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Why we love Bristol

Cool creative Bristol is a must-see destination if you’re a fan of art, culture and action-packed adventure. And when it comes to great grub and welcoming pubs, the city’s no slouch. For a true taste of Bristol, 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.

Things to do in Bristol

Choosing an option from the dropdown will automatically update the map listing results to filter by your selection.

Take to the waves and head inland for some serious surfing thanks to Bristol’s innovative inland wave-creating lake.

The Wave

lifeoutthere.photography

Surfing at the Wave Garden
The Wave 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

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

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

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

ssgreatbritain

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

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

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

thatliz

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

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

More about SUP Bristol

SUP Bristol

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

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

Seize the day at Adventure Bristol

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

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.

Book Graft

Peter Hall/Graft

A group of people on a grafitti course in Bristol
Graft

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

Maya Davis

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

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

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

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

The Lanes Bristol

A club night at the Lanes in Bristol
The Lanes

At lunchtime, hungry Bristolians descend on this historic food market – and you’ll be glad you joined them.

Explore St Nicholas Market

VisitWest

A market trader selling many varieties of olives from a stall
St Nicholas Market

Whether you’re looking 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 – the Old Market Quarter is the place.

Plan your trip to Old Market Quarter – Gay Village

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

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

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

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.

Book Thornbury Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bristol Pride

Peppermint at Bristol Pride
Bristol Pride

One of the UK’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

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

Proper Job Productions

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

UPFEST, Bristol

18th May - 2nd June 2024

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

Learn more about UPFEST Festival

VisitBritain/Peter Beavis

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

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

Book Glastonbury Festival

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

VisitBritain/Rama Knight

Family sit on a bench in park during summer
The Downs

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

Explore Cheddar Gorge and Caves

National Trust Images/John Mill

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

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

Follow the Sherlock Locations Trail

Hartswood Films

Bristol, England

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

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

More about Frogmore Street

VisitWest

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 Festiva

Paul Box/Bristol Harbour Festival

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

paul@framedogs.com/Visit West

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.

Book Bristol Lido

Andre Pattenden/Bristol Lido

Bristol, England

People swimming in an outdoor pool at Bristol Lido
Bristol Lido

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

Explore Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

Bristol, England

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

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

Explore Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road

VisitWest

Bristol, England

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

Exploring with an expert local guide, you’ll be immersed in the city’s sights, sounds and stories.

Book Bristol Tours – Walking Tour

VisitWest

Bristol, England

Crowds of people sitting on the harbourside in Bristol, watching ships go past
Bristol Tours – Walking Tour

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

Visit Where the Wall

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

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

Shutterstock / Alexey Fedorenko

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

Getty Images

Bristol

Old Market, Bristol
Old Market

See Brunel’s iconic vessel to one Banksy’s most famous works at Bristol’s picturesque harbour.

Discover more about Bristol’s harbourside icon

anabdavhawar and craving.nirvana

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

Take to the waves and head inland for some serious surfing thanks to Bristol’s innovative inland wave-creating lake.

The Wave

lifeoutthere.photography

Surfing at the Wave Garden
The Wave 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

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

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

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

ssgreatbritain

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

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

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

thatliz

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

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

More about SUP Bristol

SUP Bristol

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

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

Seize the day at Adventure Bristol

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

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.

Book Graft

Peter Hall/Graft

A group of people on a grafitti course in Bristol
Graft

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

Maya Davis

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

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

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

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

The Lanes Bristol

A club night at the Lanes in Bristol
The Lanes

At lunchtime, hungry Bristolians descend on this historic food market – and you’ll be glad you joined them.

Explore St Nicholas Market

VisitWest

A market trader selling many varieties of olives from a stall
St Nicholas Market

Whether you’re looking 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 – the Old Market Quarter is the place.

Plan your trip to Old Market Quarter – Gay Village

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

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

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

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.

Book Thornbury Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bristol Pride

Peppermint at Bristol Pride
Bristol Pride

One of the UK’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

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

Proper Job Productions

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

UPFEST, Bristol

18th May - 2nd June 2024

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

Learn more about UPFEST Festival

VisitBritain/Peter Beavis

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

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

Book Glastonbury Festival

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

VisitBritain/Rama Knight

Family sit on a bench in park during summer
The Downs

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

Explore Cheddar Gorge and Caves

National Trust Images/John Mill

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

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

Follow the Sherlock Locations Trail

Hartswood Films

Bristol, England

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

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

More about Frogmore Street

VisitWest

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 Festiva

Paul Box/Bristol Harbour Festival

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

paul@framedogs.com/Visit West

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.

Book Bristol Lido

Andre Pattenden/Bristol Lido

Bristol, England

People swimming in an outdoor pool at Bristol Lido
Bristol Lido

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

Explore Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

Bristol, England

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

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

Explore Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road

VisitWest

Bristol, England

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

Exploring with an expert local guide, you’ll be immersed in the city’s sights, sounds and stories.

Book Bristol Tours – Walking Tour

VisitWest

Bristol, England

Crowds of people sitting on the harbourside in Bristol, watching ships go past
Bristol Tours – Walking Tour

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

Visit Where the Wall

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

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

Shutterstock / Alexey Fedorenko

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

Getty Images

Bristol

Old Market, Bristol
Old Market

See Brunel’s iconic vessel to one Banksy’s most famous works at Bristol’s picturesque harbour.

Discover more about Bristol’s harbourside icon

anabdavhawar and craving.nirvana

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

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 cafés.

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.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

Picadilly Circus underground station

A wellness retreat for the Romans and Georgian architecture around every corner.

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.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

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.

VisitBritain

Cotswolds, England

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

Small but mighty, Exeter is a city with seriously cool credentials.

Exeter City Council

A view down a shopping street in Exeter's Castle Quarter

Getting to Bristol

England’s south west city is easily accessible from across the UK 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 city is served by Bristol International Airport, with easy connections to the city centre on the Airport Flyer bus service.

Getting around

With bus services a plenty, find ticket prices and discounts across the city and the south west with FirstGroup. Being the UK’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?

Get the inside scoop of all things Bristol from those in the know at Visit Bristol.