unusual places to visit bristol

31 of the best hidden gems in Bristol to add to your list

Including restaurants, pubs, cafés and venues

• 10:40, 13 APR 2019
• Updated 08:26, 24 AUG 2020

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There are always new places to discover in Bristol, no matter how long you've lived here.

The city is home to a huge number of pubs, restaurants, cafés and venues located off the beaten track that are well worth finding.

And even with Covid-19 wreaking havoc on the hospitality sector, people are still opening new places that are well worth a visit.

When you take the time to really look, you realise Bristol is full of incredible hidden gems just waiting to be discovered -or rediscovered.

Take a look through our list of Bristol’s hidden gems below. How many have you been to?

1. Smoke and Mirrors

This backstreet boozer's unique selling point is that it's home to a 46-seat theatre which is accessed through a 'secret' curtain at the back of the pub.

Intimate in nature, the venue plays host to some of the top magicians and comedians from across the UK, as well as local acts looking for a chance to show off their talent.

Although lots of people are aware of this hidden space, there are many others who have no idea it exists.

8 Denmark St, Bristol BS1 5DQ

2. Loco Klub

Hidden underneath Temple Meads, The Loco Klub is an atmospheric venue which hosts a wide range of events.

A creative collaboration between The Invisible Circus and Artspace Lifespace, Loco Klub is hidden in the former ashpits of the original railway station.

With a programme which includes everything from circus performance, to opera, all the way to techno and drum & bass nights, it aims to be a 'collaborative, cultural hub for a creative city'.

Clock Tower Yd, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6QH

3. The Cider Box

It's hardly a secret that Bristolians enjoy a spot of cider from time to time, and there aren't many places in the city better to enjoy it than at the Cider Box .

The new bar opened in Silverthorne Lane in July and has already become a hotspot for cider lovers, showcasing the finest ciders money can buy and exhibiting them at fun-filled tasting events.

Arch 5, Silverthorne Lane

4. Chance & Counters

With more than 600 games of offer, Bristol’s only dedicated board game café is the perfect place to alleviate boredom on a rainy afternoon.

It opened on the Christmas Steps in 2016 and has since played host to thousands of fierce gaming competitions, so bring your competitive side and get ready to relive those childhood battles.

Chance & Counters reopens on September 3 with a number of measures in place to make it COVID-secure - we can't wait for it to return.

20 Christmas Steps, Bristol BS1 5BS

5. Giuseppe's

The steps linking Baldwin Street and St Nicholas Street are often used as a shortcut between the two, but did you know it's where you'll find the entrance to a fine Italian restaurant?

Giuseppe's is loved for its reasonably priced food and top notch service. You could almost be in the heart of Naples when you eat there. Almost...

59 Baldwin St, Bristol BS1 1QZ

6. 20th Century Flicks

Perhaps the only video shop in the country to survive the digital revolution, 20th Century Flicks has its own private cinema.

Not only is the film library here comprehensive, the knowledgeable staff are always on hand to suggest a movie you'll love.

19 Christmas Steps, Bristol BS1 5BS

Tucked away behind Clifton Down Station, Steam is a cracking bar no matter what time of year you visit.

With a covered, cosy beer garden, some pretty impressive décor and some of Bristol's best pop-up kitchens, it's worth venturing off the beaten track for.

Clifton Down Station, Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2PN

8. Exchange's basement stage

Exchange's basement stage, which was built using funds from its successful Community Share Offer in 2018, is truly a hidden gem.

The intimate space has a capacity of just 60 and gives up-and-coming artists a chance to show off their talents.

72, 73 Old Market St, Bristol BS2 0EJ

Lake Road, Bristol BS10 5HG

9. Beese's Tea Rooms

The secluded riverside pub and tearoom on the banks of the River Avon is a popular spot for a drink, but it's only open in the summer months.

The bar is accessible from Broomhill and Brislington or via a ferry that carries customers across the Avon from the riverside path on the other side.

It was founded in 1846 by Mrs Anne Beese to provide refreshments to travellers and workers using or crossing the river. The Beese family also ran the Conham ferry which continues to cross from Beese’s to the steps on the Hanham side of the river during opening hours.

Wyndham Crescent, Bristol BS4 4SX

10. Sergio's

After 30 years in service, Sergio's in Frogmore Street remains a popular restaurant in Bristol for its classic Italian food and intimate setting.

Many see it as one of the best Italian restaurants in the city, and for good reason.

1-3 Frogmore St, Bristol BS1 5NA

11. John Wesley's Chapel

Known as ‘the cradle of Methodism,’ the Grade I listed New Room located in the heart of Broadmead is the oldest Methodist building in the world, dating from 1739, and was the starting point for the Methodist Church which now has over 75 million members across the globe.

The visitor centre features a state-of-the-art museum, a brand new library and archives store, an award-winning café, a gift shop and an education/conference centre, and is open Monday to Saturday 10.30am - 4pm all year round.

New Room, 36 The Horsefair, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3JE

12. Cloak & Dagger

Formerly Cox & Baloney, Cloak & Dagger in Cheltenham Road is hardly hidden - but what's not so well known is the quality of food it's serving.

Its co-owner is head chef Seb Merry, who has worked in a number of Michelin-starred restaurants across London including The Ledbury, Le Gavroche and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, as well as at Sheer Rocks in Antigua, regarded as one of the Caribbean's finest restaurants.

After moving to Bristol in November 2019 he joined forces with Jenna Graves, formerly landlady of the Three Tuns in Hotwells, to launch the new Cheltenham Road venture and is now putting his stamp on the menu.

182-184 Cheltenham Rd, Cotham, Bristol BS6 5RB

13. Sandwi On The Go

Sandwi On The Go replaced Caffe Gusto in Approach Road in September 2019 and now serves delicious Middle Eastern food.

Delicacies popular in Israeli cuisine including falafel, houmous and tabbouleh salad make up the tasty and nutritious menu, with around half of the dishes on it suitable for vegans.

It also boasts an extensive breakfast and brunch menu, perfect for people heading to Temple Meads to catch a train or those just arriving in the city.

Clock Tower Yd, Approach Road, Bristol BS1 6QH

14. The Orchard Coffee & Co

This chic cafe offers a healthy menu for kids, an extremely tempting array of cakes for the adults and goes above and beyond to make sure the little touches are there for the youngsters.

The venue, which has hot meals and as well as sandwiches and salad options, also boasts couches and more formal setting options.

Staff are very friendly and welcoming.

Clouds Hill Rd, Bristol BS5 7LA

15. Horts cinema

You would be forgiven for thinking Horts' cinema is a tiny little thing, but it instead boasts 36 leather armchairs - complete with footrests for ultimate comfort. 

Horts' cinema, which is accessed through a door to the rear of the pub, hosts a free film night every Monday with screenings at 6pm and 8pm. 

Around 300 Blu-ray discs are stored in the pub's cellar, but people can also bring their own in if they wish.

49 Broad St, Bristol BS1 2EP

16. To The Moon

Tucked away in Old Market, To The Moon is a quaint bar owned by a couple with a keen interest in music and fashion.

It stocks top quality beers from breweries including Good Chemistry, Arbor and Dawkins, as well as superb cocktails.

 27-29 Midland Road, Old Market, St Philips, Bristol BS2 0JT

17. Divino Deli

Certainly not new to Bristol but definitely easy to miss, you’ll find Divino Deli on Worrall Road, just off Blackboy Hill, serving up some of the best sandwiches in Bristol.

It’s been a winner at the Bristol Good Food awards for three consecutive years, so next time you’re heading for a picnic on the Downs, walk straight past Sainsbury’s and stock up here instead.

18. The Seven Stars

Bristol is filled with historic pubs, many of which trace their origins back hundreds of years.

One of the very oldest in the city is the Seven Stars, tucked away down the cobbled Thomas Lane next to The Fleece, which dates back to the 1500s.

While the city centre has welcomed ritzy wine bars and glossy pubs over the decades, the Seven Stars has remained virtually unchanged and is a traditional boozer in every sense.

With no food served - other than crisps and pork scratchings - the cosy pub relies on an exceptional real ale offering and welcoming atmosphere to keep people coming back.

1 Thomas Ln, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6JG

19. The Cheese Comedy Club

The Cheese Comedy Club launched underneath The Crown at the start of 2019 and has held a string of sold-out events, welcoming some of the finest up-and-coming comedians on the circuit to the intimate venue.

The man behind Cheese is Tony Chiotti, a comedian who moved from America to Bristol two years ago having fallen in love with the city after one visit.

Today's top stories

Talking about the 100-capacity venue, he said: "It's the perfect room for comedy. It's subterranean with low ceilings and it feels like a cave. It used to be a smuggler's passage and trading vault."

10 All Saints Ln, Bristol BS1 1JH

20. Spoke & Stringer

Spoke & Stringer , found at The Boat House facing the SS Great Britain, has one of the best views in the city, and the food is truly amazing.

Since first launching on the harbourside it has opened a second site in Whiteladies Road .

The Boathouse Unit 1, Lime Kiln Rd, Bristol BS1 5AT

21. You & Meow

Bristol’s first cat café was years in the making, and it finally opened at the beginning of 2017, much to the delight of the city’s feline fans.

Located around the side of The Hippodrome on Denmark Street, it’s fairly hidden from the outside, but inside you will find eight adorable cats, and a sanctuary of calm to enjoy a cup of tea and a cuddle.

22 Denmark St, Bristol BS1 5DQ

22. The Wardrobe Theatre

Hidden at the back of the Old Market Assembly in Old Market, The Wardrobe Theatre welcomes more than 35,000 people every year across more than 500 performances.

Its programme is a lovingly curated mix of theatre, comedy, storytelling, live music, poetry/spoken word, dance and much more.

You would be forgiven for thinking a theatre housed at the back of the pub such as this would just be a small room with some chairs, but it's instead a spacious venue with space for more than 100 people.

25 West St, Bristol BS2 0DF

You’ll find Her Majesty’s Secret Service at the top of the steps up from Clifton Down station, serving some of the most fun and inventive cocktails in the city.

The speakeasy is marked with a white flag about the door, and you’ll have to go through a phone box to enter.

The mixologists here really know their stuff and you should go with an open mind, because boring drinks are not allowed here.

Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2PH

24. The Swan With Two Necks

This neighbourhood pub was recently taken over by a new owner with serious pedigree.

Jamie Ashley has run the Hillgrove Porter Stores just off Stokes Croft for the past 10 years, turning it into a highly-rated boozer loved for its lively atmosphere, top selection of ales and delicious Sunday roast.

Not content with overseeing just the one pub, the 46-year-old is now also at the helm of the Swan With Two Necks, after the former landlady called time at the bar in August.

Jamie, who was eyeing up the site for a while before taking over the reins, has now turned the quaint St Jude's watering hole into a hub for craft beer - which he could likely manage thanks to the 14 keg lines and six hand pull pumps he has reinstated.

12 Little Ann St, St Jude's, Bristol BS2 9EB

25. Falafel King

At first, Falafel King looks just like any other takeaway - but then you venture downstairs and it's a whole different affair.

It's a beautiful Middle Eastern-inspired venue with dim lighting and a wonderful intimate ambience.

6 Cotham Hill, Redland, Bristol BS6 6LF

26. The Bell

This Hillgrove Street pub is one of Bristol’s best kept secrets, despite being around for years.

This is the perfect example of a place that deserves to be re-discovered, it’s a low key, neighbourhood pub that feels worlds away from the trendy, of-the-moment bars on Stokes Croft, despite it being just round the corner.

It’s unique and friendly atmosphere has survived the gentrification of the area, and long may it continue.

27. Beirut Mezze

Beirut Mezze serves up delicious Lebanese food in the city centre, hidden away down Small Street.

Every dish on the menu is created using recipes handed down through generations, with a strong emphasis on quality meat and authentic herbs and spices.

It also has a popular takeaway option, as well as set-price deals which are popular with regulars.

13A Small Street, Bristol BS1 1DE England

28. The Beaufort Arms

Run by fantastic landlady Debbie Martin for more than 20 minutes, The Beaufort Arms is a traditional pub in every sense.

You'll often find a dog propping up the bar as well as the locals, who love the boozer for its laid back feel and reasonably priced pints.

Not only is the pub tucked away off the beaten track, it doesn't even have a website or Facebook page, instead relying on word-of-mouth.

The Beaufort Arms, 23 High Street, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2YF

29. Full Court Press

Serving speciality filter and espresso coffee of exceptional quality, Full Court offers all the favourites as well as some intriguing flavours.

Tucked away down Broad Street, it also has courses on brewing and barista skills.

59 Broad St, BS1 2EJ

30. Hart's Bakery

Hart's Bakery is hidden underneath Temple Meads but it is well-known among those who enjoy a good pastry or two, which isn't surprising given its quality.

Expect to find a huge range of freshly-baked goods, served alongside top notch coffee to kick off your day in the best possible way.

Arch 35 Lower Approach Rd, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6QS

31. Zed Alley

Hoping to be Bristol’s answer to The Caravan Club, Zed Alley launched in 2017 headed up by local band Hooper, who finally made their dream of running their own venue a reality.

After being closed for five months due to Covid-19, the venue is set to start hosting sit down gigs again soon.

Zed Alley, Bristol BS1 4UA

• Things to do in Bristol
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21 Unique & Fun Things to do in Bristol, England

Last Updated: July 6, 2023

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Bristol is a bustling city in Southwest England, famed for Banksy, Clifton Suspension Bridge and its absurdly beautiful hot air balloon festival, but trust me when I say there’s a lot more to it than just photo opps and whimsically precarious modes of transport.

Did you know for instance that Bristol was the site of the world’s first known bungee jump? Or that it has links to some of the most notorious pirates in history, like Blackbeard?

I’ve been to Bristol three times now, and each time I’m shocked at how annoyingly cool it is. Not only is its history full of surprises, the city is too – with tons of interesting attractions to enjoy, and an aggressive liveability padded by its vibrant food scene and fun nightlife.

I know – Bristol has it all, and I am indeed low-key annoyed I don’t live there.

But if you’re wondering what to do in Bristol, I’ve got you. From its dreamy suspension bridge and street art to droolworthy architecture at every turn, here are the top fun things to do in Bristol, England.

Save this list of Fun Things to do in Bristol for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Marvel at Bristol Cathedral

Let’s start with one of the prettiest buildings in Bristol – Bristol Cathedral.

Bristol’s Cathedral is a grand and beautiful structure, with sections dating from as far back as the 12th century. Countless additions and modifications have taken place in the centuries since, resulting in a number of different architectural styles to gawk at.

As it was originally founded as an abbey, it later became the Cathedral Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity after the dissolution of the monasteries (which is, as you’ll recall, when Henry VIII chucked a massive tantrum with the pope and decided to make his own new religion).

Today, the cathedral is well worth a visit, even just to admire the grandeur of it all. The stained-glass windows here are beautiful, as is the historic organ inside, especially when the light filters in around sunset:

2. Explore Clifton Village

If you’re like me and love a bit of bumbling around doing nothing, then one of the best things to do in Bristol is to have a wander through the neighbourhood known as Clifton Village.

This neighbourhood is right next door to the Clifton Suspension Bridge (so you can easily combine a visit to both) and it’s filled with fun shops, cafés restaurants, and pubs. As you can see in the photo below, much of it is very colourful as well, so your Camera Roll will remain satisfied.

If you’re craving seafood, I had an amazing meal at Fishers here, and can highly recommend it as a relaxed lunch spot!

Buuuut, besides places to eat and drink, the Bristol Zoo Gardens are also located in Clifton Village, plus there are lots of lovely parks if you want to go walking to burn off all those calories.

3. Walk Across Clifton Suspension Bridge

And if you’re looking for simply iconic, unmissable, postcard-perfect things to do in Bristol, then a visit to the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge is non-negotiable.

Not only is this one of the most important Bristol attractions and THE symbol of Bristol, it’s also where (on 1 April, 1979) members of the Oxford University Dangerous Sports Club jumped off in full suits, champagne in hand, as part of the world’s first recorded bungee jump.

This bridge first opened in 1864 and connects Bristol to Leigh Woods by crossing the Avon River and Gorge. For a more low-key activity than jumping off, walking over it is a must while you’re in Bristol to see the stunning views down over the gorge, river and city.

My tip? Make sure you go at sunset if you can, and also walk up to the Clifton Observatory to get photos of the bridge, like the one below! (Side note: there’s also a natural limestone cave to explore here known as The Giant’s Cave).

4. Enjoy the Bristol Harbourside

While Bristol’s harbour used to simply be the location for sailors and merchants to trade or get ready to sail, it’s now one of the most fun and popular parts of the city, with plenty of unique Bristol attractions well worth visiting.

The wharf sheds here have been transformed into a variety of art centres, restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels so it’s always buzzing with people.

While doing some shopping or having a meal overlooking the water is nice, it’s also possible to take part in exciting water activities like yachting, paddle boarding and rowing.

Or, for those who are less athletically inclined like me, you can also take your pick at some of the city’s most visited attractions, like the M Shed, SS Great Britain and The Matthew of Bristol… but more on these Bristol things to do below!

5. Visit the M Shed

The M Shed is a museum all about Bristol’s history located in a former dockside transit shed from the 1950s and is a great way to learn more about the city.

This is hands down one of the best things to do in Bristol for history lovers, so don’t miss it!

You’ll learn about the area from as far back as prehistoric times up to the 21st century with stories, objects and exhibits. Since Bristol is so linked with maritime history there are also historic boats, steam trains and cranes as part of the museum, which you can also explore.

My favourite parts were the artworks by Bristol locals, including some Wallace & Gromit models (if you haven’t seen Wallace & Gromit go look it up now!) a portrait by Banksy and spray-painted record decks by the band Massive Attack!

6. Get Onboard the SS Great Britain

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Bristol then climbing onboard a historic ship should definitely be on your list!

The SS Great Britain is one of the ship museums that are part of the M Shed, so you can actually go onboard to explore this former passenger steamship and imagine yourself as one of the many passengers she used to haul back in the day.

Not only is the SS Great Britain a pretty face to look at – she was actually the largest passenger ship in the world between 1845 and 1854 as well as the first iron steamer to cross the Atlantic Ocean in 1845.

More than 200,000 people visit the SS Great Britain each year, partly because she has been so lovingly restored. You can see the galley, cabins, dining room, and doctor’s surgery all made up as they would have been in her heyday.

7. Tour the Matthew of Bristol

Another of the more unique things to do in Bristol is to explore the Matthew of Bristol, a famous historic ship which you’ll also find along the Bristol Harbourside. The best part of this one though is it’s free to hop on board.

The Matthew is the name of the ship that John Cabot sailed on to North America from Bristol in 1497. This particular ship is a replica of the original and there’s also one in Newfoundland, which is where he eventually ended up.

Usually, the Matthew is moored outside the M Shed but it also sometimes sails around the harbour and up the River Avon. If it looks familiar to you, odds are because it took part in Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee pageant on the River Thames in London in 2012.

8. Have Coffee at Café Revival

If you want to caffeinate in style, another Bristol must-do is stopping for a drink at Café Revival, the oldest coffeehouse in Bristol.

While the building has occasionally been used for other types of businesses through the years, it was most often a coffee shop, first opening over three hundred years ago… in 1718!

The café is spread out over three floors, so make sure you go all the way up to the ‘snug’ on the top floor, which is really cosy with comfy couches, so you can demolish your coffee and cake in peace, and without judgement.

9. Visit the Corn Exchange Building

Next door to Café Revival, you’ll find another beautiful Bristol must-visit – the Corn Exchange Building.

As you probably guessed from its name, this Grade-I listed building was originally a corn and trade exchange building but it is now mostly home to offices and part of Saint Nicholas Market.

It’s a beautiful grand building, which was built by John Wood the Elder between 1741 and 1743. Pop in to see the lion’s head knockers on the main doorway, as well as the corinthian columns and four bronze tables outside.

These tables were historically used by merchants doing their deals and each has slightly different designs as they were constructed in different periods. The oldest is thought to date from the Elizabethan era!

10. Go Shopping at Saint Nicholas Market

Shopping is an excellent choice when it comes to fun activities in Bristol and next door to the Corn Exchange Building is one of the best spots for it!

Saint Nicholas Market (usually just called St Nick’s Market by locals) is divided into three different sections, a Georgian covered arcade, The Glass Market and the section inside the Exchange. There are a variety of stalls and shops within the market, selling cuisine from around the world, jewellery, clothing, gifts, and more.

Along with the permanent shops and stalls, a variety of outdoor markets are also held in the area around Saint Nicholas Market, my favourite is definitely the street food market on Tuesdays and Fridays!

11. See Foster’s Almshouses

Foster’s Almshouses are private residences in what were once almshouses (accommodation for poor people) dating from 1492.

These particular almshouses were built by a wealthy Bristol merchant called John Foster, who was also High Sheriff and Mayor of Bristol. Today these former almshouses are private homes, so you can’t go inside, but the architecture is quite beautiful to admire if you’re in the area.

I visited to take a photo from the outside of the fairytale-like spires, staircases and manicured gardens. Next door is the Chapel of the Three Kings of Cologne, another famous Bristol site, that was originally the private chapel for the almshouse residents.

12. Walk Through Christmas Steps

Wandering through cute laneways is one of the best free things to do in Bristol, and Christmas Steps is the best street to do it in.

The Chapel of the Three Kings of Cologne is located at the top of this historic street, which features a steep incline and steps winding all the way down between historic buildings. It’s often called Bristol’s answer to the Shambles in York and it does have a very Diagon Alley feel to it!

