30 Best Things To Do in Bristol, UK

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Bristol, England is an old harbor city that has transformed into a modern cultural hub. Young, vibrant and hip, Bristol is an entertaining destination that surpasses expectations. To help fellow travelers make the most of their visit, we are highlighting the Best Things To Do in Bristol, UK!

Situated in the southwest of England, Bristol sits along the River Avon and has a lush and hilly landscape. Historically, Bristol is best known for its maritime past. The city has hosted a port since the 11th century with many exploration voyages (and slave ships) sailing from its harbor.

In modern times, Bristol has become famous for its colorful street art, local craft breweries, tasty cider and buzzing nightlife. The city is also recognized for having a unique Bristolese accent and a dizzying array of cultural attractions.

Visiting Bristol, UK

When we planned our first trip to Bristol, we knew little about it. We were just looking for a way to Bath, England. During our whirlwind 2 day stop, we filled our itinerary to the brim – taking in as many sights as time would allow. Yet, we left knowing there was more to see.

During a return visit for a much longer stay, we truly got acquainted with the city. From off-beat adventures to nature walks to magnificent museums, we discovered the Best Bristol Things To Do!

30 Best Things To Do in Bristol, England

Based on our personal experiences, we are highlighting the top Bristol activities for fellow travelers. Our list, which includes free things to do in Bristol and ticketed attractions, can be used to create your ultimate trip. Need help devising an itinerary? We share detailed options in our guide on How To Plan a Trip to Bristol.

To aid in your trip planning, we have included a helpful Bristol attractions map, plus logistical tips, at the end of the article.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Bristol Travel Guide to plan your trip to the UK!

#1 Marvel at the Medieval Bristol Cathedral

A massive, Medieval ‘hall church’, the Bristol Cathedral is a landmark sight and visiting it ranks as one of the top Bristol things to do. The elaborate building – formally called the Cathedral Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity – dates to the year 1140, when it served as the St. Augustine’s Abbey.

The structure features vaulted ceilings, ornate columns and colorful stained-glass windows. The provided pamphlet offers a map and brief history of the cathedral’s most notable sights.

These include the 1685 organ, 15th century cloister and a lovely garden. Placards placed around the church add even more details. Best of all, there is no entry fee. Visiting the cathedral is a popular choice for those looking for Bristol free things to do!

#2 Climb Cabot Tower at Brandon Hill Park

Standing 105 feet atop Brandon Hill, Cabot Tower is another great free attraction in Bristol. The interior spiral stairs lead to outstanding viewpoints of Bristol and the surrounding landscapes. Climbing all the way to the top is one of the fun things to do in Bristol!

The tower was built in the late 1800s to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s expedition and discovery of North America (today’s Canada). He set sail from Bristol in 1497 on a journey commissioned by Henry VII of England.

#3 Cross the Clifton Suspension Bridge

A man-made marvel and engineering feat, the superb Clifton Suspension Bridge straddles the Avon River Gorge on the west side of the city. Walking across Clifton Bridge is one of the top things to do in Bristol, UK.

The structure sits 330 feet above the water and stretches for a length of 1,352 feet. The toll bridge (it costs £1 to drive across it) opened in the year 1864. Curious travelers can learn more about it’s history in the fantastic Clifton Bridge Visitor Center. Yet another option for free things in Bristol to do!

After taking in the view from the bridge, be sure to walk up to the Clifton Observatory. This historic windmill (ticket required) provides entry to Giant’s Cave and the St. Vincent’s Rocks viewpoint. It also houses the unique Camera Obscura, a cafe and restaurant.

The public trails that wind around the clifftop grounds provide sensational views of the bridge and gorge. Posted placards along the route detail the history of the Iron Age Clifton Camp and provide information about the flora and fauna of the area.

Adventurous visitors can seek out the Ancient Stone Slider. The natural rock slide has been made smooth from the thousands of people who have glided down on their bottom!

#4 Explore Clifton Village

In addition to the bridge, there are a few more things to do in Clifton Bristol. The Village of Clifton, situated at the top of a steep hill, is an affluent enclave marked by grand Georgian architecture. The neighborhood is just 1.5 miles from the Bristol City Center – and its picturesque lanes and lush green spaces beckon visitors to slow their pace and enjoy the scenery.

