venue on All Saints Street.

Urban axe throwing is a bit like archery in that you’re aiming at a target for points. But the difference (obviously) is that you’re throwing axes rather than shooting arrows. It’s a lot of fun and definitely a unique thing to do in Bristol!

Read more about urban axe throwing in Bristol >>>

Both of these activities are perfect for a rainy day in Bristol – and here’s another suggestion: escape rooms! We’ve tried several within Bristol itself; our favourites include City Mazes , Escape Hunt and Locked In A Room .

Psst! Fancy trying an at-home escape game? Here’s our review of the games from Epic Escapes , which are, well, epic!

Following the same theme of fun and unusual indoor activities, we also love the adults-only nights that We The Curious (formerly known as At-Bristol) puts on occasionally.

By day, We The Curious is a science museum that children love. But during their after hours events, adults can explore the museum without children around and with a few beers in hand. Very cool!

UPDATE: We The Curious is currently closed following a fire they had in 2022. At the time of writing, they’re planning on reopening again in early 2024 .

If you’re like us and enjoy being big kids for the day, then you might also enjoy one of the several trampoline parks in Bristol .

You’re basically thrown into a huge warehouse space filled with trampolines for an hour. Expect to be very tired by the end of it!

Top Tip: Keep an eye on Groupon for cheap deals that occasionally pop up.

Speaking of being big kids, we also love Chance & Counters , next to the Christmas Steps, which is one of Bristol’s board game cafés.

In essence, you come here to drink, eat and play retro board games. They actually have over 850 games dotted around the bar!

As massive board game lovers ourselves, we think this is most definitely one of the best things to do in Bristol.

Hmm, I’m sensing a recurring theme here because coming up next is yet another “big kid” thing to do in Bristol: mini golf!

Bristol has a few great mini golf (or crazy golf) options. Scott and I have played mini golf every year since living in Bristol together. Here are some of our favourite places to go:

• Mr Mulligan’s near Cribbs Causeway: Where a retro bar and two very cool mini golf courses meet.
• Congo Falls Adventure Golf in Stockwood: Gushing waterfalls, babbling brooks and more add to the excitement!
• Jungle Rumble in Cabot Circus: Where palm trees and tiki huts decorate two mini golf courses.
• Caddy Gilmore’s in Hambrook: Where both King Kong and an ‘Around the World’ adventure await!

While it sounds a little (okay, a lot!) strange to suggest visiting a cemetery, Arnos Vale Cemetery is far from ordinary.

It’s often home to open-air theatre and movie nights, as well as something called the ‘Morbid Curiosity Tour’. During this nighttime tour, you’ll hear plenty of ghost stories and tales of murder. Spooky? Yes. Fun? Very.

If you love the sound of spooky nights, then you’ll also love FEAR at Avon Valley , which is an annual ‘scream park’ akin to something you might find at Thorpe Park.

There are several live-action mazes (the centre focus of the whole experience), various street theatre performances, pyrotechnic displays, stage shows, fairground rides and a number of food and drink stalls as well. It’s lots of fun and definitely worthy of a few screams!

For more info on what you can expect, take a look at our review now . We also think the VIP experience is well worth considering; you can read our review of that here .

Find some of Bristol’s hidden gems and secret spots

If you’re like us and love finding hidden gems and secret spots when you’re somewhere new, then there’s plenty to discover right here in Bristol.

For example, did you know Bristol once had its own timezone, which ran ten minutes behind London time?

While this changed with the introduction of train travel in 1840, the clock on the Exchange building on Corn Street still has Bristol’s old time on it. The red minute hand shows Greenwich Mean Time and the other minute hand shows “Bristol Time”.

Of course, you can discover some of these hidden gems with a walking tour – either guided or self-guided. Here’s a good one and this one also looks promising .

READ NEXT: 19 Bristol Secrets & Hidden Gems You Must Discover!

Escape into nature and the great outdoors

While Bristol is only the seventh largest city in England, the hustle and bustle of city life can feel overwhelming.

Thankfully, there are plenty of parks, green spaces, woodlands and more that you can escape to for some peace and quiet.

One of our favourites is Leigh Woods . The walk is fairly flat and easy and there’s also a fab viewpoint of the Clifton Suspension Bridge to enjoy from here.

The Downs in Clifton is another popular parkland and picnic spot with fantastic views across the city, and at 440 acres, it’s one of the largest green spaces in Bristol. There’s also the chance to see Avon Gorge and the Clifton Suspension Bridge from a different angle here.

Meanwhile, the Frome Valley Walkway connects a number of stunning green spaces and parks across the city, making this the perfect walk for first-time visitors to Bristol and those of you who love long walks.

The walk starts in Castle Park and takes you through places like Oldbury Court Estate , Huckford Quarry Nature Reserve and Old Sodbury .

Speaking of longer walks, you can follow the old railway line from Bristol to Bath . This is one of Bristol’s most popular cycle paths, but it’s also just fine for pedestrians. Just avoid peak commuting times when cyclists are in a rush!

For the nature lovers among you, you’ll also love a visit to the University of Bristol Botanic Garden . Inside, you’ll find a huge number of different plants, trees, flowers and shrubs. It’s the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

You might have already found yourself in Brandon Hill Park (where Cabot Tower is) and Conham River Park (where Beese’s Riverside Bar is). If not, then these are lovely places to while away a few hours outside.

Meanwhile, if you love animals, then you have a few options in and around Bristol. There’s St Werburghs City Farm , Windmill City Farm and the Bristol Zoo Project (formerly the Wild Place Project). You might also enjoy a trip to the Bristol Aquarium !

If you enjoy swimming, then the Bristol Lido (formerly Clifton Lido) is the perfect spot for you! Complete with a sauna and steam room, you’ll love a splash about here.

Finally, it wouldn’t be a blog post about Bristol without mentioning hot air balloons. If you really want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then why not take to the skies?!

There are several companies offering balloon rides in Bristol such as Bristol Balloons , Bailey Balloons and Virgin .

Shop ’til you drop in and around the city

If you want to shop for gifts or souvenirs while you’re in Bristol, then you have lots of options. Better still, you have lots of independent and local businesses to choose from.

Boasting one of the longest roads of independent shops, you can spend hours mooching along Gloucester Road .

From quirky clothing and used books to unique gifts and amazing patisseries, there’s so much amazing shopping on offer along this stretch of road. Don’t say we didn’t warn you and your credit card, though!

The St Nicholas Indoor Market is also worth a visit. It’s open every Monday to Saturday (9.30am – 5pm) and holds Bristol’s largest gathering of independent retailers. You’ll find so much in here, from clothes and homewares to jewellery, Bristol-inspired gifts and more.

You’ll probably also want to explore Clifton Village at some point. Clifton Village is a superb place for shopping, particularly if you love independent boutiques and a bit of luxury.

Finally, if you’re looking for chain stores, then check out Cabot Circus , The Galleries and Broadmead , which have your usual favourites. The Mall at Cribbs Causeway is also popular.

As for designer stores, Quakers Friars near Cabot Circus is home to many of Bristol’s high-end boutiques (mostly fashion houses) such as Harvey Nichols, Ted Baker, BOSS and Hobbs.

If you can afford to shop here, then you’ll be spoilt for choice. Otherwise, it’s also fun to window shop here. The displays at Harvey Nichols are magical year-round as you might expect.

READ NEXT: Epic Bristol Itinerary – How to Spend One Day in Bristol

Enjoy an epic night out

If you’ll be exploring Bristol at night, then you have lots of choices for what to do.

While we’ve already shared our favourite cider bars in the foodie section earlier, you might also enjoy a visit to The Llandoger Trow on King Street.

Dating back to 1664, this is one of the oldest pubs in Bristol and is said to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson and his book, Treasure Island.

Then there’s The Full Moon in St Paul’s, which has its own shisha bar. As The Full Moon is also a backpacker’s hostel, you’re sure to meet some really interesting people here.

Did you know Bristol is also home to a speakeasy? Although The Milk Thistle is no longer a secret, it’s still a cool place to go. Relax in the leather armchairs, drink cocktails and enjoy chatting with your partner while surrounded by super lush decor.

Or maybe you’d prefer a night at the theatre or a comedy club instead?

The Hippodrome is Bristol’s largest and most well-known theatre. Although it’s not quite as iconic as London’s West End, it does offer many of the most popular shows when the performers go on tour around the UK.

It also plays host to comedians and other performers although you’ll need to book most tickets about 3-4 months in advance to get the best seats. We recently saw Michael McIntyre here who was excellent!

The Bristol Beacon (formerly Colston Hall) is just around the corner from the Hippodrome and also has great shows. I once sat in the front row of a Marcus Brigstocke show here!

Speaking of comedians, head to the Rip Roar Comedy Club near the harbourside for a few laughs. It’s a small club, but the seating areas are quite private, so you’ll enjoy just chilling out and watching some live comedy. Just watch out for the comedians picking on you!