This almost hidden laneway looks particularly magical at night when it’s lit up by oil lanterns and fairy lights but a visit during the day is also fun to peruse the antique shops and cafés. My recommendation? Stop off at AhhToots for a sweet treat or have a meal in the Christmas Steps Pub at the bottom of the street.

13. Frolic in the University of Bristol Botanic Gardens

Just a bit north of the main part of Bristol is the neighbourhood of Stoke Bishop (next to Clifton Village) which is where the University of Bristol’s Botanic Gardens are located.

These gardens are a gorgeous spot if you’re looking for something different to do in Bristol, with 4,500 species of plants in a variety of sections, including 640 square metres of greenhouses with tropical plants inside!

You probably know I’m a sucker for frolicking amongst pretty flowers and these botanic gardens provide ample opportunities for gorgeous photos. This is also an excellent way to get warm if you’re visiting Bristol in winter.

14. Try and Climb Up Vale Street

No list of cool things to see in Bristol is complete without at least a mention of Vale Street. What’s so exciting about this street, you may ask. Well, it’s the steepest residential street in England!

There’s about a 22-degree gradient incline on this street, meaning it’s very hard to walk up and pretty easy to go tumbling down. Apparently, residents have to tie their cars to poles when it’s icy so they don’t slide away!

If you happen to be visiting Bristol over Easter, you may even get to witness the annual Easter egg race down the hill.

15. Explore St. Peter’s Church

Along with the Cathedral, Bristol is home to a couple of beautiful church ruins, such as those of St Peter’s Church.

St Peter’s Church dates from the 11th century when it was first built as an abbey, with a tower added in the 12th century and the rest of the building from the 15th century. This beautiful and historic church was actually bombed during WWII and the ruins have been maintained as a memorial.

Directly next to the church are the ruins of Bristol Castle, and Castle Park encloses both sets of ruins along with pretty gardens to enjoy. It’s a gorgeous spot to relax and get some photos!

16. Get a Photo of Temple Church

Temple Church is another ruined church in Bristol, although the ruins are of a later church than the original, which was a round temple of the Knights Templar.

While the original Knights Templar temple was constructed around the 12th century, the remains that can be seen today date from the 14th century, when a rectangular church was built on the temple ruins. This newer church was then also partly destroyed during the Blitz in WWII.

Like St Peter’s Church, the ruins of Temple Church are now looked after and it’s a Grade II listed site, which attracts many tourists. Not only is the site famous for a legendary exorcism , but the bell tower leans almost as far over as the Leaning Tower of Pisa!

17. Peek at the Houses on Royal York Crescent

Just marvelling at the beautiful houses on Royal York Crescent is one of my top things to do in Bristol, especially if you’re low-key delusional like me and like imagining yourself living in all the places you visit.

This majestic terrace is made up of 46 Georgian townhouses, some of which are Grade II listed. This is the longest terrace in Europe, and was originally built for the rich residents of Bristol who didn’t want to be living too close to the harbour.

The architecture is really cool here, as all the houses have their main entrances onto a footpath, below which are garages and basements which open onto the main road. This is also still one of the most expensive streets in Bristol, so it’s interesting to have a look how the posh people live!

18. Get Some Culture at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

Another one of the best free things to do in Bristol is to visit the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery.

This is especially good if it’s cold or wet as there are a lot of fascinating collections on display, including geology, zoology, archaeology, Egyptology, Eastern Art, Modern Art, and the history of Bristol! No matter what you’re interested in there’ll be something fascinating to see.

My favourite items were the paintings of Bristol and Banksy’s work – since, in case you didn’t know, the elusive artist is also a Bristol native.

Even the museum building is stunning, as it’s a Grade II Listed Edwardian Baroque structure. Make sure you check out the website to see what’s on, as regular events and special exhibitions are often held here.

19. Walk Under St. John’s Gate

St John’s Gate is a fascinating structure since it’s actually a tiny church built into the medieval city walls!

Officially named the Church of St John the Baptist, this is the only surviving example of Bristol’s fortified gateways from when the city was surrounded by a defensive wall. The narrow St John’s church was built around the 14th century and is very narrow.

Going inside the church is a must-do but make sure you also walk underneath to see the portcullis channels within the arch from where the gate could be closed to defend the city!

20. Enjoy the Views from Cabot Tower

Since John Cabot sailed from Bristol on his famous journey to North America, it’s not surprising that there are a number of places in the city named after him.

One of these that’s definitely worth visiting is Cabot Tower, a monument built in 1897 to commemorate that journey. Climbing to the top provides excellent views over the city and you may even be inspired by seeing more stuff to do in Bristol while you’re up there!

Cabot Tower is located inside the parkland of Brandon Hill, which is the oldest park in Bristol and also a lovely area to relax in and explore.

21. Admire the amazing street art

From iconic Banksy works to full-building murals, Bristol is a glorious haven of street art to admire, making every step feel like an exciting mini-adventure (if you’re lame like me, anyway).

While it’s pretty tough to miss Bristol’s street art while you’re just walking around and exploring, you can check out the official resources from their tourism board here , so you can better plan your explorations.

Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in Bristol?

Let me know in the comments so I can add more recommendations to my list!

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THE 10 BEST Hidden Gem Attractions in Bristol

Best bristol hidden gem attractions.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• St. Andrews
• Hidden Gems
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Smoke & Mirrors Comedy & Magic Theatre Pub

2. Cabot Tower

3. Oakham Treasures

4. Arnos Vale Cemetery

5. Wills Memorial Building

6. John Wesley's New Room

7. The Georgian House Museum

8. The Red Lodge Museum

9. Blaise Hamlet

10. Bristol Activity Centre

11. Brandon Hill Nature Park

12. Windmill Hill City Farm

13. St Werburghs City Farm

14. Christmas Steps

15. Palestine Museum and Cultural Centre

16. Kingswood Heritage Museum

17. St James Priory

18. Glenside Hospital Museum

19. Locked In A Room

20. Underfall Yard

21. Clifton Cathedral

22. Hell In A Cell Escape Rooms Bristol

23. Puzzlair Escape Rooms - Bristol

24. Little Kitchen Cookery School

25. The Bootlegger

26. Highbury Vaults

27. The Orpheus Cinema

28. St George's Bristol

29. Blackbeard to Banksy the Ultimate Bristol Walking Tour

30. BBB - Bristol Bear Bar

What travellers are saying

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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Bristol off the beaten track: 10 secret places and quirky sights

By Doug Jewell

Whenever you visit a new city it’s all well and good visiting the essential sights, but what’s often more interesting is taking a leftfield detour.

The path less trodden is often where you’ll locate the real heart and soul of a place.

So with a cheery nod to the less-celebrated but more quirky, here are some off-the-beaten-track places to check out in Bristol, in the company of photographer, Doug Jewell.

If you hook a left as you enter Temple Meads you come to the much underused, architecturally stunning Bonapartes. It’s rarely very busy so it’s a good place to relax with a pint of cider.

Temple Quay and Valentine Bridge

Leave Temple Meads via the back door and you’ll stumble across Temple Quay, Valentine Bridge and a patch of gravelled land which is home to The Goods Yard, a bar made of shipping containers, and Yurt Lush, a café bar in a yurt, which is lush . If you’ve really overdone the cider in Bonapartes, this underused drinking hub on the Creative Common could almost be in Barcelona.

The White Lion

The White Lion on the centre is one of the cosiest pubs in Bristol. It also has a seriously vertiginous spiral staircase leading to the toilets. So steep, in fact, that if you can successfully negotiate your way down and back up again it should qualify you as being sober enough to carry on drinking.

Whitehall Athletic Arena

Whitehall Athletic Arena is about five miles from the city centre and boasts a splendidly springy running track on which anyone from complete beginner to elite athlete can, and does, train. Bristol & West Athletic Club run training sessions there on week nights and they are always glad to have runners, jumpers and throwers of all ability pitch up to say hello and join in.

Beware of the Leopard Books

You can avoid the homogeneous high street chains by visiting some of the second hand book shops dotted around Bristol. Beware of The Leopard Books, in St. Nicholas Market, has a dizzying array of titles to choose from and that strangely pleasant aroma peculiar to these places.

20th Century Flicks

Located on the Christmas Steps is 20th Century Flicks. A DVD shop that is so much more than a DVD shop: brilliant staff, a huge selection of films and one of the most entertaining Twitter feeds in town. They even still hire VHS tapes. Best of all, though, is their own 11-seat cinema in the shop.

Blaise Castle Estate

Blaise Castle Estate has loads of isolated paths and walkways that you can stroll around without bumping into another soul for ages. If, like me, you have shocking navigational skills, it’s pretty easy to get lost within a few turns and for things to start to feel a bit Blair Witch Project. There’s even an eerie, abandoned log cabin hidden away somewhere.

Bedminster Cricket Club

Bedminster Cricket Club can be found on The Clanage, just before the entrance to Ashton Court. With the suspension bridge as a backdrop, a clubhouse with a well-stocked bar, it’s an ideal place to discreetly while away a few weekend hours on a dog walk as the typically British sounds of leather on willow and ‘would you and your dog like another drink?’ serenade your ears.

Observatory Road

If, like Sartre, you consider other people to be hell then the chances are you’ll concur that other people’s children are worse than hell. Worry not, though, this relatively new playground just off Observatory Road in Clifton is sufficiently tucked away to be quiet for most of the time, thus freeing you up to pointlessly stare at your phone for half an hour while your kids play on the swings.

Clifton Arcade

Clifton Arcade offers up a veritable treasure trove of quirky, independent shops selling all manner of gems. There’s a Mexican importers, a chalk paint products place, a shop that sells soap and a smattering of second hand clothes outlets, to name just a few. There used to be a wool shop too but, alas, it has closed down. Live fast, dye yarn.

Visit Doug’s site at  dougjewell.co.uk or follow him on Twitter .

A version of this article was originally published here

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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 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Bristol, UK

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An epicentre of urban artistry and the birthplace of the enigmatic street artist, Banksy, Bristol’s vivacious pulse harmonizes groundbreaking graffiti with electrifying beats of drum and bass, setting the scene for an unforgettable escapade.

From meandering through retro vintage boutiques to savouring the aroma of artisanal coffee at indie cafes, the fun places to visit in Bristol are diverse and abundant. The city brilliantly showcases its ingenuity with the grand Aerospace centre, and its aquatic marvels come alive inside the modern Aquarium.

Yet, it’s not just about the contemporary. The illustrious past of Bristol echoes in the masterstrokes of Victorian engineering – be it the magnificent Clifton Suspension Bridge or the timeless charm of the SS Great Britain ocean liner.

Stroll amid the elegant Georgian terraced houses, immerse yourself in the maritime stories whispered by the historic ship docks, or stand awestruck before the kaleidoscopic façades of the Clifton’s ‘Rainbow Row’. Bristol, with its fusion of history, art, and innovation, beckons for exploration.

Let’s dive into the finest things to do in Bristol !

1 – Experience world class art at the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

The Bristol Museum & Art Gallery has a varied and rich collection ranging from Ancient Egyptian and Assyrian artifacts, to dinosaurs, fossils and minerals. At the museum visitors can learn more about wildlife in the south west of England before heading to look at the exceptional artworks on display in the Gallery.

Marvel at celebrated European Old Masters such as works by Cranach, Bellini and Jacob Van Ruisdael. Admire the paintings of notable British artists such as such as Constable and Gainsborough. The collection also has a large section of Modern art with illustrious artists like Frank Auerbach, Barbara Hepworth and Howard Hodgkin.

Make sure to take a closer look at the Neo-Gothic style  Wills Memorial Building Tower . The 65 meter tall tower is part of the University of Bristol. The Wills Memorial Building Tower commemorates the tobacco industrialist Henry Overton Wills III who was a benefactor to the University. The building has a Great Hall which is used for graduation events as well as lecture halls and administration offices.

2 – Marvel at exotic sea creatures at Bristol Aquarium

At the Bristol Aquarium visitors can check out some extraordinary shark species such as the Arabian carpet shark, the Japanese bounded hound shark or the Lesser Spotted Cat shark! Or spend time gazing at mesmerizing stingray and tropical painted rays at the Bay of Rays exhibit!

The aquarium has different themed zones representing various ocean habitats such as the ‘Sunken ship’ tank inspired by British sea life. Try to spot the crayfishes and cat sharks among the shipwreck ruins. Highlights include the elegant yet eery moon jellyfish that glides through the water like a phantom!

The Bristol Aquarium is also home to a Botanical House where visitors can immerse themselves amongst the leafy plants and fern trees.

3 – Admire the breathtaking Clifton Suspension Bridge

Looking up at the Clifton Suspension Bridge has to be one of the essential things to do in Bristol! Designed by the engineer Brunel, the bridge wasn’t completed until after his death in 1864.

Considering the date of construction the bridge was super innovative because Brunel deployed new techniques such as wrought iron chains and patterns of iron rods to create the suspension and balance the load!

The bridge spans across the deep Avon Gorge, connecting Clifton with Leigh Woods.

• Clifton Suspension Bridge tours

4 – Marvel at the majestically gothic Bristol Cathedral

Ensure to stop off at Bristol Cathedral during one of the city walking tours. Bristol Cathedral dates back to the 12th century when it was a Augustinian Abbey.

Look up at the impressive vaulted ceiling and dazzling stained glass windows! Also keep an eye out for the famous ‘green man carvings’ or faces surrounded by foliage carved into the cathedral exterior.

The Cathedral is often described as being a ‘hall church’ due to the fact that the nave, the choir and the aisles are all at the same height. Pass by the cathedral as part of a walking tour and discover other iconic landmarks!

• walking tours in Bristol

5 – Climb up Cabot Tower at Brandon Hill

The iconic Cabot Tower was built in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot’s famous voyage in 1497 from Bristol to the continent of North America. The impressive 32 meters tower is built in a Neo-Gothic style and is made out of local red sandstone. Listen out for the tower bell that chimes out over the city every hour!

Brandon Hill is the oldest park in Bristol with a gorgeous wild flower meadow, a pond and a playground area for kids. It is free to ascend the steep Cabot Tower staircase to enjoy a stunning view over the city skyline from the observation deck.

6 – Learn about the history of flying at Aerospace Bristol

Aerospace Bristol is definitely one of the top things to do in Bristol for those interested in aviation and the aeronautics industry!

There is even the possibility to step inside the last Concorde and learn about engineering challenges and cutting edge technology. The Concorde was the first airplane to cross the Atlantic in under 3 hours. Traveling at 1320 miles per hour, passengers could even see the curvature of the Earth!

Marvel at the restoration of some legendary historical planes such as the Bristol Freighter and the Bolingbroke 9048 or discover more about the role of aircrafts during the World Wars.

• Aerospace Bristol tickets

7 – Transport yourself back to Tudor England at the Red Lodge Museum

The Red Lodge located on Park Row was built during the Tudor period in the 16th century. The building has a rich history because during the 19th century the lodge was converted into a religious girls school.

During a visit to the Red Lodge Museum visitors can step foot inside the glorious Great Oak Room, a 16th century Elizabethan room with exposed timber beams and intricate wooden carvings and wooden paneling.

The place is full of curiosities for example what is believed to be the earliest portrait of a slave in the United Kingdom! Before leaving make sure to step outside the Red Lodge Museum into the Knot Garden which is arranged in an orderly and charming Tudor style pattern.

8 – Browse the St Nicholas Market inside a Georgian Arcade

The St Nicholas Market dates back to 1743 and locals lovingly refer to the market using the abbreviation ‘St Nicks.’

The St Nicholas Market is a large indoor market full of food stalls selling a mix of international style cuisine. The glass arcaded roof provides a bright atmosphere and shoppers can find all sorts of products such as jewelry, vintage clothes and antiques!

The market is located near to St Nicholas Church that was unfortunately badly bombed during the Second World War. Since 2018 the St Nicholas Church has become part of the Holy Trinity Brompton church network and is used for Anglican worship.

• St. Nicholas Market tours

9 – Unwind during some Virtual Reality Games

At Meetspace VR you can choose your own experience in the zero latency free roam arena. Zero latency means that there is no delay in the real life actions into the virtual reality. The benefit of Meetspace VR is the large area to move around in and you can play solo or multiplayer.

Vertigo VR also have an extensive library of 25 game titles to choose from. Try out their immersive Twingo VR that blends motion with the virtual reality. Feel like you are soaring through the sky, free falling or jumping through the air. Some of the most popular games include trampolines, motorbike racing through rocky forests or flying past skyscrapers.

10 – Relax in the green space of the central Castle Park

The park is named ‘Castle Park’ because the site used to be occupied by a castle built by the Normans during the 11th century! Unfortunately this castle is no longer standing today. Only a few remnants remain such as small sections of the wall and gateways.

Castle Park used to be a commercial district however in 1940 when Bristol was heavily bombed during the World War II, the area was badly destroyed.

In the middle of Castle Park visitors can stumble across the ruins of St Peter’s Church. Although the interior of St Peter’s Church was completely ravaged by the bombing, the walls that are still remaining stand as a memorial for the victims lost during the Bristol Blitz.

Nowadays local and tourists head to Castle Park to picnic on the lawn or to take a peaceful walk.

11 – Discover more about the social history of Bristol at the M Shed

Located on Prince’s Wharf, the M Shed offers free entry to visitors. The place is called the M Shed because after World War II, two general cargo sheds labelled ‘M’ and ‘L’ were constructed for the storage of food supplies.

The museum tells the story about the people living in Bristol and how city life has developed over time. The exhibitions are split into 3 sections; Bristol Places, Bristol People and Bristol Life.

At a visit to  M Shed you can understand more about Bristols industrial past and the importance of shipbuilding and engineering. Discover how Bristol has been impacted by immigration, the hardships of the Wars and how changing technology has contributed the contemporary cosmopolitan Bristol we experience today.

12 – Take a pleasant stroll around Queens Square

Queen Square is a symmetrical Georgian park area surrounded by trees and smart town houses. Due to its central location and attractive architecture, the square is often used for theatre performances and outdoor concerts.

Queen Square has a dark history in the sense that this area was badly damaged and burnt during the Bristol riots in 1831. Riots broke out when a petition for a more modernized electoral system was blocked by the House of Lords. Tragically the riots resulted in the death of hundreds of protestors.

In the centre of the square visitors can admire the bronze Equestrian Statue of William III by Rysbrack that was erected in 1736. King William III also known as the Prince of Orange, is depicted like a powerful Roman Emperor.

13 – Sit back and listen to the gentle melodies of candlelit concerts

Relax after a long days sight seeing and assist an unforgettable concert bathed in romantic flickering candlelight!

Whether you enjoy rock, pop or classical strings, there is something for all music tastes. Upcoming concerts in Bristol include tribute music to Hans Zimmer, Elvis, Pink Floyd, Adele or even Taylor Swift so make sure to check out the full program during your visit.

The concerts are located in interesting and atmospheric venues such as the Church of All Saints or the St Mary Redcliffe church!

• candlelight concerts in Bristol

14 – Explore some contemporary art at Arnolfini Arts

A trip to the Arnolfini Arts is one of the top things to do in Bristol for art enthusiasts! Located in Bush House on the harbourside, the gallery has frequently changing art exhibitions and there are often musical performances or poetry readings. The gallery also has a comfortable bar and ample bookshop.

Arnolfini Arts was opened in 1961 by two local artists who decided to name the gallery in honor of their favorite painting ‘The Arnolfini Wedding’ by Jan van Eyck. Previous exhibitions include works exploring the world behind notable artists such as Duchamp, Richard Long, William Kentridge and Yoko Ono!

15 – Learn more about exotic animals and conservation at the Bristol Zoo Project

Get up close to some fascinating animals such as European brown bears, lemurs from Madagascar, cheetahs, wolverines and lynx at the  Bristol Zoo Project.

Every day at the Bristol Zoo Project there is a daily schedule where you can check what ‘Animal talks’ are programed. Assist the ‘Meerkat Talk and feed’ or ‘Ostrich Talk.’ The project also runs themed evening events where animal keepers answer educational questions on the animals and their habitats.

The zoo also has a ‘leap of faith’ climbing adventure for kids involving high wire ladders and a giant swing. For a more tranquil activity, wonder around the butterfly maze or take the children to explore the woodland play areas.

16 – Visit St Mary Redcliffe Church, the tallest parish Church in England

The  St Mary Redcliffe Church sometimes gets mistaken for the Cathedral of Bristol due to its enormous gothic spire and flying buttresses!

The St Mary Redcliffe Church was founded in the 12th century and stands as the second tallest structure in the whole of Bristol after the high-rise building of Castle Park View.

Make sure to pause and admire the highly decorated stone arches surrounded the entrance laden with heavy vegetal motifs and gargoyles.

17 – Seek out hidden back street urban graffiti on a street art tour

A trip to Bristol isn’t truly complete without following in the steps of Banksy and uncovering some ground breaking and unusual street art!

Download the ‘Banksy Graffiti Outdoor Escape Game’ on your mobile to explore the variety of street art and unlock challenges to learn more about the background of the graffiti artists and their inspiration.

Discover the enormous mural by the American urban artist El Mac or gaze up at the works by Pixel Pancho, an Italian who blends mythological animals with mechanical features creating epic robotic sci-fi birds!

• street art tours in Bristol

18 – Browse the independent boutique shops in Clifton Village

Clifton village is one of the most picturesque and affluent neighborhoods in Bristol with crescents of smart Georgian town houses and trendy bespoke gift shops and organic cafés.