The prime places to see are the elegant residential streets – like Royal York Crescent, Princess Victoria Street and The Mall. Boutique shops and quaint cafes are found in the Victorian Clifton Arcade and along Waterloo Street. The central Victoria Square and adjacent St. Andrew’s Churchyard and Birdcage Walk are two of the village’s splendid nature retreats.

#5 Shop at St. Nicholas Market

Shopping at St. Nicholas Market is one of the best activities in Bristol! In operation since 1743, the covered market is housed in a historic arcade. Independent retailers line the lanes and scrumptious street food is available in the breezeway.

The St. Nicholas Market is a great place to pick up hand crafted and locally made souvenirs. For a tasty bite to eat, shoppers have a wide range of choices – from hearty pies at Pieminister to international cuisine. We personally recommend getting delicious Middle Eastern food from Matina – but Eat a Pitta has excellent falafel!

#6 Enjoy an Afternoon at Wapping Wharf

A revitalized area on the Bristol Harbourside, Wapping Wharf offers a cluster of casual eateries, boutique shops, cute cafes and cultural hotspots. Spending time in the Wapping Wharf district is one of the best Bristol, UK things to do.

Whether looking for vintage threads (Something Elsie), meaty cuisine (Squeezed or The Jolly Hog), something caffeinated and/or sweet (New Cut Coffee) or a pint of Bristol craft beer (Junction and Beer Necessities), you can find it at Wapping Wharf!

In search of more things to do in Bristol for free? Step aboard the Matthew of Bristol Ship for an up-close look at the historic boat. Just want to relax? Grab a beverage and a snack, then take a seat on the water’s edge, like the locals do.

#7 Learn about the Past at M Shed Museum

The M Shed – a former harbor warehouse – is among the best things to see in Bristol and an excellent place to learn about the city’s past.

The museum features exhibits that detail the history of Bristol and its people. The displays cover a range of topics – from the city’s part in the slave trade to bomb shelters that were used during the war to modes of transportation through the years.

What we personally like best about the museum, however, is the exhibition featuring stories from Bristol citizens. The tales detail what it was like to grow up in the city, with insight into what it was like going to school and hanging out at clubs.

Finding the M Shed couldn’t be easier – just look for the towering, industrial cargo cranes that stand in front of the museum entrance!

#8 See the Exhibits at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

A fascinating museum and a great destination for rainy days, the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is one of the best sights in the city.

The collection includes an array of displays – including Egyptian mummies, dinosaur fossils and artwork – by both masters and locals. From the main entry (where a scale model Boxkite plane hangs over head) to the works of art (old and new), we were enthralled by the engaging exhibits.

Visiting the museum is one of the top free things to do in Bristol for families, couples, friends and solo travelers!

#9 Seek Out Banksy Artwork

Banksy is a worldwide renowned street artist and political activist hailing from Bristol. Many of his early works still decorate the walls of buildings in the city center – and they are now hot Bristol tourist attractions. Seeking out a Banksy is one of the fun and free things to do in Bristol.

The best Banksy murals in Bristol are Well Hung Lover, Girl with Pearl Earring, the Mild Mild West and You Don’t Need Planning Permission to Build Castles in the Sky. You can find the location of these Banksy artworks on our Map of Bristol Things To Do below.

#10 Step Aboard Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Once reigning as the largest passenger ship in the world, the SS Great Britain is permanently docked at Bristol Harbour. Now, rather than sailing, the ship functions as a museum – and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Bristol Harbourside.

In addition to stepping aboard to explore the interior of the ship, the entry ticket (which you can book in advance) also allows visitors to roam the historic dockyard.

#11 Make Your Way to Millennium Square

A modern public space, Millennium Square attracts visitors, young and old. At the center of the square is the recently re-opened We The Curious Science Center. Ranking as a top Bristol attraction for families, the interactive science museum features hands-on displays and fun experiments.

Not to be missed is the reflective 3D Planetarium that sits at the museum entrance. While fun for photo ops from the outside, the interior of the dazzling globe offers visitors a glimpse at the Universe.

Yet another major family attraction in Bristol is the Aquarium, which sits in the adjacent Anchor Square. The small but well-maintained Bristol Aquarium invites guests into a world of sea creatures. Top things to do are viewing the large tanks, discovering a rainforest and walking through an underwater tunnel.

