Things To Do In Bristol
Discover the best places to explore and activities to engage in while in Bristol.
Bristol is a vibrant city with a wealth of talent, from Maisie Williams to Massive Attack, and a rich cultural heritage. It is home to the famous artist Banksy. With rows of brightly painted houses exuding a laid-back vibe, the city is a hub of history, diverse local communities, and plenty of exciting street art.
Whether you’re strolling through the sophisticated Georgian streets of Clifton Village, enjoying a unique stay in a rooftop caravan, or experiencing the thrill of turbulent wild waters, Bristol offers plenty of reasons to make it your next city break destination.
Attractions in Bristol
SS Great Britain
Embark on a captivating voyage through Bristol’s rich maritime history aboard the SS Great Britain, a remarkable Victorian passenger ship renowned as the world’s inaugural ocean liner. Nestled within Bristol’s historic harbor, this vessel offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of life aboard. Gain insights into the life and enduring legacy of the ship’s ingenious designer, the gifted 19th-century engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Explore the opulent First Class and Upper Decks, descend to the wheelhouse, and marvel at the ship’s hull through a captivating ‘sea of glass.’
For a more in-depth exploration of the past, consider reserving a spot on the Bristol Matthew. This vessel, which replicates the one John Cabot sailed in 1497 when discovering North America, invites you to enjoy a complimentary tour of its decks or purchase a ticket for a voyage to Avon Gorge or Bristol Harbour. Once back on solid ground, delve into the history of Bristol’s floating harbour at the Underfall Boatyard. Visitors of all ages will delight in the interactive exhibits and magnetic toys, offering insights into hydraulics and the management of water levels and silt within the harbour.
Activities in Bristol
The Wave
Although Bristol is not formally recognized as a coastal town, it provides numerous water-related activities. Located just 16 kilometers from the city center, The Wave stands as mainland Europe’s inaugural surfing destination. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, this 200-meter-long lake produces as many as 1,000 waves per hour, catering to water enthusiasts of all skill levels. Beginners can learn the basics in a shallow introductory session, while experienced surfers can try their hand at advanced waves. There are also lessons for young children, providing them with a fun-filled environment to boost their confidence in the water. For a longer surfing experience, you can stay in one of the camp’s spacious safari-style tents, just meters from the lake. Get ready for the waves!
For a more relaxed adventure, put on your wetsuit and enjoy a SUP tour of Bristol city center. Learn the basics of paddling on your knees or standing up before exploring Bristol’s canals and enjoying Bristol’s landscape from a unique perspective. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, take some well-deserved time for yourself in Bristol Lido. This elegant outdoor pool is located in a quiet residential street in Clifton and dates back to Victorian times. You can do a few laps in the outdoor pool, have a spa treatment, enjoy the warmth of the sauna, and finish off with a sumptuous poolside meal.
Restaurants in Bristol
Poco
Bristol’s vibrant cultural tapestry finds expression in a varied and imaginative culinary landscape that mirrors the inventive spirit of its inhabitants. The city boasts several acclaimed dining establishments, among them Poco, a tapas venue dedicated to ethical and sustainable practices. Poco captivates patrons with a seasonal menu featuring ingredients like wild boar from the Forest of Dean and Cornish fish primarily sourced within the UK. The majority of vegetables are supplied by community farms in Bristol. Notably, Poco takes pride in its zero-waste ethos, ensuring nearly 100 percent of its waste undergoes composting and recycling. This commitment extends to daily ingredient procurement, minimizing unnecessary leftovers. Ideal for those who cherish both gastronomy and the environment.
For a distinctive culinary adventure, consider indulging in the vegan indulgences at VX Bristol. Whether it’s a sausage dog, mac and cheese burrito, or a biscuit milkshake, VX Bristol offers a diverse menu to satisfy every palate. Carnivores seeking a late-night retreat can venture to The Ox, an informal eatery nestled in the basement of Corn Street. Renowned for its intimate ambiance, characterized by wooden walls and subtle lighting, The Ox serves meat and chips boards adorned with three delectable garnishes. If a sweet tooth beckons, Mrs Potts Chocolate House beckons. Modernizing the traditional chocolatier concept, it presents alluring pots of melted chocolate accompanied by an array of delectable fruits and treats for dipping. Indulge in these culinary delights to elevate your stay and create lasting memories.
Free Things To Do In Bristol
Clifton Suspension Bridge
The urban landscape extends beyond just skyscrapers and high-rise structures in Bristol. One of the most captivating vantage points in the city is not a building but rather a bridge—the impressive Clifton Suspension Bridge, envisioned by Brunel. Stretching across the Avon Gorge’s cliffs, this bridge stands as an iconic landmark in Bristol, drawing numerous tourists who either walk or drive across it to savor panoramic views of the gorge, Clifton Downs, and the distant majestic city. Constructed in 1864, the listed bridge is hailed as Brunel’s magnum opus. For an optimal appreciation of its engineering marvel, find a spot on the adjacent lawns or settle into the White Lion Bar to enjoy a comprehensive view of the bridge and the gorge. Illuminated at night, the bridge offers breathtaking nighttime vistas.
