Visit Bristol to enjoy a diverse entertainment scene, some of the best produce Britain has to offer, locally brewed beer, and many museums and historical displays.
The River Avon is Bristol’s lifeblood and the city’s harbor is a great place to start your visit. Once a center of the shipping industry, the harbor area has now been regenerated into one of culture and entertainment. It’s the site of the annual Bristol Harbour Festival, one of the U.K.’s largest festivals. The harbor is also home to the steamship SS Great Britain. Buy a ticket and climb aboard to learn about the vessel’s eventful life at sea, and understand why it’s considered to be a marvel of its time.
In the city center, visit St. Nicholas Market and spend a morning or afternoon browsing stalls selling anything from old records and handmade jewelry, to hot sauces and haberdashery. On Wednesdays, head here to buy fresh produce at the farmer’s market, then enjoy a snack made with locally sourced ingredients. Pair your food with a Somerset cider or a beer from the local Butcombe and Zerodegrees breweries.
By night, Bristol offers a range of entertainment options from classical music at Colston Hall, to theater at the Bristol Old Vic and Bristol Hippodrome.
The city also offers plenty of activities the whole family can enjoy. Attractions like We The Curious, Bristol Aquarium, Bristol Zoo Gardens and M Shed get kids burning energy while they learn. Another Bristol landmark, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, is a short drive from the center of town. Families will also enjoy the city’s festivals, including the Bristol Festival of Nature, Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, Europe’s largest hot air balloon event, and the Bristol Festival of Puppetry.
Bristol is one of the warmest, and sunniest, cities in the U.K. This is due to its position in the south, and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll find better accommodation deals outside the warmer months, which are between May and September.
Getting around Bristol is easy and the city actively promotes public transportation. Make use of the excellent bus service, or rent a bike and see why this city is considered so cycle-friendly.
Bristol
Where to stay in Bristol
Bristol City Centre
The fantastic nightlife and popular shops are just a few highlights of Bristol City Centre. Make a stop by St Nicholas Market or Old Vic Theatre while you're exploring the area.
Clifton
Clifton is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Clifton Downs and Observatory and The Downs while you're in town.
Bristol Floating Harbour
The fantastic nightlife and popular shops are just a few highlights of Bristol Floating Harbour. Make a stop by We The Curious or Millennium Square while you're exploring the area.
Portishead
You'll enjoy the parks and art galleries in Portishead. You might want to make time for a stop at Portishead Lake Grounds or Parish Wharf Swimming Pool.
Filton
Filton is well-liked for its shopping. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Bristol area, you might plan a trip to The Mall at Cribbs Causeway or The Wave.
Keynsham
Keynsham is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park and Chew Valley.
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Popular places to visit
University of Bristol
Wander between campus buildings and architectural landmarks, visit museums, catch a theater show and admire outdoor art displays at this city center university.
Cabot Circus Shopping Centre
Discover new fashion trends, watch the latest releases from Hollywood and play a round of miniature golf at this modern retail mall.
Bristol Hippodrome Theatre
This historic theater offers a wide variety of entertainment, from West End productions and Broadway shows, to traditional pantomimes and opera.
Ashton Gate Stadium
Catch an event at Ashton Gate Stadium during your trip to Bristol. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
Both striking and practical, this bridge has long been the symbol of the city of Bristol.
Thornbury Castle
Walk the grounds once traversed by royalty, dine in a dungeon and spend the night in a room fit for a king.
Reviews of Bristol
4/5 - Good
Had a very nice stay. The staff was very helpful with directions and places to go see. Would stay here again. It was just a short taxi ride from the station.
3/5 - Okay
If you are visiting from the U.S. & drive a rental vehicle in U.K., rent a small car, not an SUV! The streets are small. On some street, parking are allowed on both sides of the street, portion of your vehicle will be in the opposite traffic lane!
5/5 - Excellent
Bristol is a multicultural city. So many things to do and see. So many different places to eat and or drink and have a good time with friends and or family. Great for children and adults of all age groups. There is something for everyone
5/5 - Excellent
Convenient for us for proximity to Bath and Newport (Wales.) Great place to catch the train to London!!
4/5 - Good
Cold and wet....English weather...but Bristol a beautiful Historic and Modern City to visit
5/5 - Excellent
I love small towns with winding roads and loads of natural, green spaces. Bristol had both!