Other reasons to visit Millennium Square are the water fountains (where kids cool off on hot summer days), the Energy Tree (made of metal and solar panels) and the Sky View Ferris Wheel. Additionally, the square hosts interesting artwork – including statues of Bristol-born Cary Grant and William Penn.

#12 Spend an Evening in Stokes Croft

Marking the epicenter of the city’s counterculture, Stokes Croft Road – and the area immediately surrounding it – is one of the best places to walk around Bristol.

Exuding a youthful, bohemian vibe, the area is best known for its independent shops, live music scene and street art murals.

A few of the top things to do in Stokes Croft are to seek out famous artworks (like Banksy’s The Mild Mild West at The Canteen), browse the unique homewares at Stokes Croft China Shop on Jamaica Street (featuring funky pottery) and visit the Mickleburgh Musical Instruments Shop (the oldest music store in Britain).

With eccentric cafes and alternative eateries, Stokes Croft is a superb place for a delicious meal and creative drinks. As we tend to veer toward locally produced craft beer, we were stoked to find excellent offerings at Basement Beer and New Bristol Brewery in the St Paul’s neighborhood.

#13 Hoist a Beer on King Street

Speaking of drinks, those looking for things to do in Bristol at night should make their way to King Street. The wide street was originally developed in the 1650s and is lined with historic buildings that date to the 17th and 18th centuries.

Today, however, the street is a hub of entertainment and the main location for Bristol nightlife. The best bars on King Street are Small Bar, The Beer Emporium, Kongs of King Street and The Old Duke Jazz and Blues Bar.

If you need a bite to eat – either before or after the bars – stop by the city’s beloved Three Brothers Burgers. In our opinion, they grill up the best burgers in Bristol, UK!

#14 Glimpse the Past at the Georgian Museum

The Georgian House Museum is a preserved aristocratic residence from the 1790s – and it’s yet another of the interesting places to visit in Bristol for free. The dwelling was built by John Pinney, who was a sugar merchant and slave owner.

Visitors are invited to tour four floors of the home – from the basement kitchen where the servants worked to the sophisticated rooms on the upper floors. Guests tour each space at their own pace – and an informational brochure tells the story of each room. Additionally, an area is dedicated to the Slave Trade and Pinney’s plantation in Nevis.

#15 Relax at Castle Park

A relatively new green space in Bristol city center, Castle Park was only established in the 1970s. Formerly, the space had served as the city’s main shopping destination, but was destroyed in the Bristol Blitz during World War II.

The pleasant area is a great spot for picnics and summertime relaxation. A few relics from the past remain (like the shell of St. Peter’s Church) and newer war memorials dot the landscape, as well.

On the south side of the park, the curving pedestrian Castle Bridge leads visitors right to Left Handed Giant Brewpub. It’s among the best attractions in Bristol for fans of quality craft beer!

#16 Catch a Film at Bristol Watershed

A dynamic and exciting cultural center, Watershed hosts an array of diverse films, festivals and events. One of the best things to do at Bristol Harbour is to take in a movie at the Watershed. The Watershed Cinema shows indie films, as well as blockbuster hits. Plus, there is an onsite café and bar for nibbles and refreshments.

#17 Tour the Red Lodge Museum

Built more than 400 years ago, the Red Lodge is home to a fascinating history. Designed as guest quarters, renovated as a rental house, used as the Girls’ Reform School and then converted into a museum, the Red Lodge is jam packed with historical details about Bristol.

The Red Lodge Museum is also a top place to go in Bristol for free. Visitors can tour the Great Oak Room – as well as the original lodge, which hosts three of the city’s oldest living spaces. Not to be missed, especially in summer, are the formal gardens at the back of the house.

#18 Soak in the Atmosphere on The Christmas Steps

An ancient staircase in the city center, The Christmas Steps are a charming and unique place to see in Bristol. Ranking among the city’s oldest streets, (the steps weren’t laid until 1669), a number of traders have done business on The Christmas Steps throughout the centuries.

Today, it’s still a bit like stepping back in time. The narrow and steep flight of stairs are lined with boutique shops and one-of-a-kind eateries. Vintage threads, musical instruments and DVD rentals – as well as a fun pub and a cake shop – can all be found on the atmospheric lane.

#19 Stand in Awe at St. Mary Redcliffe Church

A Gothic building with exquisite detail, St. Mary Redcliffe Church dates to the 13th century. Out of all the historic and unique things to do in Bristol, the magnificent church is not one to miss.

