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Bristol

Photo by: VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

Location: Bristol header image baloons

Lit up hot air balloons and fireworks in the night sky

Why we love Bristol

When it comes to great grub and welcoming pubs, Bristol is no slouch. For a true taste of the city, head out on a street art tour to discover the works of the city’s most famous resident, Banksy. Delve into maritime history at the legendary SS Great Britain steamship, or discover awe-inspiring views on a tour of the historic Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Feel your adrenaline pumping at The Wave, the city’s inland surfing site, see historic works of art at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, or savour local ale and cosy up in one of its eclectic bars, pubs or breweries. With shopping ranging from budget to blowout and an impressive music scene to boot, one thing’s for sure – Bristol doesn’t disappoint.

Bristol

Head out on a street art tour to discover the works of Banksy, or test your skills at a Graft graffiti workshop.

Discover awe-inspiring views on a tour of the historic Clifton Suspension Bridge, or see the skies filled with hot air balloons at Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.

Feel your adrenaline pumping at The Wave, the city’s inland surfing site.

Navigate your way around Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the world’s first luxury liner, or step aboard the last Concorde at Aerospace Bristol.

Fun fact

Fun fact

Bristol’s Temple Church leans to the side at 2.7 degrees, only one degree less than Italy’s infamous Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Photo by: Shutterstock / Kollawat Somsri

Location: Bristol Temple Church image

Temple Church (Holy Cross Church) in Bristol, England, United Kingdom, Europe

Did you know?

Did you know?

  • Bristol is the home town of world-renowned street artist Banksy – keep an eye out for his artwork around the city, including The Girl with the Pierced Eardrum, The Mild Mild West and The Masked Gorilla.
  • Bristol is designated a UNESCO City of Film, hosting a number of international film festivals each year which play an important role in the city’s cultural identity.
  • Upfest, Europe’s biggest street art and graffiti festival, takes place in Bristol attracting a stellar line up of international artists over one weekend.
  • Bristol Old Vic, built in 1766, is the oldest working theatre in the English-speaking world, and benefitted from a multi-million-pound renovation in 2019.

Photo by: Alamy Stock Photo/Lee Thomas

North Street, Bedminster, Bristol, UK.

Things to do in Bristol

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Come and see 100 balloons take to the sky at Bristol’s International Balloon Fiesta.

Find out more about the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Photo by: VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

Colourful hot air balloons over floating above countryside
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Bristol’s historic centre is packed with independent shops, bars and eateries, plus a market that’s been trading since 1743.

Explore Bristol's Old City

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Bristol, England

Group of friends walking on a cobbled street.
Old City, Bristol

Step aboard the world’s first great luxury liner, and discover the ship that changed the world.

Step on board Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Photo by: ssgreatbritain

Brunel's SS Great Britain in Bristol
Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Step on board the last Concorde at this hands-on aviation museum.

See what's on at Aerospace Bristol

Photo by: Visit Bristol/ Aerospace Bristol/Adam Gasson

Location: Bristol, England

A family explore an Aerospace museum
Aerospace Bristol

Spanning the beautiful Avon Gorge, this is one of the world’s most architecturally ambitious bridges – a true work of art.

Find out more about Clifton Suspension Bridge

Photo by: VisitBritain/Eric Nathan

Hot air baloons floating above the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol
Clifton Suspension Bridge

From dinosaur skeletons to local inventions, this free museum puts one billion years of art, culture and nature at your fingertips.

See what’s on at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Photo by: thatliz

A sculpture on display at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Released by the Bristol Film Office, this official walking guide reveals the city’s key Sherlock locations.

Follow the Sherlock Locations Trail

Photo by: Hartswood Films

Location: Bristol, England

Benedict Cumberbatch on set in Bristol as Sherlock Holmes for the BBC's Sherlock
Sherlock Locations Trail

Discover soaring cliffs and spectacular caves, sculpted by the elements over many thousands of years.

Explore Cheddar Gorge and Caves

Photo by: National Trust Images/John Mill

The view from Gorge Walk at Cheddar Gorge, Somerset
Cheddar Gorge and Caves

This outdoor activity centre is packed with challenges – so grab your mates and get stuck in.

Seize the day at Adventure Bristol

Photo by: Adventure Bristol

A group of people posing in front of a target at an axe throwing range in Bristol
Adventure Bristol

Step into ‘the world’s first amazement park’ – a place unlike anywhere you’ve ever been before.