Take a look around the Victorian Clifton shopping arcade with various unique antique, jewelry and furniture stores. Due to the proximity to Bristol university, many students choose to hang out and study in the cute cafés dotted around Clifton village.

19 – Set on board Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the world’s first great ocean liner

Brunel’s SS Great Britain is an enormous Victorian ship designed by the engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Launched in 1843, Brunel’s SS Great Britain was innovative in the sense that the ship had an iron hull and steam propulsion!

Embark on a guided visit round the boat that used be to transport passengers from Bristol across the Atlantic to New York. The visit includes entrance to the ‘Being Brunel’ Museum where there are fun recreations of his own dining room, set eyes on his personal objects and design drawings!

Check out the Tourscanner link for more information on Brunel themed self guided audio tours around the city or tours combining a visit to Brunel’s SS Great Britain and the Clifton Suspension bridge.

• Brunel’s SS Great Britain tours

20 – Royal West of England Academy (RWA)

The Royal West of England Academy is Bristol’s first art gallery, opened in 1844. The gallery is housed in an impressive grade II Victorian building on Queen’s Road!

Take inspiration from looking at the permanent collection of works by local artists from the South West. Make sure to take a look at their extensive program of exhibitions, events, workshops, talks and lectures to find whats on during your visit. Keep in mind that the gallery is closed on Mondays.

21 – Refresh your palette with some beer tastings

Bristol is often considered one of the UK’s top craft beer destinations so why not make the most and opt for a self-led beer tasting experience. Follow the map and use your tokens when you stop off at recommended breweries and pubs and get to know the Bristol Old Market area like a local.

There is also the option of a self-guided audio tour to discover facts about the beer industry in Bristol, the secrets behind beer production and the history behind the most popular taprooms. A top notch activity to do if you want to brush up your beer knowledge.

• beer tasting in Bristol

22 – Get involved with interactive displays at the ‘We The Curious’ science center

We The Curious is full of hands-on exhibits and experiments to spark your imagination regarding some of sciences big questions! The center makes physics fun for example understand more about the earths most destructive forces or attempt to split and refract light!

Attend a session at the 3D Planetarium to learn about our universe or the hunt for dark matter! Learn about different star constellations and the race to uncover alien life in the depths of outer space.

The We The Curious center seeks to delve into artistic and scientific enquiry and make you pose lots of questions, making an entertaining and educational day out!

23 – Perfect your team building skills at the West Country Games

Step out of your comfort zone and get competitive in a series of gladiator style contests, ideal for team building among friends and hen or stag parties!

The West Country Games are set in a rural farm so you can enjoy spending time in the fresh countryside air and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city center. The themed games are packed full of fun props such as catapults, fat suits and inflatable toys! The experience is guaranteed to leave you crying out with laughter and delight as you watch your team mates being put to the test!

• West Country Games tickets

24 – Visit the city of Wells and the spectacular Cheddar Gorge

Take day trip to Wells, the smallest city in England with a magnificent gothic cathedral! Walking around Wells, visitors can set eyes on the world’s 2nd oldest working clock! Exploring the city center you can immerse yourself amongst the timber-framed Medieval buildings, the stone houses and the meandering narrow and winding streets.

Indulge in some cheese tastings where the legendary English cheddar cheese originated from! Learn more about the cheese making process at a cheese making factory!

Finish off your day by contemplating the awe-inspiring Cheddar Gorge! It is mind boggling to think that Cheddar Gorge was formed during the last Ice Age! The gorge itself has many limestone caves and it was here that they discovered Britain’s oldest complete human skeleton back in 1903.

• cheese tasting in Bristol

25 – Take a river cruise on Bristol Packet boats

The Bristol Packet offer different boat experiences such as a Cream Tea Cruise, a Pub Lunch Cruise or Beese’s Friday lunch. What a pleasant way to sit back and enjoy watching life on the river slowly pass by!

Embark on the City Dock Tour to learn more about the maritime history through an entertaining onboard commentary! Bristol Packet have different boats available for example the brightly decorated narrowboat ‘Redshank’ or the glass and aluminium panoramic Dutch cruiser ‘Bagheera.’

26 – Take a segway tour around Kings Weston House

Admire the 18th century grand Georgian mansion of Kings Weston House! The house is situated on a large estate surrounded by green parkland. Explore the grounds during some segway tours and learn more about the history of the country mansion with the impressive Palladian facade. Master turns of the segway and wizz around in the fresh crisp countryside air!

The picturesque setting of Kings Weston House has been used by many film sets over the years for example in the films ‘The Young Victoria’ and ‘Stan and Ollie!’

• segway tours in Bristol

27 – The Harbourside Street Food Market

At The Harbourside Street Food Market you can grab a pint on the beer deck and embrace the tantalizing waft of international food being cooked up from local vendors and food trucks! Pick up a greek wrap, a pizza, tacos, New York burger or a Valencian paella!

The lively market is open on weekends and Wednesday and Thursday lunch times. Located along the waterfront, stroll around and enjoy the scenic views of the boats and soak up the sun during the summer months.

28 – Play a round on one of the best Bristol golf courses

The Bristol and Clifton Golf club is one of the oldest golf clubs in England and has been running since 1891. Situated on Failand Hill, the club has an attractive golf house and visitors can enjoy superb views of the surrounding green countryside and the Bristol Channel.

Another friendly and historic Golf club is Henbury. They have some challenging holes which are excellent for players of all different abilities. Enjoy walking around their 18 hole course full of undulating fairways and well-maintained greens.

Located right in the city center on Cabot circus, check out Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf for two indoor 18 hole mini golf courses! The two courses are themed ‘swamp’ and ‘jungle’ and are full of whacky surprises and obstacles!

29 – Go on a shopping spree at Clifton Down

Take a trip to the Clifton Down shopping Centre for some ultimate retail therapy. Check out what sales are available, browse the high street fashion brands or stop for a coffee to refuel.

The shops at Clifton Down range from fashion and accessories, to home goods, to electronic essentials. You can find the Clifton Down mall located on Whiteladies Road and nearby you can find the cinema, ‘The Everyman Bristol.’

30 – Hop on one of the enjoyable bus tours to cover the main landmarks

Why not opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour to give you the flexibility to see the city at your own pace? The bus tour passes by 14 locations and provides an educational audio commentary. Pass by Brunel’s SS Great Britain ocean liner or discover where Banksy grew up on Barton Hill.

See buildings from the unique elevated vantage point of a double decker bus and put your feet up as you pass around the most iconic parts of the city.

• bus tours in Bristol

31 – Enjoy the peaceful green oasis of Victoria Park

Located in the southern part of Bristol, the Victoria park is within convenient walking distance from the city center. Originally the site housed a former cattle market however during the 19th century the area was converted into a large green park area.

Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy the sports facilities such as a skatepark, basketball courts and tennis clubs. Kids can enjoy jumping around the playground area while parents can sit back and grab a coffee in the park café.

32 – Visit the ancient spa town of Bath

Visit the original baths with naturally occurring hot springs that were used by the Romans thousands of years ago! Admire Baths picturesque buildings made from the warm golden color limestone.

Walk around the splendid Georgian terraces and square where the iconic Jane Austen used to come to pass the season, frequenting the sociable Assembly rooms! Step inside the Ballroom or the Tea Room laden with Neoclassical architectural elements and chandeliers to get an inside into how the high British society socialized.

• Bath tours from Bristol

33 – Jump into the void at the thrilling Leap of Faith High Ropes

Try out some fun outdoor activities at the  Leap of Faith High Ropes located within the natural oasis of the Wild Place project conservation park.

Push yourself to the limits and experience heights like you never have before as you clamber through and over the high ropes. Why not have a go at Bristols Only Giant 3G swing? It involves whooshing through the air whilst being strapped into a paragliding harness! Will you be daring enough to take the jump off a 7 meter high pole?

• Leap of Faith High Ropes tickets

34 – Check out the local street art and community feel at The Bearpit

The Bearpit is a circular plaza and urban space located within the St James Barton Roundabout. In the past the Bearpit was renowned for being a neglected area with a reputation for antisocial behavior, but recent projects have reconverted in the space into a friendly and clean zone.

Take a look at the vibrant street art and murals carried out by local artists who seek to create a place of community and creativity. Visitors will come across the large bear sculpture created by the artist Jamie Gillman.

35 – Soar up in the sky during a hot air balloon ride

Discover the stunning countryside surrounding Bristol by taking off in an unforgettable hot air balloon ride from Ashton Court Mansion. Complete a hot air balloon briefing with a trusted professional instructor and receive a fun flight certificate as a souvenir of your voyage!

There is even the possibility to opt for a morning ride to watch the rising sun light up the slowly illuminate the Bristolian countryside. Start off your day with some magical panoramic views!

• hot air balloon rides in Bristol

36 – Analyze and make connections to complete the missions at Escape Hunt Bristol

Escape Hunt Bristol is the ideal activity if you are looking to put your team building skills to the test. They offer immersive escape rooms and outdoor city hunts so you can roam around the city of Bristol whilst unblocking different challenges.

The escape room themes at Escape Hunt Bristol include Doctor Who, Our Finest Hour, The Fourth Samurai and Blackbeard’s Treasure. Embark on a memorable adventure and use your wit to uncover the treasure or key to escape!

37 – Perfect your tactics in a paintball session

Get competitive and feel the thrill of aiming at your opponents in a fun and intense paintball match! This activity is another great team bonding experience where you can launch up to 300 paintballs!

Located in the woodland area of Hunstrete surrounding by military area very near Bristol, paint balling is the perfect opportunity to spend time in the fresh air. Attempt to camouflage yourself in the greenery or stalk up on your enemies from behind piles of car tyres!

• paintball in Bristol

38 – Explore the restaurants and shops at Cabot Circus

Cabot Circus is a massive modern shopping and leisure complex right in the heart of Bristol. The place has a luminous feel thanks to some of the large glass paned ceiling coverings that allow natural air and light to circulate.

Browse around over 90 shops within the complex of Cabot Circus and stop for a bite to eat at one of the restaurants ranging from gourmet fine dining to easy going fast food!

39 – Admire the Cascade Steps water feature

Check out this intriguing installation where water flows over golden stone steps! Relax to the gentle sound of flowing water near the Harbourside area.

The steps date back to the 19th century and were used by boatmen to unload and load goods onto the boats on the docks. The water feature reminds us of Bristols maritime heritage whilst also providing an appealing visual feature for locals and visitors to appreciate.

40 – Climb up the historic Clifton Observatory for breathtaking views

Visitors can learn about the history of the Observatory and the evolution of photography in Bristol at the  Clifton Observatory museum. The museum also features a rare Victorian-era Camera Obscura that has been working since 1828! There is only three of this type of Camera Obscura in the whole of the UK!

At trip to the Clifton Observatory all includes entry into the mystical man-made Giants Cave within the cliffs!

The observatory is perched on a hill where there originally used to be a Celtic fort and from the top you can take in the amazing panorama of the Avon Gorge and the Clifton Suspension Bridge! Did you know that building used to be a working windmill before it was turned into an observatory?

41 – Ride off-road on adventure filled quad tours

Rev up a 300cc Kawasaki quad and cruise around the countryside! Professional instructors will provide driving tips and lead you round fun circuits including humps, bumps and woodland areas.

Feel the power of the engine and learn how to manoeuvre your vehicle with style and confidence. A quad biking adventure is a great way to bond with a group as you race against each other and tackle some challenging terrains.

• quad tours in Bristol

42 – Walk over Pero’s Bridge in the Harbourside area

Pero’s bridge is a modern pedestrian bridge was opened in 1999 and named in honor of Pero Jones, an enslaved African who lived in Bristol. The bridge reminds locals of the Bristols dark links to slavery and the social injustices committed.

Make sure to look at the unusual horn-shaped sculptures which act as counterweights when the middle sections rises to allow taller boats to pass through the floating harbor. These horn-shaped sculptures are illuminated at night creating a fun and atmospheric vibe.

43 – Bump and roll around in a game of bubble football

Get inside a giant inflatable bubble and use gravity to attempt to gain control of the ball and dribble it across the pitch. Have a real laugh with friends and family as you knock into other plays and accidentally wobble over!

Bubble football certainly puts a wacky and fun twist on a traditional football match! Learn how to co-operate and communicate with your team mates in order to avoid collisions and score goals. The cushioned barrier of the inflatable bubble definitely makes this amusing game a low impact option!

• bubble football in Bristol

44 – Take a day trip to Neolithic Stonehenge and the quaint Cotswold Villages

Take a day trip to Wiltshire to contemplate the mysterious Stonehenge , the standing stone circle that is over 4,000 years old! Stonehenge has puzzled historians for centuries since we still don’t really know the purpose of its formation. Perhaps a place of religious offering or an astronomical observatory?

Carry on your day trip to the gorgeous  Cotswold Villages where you can snap photos of the pretty stone houses and quintessentially English village pubs and churches. In the village of Lacock, visitors can see the Lacock Abbey Cloisters which were used to film the Hogwarts corridors in Harry Potter!

45 – Admire the water features at Millennium Square

Millennium Square is a spacious and modern public area right next to the We are Curious science center. The space is dotted with lots of benches so locals and tourists can relax and socialize. The square is often used throughout the year to host concerts, food festivals or film screenings.

Visitors can come across a bronze statue of Bristol-born actor Cary Grant along with several flowing fountains and attractive pools. During the winter months there is often a Christmas market held on this site for those seeking some festive cheer!

46 – Spot some exotic and intriguing animals at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm

Have you ever wanted to see unusual and incredible animals such as white rhinos, skunks, African pygmy goats or wallabies? Head to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm to explore different habitats such as the Reptile House or the Farm Barn.

There are also fun games areas for kids such as an epic indoor rainbow slide, soft play areas and tractor racing! Whirl down the huge elephant slide or bounce around on the trampolines. Make friends on the Wallaby Hill huge wooden adventure playground or splash around in the Welly Splash Pool during the summer months.

47 – Tap into your wild side with some fun Axe Throwing

Try to hit some targets during an urban axe throwing session with the guidance of a professional instructor. The urban axe throwing center has 10 lanes providing ample space to hurl your axe through the air to reach the bullseye.

Alternatively if you prefer an outdoors environment and a more intense test, opt for the Axe-Throwing survival challenge. The 2 hour challenge takes place in the woodland area of the Wild Place Conservation project and is a fantastic opportunity for groups looking to do some team bonding!

• axe throwing in Bristol

48 – Take aim during a clay pigeon shooting session

Try out clay pigeon shooting in a picturesque woodland setting near Bristol. Shoot on up to five different stands with the guidance of a professional instructor and master your hand eye co-ordination skills.

Get competitive and attempt to win a bronze, silver of gold medal with fun multiple games and score cards! There is the possibility to choose between either a 30, 40 or 50 clay experience depending on your stamina and previous shooting experience.

• shooting sessions in Bristol

49 – Go for afternoon tea in some of the best coffee shops

Surround yourself with plants and a sunny bright atmosphere at the Foliage Café on Regent Street. This is a perfect spot for an avocado toast and they have a wide selection of healthy sandwich fillings. This independent coffee store has a charming and rustic vibe. 

Alternatively head to Mrs Potts Chocolate House for some mouth watering cookies, tasty cakes and brownies. They also have some top vegan options such as a vegan snickers cake!

Another one of the best coffee shops is Small St. Espresso. The place has hipster vibes with exposed brick walls, wooden floor boards and large glass window panes that softly steam up during the cold winter months. Sip on one of their artisan blended coffees and munch away at the freshly baked pastries.

50 – Power around the Mendip Hills on a off-road vehicle

The naturally beautiful limestone hills of Mendip are a 30 minutes drive away from the center of Bristol. Go for a spin in a 4×4 all terrain vehicle under the guidance of a professional instructor. Feel the surge of the engine ignite and enjoy the wilderness of the scenic Mendip Hills.

Splash through the muddy tracks and soar and navigate around woodland and grassland areas. Learn how to handle bumpy terrains and cruise over certain hills. You can opt to participate in this activity solo or invite up to three people to join you on the backseats.

• Mendip Hills tours

51 – Battle it out at the exhilarating Laser Fusion

Gain points every time you zap your opponents with a laser at the Laser Fusion center. Feel alive and fully immersed as you stalk your opponents and engage in different tactics in order to win and survive the session!

The purpose built arena at Laser Fusion has an astonishing mix of castle towers, turrets, ramps, mazes, swirling fog and state of the art sound and lighting effects, creating a thrilling atmosphere for targeting and hiding from other players! Laser Tag can be enjoyed by all ages (over the age of 6 years old) providing the perfect exiting family outing.

52 – Mix up some tasty spirits in fun cocktail classes

Discover more about mixology from a cocktail making expert and get pouring to create some epic and flavorsome creations. Learn how to make 3 different cocktails and perfect your cocktail shaking skills so you look like a professional!

A cocktail class is a fantastic activity for a small group of friends or family to kick start your night out in Bristol! Learn how to make the ultimate Espresso Martini with the exact proportions and ingredients! The cocktail classes last for approximately 2 hours with plenty of time to take on board tips from the mixologist and sit back and savor your own cocktail creations.

• cocktail classes in Bristol

53 – Be blown away by the House Magicians Comedy and Magic Show

Enjoy a superb evening of entertainment where magic is mixed with comedy. Prepare to be completely puzzled as the magic tricks unfold on stage before your very eyes! The show is located in the intimate and cosy setting of a small 1920s-style theater.

The small audience makes the show more interactive and engaging. From card tricks, to balloons to disappearing objects audience members will definitely enjoy a good laugh in a convivial atmosphere!

• magic shows in Bristol

54 – Escape the urban hustle and bustle and relax at the tranquil City Farms

Meet the animals such as goats, pigs, sheep and poultry at Windmill Hill City Farm . Learn fun facts about the farm animals and kids can complete a stickman farm trail! Follow a map round the farm and discover clues from around the site to unblock the ultimate mysterious word. Peek inside the greenhouse or check out what fresh vegetables and herbs are growing in the 20 different vegetable beds!

St Werburgh’s City Farm is another city farm where you can go and look at some cute animals such as goats and turkeys! After observing the animals at St Werbugh’s City Farm, visitors can relax in the Bee Garden and Picnic area or kids can clamber around on the small adventure playground .

Both city farms have a farm shop and a café to you can stock up on locally grown fresh produce!

55 – Bounce up high at AirHop Bristol

Children can let off steam and jump around at  AirHop Bristol , a large trampoline park! The place has 140 interconnected trampolines as well as an Obstacle Course and Wipeout Zone. In fact, all ages are welcome so the whole family can participate!

On Friday and Saturday evenings AirHop Bristol has special sunset session with a state-of-the-art sound and light system! Bounce around to epic club anthems to flashing disco lighting. There are also special sessions exclusively for toddlers. Fitness enthusiasts may be interested in their high intensity trampoline workout classes led by a professional trainer. Burn calories while having fun and release those endorphins!

56 – Discover how wealthy Bristol merchants lived in the 18th century at The Georgian House Museum

A trip to The Georgian House Museum is one of the top things to do in Bristol for history buffs! Discover the interior of a sugar plantation and slave owner’s home spanning over 11 rooms.

At The Georgian House Museum visitors can understand the huge difference between the servants quarters (the kitchen, laundry and housekeeping rooms) and the elegant dining and drawing room used by the home owner! It’s worth noting that the entrance is completely free!

57 – Get creative during some engaging Drawing Classes

With an eclectic mix of different architectural styles the city of Bristol is the ideal inspiration for unleashing your creative juices and embarking upon one of the  sketching tours . Get out your sketch pad and put pen to paper with the help of a local illustrator who will offer some guidance and artistic tips. Sketching tours allow you to slow down and observe the city from another perspective!

Alternatively assist a group life drawing class and sketch a nude model with the help of a professional tutor! Focusing on drawing helps you to improve your concentration skills and become fully engrossed in your sketch!

• drawing classes in Bristol

58 – See a memorable show at some of Bristol’s best theatres

Bristol has a thriving theater scene with historical theaters such as the  Bristol Old Vic that has been continuously operating since 1766! It is claimed that world famous actor Daniel Day-Lewis called the Bristol Old Vic ‘the most beautiful theatre in England.’

There are many other cultural venues such as the  Bristol Hippodrome that has one of the largest theatre stages in Britain! The Bristol Hippodrome houses many musical productions and therefore has gained the nickname as Bristol’s West End Theatre. Their shows range from big stand up comedians, to opera and ballet.

The Redgrave Theatre  is named after the actor Sir Michael Redgrave who was a former student at Clifton College. The theatre was originally built to host theatre performances of drama students at the college. Nowadays the Redgrave Theatre hosts all types of theatre productions from tribute bands, stand up comedians, storytelling experiences to monologues.

Bristol Beacon is a space dedicated to music with a rich program of gigs and performances ranging from classical, jazz, rock and comedy. The Bristol Beacon seeks unity and inclusivity, engaging with the local community in outreach programs and collaboration with local musical talent.

For large scale concerts check whats on at the  O2 Academy Bristol on Frogmore street. They welcome big name bands with a 1,600 capacity so you can get quite close up to the acts.

59 – Lap round the circuit at TeamSport Go Karting Bristol

Try out the brand new 200cc petrol powered karts at TeamSport Go Karting Bristol .

Wizz round their 800 meter circuit and see if you can beat the average time lap of 43 seconds! Manoeuvre around the 10 hair-raising bends and improve your driving skills.

