While far from the UK’s biggest city, Bristol punches above its weight when it comes to activities. Super artistic, fiercely independent and full of history, the city is jam-packed with excitement everywhere you turn. It’s a vibrant city, to say the least, from its colourful houses to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. So whether you’re up for sampling local brews to soaring in the skies in a hot-air balloon, there are so many things to do in Bristol you’ve got to try at least once in your life.
1. Soak up the views of the city from Clifton Observatory
This is the best spot to see Bristol’s most iconic sight: Clifton Suspension Bridge. Not a guidebook nor postcard about Bristol can go without an image of Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s engineering masterpiece. So to get the best sights of it, you’ll want to head up to Clifton Observatory – perfect on a sunny day for a picnic too.
Inside the observatory, you’ll also have access to one of only three working camera obscuras in the UK. You can also climb the depths of Giant’s Cave – home to the local legend of Goram and Ghyston – for views of the Avon Gorge. Nearby, you’ll find one of the ultimate free things to do in Bristol too: Bristol’s natural rock slide, locally known as The Slidey Rock.
Clifton Observatory, Litfield Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LT
2. See its iconic colourful houses
It’s a quirk of Bristol that so many of the houses here are brightly coloured. There are plenty of theories as to why, but few hold up under scrutiny. The most popular involves Bristol’s former mayor, George Ferguson. He claims to be the first in Cliftonwood to paint his house in the 1970s before the whole street followed and kickstarted the area’s iconic look.
But south of the river, in Totterdown, you also find rows-upon-colourful-rows of houses, so explain that. All that matters to us is that they help turn Bristol into a rainbow-coloured city, taking strolls through the streets a kaleidoscopic adventure.
3. Shop on fiercely independent Gloucester Road
It can sometimes feel like there’s no end to unique shops on Gloucester Road. One of the longest stretches of independent businesses found in the UK, you’ll start by The Arches and soon find yourself on the outskirts of the city before you know it – discovering all the amazing shops, cafes and restaurants along the way. From bookshops to Spanish supermarkets, vintage shops to plant stores and pubs, there’s so much to discover. Check out our guide to Gloucester Road here.
4. Walk across every bridge
Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic image of Bristol, even if it’s a little overused (yes, we know we’re guilty of it too). But it’s far from the only bridge in the city. The city’s name, originally Brycgstow, literally means ‘the place at the bridge’ and there are currently 45 walkable bridges that make the city tick. But did you know you can walk across all of them in a single trip without doubling back?
The Bristol Bridges Walk Challenge is a circular 28-mile walk that leads all around Bristol’s waterways – from Redfield to Clifton and back to the City Centre. While not technically possible at the moment due to a few bridge repairs, much of it is still open and it is one of the best walks you can do to see all sides of Bristol.
5. Sample the local speciality of cider
Bristolians are an eclectic bunch, no two are the same. But there’s one thing most can agree on and that’s cider. But where’s the best place to get it? Well, that’s an argument in itself. The Coronation Tap in Clifton is said to be Bristol’s oldest cider specialist – older than Clifton Suspension Bridge. Its exclusively brewed Exhibition is a must-try but is strong stuff at 8.2%.
The Apple on Harbourside is arguably a bit more accessible, with a variety of local ciders to try. While sitting on the corner of Spike Island and overlooking the marina, you’ll find The Orchard Inn. To see the full list of Bristol’s best cider pubs head here.
The Coronation Tap, 8 Sion Pl, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4AX
The Apple, Welsh Back, Bristol BS1 4SB
The Orchard Inn, 12 Hanover Pl, Bristol BS1 6XT
6. Have a supersonic time
Bristol’s aviation achievements are well documented. The first aeroplane factory was set up in 1910, and the city has remained at the forefront of flight and space technology ever since. To learn more about it, head to Aerospace Bristol – home of one of the last supersonic passenger jets in the world, Concorde.
Need somewhere to stay? On the other side of the city in Brislington, you’ll find the “world’s coolest Airbnb” built from a Boeing 727 Airliner that was once a private jet owned by Pablo Escobar. It can fit up to four guests, with a king-sized bed, two single beds, two lounge spaces, three toilets, a shower, a full kitchen and a fully-fitted cockpit. Outside, there’s a large decked area with a hot tub and an outdoor shower mounted underneath the plane.
Aerospace Bristol, Hayes Way, Patchway, Bristol BS34 5BZ
7. Take in the culture at Bristol’s amazing art galleries
If you do go for a pint at The Orchard Inn, then heading to the art gallery, Spike Island, is a must. Founded in the mid-1970s by a group of painters, sculptors and printmakers looking for affordable studio spaces in Bristol, it has since remained a cultural hub for the city’s art scene. There are always new and unexpected exhibitions to discover here.
Another free gallery worth checking out too is Arnolfini, a short walk away on the Harbourside. Its ambitious exhibitions often feature everything from world-renowned artists to local talent from in and around Bristol. Thanks to its location, the cafe is also a favourite hangout spot for locals. See all of Bristol’s best art galleries here.