READ NEXT: 16 Epic Date Ideas & Romantic Things To Do in Bristol

Visit Bristol during one an iconic event or festival

Finally, Bristol is also home to many iconic events and festivals, which simply must make their way onto your Bristol bucket list.

Held at the start of every August on the grounds of Ashton Court Estate, the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is Europe’s largest meeting of hot air balloons, seeing over 130 balloons take to the skies every year. This Bristol festival is about as iconic as it gets – and it’s free to attend!

Also, in July each year, Bristol’s Harbour Festival is another fun (and free) event. This time, in celebration of Bristol’s thriving harbour, port and maritime history.

During the festival, various events and demonstrations happen, such as lifesaving swimming dogs, flyboarding and an annual cardboard box boat race. It’s great fun (especially if the sun is shining!)

Speaking of celebrations, St Paul’s Carnival is a celebration of everything Afro-Caribbean related, including food, music and the carnival atmosphere. You can look forward to this event every other summer.

If you’ll be in Bristol for the festive period , then you can also look forward to Bristol’s German Christmas Market . Full of glitzy Christmas decorations, original handmade crafts, tasty street food and all manner of gifts, you’ll love getting into the festive spirit here!

Also, for one weekend every year, Bristol unlocks over 100 doors that are normally closed to the public, thanks to the Bristol Open Doors Festival .

From old houses and decrepit bank vaults to historic museums and sacred churches, this is your one chance every year to see something in Bristol that you wouldn’t ordinarily see.

Other fabulous Bristol festivals and events to look out for include Love Saves The Day , Bristol Pride and DogFest .

Discover More Top Things To Do in Bristol

Phew! That was a long list; I’m genuinely surprised we had so much to say about Bristol. I guess that’s what comes from living here for close to a decade, eh?

That said, if you’re after even more top things to do in Bristol, then you might enjoy our other Bristol travel blogs , such as:

• Epic Bristol Itinerary: How to Spend One Day in Bristol
• 30 Free Things To Do in Bristol (Written By A Local!)
• 16 Epic Date Ideas & Romantic Things To Do in Bristol
• Where to See the Best Views in Bristol
• 23 of the Very Best Day Trips From Bristol

Did you enjoy this mammoth list of the best things to do in Bristol? Why not pin or bookmark it now, so you can read it again later?

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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The 15 Best Things to do in Bristol, England

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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About the Author:

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

• Last Updated 3 January 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 large 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

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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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Things to do in Bristol: 8 cool ideas

By Elly Deakin

Is Bristol one of England’s last bohemias? In 2018, around 80 people moved to Bristol from  London  a week, and then there was a further uptick post-pandemic as many Londoners made the 100-mile pilgrimage to a more relaxed pace of life. The once shabby southwest city has reinvented itself recently, with exciting new hotels and a surge of fantastic  restaurants  that shout about food sovereignty.

Historically, Bristol’s port was the second largest in England after  London , known for exporting wool and leather; pirates once walked its streets. Nowadays, Bristol is compact compared to London and  Manchester  but packs in culture with festival after festival, a thriving  vegan /vegetarian community and plenty of quick-fix  outdoorsy  options.

The locals worship the city (many never leave after school), and any dog-walking Bristolian will be itching to tell you about a cherished café, secret climbing spot or their mate’s next gig. It’s the home of Massive Attack and more recent favourites Idles – music runs through Bristol’s blood. You’ll rarely meet a Bristolian who isn’t associated with a local band. In this city of lost music genres, ska, reggae and drum & bass still thrive.

Built on anti-establishment attitudes and alternative lifestyles, Bristol has a potent personality you don’t find in the diluted capital or visitor-skewed  Edinburgh .

1. Soak up the beauty of Clifton

Clifton Village  is the home of honey-hued Georgian architecture, quaint streets and iconic views of Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge, securing it as one of the city's most picturesque areas to explore. You can easily spend a day here, beginning with brunch at Foliage Cafe, having a roam around Clifton’s upmarket boutiques, a stroll down Royal York Crescent, and then settling down at the White Lion or The Clifton Observatory to sample a local craft beer with views overlooking the Avon Gorge and Suspension Bridge.

In the afternoon, continue your adventure heading over the bridge to Leigh Woods and Ashton Court, both perfect for a dog walk and a wander in the wilderness right on the city's edge. Or a meander through Victoria Square will take you past Clifton Cathedral through Whiteladies Road and Cotham Hill, where you’ll find remarkable bars and restaurants like Bravas, The Metropolitan and The Crying Wolf.

Address:   Clifton Village, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4AD

2. Absorb Bristol’s history in the Old City and Christmas Steps

In the historic part of Bristol City Centre, the Christmas Steps quarter has many independent shops, galleries and eateries. The charming cobble-stepped street with its historical buildings looks like a scene set in the world of Harry Potter, so it’s a perfect photo-op. You could spend a few hours here shopping for a unique gift or souvenir, cosying up at the Christmas Steps pub or indulging in one of Ahh Toots’ delicious bakes. The street is just a stone's throw away from St. Nicholas Market and corking cocktail spots, including the award-winning bar Milk Thistle – so you won’t be short of things to do afterwards.

Address:   The Christmas Steps, 2 Christmas Steps, Bristol BS1 5BS

3. Wander Wapping Wharf and the Harbourside

For the foodies, Wapping Wharf is the perfect spot to tingle your tastebuds. This bustling destination adjacent to the M Shed Museum offers an eclectic mix of independent restaurants and cafes housed in cargo shipping containers. The community-driven area is a must-visit during the summer, where you can sit and enjoy delicious small plates and cocktails alfresco, with stunning views across the famous floating harbour to match.

The locals congregate on the Harbourside during the warmer months, taking a perch on the train tracks and enjoying a cool tipple next to the water. Further down the tracks, you can enjoy a cultural afternoon exploring Brunel’s SS Great Britain or having a mooch around the contemporary art galleries, Spike Island and the Arnolfini.

Address:   Wapping Wharf, Bristol ;  Harbourside, Bristol

4. Track down some street art

North Street in Bedminster is home to an array of vibrant murals by Bristol’s renowned local street artists. The area is bustling, especially during Upfest – Bristol’s world-famous graffiti festival, which highlights every key mural throughout Bedminster and where you can watch street artists in action. Despite the event taking a hiatus during 2023, you can still explore the area and discover some hidden gems, including the distinctive landmark ‘The Six Sisters’, celebrating six of Bristol’s women street artists, such as Zoe Power ( @zoepowpower  on Instagram) and Sophie Long ( @sophielongart  on Instagram). As well as soaking up Bristol’s Street art culture, the area offers a great selection of hip, independent coffee shops, bars and restaurants for all you foodies. In particular, the Sunday market at the Tobacco Factory is not to be missed.

Address:   North Street, Bedminster, Bristol

5. Hit up King Street

The 17th Century cobbled King Street is known in Bristol as an after-work watering hole for its locals. The area is especially buzzing during summer evenings, where you can enjoy live music at Bristol’s famous jazz pub, The Old Duke, sink cider like a true Bristolian at the Apple Cider Boat and soak up the street-party vibe as the sun sets over the surrounding historic buildings.

Experience theatrical magic at Bristol Old Vic Theatre, housed within the most remarkable grade-I listed building on the street. So it’s no surprise that Daniel Day-Lewis once called it “the most beautiful theatre in England”. The building underwent a multi-million-pound refurb in 2019, so if you dig architectural masterpieces, you’re in for a treat.

Address:   King Street, Bristol

6. Get cultural in Stokes Croft

Soak up the true grit of Bristol in Stokes Croft, the city’s creative core. The area is characterised by its unique residents, independent spirit and, of course, its graffiti by world-famous street artists Banksy (“The Mild Mild West”), Inkie and Alex Lucas ( @lucas_antics  on Instagram).

At night, the area is a  vibe  – experience some live music at the Crofter’s Rights, watch an indie film at the Cube Microplex Cinema or spend an evening wining and dining at Bianchis on Picton Street. Without forgetting its epic brunch places like The Crafty Egg, Artist Residence and The Bristolian, you won’t be stuck for things to eat here.

Address:   Stokes Croft, Bristol

7. Go on a Bristol beer trail

Bristol is home to over 20 breweries (and counting). Most of them are located in the city’s east side, where you’ll find home-grown heroes like Left Handed Giant, Wiper and True, Good Chemistry, Lost and Grounded, New Bristol Brewery, Arbor and Moor. Collaboration is a binding ethos in Bristol, so these breweries often join forces in their innovative approach to beer by participating in the annual East Bristol Beer Trail and Craft Beer Festival on the Harbourside. Left Handed Giant’s Brewpub in Finzels Reach is also a honeypot for tourists and locals alike, where you can enjoy a glass of Bristol’s finest fresh beer with the most idyllic view of the water and Castle Park – an essential stop-off in summer!