Discover Wake the Tiger

Photo by: Wake The Tiger

An art exhibit in Wake The Tiger, a new art theme park crossover in Bristol
Wake the Tiger

Bristol is famous for its graffiti – so why not have a go too? Get hands-on at these expert-led workshops.

Visit Graft

Photo by: Peter Hall/Graft

A group of people on a grafitti course in Bristol
Graft

From the UK’s only 3D planetarium to mind-blowing experiments, this family-friendly museum is inspiring the next generation of scientists.

Inspire young minds at We The Curious

Photo by: VisitBritain/Rama Knight

Mother and daughter play with sand at a science museum
We The Curious

Delve into Bristol’s history at this locally focused museum, discovering the human stories behind its most pivotal moments.

What’s on at M Shed

Photo by: Quentin Lake Photography

A range of exhibits inside the M Shed in Bristol
M Shed

Great beer, delicious food and a brilliant playlist: what could be a better way to celebrate summer?

More about Bristol Craft Beer Festival

Photo by: Nic Crilly-Hargrave

A group of people enjoying some drinks at Bristol Craft Beer Festival
Bristol Craft Beer Festival

Grab your mates for a night of live music, bowling, karaoke and more, at this fun-loving Bristol nightspot.

Plan your night at The Lanes

Photo by: The Lanes Bristol

A club night at the Lanes in Bristol
The Lanes

The place for a sociable drink with like-minded people, a night of cocktails and dancing till dawn, or adults-only fun at a discreet bar and sauna.

Plan your trip to Old Market Quarter – Gay Village

Photo by: Getty Images/Image Source

A group of people drinking at a bar
Old Market Quarter, Gay Village

This impressive stately home isn’t just full of history – it has mountain biking, orienteering and golf courses too.

What’s on at Ashton Court Estate

Photo by: Paul Box

A child riding a bike outside Ashton Court in Bristol
Ashton Court Estate

This collection of boutique hotels is synonymous with luxe bedrooms, fantastic food and brilliant service.

Visit THE PIG

Photo by: The Pig, Hampshire

Pig, Hampshire - sustainable food
THE PIG

Look out for supper clubs, art workshops and craft classes – all with a herbaceous twist.

Explore Jekka’s Herb Farm

Photo by: Jekka's Herb Farm

Rows of herbs for sale at Jekka's Herb Farm in Bristol
Jekka’s Herb Farm

King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn stayed here on their honeymoon – and you can enjoy its luxury too.

Stay at Thornbury Castle

Photo by: Les Searle

An overhead view of Thornbury Castle on the outskirts of Bristol
Thornbury Castle

Enjoy magnificent views from this mighty landmark, opened by King George V and Queen Mary in 1925.

Tour the Wills Memorial Building Tower

Photo by: Yasmin Chakar

An exterior shot of the Wills Memorial Building in Bristol
Wills Memorial Building Tower

This historic spot is a haven for walkers and wildlife, and features art installations too.

More about Royal Fort House

Photo by: Dan Rowley

People sat outside Royal Fort House in Bristol
Royal Fort House

This up-and-coming shopping, dining and entertainment quarter has breathed new life into Bristol’s waterfront.

Get to know Wapping Wharf

Photo by: Jon Craig

Fresh fruit and veg on display at Wapping Wharf in Bristol
Wapping Wharf

With over 400 retail and dining brands, this city-centre mall has something for every style.

Visit Bristol Shopping Quarter

Photo by: Jon Craig

A flag on display above the Bristol Shopping Quarter
Bristol Shopping Quarter

Top fashion brands rub shoulders with independent vintage stores, jewellery boutiques and gourmet delis.

Discover Park Street and The Triangle

Photo by: VisitWest

A nightime view of Park Street in Bristol
Park Street and The Triangle

Tuck into a menu of tapas, brunches and sharing plates, which champions sustainably-sourced local ingredients.

More about Poco Tapas Bar

Photo by: Benjamin Pryor Photography

A group of people eating food at a table in Pocos Tapas Bar, Bristol
Poco Tapas Bar

Rather than driving or taking the train between these great cities, why not cycle instead?