Family members can watch you zip around the course from the spectator area and enjoy some refreshments in the Fuel Bar on site. Kids who want to participate in the karting must be more than 8 years old. TeamSport Go Karting Bristol is located in Avonmouth, just a 20 minute drive away from Bristol city center.

60 – See filming locations on the Only Fools and Horses tours

Fans of the classic British comedy, ‘Only Fools and Horses’ will delight in discovering where some of the top scenes were directed! From the late 1980s until 2003 the ‘Only Fools and Horses’ sitcom was made in Bristol!

During a tour, a guide will share behind-the-scenes stories and interesting trivia regarding the series! Take a photo outside the Nelson Mandela House or where Batman and Robin scare off the muggers during an iconic episode! Visit outside the home of Boycie and Marlene and Sids Cafe.

The tour lasts 3 and a half hours and combines both traveling around by coach and also walking around the city by foot!

• Only Fools and Horses tours

61 – Browse the book stores and trendy music shops on Park Street

Park Street is one of the major shopping streets in Bristol and it certainly is picturesque with stunning views of the Wills Memorial Building at the top! The street is on a hill and connects the city center with the Clifton neighborhood.

The street is full of hipster pubs, restaurants and clothes stores so its a fun place for window shopping or if you are looking out for a bite to eat.

Right across the road from Park Street visitors can spot one of Banksy most famous street art works entitled ‘Well Hung Man’.The work depicts a naked man hanging from a window, while a man dressed in a suit looks out with a woman in her underwear stands behind him. When Banksy completed the work the building housed the Brook Sexual Health Clinic.

62 – Indulge your taste buds at Bristols best restaurants

Have you ever tried any top quality Sri Lankan or Tamil cuisine? Head to the award winning restaurant Nadu in the neighborhood of Stokes Croft! The decor is colorful and vibrant with painted ethnic masks and trendy low lighting. Try one of their spicy dosas or participate in one of their rum tastings.

Poco is one of the best restaurants for eco-conscious diners in Bristol. The place makes a huge ethical commitment of recycling 90% of products used with the aim of creating an almost zero waste impact! The food is tapas style and they also serve brunch. The ambiance is rustic, casual and laid back.

If you are looking for a small and cosy romantic bistro then check out the family owned littlefrench restaurant. The place is located in the Westbury park area and they also have an outdoor courtyard for summer dining. They serve typical french inspired cuisine such as scallops, seared turbot and parsley snail soup.

63 – Fall through the sky bungee jumping at Lloyds Amphitheatre

The Lloyds Amphitheatre is a large live music venue located near the waterfront. The venue is also used by the UK Bungee Club providing intense jumping experiences that will leave you breathless!

During an exhilarating bungee jumping experience, gear yourself up with a harness and then launch off the 48 meter bungee crane! There is also the option of a Forwards and Backwards bungee jump allowing you to fit in some epic back flips and jumps while you soar through the air! Whilst you free fall make sure to take in the spectacular views of Bristol harbor!

• bungee jumping in Bristol

64 – Surround yourself with greenery at Bristols other great parks

Stroll along the riverside wooded park area of Oldbury Court Estate. Try to spot some fish in the river Frome and inhale the fresh scent of wildflowers covering the lush meadows. Bring a picnic blanket and curl up under one of the ancient oak or lime trees for some ultimate relaxation.

Or why not spend a pleasant afternoon at the  Old Sneed Park Nature Reserve ? The place has 130 different species of flowering plants and a beautifully serene lake. At the Old Sneed Park Nature Reserve visitors can watch dozens of different types of colorful butterflies dance around or look out for wildlife such as roaming deer or nestling foxes and badgers in the undergrowth!

Plant lovers will be transported to paradise at the  University of Bristol Botanic Garden . The Garden has collections of prehistoric plants, a Mediterranean collection, tropical zones and cool zones so visitors can educate themselves on plant diversity in various habitats. At the University of Bristol Botanic Garden you can even learn more about the types of plants that are used for medicinal purposes!

65 – Aim for a clean bullseye with Archery Lessons

Experience the archery range in Westerleigh, a 15 minute drive from the center of Bristol. The 20 meter archery range is covered and floodlit meaning you can even practice during wet weather or during a winters afternoon! Improve your accuracy and balance with the help of an experienced instructor who will offer guidance on your technique.

Improve your upper body strength drawing your bow correctly and help to enhance a correct posture. Boost your self confidence as your shots become more accurate and your hand eye co-ordination develops.

• archery lessons in Bristol

66 – Engage in a round of bowling at Tenpin Bristol

Tenpin Bristol is the ideal spot for bowling with a whopping 26 lanes! Take a look at their special deals such as bowling and burgers on Thursdays or Bowl and Pizza nights.

After a round of bowling, check out the different arcade games, air hockey and table tennis on site. Alternatively Tenpin Bristol also have two karaoke rooms available for belting out some feel good bangers with friends or family. You will be lost for choice with over 6,000 tracks to choose from!

For a more adrenaline filled activity opt for a round of laser tag at Tenpin Bristol’s interactive laser area!

67 – Watch a art house film at the Watershed cultural hub

Take a break from sight seeing to relax and watch a film at the  Watershed conveniently situated in the Harbourside area. Established in 1982, the Watershed was one of the first media centers in the UK!

The place is dedicated to promoting digital creativity and throughout the year they host events, workshops, exhibitions and installations merging art, technology, creative thinking and cinema.

If you are traveling with family, they also run special cinema screenings for children and babies during the ‘cinébabies sessions’. The Watershed also has a café and bar area so visitors can discuss their opinions after a film and enjoy some tasty refreshments.

68 – Spook yourself out on some haunting ghost tours

Learn more about the dark side of Bristols past in this engrossing and unforgettable tour full of legends and historical anecdotes. During a ghost tour visitors can uncover 17 different spectral locations throughout the city center with the help of a theatrical guide in costume who can transport visitors back to a more gruesome era!

Set your eyes on haunted inns, desolate bridges and squares where witch burnings and executions unfolded. Discover which hotels have supernatural presences or which restaurants have phantoms lurking in the back kitchens and alleyways! Learn more about famous urban legends such as the ghost of former manager Sarah McCreadie at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre. It is claimed that her ghostly appearances are always accompanied by the faint scent of lavender perfume!

• ghost tours in Bristol

69 – Enjoy a cocktail in one of the best rooftop bars

Relax on the sunny rooftop terrace of Bambalan for happy hour and absorb the rhythmic beats of the live DJ. Why not share one of their Mediterranean mezze platters or freshly baked sourdough pizzas? The urban beach club Bambalan is located on Carston Street right in the heart of Bristol city center.

Order a coffee at the 360 Cafe at Clifton Observatory and delight in the spellbinding view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the Avon Gorge and the luscious green North Somerset countryside! The café also has an indoor seating area with large glass windows for rainy days.

Another magical spot with a roof deck terrace is the floating Grain Barge! This 1930s barge is run by the Bristol Beer factory so the selection of craft beers and ciders is bountiful! Enjoy the scenic views of the harbor, in particular the magnificent Brunel’s SS Great Britain ocean liner while sipping on your chilled pint.

70 – Watch a sporting match at the Ashton Gate Stadium

The Ashton Gate Stadium is the home stadium of the Bristol Flyers Basketball team, the Bristol City Football Club and the Bristol Bears Rugby Club who compete in the Premiership Rugby league.

The stadium also hosts a number of different sporting events such as rugby matches, cricket and fitness and wellness sessions. The space is also used for trade and job fairs, guitar shows and concerts throughout the year.

If you attend a match at the Ashton Gate Stadium, make sure to check out the impressive mural on the South Stand exterior created by the artist Inkie. The mural depicts a large red and white robin proudly perched on top of the sports stadium, the iconic emblem of the Bristol City FC club.

71 – Pick up some speed on an epic Karting ride

Have you ever dared to try off-road karting ? At the Bristol Karting track you can power around in 400cc karts along a 600 meter racing circuit. Lap around the circuit and feel like a grand prix champion!

Try to beat your timing record and at the end of each session there is an award ceremony with medals for the super skilled karters of your group! Dress up in the professional style red karting racing suit for some excellent photo opportunities next to the checkered racing flag.

The tour operator Jumping also offers unique experiences combining karting rides with quad bikes and clay pigeon shooting.

72 – Uncover Bristols hidden gems during exciting Scavenger games

Tour operators such as Viator offer pirate themed treasure hunt scavenger games that will provide hours of entertainment! Put your map reading skills to the test and follow the clues around some of the most interesting parts of Bristol, learning new facts and interesting curiosities about the history of the city.

Other popular scavenger hunts involve decoding hidden messages and unblocking various symbols in order to piece together the mystery of a sabotaged balloon. What an excellent way to discover the different areas of Bristol whilst working together as a team to resolve the enigma!

• scavenger games in Bristol

73 – Have a few pints on some of the best pub crawls

Enjoy a laid back pint of ale at the ‘The Bell’ on Hillgrove street. The Bell draws in a real mix of clients from local artists, students to older locals. The ambiance is cozy with a wooden floor and low lying wooden beams. Sometimes the pub welcomes DJs giving the place some community spirit. Have a go on the dartboard in the backroom and sit out in the back patio.

If you enjoy some reggae vibes then head to ‘The Cadbury.’ This pub is popular especially during a Sunday when locals come in for Reggae ’n’ Roasts. The bar specializes in different rums and there is a large covered beer garden outside. The building is 300 years old with stylishly blue painted walls. During the winter it’s nice to chill out next to their open fire place.

Real ale enthusiasts should seek out the eccentric ‘Bag of Nails’ pub on St George’s Road. Pop in for the weekly pub quiz or simply savor the flavor of the locally selected draught beer. The pub has a homely eclectic feel with several cats relaxing on the window ledges or taking a nap under the tables.

• pub craws in Bristol

74 – Aim for the jackpot at the Rainbow Casino Bristol

If you fancy some late night gaming, every day the casino stays open until 4am! Have a go at blackjack, roulette, three card poker and play around on the slot machines.

The casino is also a great place to relax and watch some live sports or get a bite to eat in the restaurant. The restaurant serves a variety of international cuisine with a focus on curries and hamburgers.

If you are new to casino culture, the friendly casino hosts will help explain the rules of the games. Interact with new people and make new friends as you place your bets!

75 – Dance the night away at the best clubs

Discover Bristols underground clubbing scene at the legendary Lakota club with plenty of techno and jungle music and drum and base nights. Located inside a former bottle works factory, there are four rooms full of loud music with different DJs.

The Crofters Rights in the area of Stokes Croft has a great mix of live events ranging from indie, folk, techno to rock. The place has an authentic pub atmosphere with exposed stone walls and wood fire pizzas. Try some craft and cask beers or their delicious cider.

Try out something edgy and usual like a night on an old German cargo ship converted into a night club. The boat is moored in the Mud Dock area of the harbor. Thekla became a nightclub in the 90s and is celebrated for the drum and base. There are frequent live gigs and they have different themed club nights such as Pop confessional, Indie classics and Reggaeton boat parties.

How to get to Bristol?

The Bristol Airport terminal is a 16 minutes car drive away from the city center of a 40 minutes journey by bus. In order to save time and hassle make sure to check out the airport transfers in Bristol . Airport transfers in Bristol will certainly ensure that your trip runs more smoothly!

If you are coming from London, the train journey time takes 1 hour 40 minutes from Paddington.

Where to stay in Bristol?

Artist Residence Bristol is a boutique hotel located in a Georgian house on Portland Square, 400 meters away from Cabot circus. The building was also previously used as a boot factory! Their 23 rooms are tastefully designed with quirky artworks and trendy vintage furniture.

The 4 star Clayton Hotel Bristol City is located on Broad street and is situated in the former building of the Everards print works built in 1900s. The facade has colorful floral design patterns with elegant art nouveau typeface. In the center there is a depiction of a female figure, representing light and truth. This hotel is central and has a fantastic fitness center.

The 4 star Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel is considered one of the best hotels in Bristol. Located in a Victorian building on the College Green right next to the Cathedral, the hotel has a large gym and a comfortable and sophisticated lounge with a fireplace!

• best hotels in Bristol

Where to go next?

Ready to start exploring the rest of the UK? Why not consider one of the multi-day trips from Bristol to discover gems such as Shakespeare’s Stratford Upon Avon or the rugged coastline of Devon for a typical scone and clotted cream.

Check out our article on the Best Places to Visit in the UK to get some inspiration and wonder lust! There are many other fun things to do in  Birmingham for example jumping on a canal boat tour or inhaling the scent of freshly baked chocolate at the famous Cadbury’s world!

Why not travel down South to Brighton to browse the alternative and hipster shops or look out over the Channel and eat some fish and chips from the iconic Brighton Palace Pier.

A trip to the UK would not be complete without spending a few days in the buzzing capital  London for some world class museums and art galleries.

Head to the University city of  Cambridge to marvel at the exquisite architecture of the historic colleges. Spend a lazy afternoon punting and enjoying a picnic along the river Cam or relax in the botanic garden. Visit the rival University city of  Oxford nicknamed ‘the city of spires’ due to its dreamy skyline with soaring gothic steeples. In Oxford visitors can also visit some filming locations of Harry Potter!

Head up North to discover  Liverpool the home town of the Beatles! Walk around the historic waterfront and head out to the lively pubs and bars to experience the authentic scouse nightlife!

Watch a football game at Old Trafford Stadium in Manchester or browse the shops and galleries in the alternative and quirky Northern Quarter. Manchester has a vibrant cultural offering with top class galleries such as the Whitworth.

Finally why not spend a weekend in  York to marvel at the gothic York Minster Cathedral or learn about the cities Viking heritage at the Jorvik Viking Centre.

Final thoughts

From its dynamic vibe to its alternative spirit, Bristol is a city that never ceases to surprise and delight. Boasting vibrant street art and a bustling student crowd, it’s a destination like no other.

Whether you’re intrigued by spine-tingling ghost tales of Bristolian phantoms or fancy a leisurely boat cruise along the Avon river, Bristol offers an array of experiences. Stand in awe beneath the majestic Clifton Suspension Bridge or step inside the gothic cathedral to witness the intricate medieval vaulted ceiling.

Indulge your senses with the experimental rhythms of Bristol’s music scene and treat your palate to a freshly brewed craft ale from a local tavern, complemented by the tang of local cheddar cheese.

So, why wait? Dive into the unique essence of Bristol and see for yourself what this incredible city has to offer.

Happy travels!

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50 free unusual things to see in Bristol

From eye catching street art and unique architecture to victorian industrial landmarks and historic maritime treasures, Bristol plays host to countless unusual sights hidden in plain view

Providing both fascinating history and an even more exciting present, there’s more than enough reason to make bristol the next stop on your tour of the most interesting places in the uk..

However, with so much to see, it can be difficult to know where to start when exploring Bristol. That's why we've compiled a list of the most thought-provoking, interesting, and (most importantly) free sights to visit when wandering about the city’s streets.

1. A dazzling mirror maze 

Located at the Green Flag Awarded Royal Fort Garden at Bristol University, is the mirror maze artwork ‘Follow Me’. Designed by award-winning Danish artist Jeppe Hein, the intriguing piece was installed in 2009 and is well worth exploring. 

2. A gilded doorway to the city’s oldest society 

Originally constructed in 1710, this ornate, domed doorway on Tailor’s Street marks the entrance to the Guild of Merchant Taylors, founded in 1399.  Bedecked with an impressive coat of arms, this ancient doorway features two camels either side of a shield depicting a lion (representing England) over two purple ermine cloaks (symbolising the skill of tailoring).

3. A restored tobacco factory

While no longer an industrial powerhouse, the Tobacco Factory in Southville today produces some fascinating creative delights that are much less likely to harm your health! Restored in 1994, the factory now features a vibrant cafe bar, theatre, the offices of various creative organisations and a performing arts school. Top tip: visit on Sunday to enjoy the venue’s vibrant market of local traders.

4. Unparalleled views of the city 

For arguably the best panoramic view of Bristol’s city centre, look no further than Cabot Tower, located at the top of Brandon Hill Park. Built in 1898 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s voyage from Bristol to Canada, this neo Gothic construction is an attraction in its own right and worth the climb to the top.

5. A bronze phoenix 

Diagonally opposite the historic landmark, St Mary Redcliffe Church stands an unusual monument that would be easy to miss. Sitting atop a pyramid is a monumental bronze phoenix rising from the flames. Completed in 1985, this curious piece of public art celebrates the four elements, with reliefs of the female form representing earth, wind, fire and air on each of the pyramid’s four sides. 

6. An urban goat population 

There are few major metropolitan areas where you might expect to see a goat roaming free, but Bristol is one such place. Thanks to Street Goat, (a community-run project working to manage vegetation in an eco-friendly way) you can now spot these friendly creatures in areas all around the city, including Purdown, Goblin Combe and Bridge Farm. 

7. A charming Victorian arcade 

This delightful covered walkway is located in the heart of Clifton and houses a community of small independent shops. Providing a whole host of tempting goods including wedding decorations, plants, gifts, clothes and much more, the arcade is one of the historic highlights of the village and is surrounded by some of the area’s best cafes and bars too.

8. An ancient windmill and observatory 

Located 338 feet above the river Avon is the Bristol Camera Obscura. Created by artist William West in the shell of a disused windmill, the camera obscura, (literally meaning “darkened room”) is a unique trick of light where an inverted image of the outside world is projected onto a wall through a pinprick-sized hole and lens. A unique way to enjoy one of Bristol’s most famous views, this unusual visual effect remains as impressive today as it was when it was first installed in 1828.

9. England’s steepest street 

Situated on a 22-degree hill, the impressive incline on Vale Street in Totterdown is so steep that cars must park perpendicular to the road. This upward climb is not for the faint of heart. 

10. A huge collection of taxidermy 

Visitors will undoubtedly be in awe of the magnificent taxidermy specimens on display on The Bristol Museum's first floor, which is entirely devoted to natural history. Aye-ayes from Madagascar, the extinct Tasmanian thylacine, and a fearsome Bengal tiger shot by King George IV on a hunting excursion to Nepal are among the collection's spectacular and sometimes unsettling specimens.

11. A handsome Georgian square 

It’s hard to believe that this magnificent Georgian square was once bisected by a dual carriageway. Fortunately, after a successful effort to restore Queen Square to its original form in 1999, the area is now a wonderful open space in the heart of the city. Named following a visit from Queen Anne in 1702, the square plays host to a variety of outdoor concerts and events.

12. The leaning tower of Bristol  

Bristol’s very own leaning tower can be found at Temple Church in Redcliffe. Supposedly angled after having been constructed atop bags of wool, (though in fact the subsidence is due to its soft clay foundations) this late medieval building is named for its association with a 12th century temple built on the same site by the fabled Knights Templar.  

13. A cross-harbour ferry 

Though not technically free (the trip will cost you £1.20) the cross-harbour ferry is by far the cheapest way to catch a glimpse of Bristol’s harbour from the water. Operating between Hanover Quay and the SS Great Britain, the Mary Brunel skims this short journey across the water throughout the day, seven days a week. 

14. The (in)famous Edward Colston statue

The controversial statue of prominent slave trader Edward Colston made headlines around the world during 2020’s Black Lives Matter protests, having been pulled down and thrown into the harbour by protestors. Today the statue can be viewed by appointment at Bristol’s L Shed where it’s preserved with the graffiti and damage from the protest untouched.

15. A hanging lover 

Round a corner on Park Street and you’ll spot a painting of a nude man dangling from a window hiding from a suit-wearing man and his lingerie-clad partner; not the kind of artwork you'd expect to see on the exterior of a sexual health clinic. Of course, this can only be the work of one of Bristol’s most famous sons, Banksy. Painted by the anonymous street artist in 2006, the work subsequently became the first piece of legal street art in the United Kingdom.

16. A natural rock slide 

It’s often stated that you aren’t a true Bristolian until you’ve slid the natural rock slide in Clifton, but that’s not to say visitors can’t enjoy this unique attraction too! Well worn after decades of delighted thrill seekers, you can find this well-known landmark just a short walk from the Clifton Observatory.

17. 850 acres of open space

Only 10 minutes from the centre of Bristol, Ashton Court is a historic park boasting 850 acres of forests and grasslands designed by renowned landscape architect Humphry Repton. Discover the Estate's stunning ancient oak trees and watch deer graze in the park they’ve called home for over 600 years.

18. A piece of merchant history

The Nails, four circular bronze pedestals, situated on Corn Street in front of the Corn Exchange building, were once used by traders to discuss, negotiate and show examples of the goods they were trying to sell. Once a deal was done, the money was paid by placing the money on the nail, giving rise to the term ‘cash on the nail’. 

19. A hidden underground network 

A warren of man-made tunnels covering over an acre of subterranean Bristol, the Redcliffe caves are the result of years of sandstone mining for the city’s glassmaking and pottery industries. Over the years, the caves have been home to hermits, used for smuggling and have even served as a prison for soldiers captured during the Napoleonic Wars. 

20. An internationally renowned modern art gallery 

Occupying a Grade II-listed former tea warehouse positioned in a choice harbourside spot, is Arnolfini, a worldwide centre for modern art. Established in 1961, Arnolfini hosts exhibitions by some of the best modern artists from across the world as well as live performances, workshops and even its own independent bookshop.

21. A hidden Harry Potter-esque alleyway 

The seven alleys of the Christmas Steps art quarter in Bristol’s old town evoke images of witches and wizards exploring the nooks and crannies of Diagon Alley. Comprising a wide variety of interesting shops, galleries, theatres, museums, bars, and restaurants, it’s not just the pretty backdrop that draws visitors back time and time again.