8. Get lost in Wake The Tiger

Located in St Philips, Wake the Tiger is a truly unique and magical walkthrough experience you won’t find in any other city. The brainchild of the team behind Boomtown Fair, the fantastical immersive ‘World of Meridia’ features 27 distinct interactive art installations with a trippy and tantalising twist for you to explore (and most likely get lost in!). The amazement park is one of a kind, fusing the latest technology and incredible artwork for all ages to enjoy. It’s not one to miss!

Address:   Wake The Tiger, 127 Albert Rd, Bristol BS2 0YA

16 Unique and Fun Things to Do in Bristol For First Timers

Steve Cummings

February 2, 2024

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Bristol is a city that often flies under the radar for tourists, yet it's an incredible place to live, work, and visit. 

There are loads of activities and sights for those who come to explore, and It's high time to highlight what makes Bristol so unique and share some insider tips on its many enjoyable experiences. 

In this guide, we'll focus on the best places, and plenty of free activities are on the list. 

Here are 16 of the best things to do in Bristol that we recommend you try if you visit. The only issue might be trying to fit them all into one trip!

1. Explore the Historic SS Great Britain.

Visiting the SS Great Britain is something pretty much everyone does when visiting Bristol, and that's why it's at the top of our list of things to do in Bristol.

Brunel created the SS Great Britain and is famous for changing the world. 

When you go on board, you get to see and feel what Life was like for people who traveled on it in the Victorian era. You can hear the sounds, see the sights, and even smell what it was like back then, which kids will enjoy. One cool thing is you can walk under the ship and see it from below through a glass floor, giving you a unique perspective.

People enjoy learning about the ship, especially how it's being looked after now so it can last a long time. The ship is easy to get around, and there are many things to touch and play with. 

The staff who work there are very knowledgeable and helpful and will be able to share a lot about the history and are happy to share stories about it.

2. Visit the Iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge.

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is the second most famous Bristol attraction after the SS Great Britain. Designed and built by Brunel in 1836, it's a long bridge that stretches high above the Avon Gorge. We recommend walking across this bridge as it is something special, and the views are amazing.

You can take a guided tour with the volunteers. These are great; you will learn a lot about the bridge, such as how it was built and its history. You wouldn't get to learn these on your own without a guide. The visitor center is also worth checking out as well. Put this on your list of unique things to do in Bristol, as you don't get one of these in any other cities.

3. Clifton Observatory

Following on from number 2, you should head over to the Clifton Observatory while you are at the bridge. Visiting here at sunset is best as the views are incredible.

There is an outside terrace where you can get a drink, and it's one of the more romantic things to do in Bristol. 

Inside, there's a small museum with some great gifts to buy, and on the top, there's a camera obscura, which you should check out.

4. Walk around Bristol Harbor

Bristol Harbour is a trendy spot right by the city center, and it's got a lot of different places to eat and drink. It is especially good In the evenings as it's lively and full of energy.

When it's sunny, Bristol Harbour is a great place to be. There's a lot to see and do, and it's easy to get around, even for people with trouble walking.

It's an excellent place to hang out, with restaurants, bars, and museums. There's also parking close by at Millennium Square.

5. Visit a Historic Pub

Visiting a historic pub is one of the best things to do in Bristol city center. We are fans of pubs here at the Frugal Expat. There's just something about them, especially in the UK. You can get a real sense of going back in time and start a conversation with a local while enjoying a pint.

We recommend heading to Bristols Harbourside, which is in the old town of Bristol.

Here you will find some of the better pubs, but one street that stands out is Kings Street, which is brilliant whether you visit in the daytime or the evening.

Our favorite is the Llandoger Trow, which dates back to 1664 and has over 28 kegs on tap, which are constantly updated on their website, and they have plenty of live music events each month.

6. Bristol Museum & Art Gallery.

The Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is one of the free things to do in Bristol on our list, with collections of art, nature, and history. 

It's in a beautiful building where you can learn about the last billion years of Earth's history, check out natural wonders from the region, and learn about people's past and present lives.

The museum gets excellent reviews, with people praising how good the staff is. They are always impressed with the exhibits and installations, which are impressive. 

It's worth visiting the museum as Bristol has lots of history and stories. While getting in is free, they suggest giving £5 to help look after the building. If you need to store your stuff, there are lockers, but you'll need a £1 coin.

7. Bristol Planetarium

This is one of the best things to do with kids in Bristol. You can't miss it as it's a massive silver ball on Millenium Square, and it's a place where you have to take a selfie before you go in.

Here, you will find all different sorts of space-related experiences. Kids under six will love Space Explorers 2D, which is aimed at kids, and there's also another one called Life in the Universe 3D, which is very popular with visitors.

Entry is free, which we like at the Frugal Expat, but donations are always recommended.

8. Take a Water Taxi

One of the best and unique ways to get around Bristol is to take their famous yellow and blue water taxis. These have been around since 1977 and are very popular with locals and tourists.

What we like about the water taxi is that it only costs £2 per taxi as it's a non-profit business. People often comment on how friendly and nice the crew is as well.

If you are not using it to pop from one side of the city to another, you could also try out one of the daily tours they run.

9. Relax in the beautiful Ashton Court Estate.

Ashton Court Estate is a great thing to do in Bristol with kids. 

This historic site features a 16th-century house set in 850 acres of grass, woodland, and gardens, including a beautiful sunken rose garden. It's home to two deer parks with Fallow and Red deer, making it a perfect spot for animal lovers.

The estate is a popular place for families, dog walkers, runners, and cyclists to explore. The Courtyard Cafe is a dog-friendly spot that's open every day, and there's also an activity center with a cafe and golf course open seven days a week. You can play golf, FootGolf, and Disc Golf or rent mountain bikes to explore the trails.

The grounds around the mansion are beautiful, with a lovely cafe and plenty of space for a picnic on the mansion's lawns. It's a safe and open area for kids to run around and play. With many expensive things, Ashton Court Estate offers families a perfect, budget-friendly outing.

10. Have a Cocktail at the Milk Thistle

If you are after things to do for couples in Bristol, then The Milk Thistle should be at the top of your list. This place is regularly voted one of the best bars in the UK, and when you enter, you will see why. 

It's a massive place, split over four floors, and inside, it's got a prohibition, speakeasy-style bar that looks classy.

The menu here is slightly different, and the bar staff are excellent. We recommend telling them what kind of unusual cocktails you like and having them make something up that's unique.

11. Visit the M Shed

M Shed is a unique place to learn about Bristol's history through various rare objects, films, photographs, and personal stories. It covers everything from prehistoric times to the present, showcasing Bristol's unique role.

One of the highlights at M Shed is the ‘Behind the Scenes at the Museum' tour. It's an hour-long journey through Bristol's history, from shipbuilding to chocolate making and from famous figures like Brunel to other important locals. 

What's impressive is it's one of the free things to do in Bristol, although you can donate at the end if you want to. There is also a cafe here that's worth checking out, as it serves some fantastic cakes and lovely coffee!

12. Check Out The Street Art

After a few cocktails, why not visit the Bristol Street Art scene? There is street art all over the city where you can find yourself. However, we recommend you try out one of the guided street art tours to ensure you find the best street art in Bristol.

One company that comes highly recommended is “ Where The Wall .” This tour lasts about 2 hours, which people rave about. You'll also learn about the famous Banksy, the street artist of all time.

13. St Nicholas Market for Local Crafts and Foods.

This is a fantastic market and one of Bristol's best places to eat. This market is a bit upmarket as the prices are not cheap and have a quirky feel.

It's the sort of place where you can go with a load of friends, and you can all pick different places to eat and then sit down in the communal area in the middle to enjoy your food together.

As well as the food stalls, there are plenty of independent shops worth checking out. You won't find any chain shops!

14. Bristol Aquarium

Bristol Aquarium should be on your list of things to do with families in Bristol. 

It's located right in the city center, which is excellent, and here you can view over 40 themed displays that include a variety of species, including piranhas, seahorses, and massive rays.

In addition to the aquarium, there is a massive botanical house full of plant species worldwide.

We think it's pretty pricey, but it's worth checking out if your children are fascinated by the ocean.

15. Bristol Cathedral 

On College Green, you'll find the Cathedral Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity, a historic church dating back to 1140. It's known as one of the finest medieval churches in the United Kingdom. 

The church underwent significant renovations in the 14th century, adopting the English Decorated Gothic style. A standout feature of this church is its east end, an outstanding example of medieval hall church architecture.

We have visited many cathedrals at the Frugal Expat, and this one is right up there as one of the best.

16. Free Audio Walking Tour

One of the best free things to do in Bristol is to take a free audio tour! You can download this from the official Visit Bristol website, and it's perfect that the city has put this together for visitors.

There are four tours to pick from, with some lasting up to 2 hours, so it's a great way to spend the morning. Our tip would be to get up early, grab a coffee from a local shop, and take the tour before the rest of Bristol wakes up.