Follow the Bristol and Bath Railway Path

Photo by: VisitWest

A group of people cycling along a path in Bristol
Bristol and Bath Railway Path

Featuring a star-studded line-up of singers and drag cabaret – plus an awe-inspiring protest march through the city.

Explore Bristol Pride

Photo by: Bristol Pride

Peppermint at Bristol Pride
Bristol Pride

One of Britain's only purpose-built bear bars, it attracts a varied crowd and brings the beats of pop and dance music to the table.

Dance it out at Bristol Bear Bar

Photo by: VisitBritain/Simon Winnall

Closeup of two gay men being affectionate
Bristol Bear Bar

Be dazzled by a 1920s Art Deco style and a welcoming atmosphere. Expect disco lighting and a swanky dance floor complete with podiums and a stage.

Explore the queer scene at Queenshilling

Photo by: Proper Job Productions

A group of people posing during a club night at Queenshilling in Bristol
Queenshilling

Welcome to Europe’s biggest graffiti festival, where the streets of Bristol are the canvas.

Learn more about UPFEST Festival

Photo by: VisitBritain/Peter Beavis

An artist with a can working on artwork. Cartoon design
UPFEST, Bristol

Glastonbury

25th - 29th June 2025

This legendary gathering is on every music-lover’s bucket list – featuring a star-studded mix of music, comedy, theatre and more.

Learn more about Glastonbury Festival

Photo by: Andrew Allcock

Glastonbury Festival
Glastonbury

Whether you’re horse riding, cycling, playing football or walking, this green space is glorious year-round.

Discover The Downs

Photo by: VisitBritain/Rama Knight

Family sit on a bench in park during summer
The Downs

Be part of the city’s legendary LGBTQIA+ scene, with buzzing bars, nightclubs, entertainment and more.

More about Frogmore Street

Photo by: VisitWest

Location: Bristol, England

Artwork lit up on a wall in Bristol as part of Bristol Light Festival
Frogmore Street

A whole weekend of entertainment, with circus, music, dance and more – all for absolutely free!

Explore Bristol Harbour Festival

Photo by: Paul Box/Bristol Harbour Festival

Location: Bristol, England

A man riding a jetstream of water into the air as part of Bristol Harbour Festival
Bristol Harbour Festival

The city’s maritime roots run deep, and its waterways host festivals, floating restaurants and more.

Plan your trip to Bristol Marina

Photo by: [email protected]/Visit West

Location: Bristol, England

A row of ships in Bristol Harbour
Bristol Marina

Dip your toe into Bristol’s history at this beautifully restored bathhouse, luxury spa and restaurant.

Visit Bristol Lido

Photo by: Andre Pattenden/Bristol Lido

Location: Bristol, England

People swimming in an outdoor pool at Bristol Lido
Bristol Lido

Whether for walking tours or stencilling workshops, immerse yourself in the city’s spectacular street art.

Visit Where the Wall

Photo by: Alamy Stock Photo/Lee Thomas/Upfest (Bex Glover, Lucas Antics, Zoe Power, Gemma Compton, Sophie Long and Ejits)

Location: Bristol

North Street, Bedminster, Bristol, UK.
Where the Wall

Discover the soaring gothic architecture and exquisite stained-glass windows of this city-centre landmark.

More about Bristol Cathedral

Photo by: Shutterstock / Alexey Fedorenko

Location: Bristol

A woman and child walking outside Bristol Cathedral
Bristol Cathedral

This is the place to revel in Bristol’s free-spirited vibe, while shopping for clothes, antiques and crafts.

Get to know Old Market

Photo by: Getty Images

Location: Bristol

Old Market, Bristol
Old Market

See Brunel’s iconic vessel, as well as one of Banksy’s most famous works at Bristol’s picturesque harbour.

See what Bristol's harbourside has to offer

Photo by: anabdavhawar and craving.nirvana

A man stood at a ship's wheel in the harbourside of Bristol
Bristol’s harbourside

Magic, comedy, burlesque – whatever you fancy, you’re bound to be entertained at Bristol’s secret theatre.

Laugh the night away at Smoke & Mirrors Theatre Pub

Photo by: Matador Network/ Joerg Nicht

A man performs on stage at Smoke and Mirrors Comedy and Magic Bar.
Smoke & Mirrors Theatre Pub

It’s a real adventure to dip into these tiny boutiques, many of which serve as artisans’ workshops too.