22. A lost graveyard and hermit’s house

This small green park might look to the untrained eye to be a typical piece of public land. But further inspection reveals that the area holds the remains of Bristol's once-thriving Quaker population. The Quaker graveyard was cleared in the 1950s to make way for a new road, and about 200 of the headstones were carefully stacked in the adjacent Hermit’s cave; these can still be seen today through the gated cave entry.

23. An impossibly quaint hamlet 

Owned and managed by the National Trust but still inhabited today, Blaise Hamlet is an incredibly picturesque community of nine unique cottages centred around a small public green. They were designed by John Nash (one of the UK’s foremost Georgian and Regency architects) and constructed in the early 1800s for retired workers of John Harford, who owned nearby Blaise Castle House.

24. A waterside amphitheatre 

Built between 1988 and 1990 as part of the effort to regenerate Bristol’s harbourside in the post-industrial era, the Bristol Amphitheatre and Waterfront Square is a venue unlike any other. Home to many of the city’s biggest events and concerts, the area is well worth a visit for a show or festival, particularly during the sunny summer months.

25. A 17th-century food market

Bristol's St Nicholas Market, located in the centre of the old city, is a labyrinth of unusual vendors, street cuisine, and fascinating architecture. Open since 1743, the market plays host to Bristol's largest collection of independent shops and was named Britain’s best large indoor market in 2016.

26. A Bristolian Vermeer 

Another Banksy to tick off your list, ‘The Girl with the Pierced Eardrum’ first appeared on a building in Albion Docks in October 2014. A parody of Vermeer's most well-known painting, The Girl with a Pearl Earring, Banksy’s version features an ADT security alarm in place of the famed piece of jewellery.

27. A statue of a little-known hero 

Little known but incredibly important to modern medicine, Henrietta Lacks died at the age of 31 in 1951 from cervical cancer at John Hopkins, the only hospital in the area that would treat black patients. Her cells were then used to create the first immortalised human cell line in history (without consent or compensation). Her posthumous contribution to modern medicine went largely unnoticed until recently, when efforts have been made to commemorate her life, including the installation of this statue at the University of Bristol.

28. The city’s last tram lines 

Bristol residents had the convenience of using trams to go about the city from 1875 to 1941, when a German bomb destroyed the network's main power supply lines, cutting off all electricity and effectively ending the service permanently. 75 years later, only one location in the city still has tram rails left, the somewhat unglamorous car park of Gloucester Road Medical Centre. 

29. An art nouveau printworks 

Sandwiched between two office blocks on Broad Street, is Everard’s Printing Works. Built in 1900 by architect Henry Williams, this ornate façade is one the UK’s finest examples of the Pre-Raphaelite architectural style. Originally built as a printing works for Edward Everard, today only the impressive frontage of this remarkable building remains. 

30. The world’s first great ocean liner 

Arguably Bristol’s most famous landmark, the SS Great Britain is a must-visit on any trip to the city. Launched in 1843, Great Britain was a ship of firsts, the largest ship to be built solely from iron at the time, and the first to employ a screw propeller instead of paddlewheels. Now fully restored to its former glory, the ship is frequently rated as one of the best attractions in the city; an essential stop on any visit. 

31. A box-container wharf

Occupying a set of recycled shipping containers, Wapping Wharf is a haven for foodies and shoppers alike. Comprising a quirky mix of independent bars, restaurants, cafes, shops and studios, there’s more than enough here to keep you occupied for an afternoon, and its pretty, waterfront location is tough to match, too.

32. Bristol’s own timezone 

Another unique quirk of Bristol’s Corn Exchange is the Dual Time Clock visible on its frontage. Originally installed in 1822, this curious clock has two minute hands spaced just over 10 minutes apart, representing Greenwich Mean Time and Bristol local time respectively. Thanks to its westerly position, the sun sets in Bristol roughly 10 minutes later than in London, hence the extra hand on the clock. In 1852 a standardised time was implemented across the UK to simplify railway timetables (rendering the Bristol time redundant) – but the hand on the clock remains.

33. Goals from the Quidditch World Cup 

A colourful sculpture outside Bristol Royal Hospital for Children Lollipop Be-Bop was installed in 2001 in an effort to make the entrance of the hospital more welcoming to nervous children. And since then in 2014 a mysterious plaque has appeared beside the sculpture inscribed with the following: “Dedicated to the children of Bristol, the 1998 Quidditch World Cup posts. Have a magical day!”, adding an extra bit of magic to this vivid sculpture.

34. A secret funicular railway

Constructed inside the cliffs of the Avon Gorge (in order to lessen its aesthetic impact on the picturesque surroundings), this water-powered 'funicular' railway (the Clifton Rocks Railway) opened in 1893 and operated for just over 40 years before being closed in 1934. That did not mark the end of its useful life however, as it then found new life as a hidden relay facility for the BBC and an air-raid shelter for local residents during WWII.  

35. A floating pub

Beginning its working life as a cargo barge that crossed the Severn Estuary from Bristol to Cardiff carrying wheat and barley, the 1936-built Grain Barge is currently moored in Hotwells, across from where it was first berthed. Having been refitted in 2007 Grain Barge is now a laid-back pub and restaurant with stunning views of Bristol Harbour and the historic SS Great Britain.

36. A relic of the Bristol Blitz 

Located in Castle Park, formerly Bristol's main commercial centre before being irreparably damaged during the Bristol Blitz, is St Peter’s Church. Dating back to the 12th-century, this poignant place of worship was significantly damaged during the bombing and its shell is now preserved as a memorial to those lost during this period.

37. A piece of Stokes Croft heritage 

The third and final Banksy on this list (although there are many more that you can find dotted around the city streets) The Mild Mild West is one of his earliest creations and one that is now considered to be an important piece of Stokes Croft heritage. Depicting a teddy bear hurling a Molotov cocktail at riot police, the artwork represents the anti-establishment themes of both Banksy’s artwork and the culture of the area itself.

38. A haven for photographers 

Consisting of a gallery, library, archive and studio, The Martin Parr Foundation occupies a beautifully restored former Paintworks in Arnos Vale. Aiming to support the art of photography through a programme of events and exhibitions, the foundation also holds in its collection a significant number of Martin Parr’s original works.

39. A spectacular sunset 

While Cabot Tower might hold the title of best view of the city centre, the best sunset view of Bristol’s skyline is enjoyed from hilly Victoria Park, a short walk south of the Avon river. Originally built in Victorian times as a leisure ground for workers, this vertiginous public space offers a spectacular panorama of the city in its entirety and is a lovely spot from which to watch the sun set over many magnificent buildings. 

40. A statue of a Victorian legend

Located outside Bristol Temple Meads station is a statue of one of the most famous engineers in history: Isambard Kingdom Brunel, whose contributions to the city include the SS Great Britain and the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Cast in bronze, the statue was recently moved to this spot having previously been located on Broad Quay. 

41. A 14th-century sailing ship 

Usually found pootling about the harbour or moored in its berth beside the M Shed museum, the replica of The Matthew is an approximate recreation of the tall ship that carried John Cabot (of Cabot Tower fame) to Newfoundland in Canada from Bristol in 1497. Built in 1994, this impressive vessel took two years to build at a cost of £3.1 million and has since completed the original voyage under its own power. 

42. A contemporary art gallery 

A free-to-visit independent art gallery located in Bristol’s old town, Centrespace is well worth popping into while exploring this part of the city. Sustainably run, it offers workshops, events and rolling exhibitions by local artists. 

43. A trading vessel turned showboat 

Originally constructed as a coastal trading vessel in Germany in 1958, Thekla lived many lives before finally finding a permanent home in Bristol’s floating harbour. Having variously been used for transporting lumber, as a theatre and cabaret venue, a music venue and finally as a nightclub, the history of this charming showboat is as interesting as its roster of upcoming events. 

44. An iconic piece of Victorian engineering 

Perhaps Bristol’s most instantly recognisable landmark, Clifton Suspension Bridge is an icon of the city and an essential stop on any tour of the area. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel in the Egyptian style, this astounding feat of engineering has delighted visitors for almost 200 years. 

45. A 16th-century pirate’s pub 

Any city famous for its port is bound to have some colourful pirate-related history, and Bristol is no exception. You’ll find plenty of swashbuckling stories at Llandoger Trow, one of the oldest pubs in the city. Built in 1664, the pub provided inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s pirate-filled adventure Treasure Island and is purportedly the home of several ghosts too. 

46. A giant cotton bud 

Certainly not the prettiest building on this list, but no less interesting for it, is the Cheese Lane Shot Tower in Redcliffe. Built in 1969, this cotton-bud-shaped tower was designed to produce shot balls by pouring molten lead through a sieve before allowing them to free-fall and cool into a perfectly round ball. In use until the 1990s, this unusual building now houses offices and an events space. 

47. A farm in the middle of the city 

One of Bristol’s loveliest hidden gems is Windmill Hill City Farm, just 20 minutes walk from the city centre. A 4.5-acre working farm, this community-led project offers education and recreational activities year-round. Ideal for a break from the busy streets, this spot is a veritable haven of wildlife set amid some of Bedminster’s more industrial streets. 

48. A Victorian garden cemetery 

Spread across 45 acres of magnificently manicured green space, Arnos Vale is a globally renowned example of a Victorian garden cemetery. Populated by neoclassical constructions, remarkable monuments and sweeping pathways lined with expertly planned horticulture, the cemetery is a peaceful and calming space perfect for reflection and contemplation.

49. A street of independent shops 

Home to more independent establishments than any other street in the UK, a trip to Bristol would not be complete without a visit to Gloucester Road’s many shops, cafes and restaurants. Famed for both its shopping, and its thought-provoking street art, Gloucester road is a Bristol stalwart that’s well worth exploring. 

50. A treasure trove of Bronze Age artefacts

It’s not just taxidermied animals on display at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, there’s some fascinating human history on display at this leading establishment too. The museum’s extensive archeological collection includes artefacts from Bronze Age Bristol and other ancient civilizations including Egypt, Greece, Rome and Assyria.

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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. 

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » 21 Unique Things to do in Bristol on ANY Budget in 2024

21 Unique Things to do in Bristol on ANY Budget in 2024

Bristol is a city in the UK known for its artistic and somewhat hippy-ish scene. It’s the birthplace of legendary street artist Banksy, and also where the first-ever bungee jump took place in 1979 (from Clifton Suspension Bridge).

It’s the world’s largest manufacturer of hot air balloons, and there’s a festival for ballooning in August. Since it’s near the water, it’s the perfect place to try sailing and boating, or if you’re a nature lover, head out to the nearby countryside for a spot of countryside yomping (that’s British for hiking and complaining about it at the same time).

Encase you haven’t guessed by now, there are a ton of things to do in Bristol. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or planning an unforgettable trip around the UK, there are plenty of Bristol attractions to see, from the abundance of museums and galleries to historic landmarks.

So, if you’re looking for help putting together a to do list, then you’ll want to know about all the best attractions in Bristol. That’s where I’m here to help. I’ve created this list to help you create a sort of short list of experiences you’d like to have while in the city.

So, let’s take a look!

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The Top Things to Do in Bristol

Where to stay in bristol , some additional tips for visiting bristol, final thoughts on things to do in bristol.

Below, are some of my favourite things to do in Bristol. This list includes some of the most popular attractions and some hidden gems. These are really great attractions in Bristol that I’d highly recommend you consider visiting.

Explore the Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults

Put on your hard hat and explore the hidden vaults of the iconic bridge that were only discovered in 2002.

Immerse yourself in the world of Harry Potter

If you’re a fan of the wizarding world of Harry Potter, then one of the top things to do in Bristol is to tour some of the locations used in the Harry Potter films. 

Take to the skies over Bristol in a hot-air balloon

There’s no better way to experience this beautiful city and the surrounding countryside than from above in a hot-air balloon.

Sample local craft beers on a self-guided tour

Treat your taste buds to 7 delicious locally brewed craft beers and ales on a self-guided tour of the Old Market.

Take off into a world of aviation fun at Aerospace Bristol

Explore 100 years of aviation history through interactive and hands-on exhibits at the Aerospace Bristol Museum.

1. Explore Clifton Suspension Bridge

Clifton Suspension Bridge is arguably one of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks. The bridge crosses the Avon Gorge, linking the village of Clifton in Bristol to Leigh Woods in North Somerset.  

Thousands of visitors stroll across the bridge each year to take in the lovely view of the gorge and the city beyond. But if you’re feeling adventurous, why not don a hard hat and explore the hidden vaults within the bridge that were only discovered in 2002.

Make sure you wear sturdy shoes with good grip and wear a backpack so your hands are free to climb the ladders. 

• Entrance : £15
• Hours : Tour times vary
• Address : Bridge Road, Leigh Woods, Bristol

2. Visit the beautiful Bristol Cathedral

The historic Bristol Cathedral is one of the city’s most popular attractions and certainly one of the best things to do in Bristol for free. This great medieval church was founded in 1140, and you can see remnants from this period in the Chapter House and Abbey Gatehouse. 

Marvel at the towering vaulted ceilings, impressive stained glass windows, and dramatic stone features. Make sure to visit the Cathedral garden too – perfect for finding a quiet moment surrounded by nature. 

A guided tour offers further insight into the Cathedral’s rich history and importance to the city. 

• Entrance : Free
• Hours : 8:00 to 17:00 (Monday to Saturday), 11:30 to 15:00 (Sunday)
• Address : Bristol Cathedral, College Green, Bristol

3. Take to the skies over Bristol in a hot-air balloon

In addition to being the world’s largest manufacturer of hot-air balloons, Bristol is a great place to take to the skies in a balloon. There’s no better way to experience this beautiful city and the surrounding countryside than from above in a hot-air balloon.

Balloon rides usually take place at dawn and dusk and last around three or four hours. This includes the safety briefing before liftoff, one hour in the air floating along above the world, and celebratory champagne or juice on landing.

• Entrance : £485
• Hours : Times vary
• Address : Depart from Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Bristol

4. Look for Banksy’s iconic pieces

Bristol is a vibrant city with a huge arts scene, from performing arts to buskers, anywhere you look in Bristol you’ll see people expressing themselves in the most delightful way.

One of Bristol’s biggest artists, however, is the elusive and world-famous graffiti artist, Banksy. While people pay millions of pounds for his art, only to see it shredded after, visitors in Bristol can see his work for free if they know where to look.

Sadly as a tourist, you don’t always know where to look, which is why a self-guided street art game is a great (and also super fun) way to find all these hidden pieces. As you wander around Bristol looking for Banksy’s work, you’ll also get to see some other notable pieces from street artists who have turned this dreary city into a city of colour.

This is the perfect cheap activity for backpackers in the UK , since it’s affordable and you get to see so much of the city and its culture.

• Entrance: £4.38
• Address: start at Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel, Broad St, Bristol BS1 2EL, UK

5. Sample local craft beers on a self-guided tour

There’s a thriving beer scene in Bristol just waiting to be sampled. There are a variety of pubs, breweries, tap rooms, beer tours to experience, and excellent beer events throughout the year.

Treat your taste buds to 7 delicious locally brewed craft beers and ales on a self-guided tour of the Old Market. You’ll visit four different venues: a brewery tap room, a tiny bar, a traditional pub, and a small craft beer pub. In fact, you’ll be drinking where the locals drink. If you’re only in Bristol for a weekend , this is the best evening activity. 

• Entrance : £24
• Hours : Tour times may vary
• Address : Moor Beer Co. Days Rd, Bristol

6. Discover the ship that changed the world

The  SS Great Britain  is the world’s first great ocean liner. Built in 1843 by the innovative engineer Brunel, the ship was the first to be made of iron and to use a screw propeller.

Explore the historic dockyard, board the restored  SS Great Britain  herself, explore the Dockyard Museum, and learn about Brunel’s extraordinary achievements at the Being Brunel museum. Don’t miss out on a visit to the dry dock too. 

You don’t need to be a maritime enthusiast to enjoy a visit here, but I can almost guarantee that you will be when you leave. 

• Entrance : £19.50
• Hours : 10:00 to 18:00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
• Address : Brunel’s SS Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Road, Bristol 

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

7. Immerse yourself in the world of Harry Potter

If you’re a fan of the wizarding world of Harry Potter, then one of the top things to do in Bristol is to tour some of the locations used in the Harry Potter films. 

A tour of Gloucester and Lacock will have you reliving scenes from the movie, including seeing the home of James and Lily Potter, standing inside Professor Snape’s potions classroom, and walking along the Hogwarts corridors. 

Hear stories from the filming of the movies, test your Hogwarts trivia, and get some epic shots to share on your social media. 

• Entrance : £800 per group of 4
• Hours : Tour times may vary
• Address : Hotel pickup

8. Enjoy the outdoors in Bristol’s oldest park

Brandon Hill is the oldest park in Bristol and a great place to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Bristol on a sunny day. The park also offers lovely views over the city and the Harbourside area.

There’s a children’s play area and beautiful paths to walk along in this nature conservation area. The most notable feature of the park is Cabot Tower – a red sandstone and cream stone tower that’s free to climb for panoramic views (when it’s open). 

• Entrance : Free
• Hours : N/A
• Address : Brandon Hill Park, Park St, Bristol

9. Explore the Hidden Gems of the City Waterfront

A visit to the beautiful waterfront area should be high on everyone’s list of things to do in Bristol. You could take a leisurely stroll to explore the docks and visit the many restaurants and bars, or you could up the ante and do things a little differently.

Using a mobile phone app, you can solve puzzles to unlock clues that will have you exploring the city and learning about the history in an engaging and fun-filled way. It’s a mix between a traditional tour and a treasure hunt to be completed at your own pace and in your own time. 

• Entrance : £4.20
• Address : The starting point is at the Lookout Lectern

10. Take off into a World of Aviation at Aerospace Bristol

Of all the things to do in Bristol for families, Aerospace Bristol is one you shouldn’t miss. Explore the many thrilling exhibits housed in a First World War hangar, including the last Concorde to fly. 

The collection contains an impressive variety of aircraft, including aeroplanes, helicopters, space rockets, and satellites. Explore 100 years of aviation history through interactive and hands-on exhibits and a fun time-travelling adventure. 

Aerospace Bristol is the perfect day out for all ages and certainly one of the best things to do in Bristol on a rainy day. 

• Entrance : Adult – £18.00, Child (7 -17) – £10.00
• Hours : 10:00 to 16:30 (Tuesday to Sunday)
• Address : Aerospace Bristol, Hayes Way, Patchway, Bristol

11. Soak up the tranquil wilderness at Leigh Woods

Just over Clifton Suspension Bridge, you’ll find the quiet oasis of Leigh Woods. A visit here is highly recommended for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s also a super option for anyone looking for things to do in Bristol with children. 

Go bug hunting, bird watching, or enjoy a picnic lunch in nature. Franklin the Fox is on hand to lead families through the woods on the ever-popular family trail. On your wanderings through the park, you’re likely to spot all manner of animals, including some friendly grazing cattle! 

• Hours : Open daily from dawn to dusk
• Address : Abbots Leigh, Bristol

12. Shop, eat and explore the vibrant St Nicholas Market

Located in the heart of the old city in Bristol, St Nicholas Market has been in existence since 1743. Today, it houses the city’s largest collection of independent retailers and was named Britain’s Best Large Indoor Market in 2016. 

What can you expect on your visit? A vibrant maze of stalls and street food, surrounded by some of Bristol’s best historic architecture. Shop for everything from fashion, vintage clothing, gifts, hand-crafted wares, jewellery, and everything in between. 

Shopping can certainly work up an appetite. Luckily, there are cafes and plenty of street food options from around the world to satisfy even the hungriest of shoppers. 

• Hours : 9:30 to 5pm (Monday to Saturday) 
• Address : The Corn Exchange, Corn St, Bristol 

13. Explore collections of art, nature, and history

One of the best things to do in Bristol for free is to visit the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. The museum is open six days a week. It is a treasure trove of fascinating exhibits, ranging from Egyptian mummies, dinosaurs, art, and nature.

The museum’s second floor is dedicated entirely to art in all its forms. From exquisite paintings by famous European old masters to one of the largest collections of Chinese glass found outside of Asia, there’s something for everyone.

There are also temporary exhibits, workshops, and events throughout the year to check out.  

• Hours : Open daily from 10:00 to 17:00
• Address : Queens Rd, Bristol

14. Visit a working farm in South Bristol

Spend a day at the Windmill Hill City Farm for a fun day for the entire family. This 4.5-acre space features community gardens, various farm animals, a play area and picnic space, and a cafe and farm shop. 

Learn all about farming and sustainable food production, stroll along the farm’s many trails, and visit the animals on the farm. Goats, sheep, pigs, cows, and chickens are waiting to say hi.

Be sure to stop in at the farm shop to purchase food and items produced at the farm and by local artisans. 

• Entrance : Free 
• Hours : 9:00 to 17:00 daily
• Address : Philip Street, Bedminster, Bristol 

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

15. Step back in time at Tyntesfield

Visit the ornate Victorian Gothic Revival house and its well-kept gardens just outside Bristol for a step back in time. The house was the home of the Gibbs family, who transformed the original Georgian house into the splendid masterpiece you see today.

The stately home’s gardens and estate include terraces of flowers, extensive woodland, an impressive kitchen garden, and even an empty lake. If you’re visiting with children, lovely play areas keep them entertained.

Grab a light meal and refreshments at the Cow Barn Café, which offers indoor and outdoor seating. 