Spike Island, 133 Cumberland Rd, Bristol BS1 6UX
Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA
8. Eat at Bristol’s only Michelin-star restaurant
A Michelin star is awarded to only those restaurants that use top-quality ingredients, serve dishes with distinct flavours, and always to a consistently high standard. Only one Bristol restaurant is deemed worthy of such an accolade – Bulrush. It’s also one of the UK’s cheapest Michelin-star restaurants too!
Bulrush blends Anglo-French cuisine with Japanese and Scandinavian influences. There’s also a focus on locally sourced and foraged ingredients while preserving and pickling also play a key role. Meanwhile, you might want to consider also trying Bristol’s Michelin Green Star restaurant, Wilsons, which grows all of its fruit, herbs and veg from its very own two-acre garden. To see all of the best restaurants in Bristol head here.
Bulrush, 21 Cotham Rd S, Cotham, Bristol BS6 5TZ
Wilsons, 24 Chandos Rd, Redland, Bristol BS6 6PF
9. Climb aboard the SS Great Britain
Once the largest passenger ship in the world, and another Brunel marvel, SS Great Britain is among the best things to do in Bristol with children. Learn the life and legacy of Britain’s greatest engineer at Being Brunel; Go Aloft! and climb the rigging over 25 metres above ground level; explore the Historic Dockyard & Museum; and head below for ‘glass sea’ view of the SS Great Britain in the original dry dock.
SS Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Rd, Bristol BS1 6TY
10. Cycle up Vale Street for a sense of achievement
Bristol is notoriously hilly. You’ll need calves of steel to cycle around all day. (Not really, just a little.) Anyone who has had to cycle up Park Street or Brandon Hill will attest to that. But Bristol’s true cycle challenge is Vale Street. Only 0.10 km long, it’s not the length that’s tough. No, it’s the steepest residential street in England. Perfect for getting a sweat on.
Luckily, the peaceful Arnos Vale Cemetery is nearby for some well-earned respite. One of Britain’s best examples of a Victorian garden cemetery, it is set in a leafy 45-acre landscape dotted with classical buildings, historic monuments, leafy walks and wildflowers. Also see some of Bristol’s other best parks here.
11. Go ape at Bristol Zoo Project
Yes, the merging of the Wild Place Project and Bristol Zoo is far from finished, but there’s still plenty for kids to do at Bristol Zoo Project. You’ll find over 50 acres of space to explore and meet exotic animals like giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, meerkats and more. Plus, there’s plenty of woodland, a meadow and nature to explore – home to many native species, from birds and bats to newts, rare butterflies and deer. It’s the perfect day out for those children (and adults) who need to let their wild side out!
Wild Place, Blackhorse Hill, Bristol BS10 7TP
12. Climb Cabot Tower for panoramic views
Want the best panoramic views of the city? Well, you’re going to need to climb a very narrow tower at the top of a hill in the middle of a park. The 105ft, century-old Cabot Tower sits on Brandon Hill – built in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot’s voyage from Bristol to North America. Its steep, twisting steps can feel arduous, but believe us, it will be worth it. At the very top, you can soak all of the city, especially Harbourside.
Cabot Tower, Brandon Hill Park, Park St, Bristol BS1 5RR
13. Head to King Street for the easiest pub crawl of your life
Every great city needs a place to pub crawl. And making it easier on your legs, some of the best pubs in Bristol can all be found on one street: King Street. There are 10 pubs on this street (including The Apple at the very end). But each offers a uniquely different vibe too, so you never feel like you’re repeating yourself.
There’s the haunted The Llandoger Trow (once the drinking hole of Blackbeard, which these days throws techno nights); the quirky and colourful Hey Dude bar; The Old Duke for jazz and blues music; and the King Street Brew House for football, to name a few. But The Beer Emporium, Kongs, Small Bar and the rest are all worth your time.
14. Attend a uniquely wonderful concert by Candlelight
Candlelight is something you’ll want to experience at least once in your lifetime. Thousands of candles, breathtaking live-music performances and the beauty of some of Bristol’s most fabulous venues makes for a winning combo. These candlelit concerts are dedicated to music’s biggest stars, from Adele and Taylor Swift to Vivaldi and Mozart, and you don’t want to miss out. To see all the Candlelight concerts in Bristol head here.
15. Unleash your curiosity
No thanks to a freak fire that broke out on its roof, We The Curious was closed way, way too long for our liking. But Bristol’s science museum is back and better than ever. This place for all ages – encouraging “curiosity, creativity and ingenuity” – boasts more than 200 interactive exhibits, as well as the UK’s first 3D Planetarium. Whether you’re making giant bubbles or stepping into a tornado, there’s also a neverending host of mind-boggling experiences to discover!
We The Curious, 1 Millennium Square, One Millennium Square, Anchor Rd, Bristol BS1 5DB
16. Head to an amazing theatre show in Bristol
Beyond all the pubs on King Street, you’ll also find the Old Vic. Built in 1766 as a place for Bristolians to come together, it is “the oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world.” Today you’ll still find a mix of experimental storytelling and family-friendly classics.