Explore the Christmas Steps Art Quarter

Photo by: Maya Davis

The exterior of the Christmas Steps in Bristol
Christmas Steps Art Quarter

The Bristol Old Vic is the oldest continuously-working theatre in the English-speaking world, running since 1766.

Explore Bristol Old Vic

Photo by: The Meaning of Zong @curtisrichardphotography/@bristololdvic1766

Actors performing in The Meaning of Zong at Bristol Old Vic
Bristol Old Vic

Calling all bargain hunters and trend setters: these shops, galleries and delis are anything but ordinary…

Explore Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road

Photo by: VisitWest

Location: Bristol, England

Cakes and pastries on sale at a café in Bristol
Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road

With its hydrotherapy pools and luxurious treatment areas, this city-centre idyll is hard to resist.

Explore Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

Photo by: Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

Location: Bristol, England

An indoor spa pool at Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa
Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

Take to the waves for some serious surfing at Bristol’s innovative inland wake.

Practise surfing at The Wave

Photo by: lifeoutthere.photography

Surfing at the Wave Garden
The Wave Bristol

On a paddleboard, you’ll witness the nature, beauty and relaxed pace of life on Bristol’s waterways.

More about SUP Bristol

Photo by: SUP Bristol

A person paddleboarding in the middle of Bristol's harbourside
SUP Bristol

A booming food scene filled with local produce from independent retailers, dive into falafel boxes or take your pick of blended fresh smoothies.

Explore St Nicholas Market

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Bristol, England

Friends admiring bakery pies through a glass divider.
St Nicholas Market, Bristol

Come and see 100 balloons take to the sky at Bristol’s International Balloon Fiesta.

Find out more about the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Photo by: VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

Colourful hot air balloons over floating above countryside
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Bristol’s historic centre is packed with independent shops, bars and eateries, plus a market that’s been trading since 1743.

Explore Bristol's Old City

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Bristol, England

Group of friends walking on a cobbled street.
Old City, Bristol

Step aboard the world’s first great luxury liner, and discover the ship that changed the world.

Step on board Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Photo by: ssgreatbritain

Brunel's SS Great Britain in Bristol
Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Step on board the last Concorde at this hands-on aviation museum.

See what's on at Aerospace Bristol

Photo by: Visit Bristol/ Aerospace Bristol/Adam Gasson

Location: Bristol, England

A family explore an Aerospace museum
Aerospace Bristol

Spanning the beautiful Avon Gorge, this is one of the world’s most architecturally ambitious bridges – a true work of art.

Find out more about Clifton Suspension Bridge

Photo by: VisitBritain/Eric Nathan

Hot air baloons floating above the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol
Clifton Suspension Bridge

From dinosaur skeletons to local inventions, this free museum puts one billion years of art, culture and nature at your fingertips.

See what’s on at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Photo by: thatliz

A sculpture on display at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Released by the Bristol Film Office, this official walking guide reveals the city’s key Sherlock locations.

Follow the Sherlock Locations Trail

Photo by: Hartswood Films

Location: Bristol, England

Benedict Cumberbatch on set in Bristol as Sherlock Holmes for the BBC's Sherlock
Sherlock Locations Trail

Discover soaring cliffs and spectacular caves, sculpted by the elements over many thousands of years.

Explore Cheddar Gorge and Caves

Photo by: National Trust Images/John Mill

The view from Gorge Walk at Cheddar Gorge, Somerset
Cheddar Gorge and Caves

This outdoor activity centre is packed with challenges – so grab your mates and get stuck in.

Seize the day at Adventure Bristol

Photo by: Adventure Bristol

A group of people posing in front of a target at an axe throwing range in Bristol
Adventure Bristol

Step into ‘the world’s first amazement park’ – a place unlike anywhere you’ve ever been before.

Discover Wake the Tiger

Photo by: Wake The Tiger

An art exhibit in Wake The Tiger, a new art theme park crossover in Bristol
Wake the Tiger

Bristol is famous for its graffiti – so why not have a go too? Get hands-on at these expert-led workshops.

Visit Graft

Photo by: Peter Hall/Graft

A group of people on a grafitti course in Bristol
Graft

From the UK’s only 3D planetarium to mind-blowing experiments, this family-friendly museum is inspiring the next generation of scientists.