The church was a favorite of Queen Elizabeth I, who called St. Mary Redcliffe ‘the fairest, goodliest and most famous parish church in England.’ From the spire to the portico to the stained-glass windows, it’s truly impressive inside and out.

#20 Discover the Remains at Temple Gardens

Like Castle Park, Temple Gardens is a maintained green space showcasing the skeleton of a former church. Temple Church – formally known as Holy Cross Church – was a Medieval place of worship, built on the site of a former 12th century Knights Templar church. Destroyed by bombs during WWII, the ruin has been preserved as an Ancient Monument.

The gardens that surround the church were part of the graveyard and some headstones are still standing. Benches that sit in the shade of Lime Trees line the diagonal walkway – and provide a perfect spot for a quiet rest.

#21 Admire the Architecture on Queen Square

Queen Square is routinely included in lists of interesting places in Bristol – not just for its beauty for also for its long, twisting history. Today, it is a top Bristol sightseeing destination and a popular gathering place for locals.

Designed in the early 1700s, Queen Square is ringed by homes that once belonged to the city’s elite merchants. After a riot in 1831, however, the area was abandoned by many of these wealthy owners (in favor of Clifton) and the square was slowly taken over by traffic lanes.

In the 1990s, the district was revitalized and brought back to its former grandeur. Many of the houses around the square have been renovated and the green space is often used for community events.

#22 Experience Park Street

A main thoroughfare lined with uniform architecture, Park Street is a Bristol must-see. Designed in the mid-1700s, the sloping street connects College Green to the Clifton Triangle. Looking uphill, the striking Gothic Wills Memorial Building stands proudly at the top next to the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery.

The street boasts a number of eateries (like the original Boston Tea Party Café and family-owned Mrs. Potts Chocolate House) and local shops (such as the independent bookseller, Last Bookshop). Plus it offers an ideal view of the Banksy street art mural, Well Hung Lover, on Frogmore St.

#23 Take a Ride on a Bristol Ferry Boat

Taking a Bristol Ferry is a fun way to get around the city. Even better, however, is that the ferry boats in Bristol offer guests an opportunity to see sights from a unique vantage point. The inexpensive fares are paid onboard with contactless credit cards. There is no need to purchase tickets in advance, just hop aboard!

That said, Bristol ferries are not the only way to get out on the water. Travelers can board one of the guided boat tours, paddle around the harbor in a canoe and join a guided Paddleboarding Tour.

#24 Embark on a Bristol Harbour Walk

One of the best things about Bristol, UK is how walkable it is. In fact, walkways line both sides of the harbor, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot.

Start at M Shed, pass the SS Great Britain and make a stop at the small Maritime Museum at Underfall Yard. Cross the Junction Swing Bridge and circle back to the heart of the harbor via the promenade along the north side of the waterway.

The 3-mile loop around the Floating Harbour can be completed in about an hour. The route also includes several top Bristol sights, as well as an excellent look at the famous painted houses that lurk above.

Those up for a longer walk can extend the trek to the far western tip of Spike Island and the Avon Gorge Viewpoint. In addition to the fantastic view of Clifton Suspension Bridge, there are remnants of the past – like Brunel’s Swivel Bridge. Use this Harbor Map for more details about all the sights.

#25 Contemplate Upfest Street Art in Bedminster

Bristol has fully embraced the creativity of graffiti artists – and nowhere is it more apparent than in the Bedminster district. Encouraged by the annual Upfest Festival – a 2-week, 400-artist painting extravaganza – the area in South Bristol is bedecked in colorful murals.

Most of the artworks are found along North Street and the intersecting side streets. We believe it is best to just wander in search of these displays. Trust us, you won’t have to walk too far! That said, visitors can also pick up a map at the official Upfest Gallery, where they sell spray paint supplies and popular prints.

Another place to find street art in Bristol is Nelson Road, which hosted the city’s first graffiti festival called See No Evil Gallery in 2011 and 2012.

#26 Go to Tobacco Factory

A converted industrial factory in the Southville district of Bedminster, the Tobacco Factory is a fun place in Bristol to hang out. The community space hosts local businesses, including a bar, shop and Sunday market – as well as a regular line up of engaging events.

The factory is located on North Street, alongside other great eateries, art galleries and the Bristol Beer Factory Tap Room!