17. Cabot Tower

Cabot Tower can be found in Brandhill Park, the oldest park in Bristol and stands at 105ft tall. Most people come here because they want to go up to the top of the tower and we recommend you do! It's open from 8 am Monday to Sunday.

Getting to the top can be hard work as it's 108 steps and quite steep and narrow. Your hard work will be rewarded with the best view of Bristol.

18. Aerospace Bristol

This is a fascinating place that all the family will enjoy. It's one of the few places to go inside Concorde, the famous supersonic passenger jet. Not many people can say they have been inside a Concorde, so it's an opportunity not to be missed when visiting the city.

It's not all about Concorde, though; there are helicopters, other airplanes, rockets, and lots of hands-on activities everyone can get involved with.

You could probably spend nearly a full day here as there's an outdoor play area for the kids and a lovely cafe and gift shop to visit at the end.

Final Thoughts

Bristol does float under the radar, but it's somewhere we think you should visit as there is something for everyone, and it's full of culture.

If you have any comments on anything mentioned in the article, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Related: 16 Fantastic Things to Do in Manchester With Kids

I’m Steve. I’m an English Teacher, traveler, and an avid outdoorsman. If you’d like to comment, ask a question, or simply say hi, leave me a message here, on Twitter (@thefrugalexpat1). Many of my posts have been written to help those in their journey to financial independence. I am on my journey, and as I learn more I hope to share more.  And as always, thanks for reading The Frugal Expat.

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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)

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22 Fun Things to do in Bristol, England

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Looking for fun things to do in Bristol? From Clifton Suspension Bridge to seeing Banksy, this is how to have the ultimate weekend in Bristol!

Bristol is without a doubt one of my favourite cities in the UK. It’s easily in my top 5 – it might even sneak in at no. 3.

It’s a city that has it all. The history of Isambard Brunel’s ground-breaking SS Great Britain, the infamous and iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, world-class street art by Banksy dotted all over the city, and an amazing food scene that’ll leave you drooling for more.  

As you can see, already there are so many fun things to do in Bristol – the only problem is squeezing everything into one trip!

I’ve been coming to Bristol ever since I was a student, so it’s a city I know really well. That’s why, in this blog post, I’m only going to show you the best places to visit in Bristol.

One of the things I love about Bristol is the city is very easy to get around. You can easily walk to most places listed here, and there’s a good bus network for those places on the edge of the city like Clifton.

If you’re planning a trip to Bristol, these are the places you’ll want to mark on your map for your weekend in the city.

I really hope you find this blog post useful, and I really hope love this city as much as I do!

Planning your UK adventures? Then check out the best places to visit in Shropshire and how to have the perfect day trip to Bath .

Getting to Bristol

From London , getting to Bristol is super easy.

It’s one of those cities where catching the National Rail train is a no-brainer.

Driving usually takes around 2.5 hours, petrol prices are through the roof at the moment, and it’s bad for the environment. Three negatives right off the bat.

In comparison, if you catch the fast train to Bristol, it only takes 1.5 hours. Also, our tickets only cost £96.20, so £48.10 per person. I think that’s damn good value! Looking at it, if you book well in advanced, you can get it a lot cheaper than that too.

We managed to save quite a bit of money by using our Two Together Railcard on our journey. If you don’t have one of these, I’d 100% recommend buying one as you can save up to a 1/3 on all train travel. It only costs £30 for the year, and often you’ll save more than that on one journey alone.

For example, we saved over £50 on this trip along, so we’ve made the money back already. If you travel by train with your partner a lot like Chole and I do, then it’s a nice little travel hack to save money.

Fun things to do in Bristol for couples

Learn all about the ss great britain.

To kick off your Bristol itinerary, I’d really recommend visiting the SS Great Britain .

Designed by Brunel, this is an interactive museum dedicated to what was once the largest passenger ship in the world. And if you can’t tell from the photos, it is absolutely massive.

In the mid-1850s, the SS Great Britain’s main route was to Australia. On board it carried over 600 passengers, 36 sheep, almost 100 goats, and a 1,000 chickens and turkeys! The journey took around 120 days – just imagine being on a ship like this for four months of your life!

I found the SS Great Britain fascinating. I didn’t know much about the ship, so it was really interesting walking around the museum and learning all about this ground-breaking ship.

Also, a lot of the exhibits are very interactive, so it’s perfect for the family. You can even buy a separate ticket to climb the rigging just like the sailors used to 150 years ago. I wish we had time to do that as it looked great fun!

Visit the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge

If there’s one iconic image of Bristol, it’s the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Spanning the Avon Gorge and River Avon, this suspension bridge was first opened in 1864. What’s crazy is this is another of Brunel’s engineering feats. And even crazier than that, he designed the bridge when he was just 24! I think I was picking fruit in Australia when I was 24!

Being an adrenaline junkie, another Clifton Suspension Bridge fact I love is the first ever bungee jump happened here in 1979. It takes some serious stones to be the first person ever to do a bungee jump!

On the far side of the bridge, you’ve got Leigh Woods which is a fantastic place to go for a walk (in fact, these are some of the best walks around Bristol if you’re interested). And on the near side, there’s another park where you’ll also find the Clifton Observatory.

It’s on this side that you can get some really good photos of the bridge. This is a lovely place to visit in the morning to start your day.

Have a sundowner drink at Clifton Observatory

One of my fave fun things to do in Bristol is head to the Clifton Observatory at sunset.

Here you can grab a drink, sit on the outside terrace, and enjoy the sunset with stunning views of the bridge. It’s such an amazing spot that people don’t make use of enough. It’s also cheap too – in London, you’d pay top dollar for a view like this.

The Clifton Observatory has been here since 1766, so it’s a lot older than the suspension bridge.

There’s a small museum inside the observatory with a really cool camera obscura at the top.

You can also head down deep into the depths of the Giant’s Cave here. This is a cave cut into the Avon Gorge cliffs, one where an ancient giant used to live. There are 140 steep steps down through the rock, and once you get out into the cave you have an amazing view of the bridge.

Walk around the pretty streets at Clifton Village

Clifton Village is regarded as one of the prettiest neighbourhoods in Bristol. True to its name, it has a really charming village vibe here.

After you’ve seen the bridge, I’d really recommend walking around this area popping into all the different boutique shops.

There are a number of cafes, delis, restaurants and pubs to choose from here that it’s impossible listing them all – I should do a separate guide to Clifton Village.

One spot you have to visit is the Royal York Crescent. This is a row of Georgian houses that is just oh so pretty. It’s little streets like this which is why I love Bristol so much.

Go on a self-guided street art tour

Banksy and Bristol. They go hand-in-hand, don’t they?

Yes, Bristol is the stomping ground of the elusive street artist Banksy. He is considered as one of the founding fathers to street art and helped the street art scene explode as a cultural phenomenon around the world.

One of Banksy’s earliest known works Mild Mild West appeared in the late 90s in Stokes Croft. This is the image of a teddy bear throwing a Molotov cocktail at a squad of riot police, apparently a response to police cracking down on so-called ‘illegal raves’ at the time.

There are so many Banksy’s tours to go on in Bristol. However, if you fancy taking things at your own speed, then check out ‘ Where’s the Wall ’ – this is a self-guided street art tour which you download as an app/web page.

In the app it takes you to some of the best street art in Bristol (including all the Banksy’s). At each mural, there’s a detailed video to give you the background information which I really liked. It meant we could go on our own street art tour without having to rush around on a guided tour.

For me, this is one of the top fun things to do in Bristol for adults.

Grab a bit to eat at Cargo in Wapping Wharf

Wapping Wharf is one of the newest quarters of Bristol in the old historic harbourside. Located right by the water, Cargo is a collection of converted shipping containers that now house trendy bars, cafes and restaurants.

You’ll also find everything from a florist to an ethical clothes shop, all the way through to a butchers and a barbers.

However, for me this is one of the top places to eat in Bristol. There are so many places to choose from, so the best thing to do is wander around and see what your taste buds fancy.

Cargo Cantina do delicious tacos, Dog Town do crazy American hot dogs, Salt & Malt do quality fish & chips, but we went for a poke bowl at Loki Poke. Everyone raves about this place and it did not disappoint.

Get your coffee hit from New Cut Coffee

Bristol is a city that does good coffee; you’re definitely not short of hipster cafes and pop-up vans offering cold brews and turbo-charged espressos.

On Spike Island, a couple of places that I’d recommend are Little Victories and New Cut Coffee.

Little Victories has those cool Scandi vibes, while New Cut Coffee has a stripped back urban warehouse feel to the place.

Both do great coffee though, so if you’re a coffee aficionado then these are the two stops for you on Spike Island.

Catch a water taxi to Spike Island or the city centre

One of the best ways of getting around Bristol is by water taxi. Bristol Ferry have been serving Bristol’s waterways since 1977, and their iconic yellow and blue boats have been buzzing people all around the city.

One of the things that’s great about Bristol Ferry is they are a not-for-profit business. That means tickets are really cheap – only £2 per person – and the crew are always really friendly too.

