Plan your visit to Bristol, United Kingdom
With a youthful arts and entertainment scene, international festivals and many family-friendly attractions, Bristol is one of the U.K.’s most vibrant cities.
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.
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.
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.
Bristol Hippodrome Theatre - This historic theater offers a wide variety of entertainment, from West End productions and Broadway shows, to traditional pantomimes and opera.
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.
SS Great Britain - Climb aboard this museum ship to learn about its long and eventful life at sea.
Bristol Cathedral - This 900-year-old religious monument is revered for its exquisite vaulted ceilings, stained-glass windows and Romanesque-style Chapter House.
St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Walking Tour - Discover Bristol's biggest public Air Raid Shelter, explore the historic Old Town and experience the nation's No.1 covered market. Join us for an experience you'll never forget. Our local guides will take you on a unique tour from the height of Bristol's trading past through the swinging 60's to the city's vibrant present.
Bristol: Blackbeard to Banksy Guided Walking Tour - Uncover Bristol's historic downtown area on a two-hour tour with an expert guide. Begin your tour outside Bristol Cathedral on College Green, an imposing medieval church built in the 12th century.
Bristol Bike Rental - The best way to explore Bristol's beautiful streets is by bike! Get onto some of the best bike paths in the UK and conveniently park near the best attractions. Safe bike lanes will help you explore the parks and harborside easily, allowing you to get