#27 Trek around Ashton Court Estate

The sprawling Ashton Court Estate is a lovely place to visit and one of the top things to do in Bristol for couples and families. Developed by the Smyth family from the 16th century, it is now listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens of Special History Interest in England.

The 850-acre site offers an array of outdoor adventures, including cycling, walking and golfing. One of our favorite activities at Ashton Court is catching a glimpse of the herds of red and fallow deer that reside inside the park.

#28 Hike to Blaise Castle

The extravagant Blaise Estate is home to an 18th century mansion, a sham Castle House and sprawling outdoor space.

The mansion has been renovated into a free museum that displays historic clothing, toys and loos. In addition to the Blaise House Museum, visitors can wander up the paths to the Gothic-style Blaise Castle (which is only open select weekends in the summer, but fun to look at any time of year!).

In addition to the two residences, the estate also hosts a hamlet, a dairy, gardens and a café. Plus, there’s plenty of space for playing sports, having a BBQ, enjoying a picnic or hiking in the forest.

#29 Create Art at Arnolfini Arts Center

The Arnolfini International Centre for Contemporary Arts is a fabulous free art museum. The center hosts a wide range of artistic mediums, including visual art, dance, film and music – and they aim to engage and inspire their guests.

In addition to the regularly rotating contemporary exhibits, the space also offers free community art engagement. Pop into the upper-level Community Rooms to see what activities are being offered on the Arnold Art Cart, which encourages visitors to create their own works. It’s something fun to do in Bristol when it rains.

The ground level café and bar, which is managed by Bristol Beer Factory, is a cool place to hang out – and, if the weather is nice, take advantage of their waterside patio perch!

#30 Walk Around the Windmill Hill City Farm

Visiting the Windmill Hill City Farm – where guests can interact with pigs, goats and cows – ranks as an the unusual thing to do in Bristol, UK. Just a short walk from the harbor, the working farm feels miles from the bustling city center.

The kid-friendly farm, which was established in the 1970s, is open to guests for free. In addition to the animals, visitors can stroll through the gardens, shop for handmade wares and dine at the café. Plus, they host a monthly farmer’s market with street food, local libations and live music.

More Things To Do in Bristol, UK

We have outlined our top picks for what to see in Bristol. However, there are a few more sights and attractions that fellow travelers might want to add to their Bristol to do list!

Tyndalls Park and University of Bristol Campus

The University of Bristol, which ranks alongside some of the best colleges in the UK, blends seamlessly into the city landscape. While it lacks a well-defined campus, the university’s most beautiful buildings are located in the Tyndalls Park district. We recommend seeking out the Royal Fort House, Victoria Rooms Concert Hall and Royal West of England Art Academy (RWA).

Bristol Hippodrome

A sumptuously decorated Victorian-era theater, the Hippodrome is a notable theater in Britain. The space hosts West End theatrical performances, musicals and opera shows. Attending a performance is a fun thing to do in Bristol for couples on date night or families on the weekends.

Redcliffe Caves

Many visitors to Bristol don’t know it, but a labyrinth of tunnels snake under the city. Going into the underground world is a quirky thing to do in Bristol. That said, it can be somewhat difficult to get inside. The gates are only unlocked for special events, like film screenings, special exhibits and Bristol Open Door weekends.

Arnos Vale Cemetery

Travelers seeking quirky and off-beat things to do in Bristol should visit the Arnos Vale Cemetery. The heritage Victorian Garden Cemetery was opened in 1839. Today, the space is a mix of open parkland, pristine monuments and crumbling graves. We enjoyed the woodlands area, where we could witness firsthand how nature is reclaiming tombstones.

Wake the Tiger

An immersive art experience, Wake the Tiger is unlike any other attraction in the city. Each extraordinary room in the abandoned paint factory is a feast for the senses. Guests are challenged to solve puzzles, as secrets and surprises await around each corner.

Dubbed an ‘Amazement Park’, the space welcomes visitors of all ages. It’s among the many fun Bristol attractions for kids, families, friends and couples. Tickets are required for entry and can be purchased in advance.

Snuff Mills and Frome Valley Walkway

Visitors seeking fun things to do around Bristol should go to Snuff Mills! A sublime spot to stretch your legs, Snuff Mills is just 3 miles northeast of Bristol City Centre. An important part of the industrialization of Britain, the old mill was used to cut and crush stone. After it fell into disuse in the 1920s, the area was converted into a public park.