Inspire young minds at We The Curious

Photo by: VisitBritain/Rama Knight

Mother and daughter play with sand at a science museum
We The Curious

Delve into Bristol’s history at this locally focused museum, discovering the human stories behind its most pivotal moments.

What’s on at M Shed

Photo by: Quentin Lake Photography

A range of exhibits inside the M Shed in Bristol
M Shed

Great beer, delicious food and a brilliant playlist: what could be a better way to celebrate summer?

More about Bristol Craft Beer Festival

Photo by: Nic Crilly-Hargrave

A group of people enjoying some drinks at Bristol Craft Beer Festival
Bristol Craft Beer Festival

Grab your mates for a night of live music, bowling, karaoke and more, at this fun-loving Bristol nightspot.

Plan your night at The Lanes

Photo by: The Lanes Bristol

A club night at the Lanes in Bristol
The Lanes

The place for a sociable drink with like-minded people, a night of cocktails and dancing till dawn, or adults-only fun at a discreet bar and sauna.

Plan your trip to Old Market Quarter – Gay Village

Photo by: Getty Images/Image Source

A group of people drinking at a bar
Old Market Quarter, Gay Village

This impressive stately home isn’t just full of history – it has mountain biking, orienteering and golf courses too.

What’s on at Ashton Court Estate

Photo by: Paul Box

A child riding a bike outside Ashton Court in Bristol
Ashton Court Estate

This collection of boutique hotels is synonymous with luxe bedrooms, fantastic food and brilliant service.

Visit THE PIG

Photo by: The Pig, Hampshire

Pig, Hampshire - sustainable food
THE PIG

Look out for supper clubs, art workshops and craft classes – all with a herbaceous twist.

Explore Jekka’s Herb Farm

Photo by: Jekka's Herb Farm

Rows of herbs for sale at Jekka's Herb Farm in Bristol
Jekka’s Herb Farm

King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn stayed here on their honeymoon – and you can enjoy its luxury too.

Stay at Thornbury Castle

Photo by: Les Searle

An overhead view of Thornbury Castle on the outskirts of Bristol
Thornbury Castle

Enjoy magnificent views from this mighty landmark, opened by King George V and Queen Mary in 1925.

Tour the Wills Memorial Building Tower

Photo by: Yasmin Chakar

An exterior shot of the Wills Memorial Building in Bristol
Wills Memorial Building Tower

This historic spot is a haven for walkers and wildlife, and features art installations too.

More about Royal Fort House

Photo by: Dan Rowley

People sat outside Royal Fort House in Bristol
Royal Fort House

This up-and-coming shopping, dining and entertainment quarter has breathed new life into Bristol’s waterfront.

Get to know Wapping Wharf

Photo by: Jon Craig

Fresh fruit and veg on display at Wapping Wharf in Bristol
Wapping Wharf

With over 400 retail and dining brands, this city-centre mall has something for every style.

Visit Bristol Shopping Quarter

Photo by: Jon Craig

A flag on display above the Bristol Shopping Quarter
Bristol Shopping Quarter

Top fashion brands rub shoulders with independent vintage stores, jewellery boutiques and gourmet delis.

Discover Park Street and The Triangle

Photo by: VisitWest

A nightime view of Park Street in Bristol
Park Street and The Triangle

Tuck into a menu of tapas, brunches and sharing plates, which champions sustainably-sourced local ingredients.

More about Poco Tapas Bar

Photo by: Benjamin Pryor Photography

A group of people eating food at a table in Pocos Tapas Bar, Bristol
Poco Tapas Bar

Rather than driving or taking the train between these great cities, why not cycle instead?

Follow the Bristol and Bath Railway Path

Photo by: VisitWest

A group of people cycling along a path in Bristol
Bristol and Bath Railway Path

Featuring a star-studded line-up of singers and drag cabaret – plus an awe-inspiring protest march through the city.

Explore Bristol Pride

Photo by: Bristol Pride

Peppermint at Bristol Pride
Bristol Pride

One of Britain's only purpose-built bear bars, it attracts a varied crowd and brings the beats of pop and dance music to the table.

Dance it out at Bristol Bear Bar

Photo by: VisitBritain/Simon Winnall

Closeup of two gay men being affectionate
Bristol Bear Bar

Be dazzled by a 1920s Art Deco style and a welcoming atmosphere. Expect disco lighting and a swanky dance floor complete with podiums and a stage.