They also offer daily tours if you fancy a more in-depth view of Bristol’s waterways. They also do a gin cruise on Thursday’s which is just a marvellous idea.

See the mirror-ball in Millennium Square

Millennium Square is usually written off in Bristol travel guides, but it has been going through a phase of regeneration over the past few years.

Around the outside of the square there are a number of bars and restaurants, and it can be a fun spot to visit on a night out.

At Christmas, there’s an ice rink in Millennium Square with an apres ski bar, festive film screenings and a number of food stalls too.

I really love the giant mirror-ball though. Originally built for the millennium in 2000, this was part of the city’s science museum. It’s very kitsch (some might say tacky), but it’s a cool photo spot.

Relax on College Green

If you didn’t know already, Bristol is one of the top universities in the country with over 20,000 students calling this place home.

And unlike the nearby campus universities of Birmingham and Bath , Bristol is a proper city university with different uni buildings dotted all over the place.

That means, when visiting here, you get a little insight into uni life. It’s one of the reasons the city is so liberal-minded with lots of local activism.

One of the best places to do see is on College Green opposite Bristol Cathedral. In summer, you can kick back and relax on the grass and watch the world go by. Despite being right in the centre of the city, it’s surprisingly peaceful, especially on a hot sunny day.

Get your ice cream fix at Swoon Gelato

Talking of hot sunny days, you’ll want to make sure you add Swoon Gelato to your Bristol itinerary. This is considered the be gelato in the city.

Instead of crazy flavours like key lime pie or peanut butter & jelly, you just get standard flavours like chocolate, salted caramel and strawberry. But even though they’re simple flavours, they’ll be the best version you’ll ever have. Honestly, I can’t tell you how good the gelato is here.

It’s quite pricy, around £4.25 for a single scoop, but it’s worth it. Decadent and down right delicious.

Try the infamous sourdough donuts from Pinkmans

If gelato isn’t your thing, then keep on walking up the hill towards Cabot Tower and you’ll pass the infamous Pinkmans bakery . This place has been voted in the top 25 bakeries in the UK, so you know you’re in good hands here.

From freshly baked bread to pastries and sandwiches, everything is delightful. However, the thing that put Pinksmans on the map is their signature sour-dough-nuts. These are super light and fluffy and piped with more cream than you can manage.

They always have seasonal specials on. As we visited in summer, they had a tropical coconut & pineapple doughnut – all I needed was a pina colada to go along with it and I would’ve been in heaven. 

Climb to the top of Cabot Tower

Cabot Tower , set in the tranquil parkland of Brandon Hill, was originally built in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot’s famous voyage from Bristol to North America 400 years earlier.

Open to the public, you can climb the spiral staircase to the top of the tower for some of the best views overlooking Bristol. From up here you get to see the beauty of South West England. I’d say this is one of the best free things to do in Bristol, so if you’re on a budget then this one is for you.

Pop into Bristol Museum

Another place that’s free for tourists is Bristol Museum. With 19 galleries over 3 floors, Bristol Museum showcases world-class collections of art, archaeology, geology and natural history.

In 2009, the museum hosted an exhibition by Banksy featuring more than 70 works of art. The exhibition was developed in secrecy with no pr. Basically, this massive Banksy exhibition dropped and no one knew about it. How cool is that!?

The exhibition was probably one of the most publicised visual arts events in living memory and the most popular art exhibition ever held in Bristol.

To commemorate this event, you can find one of his most famous pieces, the Paint Pot Angel, in the main hall as you walk in. It really is such a statement piece.

Go for dinner at The Coconut Tree

I can honestly say that the Coconut Tree is the best Sri Lankan food I’ve eaten outside of Sri Lanka. Hands down it’s the best.

The food is authentic, aromatic, super spicy, and generous – all the things it was when I travelled around Sri Lanka.

It’s a proper feast too. All the dishes are priced between £4 and £9, so it means you can order loads of different dishes.

My favourite dishes were the black pork curry, the goat curry, the salmon infused in coconut milk, and the tender pumpkin cooked in coconut cream.

The only thing I’m gutted about is that they don’t have a restaurant in London, because I would eat there all the time. Seriously, it really is that good, so make sure you add this to your things to do in Bristol for couples.

Have a pint in a cosy pub

There are so many brilliant pubs dotted all around Bristol, so if you like a tipple then you’ll be very happy here.

If you’re looking for a pub with a killer view of Clifton Suspension Bridge, then the White Lion is a must. There is an outside terrace here with some of the best views of the bridge.

A little further down the road is the Portcullis; this is one of the top-rated pubs in Bristol and it’s a proper boozer. They also do indie-film nights here too which are fun.

Another pub worth mentioning is the Coronation Tap. This is a cider house where they have their very own Exhibition cider. They can only serve this cider in half-pint glasses because it’s anywhere between 13-16%, so it’s pretty punchy! Usually I can only manage about 3 of these before I stagger out the pub…

Or have cocktails at one of the UK’s top cocktail bars

The Milk Thistle is always consistently voted as one of the UK’s top cocktail bars. This is a prohibition-style speak-easy bar that exudes style and sophistication.

Spread across four floors and hidden in plain view right in the city centre, the Milk Thistle is a haven of stunning architecture, eclectic decor and exceptional cocktails.

The venue includes a clandestine hidden vault, a decadent lounge bar, and a parlour bar. The drinks menu is very unusual, so it’s best to tell the server what type of cocktail you like and they’ll take it from there.

I would say this is one of the top fun things to do in Bristol for adults, especially if you’re looking for a fun place to begin or end your night.

Go for a fancy lunch at Adelina Yard

Chloe and I love our fine dining. There are a few Michelin starred restaurants in Bristol, but we wanted somewhere that wouldn’t break the bank. That’s when I found the lunch menu at Adelina Yard .

This four-course tasting menu is only £38 per person, which I think is really good value for money. You can also get a g&t for only £5.50 – bargain.

Adelina Yard is modern British cooking at its finest. Executive chefs Olivia Barry and Jamie Randall really champion local sourced ingredients and make them sing.

My favourite was the smoked eel, beetroot, burnt apple and pickled kelp dish. It was super complex in its flavours with a nice texture from the beetroot crisp and a palette cleansing sharpness from the pickled kelp. Just perfect.

If you’re in the city and are looking for the best brunch spots in Bristol , then this is the guide for you!

Where to stay in Bristol

The clayton hotel bristol city.

For our trip, we stated at the Clayton Hotel right in the heart of the city. This is a 4* hotel that is beautifully housed in the grade II listed former print works. The design of the building celebrates Bristol’s links to art whilst restoring a piece of local history.

The interior of the hotel is really open and modern, as are the rooms. One of the things I loved about the room was it was completely quiet – for a city centre hotel that’s pretty rare, so it was nice to be able to fully relax.

Being right in the heart of the city centre is what makes this such a great place to stay though. Most places listed in my fun things to do in Bristol are a 10-to-15-minute walk away from the hotel, so it’s a great place to base yourself for your weekend in Bristol.

Also, and I’m sure larger groups staying here will be happy to hear, but the breakfast is amazing. It definitely helps to fuel up when you’ve got a big day of sightseeing ahead of you.

This post was in association with National Rail highlighting some of the best weekend breaks (like Whitstable ) in the UK. As always, all views are entirely my own and without bias .

Which of these fun things to do in Bristol for adults is your favourite? If you have any questions at all about the activities featured here, let me know in the comments below!

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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Adventures of Alice

A Day Trip to Bristol: The Perfect One Day in Bristol Itinerary

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Planning a day trip to Bristol and aren’t sure where to start? Here are my honest thoughts on spending a day in Bristol, what to do, where to stay, and what to expect!

Bristol is one of those cities that often falls under the radar. People who visit the UK tend to visit London. But there are so many other destinations including cool, quirky cities, like this. I recently went on a day trip to Bristol and I can confirm that this city should definitely be on your list!

Located in the West of England, Bristol is pretty unique. There’s a lot of maritime history here as well as funky street art (it’s the home of Banksy, after all), a great food scene, lots of outdoor attractions, and several large manor houses that are surprisingly close to the city. 

I’ve always been a little captivated by Bristol. We used to visit quite a lot when I was younger to see family who live nearby. I have great memories of walking the Clifton Suspension Bridge, finding all the street art, and visiting the Zoo. But, it felt great to return now and discover a side of the city that hadn’t really interested me as a child!

My Favourite Travel Resources for Bristol

✅ Here’s the hotel we stayed at during our time here ✅ Don’t miss: Wake the Tiger and the SS Great Britain

Here’s The Perfect Itinerary For A Day Trip to Bristol

I’ve mapped out all of my favourite spots to visit during a Bristol day trip on this itinerary. You’ll probably want to see some of Bristol’s most popular attractions , but I’ve also thrown in a few hidden gems and more unusual sights that you may want to add to your list.