• Entrance : Adults – £14.00, Children – £7.00
• Hours :  10:00 to 18:00 daily
• Address : Wraxall, Bristol

16. Spend a night with a view of the  SS Great Britain

Spend a night in a stylish apartment in the heart of the vibrant Harbourside area of Bristol. Top Bristol attractions are within easy reach of this modern space, including the city centre, Clifton Village, and College Green. 

One attraction among them all makes this apartment a unique place to stay. The historic  SS Great Britain  is moored across the river from the apartment, offering a view of the ship that is not easy to come by. 

Stay in modern luxury in this two-bedroom unit, with 2 king-sized beds and all the modern conveniences you’ll need for a comfortable stay.

• Entrance : £161 per night
• Hours : N/A
• Address : Bristol City, Bristol

17. Eat street food at The Harbourside Street Food Market

Sample the best of Bristol’s street food from various stalls in the scenic and popular Harbourside area. Sample street food from around the world, from pizza to curries and more. 

Vendors are united in their ethos to be creative, sustainable, responsible, and ethically sourcing ingredients. And it doesn’t stop at food. Enjoy local beers, ciders, spirits, and even mulled wine in the colder months.  

The Harbourside Market is popular with both locals and visitors with its great atmosphere, music, and variety of food and drink options. 

• Hours : 12:00 to 14:30 (Wednesday and Thursday), 11:00 to 16:00 (Saturday and Sunday) 
• Address : 1 Canon’s Road, Bristol

18. Tour a typical Georgian House

Visit a typical Georgian home that originally belonged to a wealthy slave plantation owner and sugar merchant. The house, which is operated by Bristol Museums, was built in 1790. It has been impeccably preserved and shows how the privileged residents would have lived. 

You’re also able to see what life was like below stairs too. You’ll see the hidden staircases that servants used to move about the house undetected, the range of bells used to summon the servants, and the Housekeeper’s Room.  

It’s a fascinating insight into a time gone by and well worth a visit if you’re looking for things to do in Bristol. 

• Hours : 11:00 to 16:00 (Monday, Tuesday, Saturday, Sunday)
• Address : 7 Great George St, Bristol

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

19. Enjoy a self-guided audio tour of Bristol

This is one for the independent traveler who enjoys going at their own pace. A self-guided audio tour is one way to experience the best that Bristol offers, with fascinating insights provided but without crowds or restrictions on time.

Explore the history and culture of the city, take in two artworks from the famous street artist Banksy, and explore historic landmarks like Castle Park and Colston Hall. Grab a bite to eat at the Old Vic in the dock area and stroll through College Green. 

• Entrance : £3.75
• Address : Audio tour begins at Bella Vista Italian restaurant

20. Feast your eyes on Contemporary Art at Arnolfini

Yes, Bristol has oodles of history to explore, but you only need to head to Arnolfini, located in the vibrant Harbourside area, for something a little more current. Since 1961, Arnolfini has presented contemporary visual art, performance, dance, film, and music to patrons in Bristol. 

Artists on display represent a wide range of cultures and backgrounds. In addition, Arnolfini is partnered with Tate, so exchange programs are common to complement the innovative, inclusive and engaging experience on offer. 

In addition to various exhibitions, workshops, and performances, Arnolfini also features a reading room, Harbourside Bar, and a bookshop. 

• Hours : 11:00 to 18:00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
• Address : 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol

21. See over 4500 types of plants at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden

There’s something very calming about being around plants. If you need a tranquil moment or a day surrounded by nature, visiting the magnificent University of Bristol Botanic Gardens is highly recommended.

Over 4,500 species of plants are arranged and displayed in collections related to specific themes. Visit the Evolution Collection or the Mediterranean Collection, as well as the Tropical and Subtropical zones. There’s even a collection dedicated to useful plants, which will leave you with a new respect for the leafy world of plants. 

• Entrance : Adults – £9, Children under 18 – free
• Hours : 10:00 to 16:30 daily
• Address : University of Bristol Botanic Garden, The Holmes, Stoke Park Road, Stoke Bishop, Bristol

With so many things to do in Bristol, it should be no surprise that there is an equally wide variety of places to stay . Whatever your budget and travel style, you’ll find everything from hostels to homestays and glitzy hotels. Here are my recommendations of places to stay in Bristol. 

Best Hostel in Bath – YHA Bristol

Travelers looking for an affordable and comfortable hostel in Bristol will find that at the YHA Bristol. In addition to simple dorm rooms, the four star hostel includes a bar and a common room, as well as plenty of places to meet other travels.

Many of Bristol’s top attractions are accessible by foot. Bristol Meads train station is a 15 minute walk and the city centre is a quick bus ride.  

Best Airbnb in Bath – Stylish Apartment in Clifton Village

Enjoy a private stay with your own separate entrance in this basement studio Airbnb in Bristol , located in the desirable area of Clifton Village. The famous Clifton Suspension Bridge is nearby, and you’ll find a lovely park across the road and a welcoming pub next door.

This open-plan apartment is a great retreat to return to after a day of exploring the many sights of Bristol. 

Best Hotel in Bath – Victoria Square Hotel

Victoria Square Hotel is the perfect city centre B&B in Bristol which is within walking distance to many of the city’s top attractions. It has comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and added extras like a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom.

Set in a leafy garden square, this hotel feels like a rural retreat in the city centre. It’s the perfect place to wake up to each day.

• Invest in travel insurance!   You never know what may happen on the road.
• Travel by bike. A great way to get around Bristol is by bicycle. Rent a bike for a day for around £18 or opt for an electric bike for £40 a day. There are cycle lanes throughout the city so it’s highly accessible.
• Opt for self-catering. You don’t need to spend a lot to eat well. Save on your food budget by booking somewhere that has basic food-making facilities and buy groceries. 
• Visit during the summer. Plan your visit between May and September to experience some of the great festivals that take place during the summer.
• Bring  a good water bottle  with you and avoid buying single-use plastic ones!
• Book in advance. You can save significantly by booking your trip well before you plan to go. 
• Look out for free museums. On a tight budget? There are plenty of things to do in Bristol for free, like visiting the many parks and green spaces, as well as the museums that are also free to visit

Don’t forget your travel insurance for Bristol

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Bristol is a city of rich history, art, and nature, all rolled into one. Today, it’s one of the unique and diverse cities in the UK, and you’ll find plenty of eclectic activities and attractions to visit suitable for any type of traveller.

While there are clearly so many activities to enjoy, it’s not possible to see them all in a weekend. If you’re tight on time, I highly suggest walking around the city and keeping your eyes up – you’ll see everything from street performers to buskers, to insanely cool graffiti.

Bristol is a city where quirky things happen in the most random of places, so just have wandering and people watching.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this round-up of the top things to do in Bristol and feel like you have enough activities to put your itinerary together.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

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25 fun things to do in Bristol with your friends

On Bristol’s harbourside the water’s sparkling and a hot air balloon is drifting over the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Somewhere down a side street a wannabe Banksy is spraying their next street-art mural.

So that’s the view you’ll see on the postcards, but I’ve lived in Bristol for 25 years and love its creative spirit. There’s something special about the way we nurture our quirky independent shops and value our vibrant food scene. You have to try quite hard to eat badly here!

When friends visit me in Bristol, I love to share what we have, here in the heart of the West Country. If you want to know what to see in Bristol, I recently showed my blogging friends Erik from Around the Globe and Jennifer from Luxe Adventure Traveler , to give them my local’s perspective of the city.

I hope I gave them a flavour of Bristol’s best side, with a bit of time to relax and soak up the atmosphere. It was a fun-packed few days, and now I’m sharing the best of Bristol with you too.

Here are 25 suggestions on what to enjoy when you visit with friends or family. It’s a comprehensive although by no means exhaustive list of fun things to do in Bristol, arranged by neighbourhood.

Table of Contents

1. Bristol’s Harbourside

I’d spend half a day to 1 day here

My first stop with friends visiting Bristol is always the harbourside, especially on a sunny day when the sailboats are clinking gently. It feels like all of Bristol is sitting on the harbour wall, dangling their feet over the water. If I’m driving, I’ll park under Millenium square and then start a circular walk around the harbour from there.

Millenium square – relax and people watch

As the name suggests, the square was created as a community space in the year 2000. I’s one of my favourite things to see in Bristol for people-watching. Find a bench to relax, while young guys show off their skills on the trick bikes and kids splash in the pools and fountains.

Take your photo with the statues of notable Bristolians. Film star Cary Grant was born in Bristol under the less glamorous name of Archibald Leach. There’s also William Penn, William Tyndale and teenage poet Thomas Chatterton.

The silver globe of the We the Curious planetarium and the reflections in the pools and fountains make a good picture. There are endless bar and restaurant options nearby.

From here I’ll normally cross over Pero’s bridge, with the horn shaped weights. It’s named after the slave of John Pinney, one of Bristol’s 18th century merchants. Pinney built the Georgian House , now a museum on Park Street.

Families might like to dip into the We the curious hands on science centre or the Bristol Aquarium that are on this square.

Hotels near Millenium Square: For a budget stay look at the Hotel Ibis Bristol Centre . Or, for something more luxurious you’re a short walk from the historic Marriott Royal on College Green.

Arnolfini – for contemporary arts

Along the cobbled waterfront is the Arnolfini , an old stone tea warehouse that now houses a contemporary arts centre. The art exhibitions change all the time and are normally conceptual in nature.

This isn’t a place to go for pretty images, it’s more about experiencing art through all your senses, making you think and challenging preconceptions. Because it’s free I normally pop in to see what’s on and sometimes go up to the top floor to have a view from the windows across the harbour.

Hotels in Bristol Harbourside: The Bristol Hotel is well located right on the harbour front, with a 1960s listed facade. The rooms are well sized and stylish, many with great views over the harbour and they also serve a nice afternoon tea.

What to do in Bristol for history and culture – M-Shed

From the Arnolfini we’ll cross the Prince Street bridge (currently being rebuilt and under scaffolding) with a glance towards the spire of St Mary Redcliffe . Queen Elizabeth I said it was the “ the fairest, goodliest and most famous parish church in England “.

On the other side of the bridge is M-shed , another free museum, a place to dip into Bristol’s history and culture and a favourite with families. As a local I like to try and find my own house on the big aerial photo that covers the ground floor.

I also point out to friends some of the historical stuff about Bristol’s past, such as the interesting exhibition about the slave trade. Of course we also have to go and pay homage to the Banksy mural of ‘The Grim Reaper’.

It used to be at the waterline of The Thekla, a ship in the harbour that’s also a nightclub. However, I guess they thought it was just too important and so it was cut out and put in the museum.

One of the more unusual things to do in Bristol is to head up to the 2nd floor terrace. Here you get a closer view of the impressive cranes and see right across the harbour.

Check out this tour to see more of Bristol: Discover Bristol with a hop-on hop-off bus tour

Wapping Wharf – Bristol’s cool foodie hub

If I’m showing guests around Bristol we almost always end up at Wapping Wharf . It’s great for a coffee stop or a drink and bite to eat in the evening.

This is a traffic-free area of the harbour, just beyond M-shed. There are lots of independent bars and restaurants, that showcase the best of Bristol’s indie food scene. The atmosphere is relaxed and in the evening it’s fun to have a drink at one place, then move on for a bite to eat somewhere else.

When Erik and Jennifer were in Bristol I wanted to give them a taste of traditional English and West Country dishes. We started with a cider tasting at The Bristol Cider shop . We then moved on to Pigsty for a piggy blow-out with their pig-board, a selection of different tastes such as scotch eggs, sausages and a pulled pork ‘Pig Mac’ burger.

Discover Bristol’s unique craft beer scene with a self-guided walking tour

Modern British cooking

Next we tasted some of the craft beers at Wild Beer . There are so many unusual flavours that you can normally tempt even the most sceptical beer drinker. They also do great fish and chips and fish tacos with Hook Restaurants.

Upstairs in the Cargo containers we popped in at the end of the evening to Box-E , a tiny establishment serving modern British cooking. We sat at the chef’s table while chef Elliott Lidstone created mouthwatering deserts.

We tasted panna cotta with rhubarb and orange or chocolate mousse with passionfruit, pomegranate and coconut. At lunchtime on the next day I also stopped by with Jennifer at Mokoko for quiche, cake and salads with well made coffee. I also love the coffee at Little Victories where they do fabulous coffee cocktails in the evening.

SS Great Britain – Bristol’s maritime heritage

I’d been on board SS Great Britain a few times, but not really had a proper look around. I took Jennifer there in the afternoon after the rain we’d had in the morning had cleared.

The sunshine made the ship look very pretty with brightly coloured flags fluttering in the wind. Climbing instructors from the Go Aloft Experience, in which you climb the rigging like a sailor, were getting everything ready for the spring opening. I’ve seen others do it but was a bit too scared myself!

Instead we explored below deck to see the cabins realistically reconstructed complete with dirty washing lying around and minuscule bunks. We fancied ourselves in first class but there was not much more room there either, even though the food laid out in the dining room looked very elegant. This is a great family attraction, but also one that’s fun for anyone with a curiosity about how people lived in the past and Bristol’s maritime heritage.

Check out this ultimate walking tour of Bristol – from Blackbeard to Banksy : A fun, informative and educational tour through 1000 years of history and Bristol’s wealth of street art

Banksy’s ‘Girl with the Pearl Earring’

In case you hadn’t noticed, Banksy is a big deal in Bristol. There are plenty of great street artists here, but Banksy’s has an international reputation. There are just a few of his pieces left in Bristol, so it’s worth seeking out those that remain.

One of these is tucked away in the harbour, just behind the SS Great Britain. The piece just off Hanover Place appeared in 2014 and it’s a parody of Vermeer’s ‘Girl with the Pearl Earing’. The earring being a gaudy yellow security alarm – worth a quick photo stop I always think.

Photographing Bristol’s colourful houses

Instagram lovers will have spotted the frequency with which those rows of colourful houses appear in photos of Bristol. They are even in the Visit Bristol logo! The houses are just as colourful from the front as the back.

If you’re in Clifton, I suggest that you find the The Lion pub in Clifton Wood and then walk along Clifton Wood Crescent or Argyle Place for some Instagram gold.

From the harbour there’s a great stretch from Bristol Marina. where the swans and ducks often add a bit of wildlife colour, and along to The Cottage Inn. This is the best stretch to photograph coloured houses on the harbour. However, there are quite a few other spots around the city in Totterdown and by the Bathurst basin at the other end of the harbour.

Underfall Yard – the pumping station for the harbour

For those who have the energy, Underfall Yard makes a nice extension of a walk past SS Great Britain. I’m always curious to peep into the half open doors of the working boatyard. Perhaps have a chat with anyone working on the old wooden ships that come in for repair there.

The visitors centre is also a great place to pop in to turn a few handles and get your bearings on the map of the harbour. Who knew a Victorian pumping station could be so fascinating?

When the sun’s shining there’s no better place to grab a coffee and a bite to eat. Try the Pickle cafe that’s just inside the visitor’s centre and eat it on the tables outside watching the boats go by.

Discover exciting museums in Bath to visit

Catch a Bristol Ferry

By the time we’ve walked the length of the harbour, energy levels are usually running low. A great option is to make a return journey on one of ferries that run up and down the harbour.

The Bristol Ferry is the best known with its distinctive yellow and blue colouring and often you’ll see a Gromit statue on the front. The ferries cost about the same as a bus and go once or twice an hour. It’s worth checking the timetable so that you don’t miss it.

Heading back from SS Great Britain, under Pero’s bridge and back to the centre, we got a different view of the harbour. The whole experience of being on the water was very calming.

There’s also a short ferry ride at SS Great Britain that will take you directly across the harbour. There’s no timetable, it just goes back and forth constantly and costs under £1.

2. Park Street in Bristol

Spend half a day seeing all the things here

After your tour of the harbour, you’ll probably end up close to the bottom of Park Street. You may want to spend the rest of the day exploring what’s around here.

Bristol Cathedral – peace in the heart of the city

I always feel a sense of peace when I enter Bristol Cathedral and also a bit of nostalgia since my son was at Bristol Cathedral School. I took Jennifer in to show her the impressive nave and beautiful wooden pews for the choir.

Here I’ve listened to magical voices at evensong and viewed the interesting side chapels, including the Eastern Lady Chapel at the end. The vibrant red, green and gold of the painted stonework was done in the 1930s.

This shows what cathedrals really looked like in medieval times, when they were richly painted. A far cry from the unadorned grey stone we see today.

Be sure to explore the cloisters down the steps, from the time when the cathedral was an Augustinian Abbey. See also the 12th century Chapter House, with beautiful carved stone and niches where the monks would have sat at prayer.

The garden at the end of the cloisters beside the buttery is a hidden gem. It’s tranquil oasis where you can sit quietly among the gravestones and the flowers with a cup of tea in the sunshine.

When you’ve finished your tour, be sure to cross College Green to SWOON, where the gelato is freshly made on the premises and utterly delicious. Ask what their seasonal flavours are for something a bit different.

The Banksy – Well Hung Lover

There are only a few Banksy murals scattered around Bristol. The ‘Well Hung Lover’ is one of the most accessible, which you can easily spot as you walk up Park Street.

Just because it’s Banky doesn’t mean it gets respect and reverence from the spray-and-run graffiti crowd. You’ll spot the blue paintball spots that have only been partly removed.

The position is typical of Banksy. After so many run-ins with the council who whitewashed over his pieces, he tried to paint in places that were hard to reach and remove. In any case the building was owned by a friend so hopefully it’s here to stay.

If you go down the steps beside the bridge there are a few more interesting pieces along the street and on the sides of the Queen’s Shilling nightclub, so worth a small detour. If you want to take a street-art tour check out the excellent Where the Wall who run regular tours to all the street-art places in Bristol. Read my review of their Bristol street-art tour here .

Park Street for Shopping

Park street is one of my favourite shopping streets in Bristol. It’s a mixture of independents and upscale high street chains, combining vintage, jewellery, designer clothing and quirky gifts.

My favourites, although its very subjective are Jigsaw for women’s clothing. Diana Porter is a Bristol based jewellery designer where we like to buy special occasion pieces. Bristol Guild offers an eclectic collection of arty gifts.

For a coffee stop I head to Pinkmans , a bakery and all day cafe where the pizzas are a bargain. If you see any of their legendary doughnuts on sale, grab one before they sell out.

If you can’t get in there, I’d head to the cafe tucked away on the second floor of Bristol Guild where it’s a lot calmer and I almost always find a space. Or, try one of the other Bristol indie cafes like Boston Tea Party .

Brandon Hill and Cabots Tower

While heading up Park Street I took a slight detour up to the left. I wanted to show Erik and Jennifer Cabot Tower, perched at the top of Brandon Hill.

As we drove up Great George Street, I pointed out The Georgian House , a lovely old sugar merchant’s house and museum which normally opens after Easter. We saw St Georges Brandon Hill , a fantastic concert venue in an old church (we never miss the Christmas concerts there).

On a sunny day it’s fun to just sit on the grass with a picnic or on the benches at the top of the hill for a view across Bristol. The views are even better if you take the time to climb Cabot Tower (it’s free).

Cabot Tower was built in 1897 to commemorate the Genoese explorer John Cabot’s voyage from Bristol to Nova Scotia. From the top you can see over the harbour and rooftops, feeling you’re in a miniature but much less crowded version of the campanile in Florence.

Discover Christmas in Bristol – 11 fabulous ways to feel festive

Hotels in Bristol on Park Street: The Berkeley Suites at the top of Park Street offers stylish suites in a Georgian building, which are ideal if you want to have the freedom of self-catering. If you prefer a hotel stay then the Berkeley Square Hotel is owned by the same group and is just around the corner.

Museums and Towers on Park Street

It’s worth mentioning that at the top of Park Street, you’ll spot the honey coloured Wills Tower . Built by the family who made their money from Wills cigarettes, it’s now part of Bristol University.

There are guided tours of the Wills Tower at weekends when you can go right up to the top of the tower to see Great George Bell who even has his own Twitter account .

Right next door there’s the Bristol City Museum , which is a happy place to potter about among the mummies and displays of natural history and artworks, with a biplane flying from the ceiling. It’s worth checking out what exhibition is on.

The museum is free but there’s a charge for exhibitions and they are often excellent. Just down the hill on Park Row there’s also Red Lodge , another historic house that’s open as a museum. It features beautiful Elizabethan oak panelled interiors and views over the city (entry is free).

3. Clifton Village and Clifton Suspension Bridge

Clifton suspension bridge – the icon of bristol.

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of the Bristol must-see attractions. It features heavily on all the postcards, normally with a few balloons drifting in the background from the Bristol Balloon Fiesta .

Take some time to walk across the bridge and admire the views of the gorge. Pop into the Visitor’s Centre on the other side which has lots of interesting information. Learn how the bridge was designed and built by Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

There’s a free guided tour of the bridge at 3pm on weekends Easter to October. Most people don’t know that you can also go inside the vaults below the stone pillar beside the visitor’s centre. This is only in a guided tour and you normally need to book well in advance here.

If you want the view of the bridge in a more relaxed fashion, then I’d suggest you head to the terrace of the Avon Gorge Hotel . The terrace packed out on any sunny day with locals having a drink at the recently refurbished White Lion Bar.

Hotels in Clifton Village: The Avon Gorge Hotel is a historic hotel with a prime position overlooking the Avon Gorge and suspension bridge. In 2018 the hotel underwent a complete refurbishment so the rooms are all stylish and modern, especially those with views of the bridge.