Explore the queer scene at Queenshilling

Photo by: Proper Job Productions

A group of people posing during a club night at Queenshilling in Bristol
Queenshilling

Welcome to Europe’s biggest graffiti festival, where the streets of Bristol are the canvas.

Learn more about UPFEST Festival

Photo by: VisitBritain/Peter Beavis

An artist with a can working on artwork. Cartoon design
UPFEST, Bristol

Glastonbury

25th - 29th June 2025

This legendary gathering is on every music-lover’s bucket list – featuring a star-studded mix of music, comedy, theatre and more.

Learn more about Glastonbury Festival

Photo by: Andrew Allcock

Glastonbury Festival
Glastonbury

Whether you’re horse riding, cycling, playing football or walking, this green space is glorious year-round.

Discover The Downs

Photo by: VisitBritain/Rama Knight

Family sit on a bench in park during summer
The Downs

Be part of the city’s legendary LGBTQIA+ scene, with buzzing bars, nightclubs, entertainment and more.

More about Frogmore Street

Photo by: VisitWest

Location: Bristol, England

Artwork lit up on a wall in Bristol as part of Bristol Light Festival
Frogmore Street

A whole weekend of entertainment, with circus, music, dance and more – all for absolutely free!

Explore Bristol Harbour Festival

Photo by: Paul Box/Bristol Harbour Festival

Location: Bristol, England

A man riding a jetstream of water into the air as part of Bristol Harbour Festival
Bristol Harbour Festival

The city’s maritime roots run deep, and its waterways host festivals, floating restaurants and more.

Plan your trip to Bristol Marina

Photo by: [email protected]/Visit West

Location: Bristol, England

A row of ships in Bristol Harbour
Bristol Marina

Dip your toe into Bristol’s history at this beautifully restored bathhouse, luxury spa and restaurant.

Visit Bristol Lido

Photo by: Andre Pattenden/Bristol Lido

Location: Bristol, England

People swimming in an outdoor pool at Bristol Lido
Bristol Lido

Whether for walking tours or stencilling workshops, immerse yourself in the city’s spectacular street art.

Visit Where the Wall

Photo by: Alamy Stock Photo/Lee Thomas/Upfest (Bex Glover, Lucas Antics, Zoe Power, Gemma Compton, Sophie Long and Ejits)

Location: Bristol

North Street, Bedminster, Bristol, UK.
Where the Wall

Discover the soaring gothic architecture and exquisite stained-glass windows of this city-centre landmark.

More about Bristol Cathedral

Photo by: Shutterstock / Alexey Fedorenko

Location: Bristol

A woman and child walking outside Bristol Cathedral
Bristol Cathedral

This is the place to revel in Bristol’s free-spirited vibe, while shopping for clothes, antiques and crafts.

Get to know Old Market

Photo by: Getty Images

Location: Bristol

Old Market, Bristol
Old Market

See Brunel’s iconic vessel, as well as one of Banksy’s most famous works at Bristol’s picturesque harbour.

See what Bristol's harbourside has to offer

Photo by: anabdavhawar and craving.nirvana

A man stood at a ship's wheel in the harbourside of Bristol
Bristol’s harbourside

Magic, comedy, burlesque – whatever you fancy, you’re bound to be entertained at Bristol’s secret theatre.

Laugh the night away at Smoke & Mirrors Theatre Pub

Photo by: Matador Network/ Joerg Nicht

A man performs on stage at Smoke and Mirrors Comedy and Magic Bar.
Smoke & Mirrors Theatre Pub

It’s a real adventure to dip into these tiny boutiques, many of which serve as artisans’ workshops too.

Explore the Christmas Steps Art Quarter

Photo by: Maya Davis

The exterior of the Christmas Steps in Bristol
Christmas Steps Art Quarter

The Bristol Old Vic is the oldest continuously-working theatre in the English-speaking world, running since 1766.

Explore Bristol Old Vic

Photo by: The Meaning of Zong @curtisrichardphotography/@bristololdvic1766

Actors performing in The Meaning of Zong at Bristol Old Vic
Bristol Old Vic

Calling all bargain hunters and trend setters: these shops, galleries and delis are anything but ordinary…

Explore Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road

Photo by: VisitWest

Location: Bristol, England

Cakes and pastries on sale at a café in Bristol
Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road

With its hydrotherapy pools and luxurious treatment areas, this city-centre idyll is hard to resist.