9:30 – Visit Clifton Suspension Bridge and Observatory

I’ve started this itinerary at 9:30am because, depending on where you’re coming from, you may have a pretty long drive before you get to the city. It took us around 2.5 hours to get to Bristol and I figured you may not want to leave your house at 6am (or earlier)! 

Don’t worry though – this will still give you plenty of time to see lots of cool stuff in Bristol. 

Anyway, I’ve digressed – Clifton Suspension Bridge. 

This is possibly one of the most famous sights in the city. It spans the picturesque Avon Gorge and connects Bristol to Leigh Woods in North Somerset . The bridge was created by Isambard Kingdom Brunel (whom you’ll hear quite a lot of in this Bristol itinerary) in 1864. 

With two large Gothic towers and dramatic iron chains, it’s a pretty impressive sight. The best way to view the bridge is from the Clifton Observatory which is conveniently positioned on the hill above the bridge on the Bristol side. 

The observatory is an interesting place to visit on its own. Inside, you’ll find one of the oldest working camera obscuras in the UK. Plus, it’s a great place to get a unique view of Bristol’s skyline. 

10:00 – Climb into Giant’s Cave

Also located at the Clifton Observatory site is Giant’s Cave. This tunnelling cavern dates back to 305 AD when it was a very unusual chapel. Since then, it’s opened up to the public and now provides a unique way to experience Avon Gorge. 

The cave snakes its way into the side of the gorge and you can climb down inside it. It’s pretty steep and can be slippery in places, so I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. It’s a very unique experience. 

From the bottom, you’ll reach a small metal platform where you can view the bridge. The netting that covers the platform makes it pretty tricky to get a good photo, but it’s still worth the £3 entrance fee. 

I had no idea that there was a cave here either, so loved the experience.

Top Tip : To get to both of these places, parking can be a little tricky. There’s no specific parking for the Observatory, so you’ll have to use the on-road parking nearby and walk up to the bridge. To get to the parking, drive up the road from the bridge’s toll booth and take the first two lefts – there’s on-road parking there and it’s just a few minutes to walk to the observatory. I’ve also linked the spot on maps here .

10:30 – Explore the SS Great Britain

After you’ve snapped all the photos of the majestic Clifton Suspension Bridge, head into the city of Bristol to see another of the most popular attractions. 

You can’t miss the SS Great Britain on a day trip to Bristol. Also created by Brunel (I told you that you’d be hearing a lot about this guy!), it’s one of the city’s most famous icons and it is so much fun to explore. 

Back in her heyday (the 1840s), the SS Great Britain was one of the largest passenger ships in the world. It could carry up to 750 passengers. While that doesn’t seem like a lot these days, when you consider the ship was making epic voyages from England to Australia, it still seems pretty impressive to me!

There’s a lot of history to see here and you can almost spend an entire half a day exploring the ship alone. There are interactive exhibits, a dedicated museum, and recreations of how things would’ve looked on the ship back in the day.

Even the docks before you actually go on the ship have been made to look like the past. 

✅ Book tickets to the SS Great Britain here

Top Tip : If you’ve travelled to Bristol by car, the easiest thing to do when you reach the city is to pay for parking and walk between attractions. We parked at The Galleries car park and got around the city mostly on foot, with a few buses. Parking wasn’t cheap at £18 per day, but we got a discount with our hotel. 

13:00 – Lunch

After you’ve explored the SS Great Britain, you’re probably feeling a little peckish. Well, don’t worry because there are lots of cool places to eat in Bristol. 

If you want to stay on the side of the river you’re already on, I recommend heading to Cargo in Wapping Wharf , a super cool shipping container complex with lots of different street food options. 

Alternatively, you can cross the river via the ferry and you’ll also find lots of great eateries as soon as you step off it. 

13:30 – Explore Bristol’s Street Art Scene

Bristol is famous for its street art. Being the home of Banksy, this is really no surprise, but there’s so much incredible graffiti and murals on the streets of Bristol. 

You could easily spend hours wandering around and discovering all of the call works of art you can find. However, if you only have one day in Bristol, I suggest spending around an hour exploring the street art. 

You could go on a self-guided street art walking tour, like this one from Where the Wall . They’ll take you to lots of cool spots and hidden gems in the city that you might not have otherwise seen. 

14:30 – Climb up to Cabot Tower

After exploring the artwork in Bristol, I recommend visiting Cabot Tower. 

This was a little bit of a spontaneous addition to our itinerary. We were on the ferry (which I’ll explain about soon!) and saw the tower on the horizon. I decided I wanted to check it out and off we went!

I’ll be perfectly honest, you’re in for a bit of an uphill climb here. But it’ll only take around 15-20 minutes, so it’s not too bad. 

Located on top of Brandon Hill, the tower is a tribute to the maritime explorer John Cabot. Built in 1897, it honours the 400th anniversary of his voyage to America. 

The views from the top of this hill are spectacular. You can climb the spiral staircase inside the tower to see all over Bristol, from the Clifton Suspension Bridge to the SS Great Britain. 

The park itself is also a lovely spot. With the flowers in bloom, it’s really pretty and you can relax on the benches and watch the world go by. The park and the tower are also completely free to visit, which is a bonus!

15:15 – Visit Bristol Cathedral

Just a short walk downhill from Cabot Tower and you’ll find Bristol Cathedral. This work of art and masterpiece of Gothic architecture dates back over 900 years.

Originally created as St. Augustine’s Abbey in the 12th century, this building is incredibly detailed. It’s located in the heart of the city too, surrounded by restaurants and cafes.  you’ll also be able to see the City Hall with its pretty fountains beside the Cathedral. 

Once you’ve explored the outside, be sure to head inside to see the elaborate decoration, large columns, and beautiful stained glass windows. 

16:00 – Visit Wake the Tiger

This was easily one of the coolest things we did on our day trip to Bristol and I highly recommend Wake the Tiger if you love immersive attractions. 

The experience takes you through a maze of colours and lights. It tells the story of an alternate world that sprouted out of an abandoned factory. You can walk through rooms of floating dandelions, see cracks in dimensions, see lots of mushrooms, and find doors that don’t look like doors at all! 

Seriously, we were in one room working out a puzzle and there was an innocent-looking filing cabinet in the corner. The next second, people were coming out of the filing cabinet and I realised that it was a door to another room. I don’t think I’ve jumped so much in a long time!

As well as lights, colours, and suspicious doors, there are puzzles that you have to work out and riddles that you solve. There is a VR headset in one section, a fake fire, and two swirly slides that you can go down to reach other levels!

The entire complex has had a complete revamp and they’ve added a whole new level, so I highly recommend checking this place out – it’s literally out of this world!

✅ Book tickets to Wake the Tiger here.

Top Tip : Getting from the cathedral to Wake the Tiger is quite a long walk – around 40 minutes in total. If you don’t fancy this, I recommend getting the bus. It only costs £2 per person, and you can be there in 10 minutes. 

18:30 – Go for Dinner

By this time, you’re probably a little peckish again. We took the bus back to Bristol city centre and grabbed a delicious Vietnamese dinner at one of my favourite restaurants – Pho . 

They also have one of these in Cambridge which I love, I was craving noodles, so thought why not? 

However, if you want something original, there are lots of great restaurants in Bristol including. Caribbean Croft is a quirky Jamaican joint, The Barley Mow is a great place for some scrummy pub food, and Souk Kitchen serves delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

Where To Stay in Bristol

I absolutely loved where we stayed in Bristol. It was called Brooks Guesthouse and it was the cutest little place, tucked away near St Nicholas Market. The location was central, the rooms were gorgeous, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. 

We had a double room and it was very spacious and comfortable. The bed was huge and you just sunk into the mattress. The bathroom was modern and well-designed, and they provided plenty of amenities. 

We took full advantage of the little sachets of hot chocolate they provided – they were the perfect way to relax after walking around Bristol all day!

The breakfast at Brooks Guesthouse Bristol

Also, the breakfast the next morning was on another level. I’m used to breakfast buffets at hotels, but at Brooks , they provided both a continental buffet and a hot menu that was cooked to order. 

The continental had a selection of cereals, pastries, yoghurt, and fresh fruit. From the hot menu, there was a range of options including scrambled eggs and smoked salmon, eggs benedict, a full English, and avocado on toast. 

We went for the eggs benedict and the avocado on toast and they were both delicious. Plus, you could see the chefs cooking it behind us in the open kitchen – that’s how fresh it was!

The only slight downside was that their central location meant that had no on-site parking and parking in Bristol is quite expensive. However, the nearby Galleries parking is only a 5-minute walk away, and if you hand in your parking ticket at reception, they offer you a £3 discount on your parking. 

However, overall, my experience with Brooks Guesthouse was fantastic and I would 100% stay there again.

✅ Check prices and book a room at Brooks Guesthouse Bristol

How to Get Around For a Day in Bristol

For the most part, we were able to walk around the city. Bristol is very walkable and most of the attractions are within a short distance of one another. 