Centered on the River Frome, the space features formal gardens and miles of walking paths. In fact, the Frome Valley Walkway – and 18-mile path that extends from Bristol to the Cotswold Hills – runs through Snuff Mills.

For a half-day adventure (without a car), ride a bus from Bristol to White Horse Pub in Hambrook. From there, stroll the Frome Valley Walkway to Eastville Park via Snuff Mills. Then pick up another bus back to Bristol from Fishponds Rd.

More of the Best Bristol Parks

One of the best things to do around Bristol is to enjoy the outdoor green spaces! Clifton Down, Leigh Woods and Durdham Down are all fantastic places to visit in Bristol. City community parks – like Victoria Park and St. Andrew’s Park – are popular spots on summer days.

Touring the University of Bristol Botanic Garden is another great outdoor activity. While there is a fee to enter the gardens, the site features rare species, pleasant walking paths and gorgeous greenhouses.

Bristol Tours

Sightseeing in Bristol can be enhanced with the help of a local. For those who prefer a guide leading the way can opt to join one of the highly rated tours in Bristol, UK.

Bristol Hot Air Balloon Ride with Champagne

Float up into the sky in a hot air balloon to see the epic landscapes of Bristol and the surrounding English countryside. Rides launch at dawn or dusk and include a glass of champagne while in flight. Find out more!

Best Bristol Walking Tour

A top touted activity, this Walking Tour of Bristol covers the history of the city up to current times in just 2 hours. Participants are led to the premier sights and intriguing street art.

Bristol Cider and Cheese Tour

Get a taste of two of the best Bristol products – Cheese and Cider – on a 2-hour tour. In addition to sampling the local flavors, guests also learn about the history of the city. Book it!

Day Trips from Bristol

While there are many things to do in Bristol, England, there are sights nearby that are worth sneaking away to see. Travelers with more time might want to embark on a fun Bristol day trip!

Bath

By far one of the best places to visit from Bristol is the picturesque town of Bath. Just a 15-minute train ride away, getting to Bath is easy. Once there, use our guide of Things To Do in Bath or book an excursion. The Hop On Hop Off Bus is a great introduction or you can let a guide lead the way on a Bath Walking Tour.

Stonehenge

One of the top places to visit near Bristol and Bath is ancient Stonehenge, a mythical site steeped in history. Due to it’s popularity, we recommend booking a full-day tour in advance that also includes the Cotswolds.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are characterized by quaint villages and stone homes and are a fabulous place to see while in Bristol. Visitors can use public transit to get to Cirencester or Moreton-in-Marsh. From the latter you can also join a minibus tour to see some of the most amazing hamlets.

Cardiff, Wales

The capital of Wales, Cardiff is just an hour train ride from Bristol – and a fantastic place to spend a day! From the mighty castle to the marvelous market, along with Victorian arcades to modern Cardiff Bay, the city thrills visitors with an array of sights. Use our guide to One Day in Cardiff for tips on what to see, do and eat!

Bristol Map

Use this Google Map for an online version of our Bristol Sightseeing Map below.

Bristol Tourism Travel Tips

We have covered what to see and do in Bristol, UK and the surrounding area. However, planning a Bristol visit requires a bit more than that! To help you plan your vacation, we are sharing advice about how to get there, where to stay and what to pack.

When To Visit Bristol

Because of the many things to do in Bristol, UK – inside and outdoors – the city is a year-round destination. That said, we are highlighting what to expect in each season.

Summertime

Summer is an excellent time to visit Bristol. The days are long and the sun is warm. Restaurant patios, green parks and the fun harborside buzz with locals and tourists enjoying the great outdoors. Plus, one of the best Bristol events takes place in the summer, The Bristol Balloon Fiesta, which is an extravaganza of hot air balloons!

Autumn

Visiting Bristol in autumn can be great! The weather is typically cool but comfortable and there are fewer crowds. Prices for hotel rooms also start to come down the autumn months.

Winter

Many travelers wonder what to do in Bristol in wintertime. From experience, we can tell you that taking a trip to Bristol in winter has its pros and cons. The benefits are that accommodations are affordable and the crowds are thin. Additionally, the Bristol Christmas Market is a fun and festive event (as European Holiday Markets typically are!). On the flipside, the weather can be drizzly and cold – and the days are extremely short.