Explore Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

Photo by: Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

Location: Bristol, England

An indoor spa pool at Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa
Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

Take to the waves for some serious surfing at Bristol’s innovative inland wake.

Practise surfing at The Wave

Photo by: lifeoutthere.photography

Surfing at the Wave Garden
The Wave Bristol

On a paddleboard, you’ll witness the nature, beauty and relaxed pace of life on Bristol’s waterways.

More about SUP Bristol

Photo by: SUP Bristol

A person paddleboarding in the middle of Bristol's harbourside
SUP Bristol

A booming food scene filled with local produce from independent retailers, dive into falafel boxes or take your pick of blended fresh smoothies.

Explore St Nicholas Market

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Bristol, England

Friends admiring bakery pies through a glass divider.
St Nicholas Market, Bristol

Places to stay in Bristol

Stokes Croft

Find the coolest vibe in Bristol, from local boutiques and artist studios to traditional pubs, hip eateries and trendy cafes.

Harbourside

Once where merchants and traders set sail, the Harbourside is now a trendy enclave with a great selection of places to eat, shop and stay.

Clifton

Take in views of the awesome Clifton Suspension bridge, eat in bistros and stroll around its impressive Georgian architecture.

Explore nearby

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

Picadilly Circus underground station

A wellness retreat for the Romans, with elegant Georgian architecture around every corner.

Photo by: VisitBritain

Woman swimming in a swimming pool at a spa

Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Location: Cardiff

A gay couple enjoying the shopping facilities at Castle Arcade in Cardiff, Wales

Lush rolling pastures, pretty stone villages and rambling rivers - the Cotswolds has it all.

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Cotswolds, England

Pärchen, das sich im Garten in der Nähe eines Springbrunnens umarmt

Small but mighty, Exeter is a city with seriously cool credentials. Discover the top attractions and best things to do and see during your next visit here.

Photo by: Exeter City Council

A view down a shopping street in Exeter's Castle Quarter
Wye Valley, Wales and England

Whatever the season, the Wye Valley always puts on a show.

Photo by: Forestry England/Crown Copyright

A rocky outlook surrounded by trees with a river below.
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

Dive into Cheltenham’s spring waters and discover a thriving cultural scene.

Photo by: Visit Cheltenham

Location: Cheltenham, England

IMG_495(7) Cheltenham Spa

Discover incredible street art, visit cosy countryside pubs and live your best Bridgerton life on a trip around south west England and south Wales.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Newcastle, England

Friends enjoying tea and cake on a rooftop terrace, overlooking a river and suspension bridge.

Getting to Bristol

Bristol is served by Bristol International Airport with easy connections to the city centre on the Airport Flyer bus service. Bristol is easily accessible from across Britain by train and car, and boasts fast, efficient transport connections, from regular buses to trains running from Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway Railway Stations.

The train from London takes around one hour 40 minutes from London Paddington, direct to Bristol Temple Meads with Great Western Railway. Direct coaches are also available from London to Bristol, via megabus, National Express and Flixbus with a journey time of approximately two hours 20 minutes.

Getting around

With bus services aplenty, find ticket prices and discounts across the city and the South West with FirstGroup. Being Britain’s first cycling city, Bristol is easy to explore by bike and on foot. Or head to the water aboard a ferry with Number Seven Boats and Bristol Ferry Boats for a unique way to visit major attractions.

By bus

With ticket stations at every stop, you can buy tickets for the city’s environmentally-friendly metrobuses before you board.

By train

Save money on train and bus travel in and around Bristol and explore more with a Freedom Travelpass.

By bike

You can discover the best cycling routes and find out how to hire bikes and equipment at Better by Bike

Want to know more?

Planning a business event in Bristol?

Sales and distribution

TXGB

Gain access to live availability, pricing and content for accommodation, tours, events and attractions – every kind of UK supplier, together in one place for the first time.

Photo by: VisitBritain

TXGB logo
VisitBritain Shop

Access more than 500 visitor experiences, transport tickets and products, with an exclusive travel trade discount.

Photo by: Red Bike Tours

Old london Tour

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