The Clifton Observatory – with Giant’s cave

Having walked across the bridge, you might want to walk up to the Clifton Observatory , the tower that’s set on the high ground above the bridge. You’ll probably pass the natural rock slide which is a favourite for thrill seekers of all ages to slide down. Just watch where the kids and teenagers are going!

If the Observatory is open it’s definitely worth a visit – at the top there’s a camera obscura where you can see a video-like reflection of the bridge. Next you’ll descend steps through a narrow rock passage (not for the claustrophobic) to the Giant’s Cave. You’ll come out on a viewing platform halfway down the rockface, for a different view of the gorge.

Clifton Village – independent shopping and cafes

After seeing the bridge, it’s fun to wander around the shops in Clifton Village . You’ll be in heaven if you like unusual fashion and homeware finds.

Independent boutiques are which are mixed in with lovely cafes and bars from which to sip a latte and people-watch. The main shopping streets here are The Mall, Princess Victoria Street, Waterloo Street and Regent Street. You’ll spend a happy hour or two meandering from one shop to the next.

At the end of Boyce’s Avenue is the Clifton Arcade . This Victorian building with a glass roof houses vintage and jewellery stores, with my favourite stationers Papersmiths nearby. Instagrammers should look out for Reg the Veg , and Lisa Elliott the florist. Their colourful displays pop up daily in the feeds of the Clifton ladies of Instagram.

If you want my recommendations for a coffee or lunchtime stop I’d say Primrose Cafe for huge wedges of home-made cakes. Try Anna cake couture for elegant macarons and bite sized patisserie. Spicer and Cole features brunch dishes, salads and filled rolls with coffee. Try The Ivy Clifton Brasserie (an offshoot of the well-heeled London establishment) if you want to treat yourself day or evening, but you may need to book.

Photograph the Georgian architecture of Clifton

I sometimes have to explain to overseas guests what we mean when we describe architecture as ‘Georgian’. It’s the flat fronted, honey stone buildings that were built between 1720 and 1830 in the reigns of English kings George I to George IV. This is the architecture that Bath is well known for, but we have our fair share in Bristol too, especially around Clifton Village.

The Mall Gardens is lined with these elegant Georgian houses. You can go into the central gardens to get a good view of the imposing Clifton Club , where balls and assemblies were held in the 18th century.

You might then pass the Avon Gorge Hotel and circle back along Royal York Crescent. At over 300 metres it is one of the longest streets in Europe and has views over the city.

From here there’s a pleasant walk along Birdcage Walk and back through Victoria Square for a sense of Clifton’s elegant houses. These were built by wealthy merchants whose business was being done down in the harbour and old city, but who preferred to live in the cleaner air of Clifton.

Although we didn’t have time to visit, families will also enjoy the Bristol Zoo Gardens which is a short walk from the village area of Clifton, close to The Downs.

Check out this Bristol self-guided sightseeing audio tour

4. Bristol’s Old City

Spend a couple of hours exploring the Old City

Corn Street – the old financial heart of Bristol

I’ve mentioned that Bristol’s wealthy merchants liked to live in the elegant surroundings of Clifton Village. But, Corn Street was where they did their business in the heart of the Old City.

Nearby there’s Bristol Bridge, where the original bridge over the Avon was first built in the 13th century. There are now quite a few boats with bars and restaurants nearby. Try Three Brothers (outstanding burgers, craft beer and local ciders) and The Apple (an open air bar serving cider in summer).

As you walk up Corn Street, alternate which side of the street you’re on and look up to see the impressive facades of the buildings. Their pillars and porticos proclaim the wealth of the banks and insurance companies they once housed.

Most of these impressive buildings are now bars and restaurants. Check out Cosy Club for its gorgeous interiors and a great place for coffee or cocktails in the early evening.

You might also pop your head in to take a look at the impressive interiors of Pizza Express, Commercial Rooms and even the Sansovino Hall at The Harbour Hotel which was the old Lloyds Banking Hall. Outside the front of the old Corn Exchange, which now houses St Nicholas Market, are the metal tables, known as The Nails where merchants made their deals, leading to the expression “ to pay on the nail “.

Hotels in Bristol’s Old City: The Bristol Harbour Hotel is a luxury hotel, created out of two old banks. There’s an excellent Jetty restaurant and spa in the old bank vaults. Some of the rooms have roll-top baths in the bedroom area. Read my review of Bristol Harbour Hotel

St Nicholas Market – a favourite lunchtime stop

The local’s favourite lunchtime stop is St Nicholas Market, known as “St Nicks”. Here you’ll find a huge range of food stalls under the glass arcade.

They are mainly open from mid morning to late afternoon and are closed in the evening. Be sure to stop for lunch which you can eat at the small tables outside each stand.

There’s a huge range on offer including pulled pork burgers from Grillstock and pies from Pieminister. You’ll find salads from the Olive Works, falafel and hummus from Eat a Pitta.

For hot dishes, try the home cooked Portuguese or Caribbean dishes. My new favourite is the Brozen ice cream, which they freeze in a cloud of liquid nitrogen before your eyes.

St Nicholas Street runs alongside the market has a few interesting shops, bars and cafes. Also take a look at the quirky stalls selling all sorts of interesting things. Shop for crystals, books, old records and silver jewellery in the covered areas of the market and the old Corn Exchange building.

Hotels in St Nicholas Market: Brooks Guest House is tucked away in a courtyard in the heart of St Nicholas Market, with stylish, contemporary style. Check out the iconic silver Rocket caravans, which you can also stay in on the roof.

Castle Park – time for a picnic

If the weather’s fine or St Nicks Market is crowded, I recommend crossing the road to eat your lunch in Castle Park. There’s the shell of St Peter’s Church which was bombed in the war, with a pretty herb garden beside it and a water feature at the back.

This is where the local office workers come to sit on the grass at lunchtime in summer overlooking the canal. There’s a new footbridge across to the Redcliffe Quarter and Finzels Reach.

The park is named after Bristol Castle that was built here in the 11th century, now just a few stone areas remaining. There’s also a children’s playground tucked away in the trees. The Park adjoins Broadmead and Cabots Circus shopping areas where you’ll find a huge choice of high street shops, a cinema and other shopping possibilities.

Street Art on Nelson Street

From the end of Corn Street turn left down Broad Street to the arch in the old city wall and the church of St John in the Wall at the end. Through the arch is Nelson Street where you can still see a few of the street art murals left from the See No Evil Festival in 2011 and 2012.

This event was a precursor of the Upfest festival now held in Southville. There has been a lot of new building along this street, so most of the smaller pieces have disappeared. The larger murals high up on buildings are well worth a look.

Hotels in Bristol’s Old City: The Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel has recently gone through a refurbishment. They’ve used some of the street-art inspiration for the murals in the lobby and photos of street-art that you’ll find in the rooms and corridors.

A cocktail in Bristol’s ‘secret’ bars

While there are no shortage of places to drink in Bristol, the locals often head for a late night cocktail to one of Bristol’s ‘secret’ bars. These are in old buildings with an unmarked doors that you’d easily miss unless they were pointed out to you.

In the Old City check out Milk Thistle, a prohibition style cocktail bar. Or, the less secret but equally trendy Gold Bar in the Harbour Hotel, which was the old bank manager’s offices.

In other parts of Bristol there are a few other ‘secret’ bars and (since you asked) I’ll let you into the secrets. Hyde & Co is tucked away on Upper Byron Place at the top of Park Street. Red Light Bar (which requires you to dial a telephone to enter) is at 1 Unity Street at the bottom of Park Street.

Hotels in Bristol’s Old City: The Hotel du Vin is a luxury hotel in an old Sugar warehouse, set back from the main road where once the harbour ran in front of the building. I had dinner with Jennifer in the cosy French brasserie style restaurant, all dark wood and wine bottles on display. The bedrooms also have a wine theme with luxurious furnishings and roll-top baths and they also do a great afternoon tea. I love sitting tucked away in the bar for a coffee or glass of wine with old leather chairs and wooden beams.

5. Stokes Croft for street-art and coffee

Spend a couple of hours exploring Stokes Croft

For street-art lovers, a walk up Stokes Croft is a must. It’s a part of the city that’s either bohemian and up-and-coming or grungy and down-at-heel depending on your point of view.

This is an area where you’ll often see homeless people since there are several night shelters nearby. But, there’s also plenty of great cafes, bars and nightclubs.

At the bottom end is also the Bear Pit. In this underpass below the roundabout there are a few food stalls in the day and street-art in the underpass, probably mixed with a whiff of wee or weed.

Then there’s the Full Moon pub which also has a hostel, the Blue Mountain nightclub and quite a few coffee shops and trendy cafes. At the heart of Stokes Croft is The Canteen , which as the name suggests, serves as an all day eatery for the neighbourhood, with live music in the evening.

Notable murals

Outside you’ll see two notable murals, the ‘Breakdancing Jesus’ and the Banksy ‘Mild Mild West’, one of his earliest pieces. This piece epitomises the Bristol spirit – mild and friendly until you push us, at which point a cider fuelled riot may ensue.

The food at The Canteen is excellent and well priced with mains around £8-10. When I last ate there we chose from mussels, broccoli tagliatelle, and fish with Thai green curry sauce.

You’ll see all the favourite local beers and ciders on tap. There’s free live music every evening from 9.30pm, so also worth stopping for a drink after dinner, even if you’re eating elsewhere.

Right opposite is Jamaica Street where there’s an artists studio and a street art wall which has an ever changing array of murals. Pop into the small PRSC shop (Peoples Republic of Stokes Croft) for a very Bristolian souvenir of street art posters, photographs or china mugs.

Walking up and down Stoke Croft you’ll spot quite a few murals. There are even more pieces in the side streets and back alleys, so be adventurous and go explore (well maybe not at the dead of night).

If you want to do a street art tour to find the latest pieces and the hear the stories behind them, book onto one of the Street-Art tours with Where the Wall .

6. Southville and North Street for street-art and coffee

Spend a couple of hours exploring North Street

If you’re still hungry for more street-art after visiting Stokes Croft, head south of the river into Southville. Walk up North Street and spot the murals that remain from the Upfest Festival .

You might be best to pop into the Upfest gallery to pick up a map that shows the location of the permanent pieces. Some are a bit tucked away down the side streets.

The Upfest festival started in 2008 and normally takes place in July, with over 35,000 visitors and hundreds of street artists from all over the world descending on South Bristol.

During the festival there is live music and temporary painting sites are set up along North Street. All the murals that you’ll see if you visit today will be painted over in the next festival. Southville is also a cool place to live, a little more affordable than the north Bristol neighbourhoods and there are plenty of cafes for a coffee stop.

Look out for Mark’s Bread , a bakery where you can buy bread, sandwiches and pastries for lunch. Zara’s Chocolate is further up the street where you can see the owner making chocolates in an open workshop. Favourite evening dinner stops are Souk Kitchen , with modern English dining at Birch on Raleigh Road.

Phew, that was a whistle-stop tour of Bristol! Of course you can’t see it all in a weekend, or you’ll exhaust yourself trying.

I’d pick just one or two of the neighbourhoods I’ve mentioned and see them at a leisurely pace. Dop into the shops and take your time to savour some of the great food we have in Bristol. Hope to see you in Bristol very soon!

Hotels in Bristol

Here are some of my favourite places to stay in Bristol and if these don’t suit you check out more hotels in Bristol .

Brooks Guest House – a small, boutique hotel in the heart of Bristol Old City. Check out the cool vintage caravans where you can stay on the roof!

Stay at the Brooks Guest House – a small boutique hotel in the heart of Bristol Old City

Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel – A stylish 4 star hotel in a historic listed building in the heart of Bristol’s Old City.

Stay at the stylish 4-star Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel in the heart of Bristol Old City

Berkeley Suites – Luxurious mini-apartments in an elegant Georgian townhouse. You have the benefit of all the hotel facilities of the adjoining Berkeley Hotel

Stay at the Berkeley Suites in Bristol – luxurious mini-apartments in an elegant Georgian townhouse

Read my review of the Berkeley Suites

More information on visiting Bristol

For lots of information on visiting Bristol check out the official tourism website of Visit Bristol . When you arrive there’s a tourist information centre in the harbourside, next to the Watershed Arts Centre. Here you can pick up leaflets, get advice and book tickets for many of the tours in Bristol.

Need a guide book for Bristol? We recommend The Rough Guide to Bath, Bristol & Somerset .

If you’re visiting other parts of Great Britain, you’ll find all the information you need on the Visit Britain website.

Need a guide book for Bristol? We recommend The Rough Guide to Bath, Bristol & Somerset

More great articles about Bristol

10 Cool things to do on Bristol’s Harbourside Bristol Street Art: So much more than Banksy 20 Free things to do in Bristol What to see in Bristol with kids: 25 family-friendly attractions

This post was brought* to you as a result of the #WelcomeToEngland campaign, created and managed by iambassador in partnership with Visit Britain , although as always I am free to write what I wish about Bristol. Some of the experiences or meals described were provided free of charge .

* More info on my policies page

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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Bordeaux in 365 Bottles: March 2017 - Luxe Adventure Traveler

Sunday 12th of November 2017

[…] actually met and traveled with Heather from Heather on Her Travels almost two years ago now when we did a wine themed trip in Luxembourg. So it was great to see […]

Tuesday 7th of November 2017

Wonderful article. very well written. I love Bristol.

Sara @ Travel Continuum

Tuesday 25th of April 2017

Once, many years ago, I briefly drove through Bristol en route elsewhere, and I have to say, there was something about the vibe that has always drawn me to it. Those secret bars are especially tempting, but if I'm honest, you had me at the top end of the post, with the At-Bristol science centre...right up my street! I feel a weekend break coming on... :-)

Heather Cowper

@Sara You'll be welcome to visit - At-Bristol is a fun place for kids of all ages :)

alison abbott

Monday 24th of April 2017

What a great overview of Bristol you've given us. Certainly good incentive for a side trip from London. I'm a big fan of street art and Banksy. Visitors must love stumbling upon the Well Hung Lover. The art work outside the Upfest Gallery is my favorite-so pleasing to the eye and joyful.

@Alison Street-art is certainly one of the great reasons to come to Bristol

Sunday 23rd of April 2017

So many great ideas! I've not spent as much time in Bristol as I should given it's so close but there are a few more on the list to see next time - Wapping Wharf sounds very tasty and I've still not managed a sunny day at the Clifton Suspension Bridge yet.

@Lucy I'm sure we could guarantee some sunshine if you were to visit

Your Bristol Bucket List: The Best Things to do in England’s Sassy City

October 21, 2021

Bristol, you sassy thing, you. You’ve always been hard to define. All pastel palette pretty in some quarters yet home to subversive Banksy in others.

As a former resident and long-time listener, here’s a collection of fun, quirky, alternative and unusual things to do in Bristol. Your Bristol bucket list.

Table of Contents

Your Bristol Bucket List

Bristol is not like Bath or Cambridge or the area around Westminster Abbey. It’s a living city and you’re more likely to find coffee-coiffing creatives sketching out their next great idea than big tour groups led by a flag and a stick.

S.S. Great Britain

The SS Great Britain  deserves an article in its own right. I can’t believe how many times I saw the name advertised everywhere yet still hadn’t understood what it’s all about.

Folk, it’s about travel history. And engineering, yes, but this ship revolutionised the way people crossed between America and England. And beyond. And the results of that can still be felt today.

If you’re lucky, you may spot Isambard Kingdom Brunel taking a stroll above the dock…

The Arnolfini

The Arnolfini is an international arts centre and gallery with regular exhibits, poetry readings, lectures, dance events and more. It’s bursting with unusual things to do in Bristol.

Relish the open access library and reading area as well as the twinned restaurant, unspectacularly named the Arnolfini Cafe Bar. The green plants hanging from the ceiling are quite spectacular, though, and the Bristol Beer Factory have created an interesting blend of craft beers and gourmet health foods in a picturesque setting.

The art can be interesting but, ahem, you know, it depends.

The Arnolfini also have one of the best beer gardens in Bristol, but they’re up against stiff competition. If you want to add great beer gardens to your Bristol bucket list, then check out this complete guide to the best beer gardens and terraces in Bristol.

The M Shed i s free to enter and it’s a museum that gathers together the story of Bristol through local paraphernalia. Whether you love Bristol or don’t know it at all, it makes a good place to stop off. If you’re already on Facebook friends terms and in a bit of a rush, then this would be the one to skip.

Take a Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour

Wait, what is this, how does it work? Well, sadly, I haven’t tested it myself but it’s definitely on my Bristol Bucket List. The idea is you pick up a map and some tokens and take your time walking around some of Bristol’s hotspots, tasting craft beer as you go. There are even quirky facts about the city’s history to make it seem more educational. You can book your craft beer tasting tickets here.

A Bristol Bucket List for Kids

The renovated docklands of Bristol Harbourfront are a key part of town and feature clearly on every tourist map.

This area also happens to be perfect for travel with young children. It’s flat! There are spaces they can run around! There are loads of museums with changing facilities and cafes designed for babies to sleep.

There’s also a host of vegan restaurants which makes it easy to find healthy food for baby weaning or breastfeeding.

Oh yes. And many of the attractions are designed with children in mind ;-)

We The Curious

Terrible name, lovely place. We the curious is a science museum filled with light, air and space for children. Its bookshop makes a good stop for adults, too, with inspiring titles like Women Who Dared and Great Women of the World.

There are over 300 exhibits inside – and the one that stood out the most (perhaps for obvious reasons) was the lifesize stages of pregnancy exhibit. And the indoor pink earthquaking trampoline with audio that “simulated” labour.

River Cruise Along the Avon

Bristol’s history is all about the water, so what better way to see the place than from the river itself? You can join a hop-on, hop-off river cruise with 16 stops and see the harbourfront from the level of the waves. The whole thing lasts around 80 minutes if you don’t get off at all and you can buy your river cruise tickets here.

Places to Eat For Your Bristol Bucket List

Bristol’s history leaves it with a wonderfully diverse range of eating options (plus every chain restaurant you can imagine.)

But for some different flavours and unusual places to eat in Bristol, here are the highlights (all personally tested, of course…)

T he Glassboat

A Bristol institution, this cute little place gets its name on account of being a boat. With a lot of glass. It’s a lovely atmospheric spot made for special occasions with a French bistro menu. Oh, and highchairs and a lovely approach to young children so head along early in the evening for all of you to enjoy the place.

Its sister property, The Lido, also looks intriguing, housed in a former open-air swimming pool. I’ve had coffee there but am yet to taste their dinner menu.

St Nicholas Market

A weekday wander through the narrow lanes of this indoor/outdoor market is absolute bliss with a babe in pushchair (or without.) So many colours! So many scents! So many flavours!

Riverstation Bristol

Beautiful clear glass overlooking the water, with swirling sausages and flavoursome veggie options too.

Watershed Cafe Bar

Part art house cinema, part pub-cafe, part digital nomad workstation, I’ve spent more time than I’d care to admit typing away in the Watershed. Look out for the flower-cakes, moist carroty sponge with instagrammable purple petals.

Your Bristol Bucket List Beyond the Town Centre

Clifton suspicion bridge and clifton village.

Another of Brunel’s legacies, the Clifton Suspension Bridge was designed for horses and carts but now transports thousands of vehicles across the Avon Gorge every day. It’s a symbol of the city and has a modest visitor’s centre at the top. The grassy area around the bridge is lovely to visit on a good day and Clifton offers a gentrified choice of places to eat and drink too.

Visit Concorde at Aerospace Bristol

Sleek, chic, and grounded for now, the world’s most famous passenger aircraft now has the shiny new museum it deserves. Spend an afternoon at Aerospace Bristol to fall in love with how we take to the skies and to walk aboard Concorde herself. (The museum is quite a way out of town near the airfield so remember to factor that in to your plans.)

Look for Banksy

Bursting with subversive and controversial energy, Banksy is a street artist and activist whose work has spread around the world. But it all began on the underground scene in Bristol and if you’re lucky, you can find his work to see as well. 

How can you tell if you’re looking at the real thing or an imitation? Not easily if you’re new to all this. Sometimes, the best bet is to join an organised tour. I’ve heart great things about this walking tour that covers Banksy and other aspects of Bristol’s history Give it a go and let me know how you got on!

Festivals For Your Bristol Bucket List

Bristol harbour festival.

Bristol Harbour Festival in July  combines music, food and even more music along the Harbourfront.

Bristol Balloon Festival

The Bristol Balloon Festival in August sees more hot air balloons than you can shake a selfie stick at glow and rise into the sky. It looks absolutely amazing! And it’s known as the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta if you want to put some sizzle into it!

Where to Stay in Bristol

With young children.

On our last trip, we stayed in the Premier Suites Serviced Apartments in Cabot Circus  and it was a  genius i dea. Why? Well, because the location was within walking distance of the Harbourfront but, arguably as importantly, it made travel with a young toddler easy.

With a separate lounge area, once baby Lab was in bed, we could stay up and enjoy each other’s company instead of hiding out in the bathroom or going to bed at 8pm. The kitchen made breakfast quick and easy for a weaning toddler, which meant that we could enjoy lunch or dinner out, safe in the knowledge we weren’t going to be asking baby Lab to sit still and wait for longer than she could handle at this age.

We were also impressed by the little touches, which smoothed over some of the bumps that sometimes arise in self-catered stays. They provided mini dishwasher tablets and a small bottle of washing up liquid, for example, plus a welcome pack of common breakfast bites. Towels and sheets were also provided and the beds were already made. They made life easy and made us feel welcome.