We only had to use public transport twice. The first time, to get to Wake the Tiger, we took a bus to save a 38-minute walk from the city centre. The second time, we used the foot ferry to get across the river – for obvious reasons!

The public transport is really easy to use. For the buses, you can just tap your debit card on the reader at the front of the bus to buy a ticket. You then have to tap off again once you leave the bus and it’ll charge you correctly. Each ride costs £2. 

The ferry is also easy. We simply walked up to the docks and were able to board the boat. The journey across the river took minutes and the ride only cost £1.20 per person. 

For everything else, however, we got around on foot.

How To Get To Bristol

To get to Bristol, the easiest way (in my opinion) is to drive, however, there are a few caveats to this. Bristol has a clean air zone which means you usually have to pay a daily rate to drive in the city centre. 

This cost us £9 per day and, coupled with the rather expensive parking in Bristol (£15 for 24 hours, even with the hotel discount from Brooks), means it’s not the cheapest to drive in the city.

However, there are lots of park-and-ride services around Bristol meaning you can drive to the city but use public transport to get into the centre. Next time I visit Bristol, I will definitely be using this method to save a few pennies.

Alternatively, if you don’t fancy driving, you can always catch the train from a lot of destinations around the UK. There is a direct train from London to Bristol which takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes and costs £75 for an off-peak return.

✅ Book your train travel to Bristol here

Is a Day Trip to Bristol Enough?

To be perfectly honest, no, a day trip to Bristol isn’t enough to see everything the city has to offer. We could’ve easily spent 3 days in Bristol and probably longer if we’d also explored many of the wonderful attractions around the city. 

We had about a day and a half in the city because we were also spending a day in Bath afterwards. This was just enough time to see everything on this itinerary,  but we would’ve loved more time to really see the city in depth. 

There were a few things we missed like MShed, having a proper look around the street markets, and exploring the street art in depth. So, if you’re planning to visit Bristol, I recommend spending 2 days at a minimum here.

Final Thoughts on a Day Trip to Bristol

Overall, Bristol is a wonderful city to visit in the UK . It’s quirky, it’s different and it has a great range of original attractions, funky street art, and fascinating maritime history. 

I hope you’ve found this itinerary useful and have a wonderful time in Bristol when you visit. It’s without doubt one of the best cities to visit in the UK and I cannot wait to go back. 

If you’re looking for more UK breaks, check out my guide on romantic escapes in the UK and these stunning destinations in the UK countryside .

*This article was sponsored by Visit Bristol. All opinions are my own.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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10 cool places to visit in Bristol

Hannah Ross

Bristol has a very long and varied history, which means the city itself is full of a myriad of fascinating places to visit. We’ve spoken before about the coolest restaurants and the best places for date night. So now, without further ado, here are 10 cool places to visit in Bristol, from the more obvious and well-known landmarks to some hidden gems:

Brunel’s SS Great Britain

This famous Bristol landmark can be found on the harbourside and is currently known as the city’s top attraction. The former passenger steamship is now an exciting museum, featuring exhibits detailing life on the vessel, Victorian fashions, and information about the ship’s primary engineer. Visitors who bring college or university identification can also receive a student discount.

Bristol Old Vic

For any theatre lovers, Bristol Old Vic is a must-visit attraction. The theatre is the oldest in the English speaking world, and is still showcasing a huge variety of shows to this day. Despite the current situation meaning that the theatre has sadly temporarily closed its doors, certain Old Vic shows can be streamed on Youtube. You’ll be desperate to visit once the venue opens again!

We The Curious

We The Curious is another fabulous Bristol museum which can be found near the harbourside area. It is one of the best interactive science museums in the UK, and its mix of oddball and intriguing exhibits make for a thoroughly enjoyable day out.

The Corn Exchange Dual-Time Clock

When standing below this city-centre landmark, you may notice something peculiar. This is because the 18 th century clock above the Corn Exchange building actually has not one, but two minute hands featured on its face. The clock was built to show both Greenwich Mean Time and ‘Bristol Time’, and so is worth strolling past for anyone who has a passion for obscure local history.

Cabot Tower

Set against a backdrop of gorgeous parkland, Cabot Tower has been standing in Bristol city centre’s Brandon Hill park since the 19 th century. Visitors can climb the structure for stunning panoramic views free of charge.

Vale Street

Bristol is a city known for its hilly landscapes; any Bristol student quickly comes to know this as a sometimes unfortunate reality! But some may not know that, in fact, the steepest street in England can be found here. Drivers have even been known to tie their vehicles to lampposts when the winter ice covers the roadside. Vale Street can be found in the Totterdown area and it showcases an annual Easter egg race each spring.

Redcliffe Cave

The history of these manmade tunnels has been lengthy and rapidly changing. The Redcliffe Caves were originally dug to provide mineral materials for craftsmen in the Middle Ages, but they were later used in the 17 th to 19 th centuries for storing goods. Currently, there are no tours of the caves happening, though the entrance of the structure may be interesting to see. This can be found at Phoenix Wharf.

Clifton Rocks Railway

Just a short walk away from Clifton Village, Clifton Rocks Railway is the site of a disused rail line that was cut into the gorge over a hundred years ago. The tunnels were even used by the BBC as a secret broadcasting location in the Second World War. The outer façade of the lower station is definitely a sight to see, and can be found on the Portway.

Cheddar Gorge

While Cheddar Gorge isn’t located in central Bristol, it can be found less than 20 miles from the city. This stunning limestone gorge offers great walks, as well as regular tours of the caves which are truly fascinating. The surrounding wildlife is, additionally, a definite pull-factor for anyone who enjoys areas full of natural beauty.

Bristol Zoo Gardens

Bristol Zoo Gardens is one of the more obvious attractions which the city offers, yet that doesn’t make it any less worthy of a visit. From gorillas to meerkats, each featured enclosure is bound to put a smile on your face and brighten up your day.

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11 Fun Things To Do In Bristol, England

If you're looking for fun things to do in Bristol , let us show you around.

A port city known for its harbor and creative atmosphere with a strong community spirit, Bristol England is a fabulous city to explore.

With a population of approximately 500,000, it's the second largest city in southwest England.

A bustling harbor town, Bristol has been voted the top city to live in the UK for several years in a row. 

Home of Banksy and the founding of the street art movement in the UK, Bristol also has a vibrant nightlife, historic buildings, and an incredible food scene.

Bristol is a great place for walking and it’s the best way to get to know the city center. So, lace up, bring your appetite and an open mind, and explore this city on the Avon River. And if you love walkable cities, be sure to check out this Bath England day trip .

Learning your way around Bristol

A great way to orient yourself in the city is to take a guided tour. 

If you prefer to ride, try the hop-on hop-off bus. Or you can head to the harbor and take one of the ferries and learn your way around from the water.

Bristol Ferries runs a regular waterbus service and Bristol Packet Boats will take you up the River Avon for a view of the Avon Gorge which is definitely worth doing.

As you walk around the old city center be sure to explore King St., a 17th-century street with a number of historic buildings including the Old Vic Theater , still open and one of the best places in Bristol for live entertainment.

For a modern shopping experience go to Cabot Circus, a mixed-use development with covered shopping, offices, and residential spaces right in the heart of the city.

No trip to this city would be complete without a Bristol street art tour, including the world-renowned art of Banksy.

Bristol is the home of the UK street art scene and John Nation is the man in the know. Book his tour through Where The Wall for a historical and cultural tour of Bristol’s street art.

Some are local artists but artists from around the world have left their mark in Bristol. 

John’s passion and enthusiasm for all things creative, especially street artists, writers, and graffiti art, will open your eyes to a world of imagination, innovation, and inspiration.

The tour is about two hours long so wear comfortable shoes and don’t go hungry.

A highlight of the tour is a walk through the bohemian Stokes Croft neighborhood which you’ll want to explore more after the tour. 

The perfect place to explore more of the art scene is the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. The whole family will love the fun activities and interactive exhibits.

Eating in Bristol

If you love good food you’ll love Bristol. With two Michelin-star restaurants and several restaurants with Bib Gourmand recognition, it is hard to find a bad meal in Bristol.

The city is known for great chefs opening their own, affordable eateries after earning their chops elsewhere.

All the better for those of us who like to enjoy memorable meals that don’t ravage the pocketbook. 

If you’re looking for recommendations, here are my top picks for the best areas to eat in Bristol.

Though there are many more good restaurants, I simply couldn’t get to all of them. Next time!

Dining Around the Harbor

Cargo is a development of repurposed shipping containers at Wapping Wharf and an excellent place to seek out cuisine from around the world.

Try Gambas Tapas Bar for shrimp cooked every which way and wonderful Spanish wines.

Root is a great spot for vegetable-focused dishes and other options.

Paco Tapas for a Michelin star experience on the harbor. 

Dining in Clifton Village

Clifton Village is one of my top picks for shopping and strolling. It’s also abundant in good restaurant options.