For those new to Bristol, Brandon Hill Park, situated atop Cabot Tower, serves as an excellent orientation point. Ascend the spiral staircase (a climb of 109 steps, so brace yourself for potentially sore hips) to the pinnacle of this neo-Gothic structure for awe-inspiring panoramas of Bristol and the picturesque Somerset countryside. Another exceptional location for enjoying city views is The Downs, often referred to as the city’s lungs. This expansive green expanse is a popular venue for Sunday sports activities, leisurely picnics, and sunbathing during the summer. For a unique aerial perspective of the city, consider a hot air balloon ride. Although not complimentary, the International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta has closely associated ballooning with the city of Bristol.
Pubs And Bars In Bristol
The Milk Thistle
Get dressed up and get fully immersed in Bristol’s vibrant nightlife. Without a doubt, your first destination should be The Milk Thistle – if you can find it. You don’t need a code to enter this mysterious cocktail bar, but you do need to ring the doorbell. Once inside, you can sip an exclusively served gin or whisky cocktail at the stained glass bar. You can sit in an armchair and enjoy the secluded atmosphere of the room. We guarantee you won’t be able to resist extending your stay. Be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
For more staycation suggestions,
Attention beer lovers! The Strawberry Bandit is a Belgian-style pub serving over 50 Belgian beers. Although the pub specializes in beer, it particularly highlights William Morris – the walls are covered in his etchings, and the pub itself is named after one of his paintings. If you want to sample Bristol’s favorite drink, cider, then head to the Cider Bar. True to its name, this pub floating on Welsh waters is famous for its cider dishes. Alternatively, you can combine a cozy drink with a game of nostalgia at the Kongs on King Street. Equipped with a retro arcade, foosball, and table tennis, this all-inclusive venue is the perfect place for a fun competition with friends.
Shopping in Bristol
Clifton Village
Bristol’s charming village of Clifton is a 15-minute walk from the city center. With its elegant Georgian facades, abundant green spaces, and delightful cafes, it exudes a picturesque countryside atmosphere. Famous for its wide range of independent shops, Clifton Village is Bristol’s picturesque shopping area. Whether you’re in the market for a new watch or a pair of earrings, the jewelers in The Mall beckon, while a stroll through the Clifton Arcade reveals 17 distinctive shops with everything from vintage clothing to picture frames and rare antiques.
Welcome to Wapping Wharf, where you’ll find Cargo – fine dining restaurants and independent boutiques converted from shipping containers. Each container contains unique treasures, where you can buy kitchenware and enjoy affordable massages. You can also wander through the maze of quirky stalls in the Mercado de São Nicolau, an 18th-century market building in the city center that stubbornly survived the Second World War. Open Monday to Saturday, it’s Bristol’s largest market and offers a wide range of products, from handmade jewelry to gifts inspired by the city.
Places To Stay In Bristol
Brooks Guesthouse
By the time you’ve settled in for the evening, you can climb up to the roof of the charming Brooks Guesthouse. Continue up until you reach the rooftop Astroturf Garden, where a set of interlocking metal caravans await you with stunning views over the rooftops of Bristol’s Old Town. These vintage caravans offer a unique way of camping, complete with double beds, eco-heaters, and LED lights for the perfect relaxing atmosphere. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking. Brooks Guesthouse also offers cozy double and twin rooms for the less adventurous traveler for a comfortable night out.
For wine lovers, Hotel du Vin is a converted 18th-century sugar mill warehouse. Each room in this unique hotel is named after a wine or a vineyard, giving it a distinctive charm. With high ceilings and elegant décor, the hotel exudes sophistication. Egyptian linens, roll-top bathtubs, and quality toiletries further enhance the hotel’s luxury experience. If you’re looking to camp near Bristol, Brook Lodge Camping & Caravan Park is the ideal choice. Set away from the hustle and bustle of the city and surrounded by an abundance of wildlife, the caravan park’s glamping tents are the ideal place to unwind.
Bristol Airport Taxi
Bristol Airport Taxi stands out as the premier service provider in Bristol, covering both the city and its surrounding areas. Offering a 24/7 taxi service connecting Bristol Airport to major cities and airports across the UK, we take pride in our professional, experienced, and amicable team of drivers. Our commitment to excellence has earned us the reputation of being the top-rated Bristolairport taxi service at Bristol Airport. With 15 years of dedicated operation, we consistently deliver high-quality service at affordable prices, garnering the best reviews from our satisfied clients. Bristol Airport Taxi has launched a convenient online booking system to make it easy for customers to book airport taxis. Enter your departure and arrival locations, select your preferred pick-up date and time, and then go to the next step to choose the vehicle that suits you. In the final step, enter the personal details of the main passenger and select the payment method to be used. The Secure Payment Portal guarantees a secure transaction and allows you to complete your payment smoothly in the final step. By booking an airport taxi using Bristol Airport Taxis’ easy-to-use Online Booking System, you will enjoy a streamlined and hassle-free process.
If you have any problems with your booking, please contact us.
Call us at 0117 983 0126 or email us at [email protected] we are available to help 24hrs.
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Contact us
Phone: 0117 983 0126
Email: [email protected]
Address: 8 Downside Road, Bristol, BS48 3DU
Website: www.bristolairporttaxi.co.uk
No Comment
You can post first response comment.