More on Travel in  England

• How to spend  48 hours in Manchester
• The best  things to do in the Cotswolds with kids
• Alternative and  unusual things to do in the Cotswolds
• Fun facts about Cornwall
• What is Somerset famous for?
• Your  Bristol bucket list  for England’s sassy city
• How to spend  a weekend in Harrogate , the spa town of the north
• The  best things to do in Lavenham , England’s prettiest village
• The  best things to do in Sandwich, Kent
• The best beaches in Salcombe, Devon

Disclosure – We paid a reduced rate to check out some of the attractions on our last visit to Bristol and were hosted by Premier Suites. Plus, if you book or buy through some of the links on this page, then we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As ever, as always, we kept the right to write what we like. Otherwise, the whole thing becomes too depressing for words… 

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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

Adventures of Alice

20 Best Places To Visit In Bristol

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Bristol is a city in the southwest of England and one that is full of incredible sights to see and places to visit. Known for its iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and a thriving arts scene, (the street artist Banksy hails from Bristol), as well as having a rich maritime history, varied culture and diverse attractions, there really is something for everyone in Bristol.

Bristol is not like other UK cities , it is full of differing vibrant neighbourhoods each with their own vibe, think the historic quarters of Welsh Back and King Street to the modern Millennium Square, the cultural Stokes Croft to the artistic Bedminster. Bristol embraces both its historic roots and its modern charm, all with a wide range of culinary options thrown in the mix.

So, looking for some ideas for visiting this wonderful city ? From the art galleries to historical landmarks, and street art tours to foodie havens, here is a guide to the best 20 places to visit in Bristol.  

20 Places To Visit In Bristol

The city of Bristol is full of attractions that can easily keep you busy for a few days, but here are the best places to visit in Bristol;

1. Clifton Suspension Bridge

Suspended over the Avon Gorge, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, is a marvel of 19th-century engineering.

This iconic landmark is particularly wonderful during the summer when you can take to the nearby Avon Gorge Hotel terrace and watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand.

You can also walk across the bridge, with panoramic views of the gorge and the River Avon below, and into Leigh Woods which are somewhat of a hidden gem in the city.

2. Bristol Camera Obscura & Observatory

This historic observatory offers visitors to Bristol an opportunity to stargaze by day and experience optical illusions in its darkened rooms.

The Camera Obscura, just one of three working Camera Obscuras in the UK, allows you to see 360-degree views of Bristol and has been open to the public since 1828.

3. The Downs

The Downs is a vast green space to the north of the main city centre which is perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls, you’ll often find an exercise class or two up here on a warm day as well. With its tree-lined pathways and wonderful views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, (often with a balloon in sight too!), it is a favourite spot for both the locals and visitors to Bristol.

During the warmer months, you may even get the chance to see hot air balloons taking off or landing here as well.

4. Baltic Wharf

Baltic Wharf is an often-overlooked location in the city, with views across the harbour to the colourful Hotwells and Cliftonwood, and the option to get in the water on a paddleboard, kayak or sailboat.

The walk from the city centre, (via Wapping Wharf, which is the next place on the list of places to visit in Bristol), is wonderful and takes in not only Brunel’s SS Great Britain but also Banksy’s The Girl With The Pearl Earring and the Underfall Yard, which is a great place to learn about Bristol’s history of boat building.

5. Wapping Wharf

This is the place to visit in Bristol for an amazing variety of food and drink. This lively waterfront area of the city, with converted shipping containers housing independent shops and eateries, is one of the best places to savour Bristol’s culinary delights.

We would highly recommend eating at The Jolly Hog: Pigsty a restaurant specialising in sausage and British picnic food, Mokoko Coffee and Bakery for the most delicious cakes and Tare where you can have the most incredible 6-course set menu.

6. Welsh Back & King Street

The historic streets of Welsh Back and King Street are home to the legendary Llandoger Trow pub, historically once the local haunt of pirates who visited Bristol.

You’ll also find The Apple, a unique floating cider house, (it is located on a local barge), where you can sample a variety of delicious local and homebrew ciders. There is also a number of other pubs in the area, often with live music such as The Old Duke or King Street Brew House.

7. St Nicks Market

One of the best locations in Bristol for shopping from local traders, or for international street food is St Nick Market. Located on Corn Street this market reflects how diverse the culture of Bristol is, and you can easily get lost in the maze of the market for a few hours.

The street food served here is also incredible, try Woky Ko or Eatchu for amazing Asian cuisine or Matina for delicious Middle Eastern wraps.

8. Brunel’s SS Great Britain

You can’t visit Bristol and not visit at least one of Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s masterpieces and the SS Great Britain is no exception.

This beautifully restored Victorian-era ship is open to visitors to explore the cabins, engine rooms and decks, all alongside interactive exhibits that bring the history of maritime travel to life.

9. Brandon Hill & Cabot Tower

Brandon Hill is a popular hilltop park in the centre of the city with beautiful gardens to explore and the views to match.

At the centre of the park is Cabot Tower, a Gothic tower that has some of the best panoramic views in the city. There are quite a few steps up to the top but the views make it well worth while.

10. Whiteladies Road & Park Street

Whiteladies Road and Park Street are home to some of the best and most vibrant shopping locations in Bristol.

Both roads are lined with unique boutiques, quaint cafes, and a bustling bar or two and with a mix of high-end fashion and quirky shops to explore, both Whiteladies and Park Street will keep you busy for a while, all whilst working out those legs up and down the steep roads!

Fun Fact: There was once a giant slip’n’slide put in place for a day on Park Street as part of Bristol initiative ‘Make Sunday Special’.

11. Ashton Court Estate

This park on the outskirts of the city of Bristol is home to deer herds that roam the woodland and fields around the main house and is the perfect place to spend a few hours outside of the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

It is also the location of the International Balloon Fiesta , which is held every August and is a must-see if you are in the city at the right time.

12. Bristol Cathedral

Gothic architecture alongside intricate stained-glass windows means only one thing, and that is a visit to the Bristol Cathedral. Not only a place for reflection but an architectural marvel, this 12th-century building is stunning inside and out.

If visiting in the summer, be sure to avoid the cathedral around the university graduation dates as it is where the graduations happen so will be closed and very busy in the surrounding area.

13. Bristol Floating Harbour

Bristol Floating Harbour is a beautiful stretch of the harbour with historic ships moored alongside the quays and numerous waterside bars and restaurants to pick from.

There is often live music and events held along here too, with the Watershed warehouse venue housing lots of them alongside an arthouse cinema and bar overlooking the water.

14. Bedminster

Bedminster is the home of street art in Bristol. First made famous by Banksy, there is now an annual street art festival called Upfest held in Bedminster, which draws in street artists from around the world.

No wall is left uncovered with artwork, with the theme of the years art often taking on something that has been in the news or media, most recently a theme of Climate Change.

15. Millenium Square

The central square near the harbourside often hosts festivals throughout the year, including summer music festivals and Christmas markets , as well as live music and an outdoor cinema, all in the shadow of We The Curious, (more about this location further down the list of places to visit in Bristol).

16. Christmas Steps

This narrow winding street with historic architecture, is located between Cabot Circus and the Harbourside and is one of the most charming in all of Bristol.

Lined with independent shops, boutiques, art galleries and cafes, (there is a café where each table is a different board game ready to play!), this alleyway is one of the most unique places to visit in Bristol.

M Shed is the one museum in Bristol that you simply should visit during any trip to Bristol, plus entrance is free. Located in an old dockside transit shed, this museum focuses on life in Bristol, exploring the city through its people, places and through its colourful history.

There are rare and quirky objects to view as well as working exhibits outside the museum building, including the nearby cranes and a number of ships and tugboats that are located in the harbour.

18. We The Curious (@ Bristol)

One of the best places to while away a few hours is at We The Curious, (formally called @Bristol). There are hands-on exhibitions and interactive displays all focusing on science and the natural world, making it a great destination perfect for all the family.

19. Bristol Aquarium

If you feel like getting immersed in the aquatic wonders of the deep, then this is the place to visit in Bristol. With the option to get up close and observe marine life in an underwater tunnel as well as various talks and feeding sessions, the aquarium is another great location to visit for all the family.

20. Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is home to an extensive collection of both historical and contemporary artefacts and artwork. It’s one of the best free things to do in Bristol.

With ever-changing exhibitions, and some permanent exhibitions, including Egyptian mummies and dinosaurs, this museum and gallery is a great place to spend a few hours, especially on a rainy day.

Where to stay in Bristol

We would highly recommend staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel or Hotel du Vin Bristol in the city centre, as not only are they both in great locations close to lots of cafes and restaurants, but also within easy walking distance to numerous attractions.

Places To Visit In Bristol FAQS

How to get to bristol.

If arriving from an international location then Bristol has its own airport, located roughly half an hour out of the city via public transport.

Bristol is also connected to the rest of the UK by a number of train stations, including Bristol Parkway at the outskirts of the city and Bristol Temple Meads in the centre of the city. The train from London to Bristol takes about 1.5 hours.

There are also a number of long-distance coaches that serve Bristol and connect through to numerous locations across England.

If arriving by car then there are a number of large car parks across the city including Cabot Circus, Wapping Wharf and Mud Dock.

How to get around Bristol

The easiest way to get around Bristol is via the public transport network that runs across the city. There are a number of bus routes connecting the city centre with various locations on the outskirts including the First Bus network and the Metro Buses.

Bristol also has a small ferry network that runs from the Bristol Harbourside along the river to Temple Meads train station in the east and Hotwells in the west.

The other ways to get around the city are via bicycle as there is a great cycle network that crosses the city, or on foot. This is one of the best ways to get around Bristol as you will often stumble upon a great cafe or even a Banksy piece.

What is the best time to visit Bristol?

One of the best times to visit Bristol is in the summer, with music and food festivals galore, lovely warm weather and hot air balloons filling the skies in the morning and evening. It can be a little busier than other times of the year, partly due to the summer holidays and due to the festivals, but it is all worth it for the atmosphere of the city.

What is Bristol famous for?

Bristol is famous for its three B’s, Banksy, Brunel and balloons. The world-renowned street artist Banksy hails from Bristol and has left his mark on a number of locations across the city, which you can follow via one of the many Bansky art trails. Isambard Kingdom Brunel is also well known across Bristol, with the Clifton Suspension Bridge and SS Great Britain showcasing his civil engineering talents.

Finally, and probably the most well-known thing to make Bristol famous, is hot air balloons. Once a year the International Balloon Fiesta is held in Bristol, with balloons and their balloonists from across the world, descending on the city for four days of hot air balloon-related fun. The hot air balloons can be seen throughout most of the warmer months of the year.

Is Bristol worth a day trip?

100% yes, Bristol is worth a day trip , however, if you can stay and experience Bristol longer then of course you should!

What is on in Bristol for free?

Bristol has a number of art galleries and museums that are often open with free admission, and during certain times of the year, there are also festivals held across the city that are free to experience. Most of the parks and gardens throughout Bristol are also free to visit.

Is Bristol UK worth visiting?

Bristol is most definitely worth visiting. With a rich history of art and culture, as well as a big foodie scene and numerous festivals held throughout the year, it is one city in the UK that you should make a point of visiting.

Conclusion: Places To Visit In Bristol

So, there are 20 places to visit in Bristol, from well-known places such as the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Bristol Cathedral to the off-the-beaten-path locations such as Baltic Wharf and St Nicks Market.

With museums and art galleries, historic architecture and modern street art and enough restaurants, cafes and bars to keep you busy for weeks on end, Bristol is one of the best cities in England to spend time in.

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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You’ll Find These 7 Dining Spots In Bristol In Some Unusual Places

From an old war bunker to the ruins of Bristol Castle, you can grab a quick bite eat at these cafes and restaurants in unusual places.

Humans have a unique habit of looking at an empty building and thinking: ‘This would make a wonderful place to eat.’ From cafes inside of an old toilet or Robert of Gloucester’s atrium to restaurants in an old bank vault, these dining spots in Bristol have opened in some unusual places . Don’t worry, the food is still top-notch!

1. Vaulted Chambers Café

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vaulted Chambers Cafe, Castle Park (@vaultedchambersbristol)

A cafe in a park isn’t that special, we know, but Vaulted Chambers Café is actually located in the remains of Bristol Castle in Castle Park. Thought to have originally been the entrance to the castle’s great hall , the cafe opened in 2021 with the income used to with the cost of maintaining the city’s parks and green spaces. With elaborate vaulted ceilings (giving the historic building its name) it is a breathtaking experience that comes with coffee and a cake.

Vaulted Chambers Café, 87 Castle St, Bristol BS2 0HQ

2. The Cloakroom

From eating like a king in his castle to living in squalor in an Edwardian public toilet . Yes, The Cloakroom used to be a bog, a water closet, a lav. But these days, sitting just off of Park Row, it’s one of Bristol’s cutest cafes . Built back in 1904, the restroom existed at a time when the surrounding area was an elegant, thriving destination – added features like radiators, lamps and furnishings are a nod to this Edwardian era. Its past as a toilet brings a unique blessing to the building too, with a sunroof that brings in plenty of sunlight!

The Cloakroom Cafe, Woodland Rd, Bristol BS8 1US

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Ox (@theoxsteakhouses)

To eat at one of the best steakhouses in Bristol , you have to head down into the basement of this Wetherspoons – which used to be a bank vault and wartime bunker . The Ox continues the Hyde & Co Group ’s knack for creating hidden away, must-visit spots in the city. With more mouthwatering meat on the menu than you’ll ever be able to eat, as well as some incredibly creative cocktails, The Ox shouldn’t be missed.

The Ox, The Basement, 43 Corn St, Bristol BS1 1HT

4. The Glassboat

The Glassboat was a working barge in the 1920s, but from the ‘80s to 2022, it was one of Bristol’s most beloved restaurants. It recently reopened as a gin hotspot , Bristol’s local gin company, 6 O’clock Gin . You can’t get any food here yet, but a fully functional kitchen is on the way. For now, we’ll have to stick to just a few more G&Ts on a boat.

The Glassboat, Welsh Back, Bristol BS1 4SB

Named after the length from the front of the cafe’s counter to the back wall, you’ll find 3ft 6 in someone’s garage . The Redfield coffee shop is owned by artist and designer Rob Savage, who transformed the space during the lockdown. Sometimes called Bristol’s smallest cafe , you’ll find it serving all sorts of hot drinks and baked goods to the residents of Lancaster Street and beyond.

3ft 6, 0.5 Lancaster St, Redfield, Bristol BS5 9QL

6. Bristol Lido

Bristol Lido has made such a splash as one of the best restaurants in Bristol that we often forget it’s overlooking a swimming pool (That is odd, right?). It’s the oldest surviving heated pool in the country, but you can dine on a variety of Mediterranean dishes in the original viewing gallery. After dinner, why not go for a dip?

Lido, Oakfield Place, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2BJ

7. St Werburghs City Farm Café

You’ll find this cafe directly next to St Werburghs City Farm and Boiling Wells , but that’s not what makes it one of the most unusual dining locations in Bristol. No, it is the gnarled wooden structure of St Werburghs City Farm Café that leaves us baffled and amazed. The hyper-local cafe feels almost hobbit-esque in its design, while the menu aims to have as minimal impact on the Earth as possible – with the farm providing all the ingredients.

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

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5 Quirky and Unusual Places to Stay in Bristol

• Last Updated February 27, 2023
• UK , Europe

With its historic harbour, excellent Museum’s & Gallery, nightlife, and foodie scene, I’m of the opinion that Bristol is one of the best cities in the UK for a weekend break. Most of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other in the city centre meaning it doesn’t really matter where you decide to stay – whether its the medieval heart of the city and where you’ll Bristol Cathedral, St. Nicolas Market, and Queen Square, the incredibly posh Clifton, or the cultural and street art covered district of Stokes Croft – you will always be close to where the action is.

However, Bristol is known for being quirky and forward-thinking, so it’s only right that you stay somewhere that is a little unusual. Luckily, Bristol has its fair share of quirky and out-there hotels to really make your visit unique. Here are a few of my favourites.

Brooks Guesthouse

Hiding away down a narrow walkway between Baldwin Street and Corn Street in Bristol’s Old City in a spot where street markets rub shoulders with some of the best drinking spots and restaurants the city has to offer, Brooks Guesthouse really couldn’t be in a better location. St Nicholas Market, with its eclectic mix of food stalls, is only a couple of metres away and cobbled King Street, home of the Old Vic theatre and myriad brilliant pubs is within a few minutes walk, as is the vibrant waterfront and all of the museums and galleries that come along with it.

The accommodation itself is probably best described as a contemporary boutique B&B. Set back from the street with its own street art covered courtyard, it has a slightly luxurious feel, with an airy and spacious downstairs common area/ dining room with a kitchen and honesty bar and a range of beautifully appointed king, twin and double rooms. However, I understand that this doesn’t sound all that unique, if you head to the guesthouse’s rooftop, you will see its quirky side.

Up on the roof, there’s a small collection of airstream-style British made aluminium ‘Rockets’ set on Astroturf, two storeys above street level. They come in 3 different sizes (16ft, 18ft and 20ft) and offer all the mod-cons of a hotel room; they are fitted with full-sized double beds, mini eco showers, groovy mood lighting (watch those flashy LEDs change colour) and offer views over St Nicholas Market and the Old City.

Where : Exchange Avenue, off St Nicholas Street, Bristol, BS1 1UB Book Here

Kyle Blue Boat Hostel

For a city famed for its harbourside and seafaring past, could there be any more fitting place to stay than onboard an actual boat? Moored in the heart of Bristol’s historic harbour, Kyle Blue is a Dutch barge turned luxury boat hostel set in a peaceful, waterfront location that’s only a five-minute leisurely stroll along the quayside to the city centre, and a couple of minute’s walk from the museums, restaurants, and pubs of the city’s rejuvenated Wapping Wharf area.

The boat itself is deceptively large and sleeps up to 30 people. Below deck, there are four single/small double cabins, three five-bed cabins, a Stern Cabin with four beds and a Bow Cabin with seven beds as well as four shared shower rooms. On the upper deck, you will find a spacious common area and self-catering kitchen.

Even if you’re the kind of person that gets a little sea sick, it may be worth staying on board Kyle Blue to take advantage of one of the best locations in town. Imagine waking up to the sound of lapping water and seagulls, quietly collecting your thoughts with a cuppa in the communal lounge while watching the kayaks and boats sail by.

Where : Kyle Blue Wapping Wharf, Museum Street, Bristol, BS1 6GW Book Here

Rock and Bowl Motel

When staying in a hostel, I always find that it’s a little bonus if the place has some onsite entertainment for those days when you’re feeling a little too lazy to explore and would rather spend an afternoon hanging out inside with some new-found friends. While usually you would be pleased if this amounts to a pool or ping pong table, and you’re even luckier if there is an onsite bar, the Rock and Bowl Motel in Bristol’s city centre goes one better; It’s connected to The Lanes, a retro bowling alley, pizza parlour and bar/club. In typical Bristol style, the entire hostel is covered in street art and graffiti, giving it a bit of a cool edge. Just be warned, music from the club downstairs goes on until the early hours on a weekend and can be heard in the dorms.

Where : 22 Nelson St, Bristol, BS1 2LA Book Here

Full Moon Backpackers

Walking towards Bristol’s ultra-hip Stokes Croft from the city centre, Full Moon Backpackers is a difficult building to miss. Its entire facade is covered in an enormous interstellar mural of stars and galaxies. Dating back to 1716 and what was once the historic gateway to the city, this grade II listed building now straddles the busy city centre and the vibrant and artistic metropolitan community of Bristol’s cultural district. This lively hostel has over 70 beds and a range of room-types, a busy bar, live music venue, onsite food stalls and a large courtyard. For a year throughout 2015/16 they underwent a hugely exciting project calling on artists from Bristol and all over the world to decorate the hostel and rooms, each bringing an entirely unique theme and style.

Hostel guests get free entry to weekend events at the attached Full Moon Pub and Attic Bar, a local institution that was recently featured in The Guardian’s list of ’10 of the Best UK Clubs’. Not only is it a great place for travellers to spend the evening with some new found friends, but it’s also a favourite spot for Bristolians.

If that isn’t enough, the hotel also considers itself eco-friendly, with a portion of profits being donated to charitable causes.

Where : 1 North St, Bristol, BS1 3PR Book Here

Towed Town Camping

If you enjoy camping but aren’t too keen on the outdoors, bugs or unpredictable weather, then the guys at Towed Town have a concept that you may be able to get behind: Indoor camping. Towed town is a kitsch caravan park in the setting of a renovated urban warehouse. Think vintage trailers with fake lawns complete with picnic benches and deck chairs. As well as hosting five unique, cosy and lovingly revamped caravans, the warehouse also has a communal ‘hangout’ area complete with pool and table tennis tables, a library, and board games.

Despite the vintage feel of the caravans, each one is fitted with all the modern amenities that you’ll need, such as a free view enabled TV and USB charge points as well as an electric heater which will keep you warm and cosy during winter nights and a kitchenette area with fridge and everything you will need to make your morning brew. You’ll also find spacious bathrooms with a shower, toilet and sink directly opposite each caravan.

Where : 152 – 179 Kingsland Road, Bristol, BS2 0QW Book Here

I travelled to Bristol as a guest of Visit Bristol, receiving a complimentary stay at Brooks Guesthouse. However, all views expressed are my own.

Dave McClane

David McClane is a photographer and travel writer based in Leeds, UK. Since first picking up a camera on a yearlong journey through Central and South America in 2014/2015, He has carefully documented his travels through almost 50 countries.

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