Springtime

A Bristol trip in spring can be quite pleasant and affordable. Springtime visitors are also treated to blooming bluebells!

How Many Days in Bristol, England

We believe spending 3 days in Bristol is ideal. Visiting Bristol in 3 days allows enough time to see top attractions and enjoy a bit nightlife without feeling rushed. That said, with a 2-Day Weekend in Bristol Itinerary, visitors could check off most of the prime sights and still enjoy the nighttime entertainment.

Those taking a day trip to Bristol or staying for just 24 hours will need a well-planned itinerary. Naturally, we’re able to help with our Bristol 1 Day Itinerary.

How To Get to Bristol, UK

Bristol, England can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. For our trips to Bristol, we’ve arrived by plane from Lisbon and Bucharest and departed by train to London and took a flight to Aberdeen.

Bristol Airport

The airport in Bristol is located 7 miles southwest of the city center. It serves as a major base for low-cost carriers, like Easy Jet and Ryanair. While there are numerous choices to other UK and European destinations, there are no direct flights to London or North America.

Look for low fares to BRS and the best flight times on Skyscanner – but first, read our tips for Finding the Cheapest Flights.

Bristol Train Station

Bristol is well-connected to destinations around the United Kingdom via train. The Bristol Temple Meads Train Station is located about 1 mile from the city center. Before making the short trek, fuel up with a coffee and sausage roll from the incredibly popular Hart’s Cafe tucked away under the nearby arches!

How To Get around Bristol

Options for getting around Bristol include walking, using public transit or taking an Uber. We loved walking around Bristol, however, travelers should be aware that there are some hilly areas.

Where To Stay in Bristol, UK

There are ample places to stay in Bristol, England – from luxury hotels to affordable hostels. We recommend using our guide for Finding Top Hotels at the Best Price – and thoroughly reading reviews before booking a place to stay in Bristol.

Clayton Hotel Bristol City

We searched high and low for a Bristol hotel that ticked all of our boxes –affordable, clean and quiet – and we succeeded with our stay at the Clayton Hotel. The property is just steps from Castle Park and St. Nicholas Market with comfortable rooms and lovely staff. Check rates and availability for your stay!

Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

Located right next to the Bristol Cathedral, the Marriott Royal Hotel is an elegant, Victorian-style hotel with modern amenities. Guests particularly like the spacious rooms and friendly personnel. Check availability!

YHA Bristol Hostel

Travelers on a budget can find an affordable room or dorm bed at the YHA Hostel in Bristol. Located on the Harborside, the hostel offers guests a community lounge, Wi-Fi access and an onsite café. Check rates!

What To Pack for Bristol

Our final travel tips cover what to pack for your trip to Bristol. You can find all of our hacks on our Packing Tips page. For now, grab your FREE Packing Checklist!

Comfortable Shoes

We loved walking around Bristol, but only because we had the right shoes! The best travel shoes are comfortable, lightweight and versatile. I wore my favorite travel trainers and Kris was comfortable wearing trail shoes.

Wet Weather Gear

Regardless of when you visit Bristol, UK, there will likely be a chance of rain. Make sure you are prepared for inclement weather by packing a lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella.

Travel Camera

Bristol is incredibly beautiful and photogenic! Upgrade to a real camera so that you can capture it all. We shoot with a Canon Rebel and use an 18-135mm lens. We think it’s a great camera for budget travelers because it takes quality photos, is easy to use and comes bundled with heaps of accessories.

Day Pack

If you are planning long days of sightseeing in Bristol, UK, then you need a good day bag to store your everyday travel essentials. We used these small backpacks for our Bristol trips, but you should read all our top picks for the best travel day packs.

UK Trip Insurance

Don’t already have travel insurance? Check affordable rates and robust coverage with a reliable company. They may reimburse you for expenses when things don’t go as planned (such as lost luggage, theft or illness).

How to Plan Your UK Trip

Many travelers visit Bristol as part of a bigger trip to the United Kingdom. Those planning to see other nearby destinations can use these detailed guides.

Furthermore, tourists traveling to England from abroad can use our tips on How To Plan a European Vacation.

Trip Planner

As you plan your Bristol trip, organization is key! We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the details.

Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

More Top European Destinations

Traveling to other European top destinations? Use our comprehensive travel guides to plan your vacation!

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