For a  reasonable price, you can enjoy a Parisian bistro experience at Cote Brasserie.

I also found the staff there to be very accommodating. If you want to drink and dine with a view of the Avon Gorge, try the White Lion Pub by Hotel du Vin .  

Lido is exactly what you think it is, a neighborhood spa and swimming spot with an excellent restaurant.

The entrance is unassuming but once inside the ambiance feels uptown but relaxed.

We went there for dinner and sat upstairs overlooking the pool and, yes, there were people swimming.

Dining at the Lido was my most unique experience in the UK. The food is Mediterranean style, and I even found a cheese from Latteria in Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood on the menu.

There’s a poolside bar downstairs that serves breakfast. You must go. 

Central Bristol

If you can only visit one place in the old city go to the St. Nicholas Market for an eclectic selection of eateries.

The market is housed in a historic Georgian-covered building. You can also find gifts and other arts and crafts items for sale there. Be sure to check opening and closing hours.

Chez Marcel serves French cuisine, both savory and sweet crepes and omelets. And Hotel du Vin Bistro has a good wine list and classic French food. 

Kask is just a little further afield in Bedminster. Kask serves organic and biodynamic wines along with local cheese and charcuterie plates in a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.

If you want to try a local wine ask them for the Limeburn Hill Pet Nat. There are tables indoors, however, if the weather is nice opt for a table on the cute outdoor patio.

If you’re not sure what to order trust the knowledgeable staff to take care of it for you. 

Religious Bristol

Bristol has a rich history with several interesting cathedrals and churches, a minor miracle since the city was heavily bombed during WWII. These are the ones I consider worth seeking out. 

Bristol Cathedral is stunning on the outside but go inside to view what is believed to be one of the finest examples in the world of a medieval hall church.

A hall church is one where the aisles are the same height as the nave creating a light and spacious interior.

Bristol Cathedral is a Grade 1 listed building, meaning it has exceptional national historic and architectural importance.

The cathedral is located across from College Green, a big open park just across from the entrance to St. Nicolas Markets. 

St. Mary Redcliff

Another beautiful cathedral, also Grade 1 listed, is St. Mary Redcliff, a Gothic stunner with a spire that is 89 meters high.

Queen Elizabeth I visited and said this, “The fairest, goodliest, and most famous parish church in England." 

St. John on the Wall

One other interesting ecclesiastical attraction you should see is St. John on the Wall .

As the name suggests the church is built into the very walls of the medieval city.

As early as the 12th century it was a place for pilgrims to offer prayers before a journey.

St. John on the Wall is a good place to visit along with the St. Nicolas Market.

Explore Bristol's Harborside

Bristol Harbour and its maritime history attracts visitors from around the world.

At one time Bristol was a trading port second in importance only to London.

Today it's a place to spend time outside or enjoy some of the Michelin-rated restaurants, take a tour of the harbor, or visit one of the museums like M Shed, which tells the story of the Bristol slave trade and the history of the city.

It also explains the different neighborhoods of Bristol. You'll find some fantastic artwork there, as well.

SS Great Britain

SS. Great Britain is one of the world's first great ocean liners and Bristol’s top tourist attraction.

Built in 1843 by Bristol engineer Isaambard Kingdom Brunel, it was the first luxury passenger ship to cross the Atlantic Ocean between Bristol and New York City.

Brunel is also famous for the Clifton Suspension Bridge, one of the city’s most iconic sites. In my opinion, it is not to be missed, no matter the weather. On a nice day, it’s a beautiful walk. 

Don't miss the Albion dry dock which dates back to 1820. 

Also harborside, you can visit the Matthew, a replica of the ship sailed by John Cabot to Newfoundland in 1497.

The Matthew was a commercial ship that was nothing out of the ordinary until the voyage to Newfoundland.

You can learn about its history and the building of the replica as well as sail around the harbor on the ship. Be sure to book this in advance

Before you leave the harbor be sure to visit the Cargo development at Wapping Wharf.

The Cargo is constructed of shipping containers and includes a variety of restaurants, shops, and bars, all independently owned.

A fun thing to do is go to the Cider Box and get a frozen cider, made locally, then just next door is the only cheesemonger in Bristol.

Part of the fun of travel is trying food you can only taste right there.

Parks and gardens

There is no shortage of parks and gardens in Bristol On a sunny day, a favorite local pastime is making the most of these lovely green spaces.

The oldest park in Bristol is believed to be Brandon Hill, the highest point in the city with nice harbor views.

You’ll also find Cabot Tower on Brandon Hill. The tower commemorates John Cabot’s voyage to America 400 years ago. You can climb the tower for panoramic views of Bristol.

Castle Park

Right in the middle of the city is Castle Park, and as the name implies, there was once a castle there.

The castle was leveled in the 1600s but the ruins of a church remain.

Take some time to stroll through the pretty gardens on the harbor side of the church or do as the locals do and just hang out enjoying nature. 

My favorite green space in Bristol is called The Downs, a 200-plus-acre green area for lounging in the sun, sports events, and hikes.

There’s also an observatory housed within a building that was part of a windmill. 

I didn’t get to see this because it was closed when I arrived but do try to check out the camera obscura at the Observatory.

It’s a room-size version and allows a 360-degree view across the downs and the Clifton Suspension Bridge. 

Be sure to visit Giant’s Cave as well, which opens to the Avon Gorge and the River Avon, a magnificent geological feature of Bristol. The Downs border the neighborhood of Clifton, one of the poshest in the city. 

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Another reason to visit The Downs is the Clifton Suspension Bridge, an iconic site in Bristol. 

Spanning the Avon Gorge and the River Avon, it is 1352 feet long and has a clearance of 245 feet.

There is a narrow walking path across the bridge and you can drive across it as well.

The bridge design was first developed by Brunel, the same Brunel who designed the luxury cruiselliner. The bridge opened in 1864. 

Note that it's about a 45-minute walk from the center of Bristol to the bridge. I took an Uber and then walked back to my hotel which was 50 minutes downhill.

However you choose to arrive and depart the area, you really can not leave Bristol without seeing the bridge.

Day trip to Bath

A day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath is a must. It’s also one of the easiest places to visit by train.

From Bristol Meades station it’s only a 15-minute train ride. Once you arrive in Bath you are a few minutes walk from all the top attractions. 

Spend a day exploring this gorgeous Georgian city with ancient Roman roots.

The famous Roman Baths is the best place to discover the ancient origins of this sublime spa town.

All within a stone's throw of each other you’ll find Bath Abbey, the Jane Austen Museum, the Pulteney Bridge, the Royal Crescent, and the Circus. Take breaks for coffee or tea and soak up the Victorian atmosphere.

Bath is one of the best places to visit in the West country.

Visit Cheddar Gorge

Another good day trip is Cheddar Gorge, an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Located about an hour from Bristol Center, you can go caving, hiking, biking, and rock climbing. It’s the only gorge in the UK.

And if you love being outside, consider taking the two-hour trip to explore outdoor activities near London or discover Cornish hidden gems .

If you have the time, the three-hour trip to the Isle of Wight would be spectacular.

Where to stay

The Leonardo Hotel Bristol Glassfields , which opened in 2021, is within a ten-minute walk of the Bristol Meads train station, convenient for visitors traveling by train from London. 

The 197-room hotel is also an easy walk to the harbor, Castle Hill, and shopping district.

The hotel is low energy/green and features contemporary rooms with sustainable materials.

Rainwater is recycled and lights are activated by sensors. This is an affordable hotel for families, groups, and singles. 

For something completely different and very Bristol, stay at one of the rocket rooms at Brooks Guest House .

The rocket rooms are airstream caravans on the rooftop of the hotel offering a quirky way to stay and some of the best views of Bristol.

Additionally, you’ll be right next to St Nicolas market in the heart of the city. Brooks does offer more traditional accommodations at ground level and a delicious breakfast each morning.

With so much to do, the vibrant city of Bristol makes an entertaining weekend getaway. Why not check out

Let us know if you discover more fun things to do in Bristol so we can check them out.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Clifton Suspension Bridge, the arts, hot air balloons, and its rich maritime history are some of the top things that Bristol is famous for.

You can easily get around Bristol using the train, even taking day trips to Bath and Stonehenge.

Yes, Bristol is generally safe, but as in any city, be careful to be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit areas.

Tips for Visiting Bristol

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the city is a bit spread out.

You'll find a lot of walking routes, but Bristol is also the UK's first cycling city. You'll find plenty of cycling paths that are traffic-free. Voi Scooters are also a fun option.

Taxis are reliable if you'd rather go that route.

All the museums are free, so take advantage of Bristol's generosity and visit them!

This article was written by Penny Sadler in partnership with Visit Bristol. A freelance writer and wine communicator residing in the Lone Star State, Her glass is always full, preferably of something white and bubbly. She writes for Inside Hook, Cheese Professor, and other outlets.

You can follow Penny on her travel blog, Adventures of a Carry-on . 

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