Head to Bristol Hippodrome for more mainstream shows, and the Tobacco Factory, The Wardrobe Theatre and Redgrave Theatre are fantastic for showcasing smaller shows. But for something truly unusual among things to do in Bristol, visit The Bristol Improv Theatre. It’s the UK’s first full-time dedicated improv theatre and you’ll never be able to guess what it has in store!
Bristol Old Vic, King St, Bristol BS1 4ED
Tobacco Factory Theatres, The Tobacco Factory, Raleigh Rd, Southville, Bristol BS3 1TF
The Wardrobe Theatre, 25 West St, Bristol BS2 0DF
Redgrave Theatre, Percival Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LE
The Bristol Improv Theatre, 50 St Paul’s Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1LP
17. Visit Bristol’s very own Stonehenge
The real Stonehenge isn’t exactly a million miles away, but save your petrol with a trip to Stanton Drew -which is home to the second-largest stone circle in England (and this cute round house). The largest of the Stanton Drew stone circles is the Great Circle, stretching 113 metres in diameter with 26 surviving upright stones and it is believed to have been built about 4,500 years ago. Check out The Rising Sun in Pensford while local, which has one of the best beer gardens in England.
18. Taste the world at Easton’s Sweet Mart
Too few people head to Easton when they’re in Bristol, including many Bristolians as well. But Bristol Sweet Mart should be a must-visit for all. This iconic shop has been around since 1978 and is a vital part of the community. Sat on St Mark’s Road, it is the biggest supplier of ethnic food and spices in the South West. You’ll find more than 9000 different food and drink products, as well as a huge range of fresh produce. Even if all you’re after is a quick bite to eat, the deli counter is perfect for picking up some freshly cooked, Authentic Indian food.
Bristol Sweet Mart, 71-82 St Marks Rd, Easton, Bristol BS5 6JH
19. Take a balloon ride above Bristol (Or spot them from the ground)
There’s no doubt that the biggest event in Bristol is the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. Every August, Europe’s largest annual ballooning event attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world to Bristol. Stunning mass balloon ascents fill the skies during this time of year, so here are some great spots to see them from the ground.
It’s also a great excuse to take to the skies yourself, with several nearby companies running balloon trips in the area. Don’t just save the trip for summer time though, you can go up anytime. You’ll rarely see a hot-air balloon-free sky no matter the time of year. Just some of the local flight operators include The Hot Air Balloon Company, Bailey Exclusive, Virgin Balloons and Fly Away Ballooning. Trust us, the views are spectacular!
20. Hit up St Nick’s Market for trinkets, gifts and street food
Dating back to 1743, St Nicholas Market is the oldest and most beloved market in Bristol. Here you’ll find fabulous cheap eats, like the crispy fried gyozas of Eatchu or the massive Middle Eastern wraps of Matina. But there’s plenty of great street food to find here. There are over 60 stalls to discover at this market, selling everything from hot sauces to wacky hats, and second-hand books to sewing equipment. It’s an Aladdin’s Cave of Wonder.
St Nicholas Market, The Corn Exchange, Corn St, Bristol BS1 1JQ
21. See Bristol’s famous graffiti
You can’t talk about Bristol without mentioning the street art legend Banksy. His iconic works are everywhere from Well Hung Lover on Park Street to Mild Mild West in Stokes Croft. (All as recognisable as anything hanging in the Tate or Louvre.) But while you can find all of Banksy graffiti in Bristol here, the city’s street art scene is so much more than one person.
The annual Upfest sees the best local and international graffiti artists takeover Bedminster each year, painting mesmerizing murals on houses and shopfronts. Meanwhile in the City Centre, particularly on Nelson Street, you’ll find massive artworks leftover from the old See No Evil street art festival in Bristol. Finding a wall not covered in street art is the real tough find in Bristol, however! To see the best street art in Bristol head here.
22. Sail the harbour on a ferry
Whether you’re visiting Bristol or a lifelong resident, Harbourside is an integral part of the city. Many of the city’s best restaurants, pubs, and bars, as well as its incredible activities, are located close by. So you’ll likely end up spending a lot of time down by the waterside. But one of the best (and often overlooked) ways to explore it is by ferry. Bristol Packet and Bristol Ferry both offer a range of Harbourside trips, from cruises up the Avon Gorge trips to riverside pub Beese’s to boat parties and waterbus services.
23. Visit the world’s first ‘Amazement Park’
It’s not exactly an art gallery. Or a theme park. Or, really, anything we’ve seen before. Wake The Tiger describes itself as “the world’s first ‘Amazement Park’”, but that only takes you halfway towards understanding the world of Meridian – the fantastical, immersive adventure from the creators of Boomtown.
We can best describe it as: a multi-layered labyrinth of immersive environments, secret passageways and mesmerising wonders in St Phillips. Its original design featured 27 distinct spaces to discover, but the latest mind-bending expansion, OUTERverse, has added an extra 15 spaces for walk-through discovery – with everything from an actual plane to a cosmic kitchen and a seven-metre-high slide. There’s also a story-telling element focused on environmental themes. So pay close attention!
Wake The Tiger, 127 Albert Rd, Bristol BS2 0YA
24. Head to the romantic and secluded Blaise Castle
The secluded Blaise Castle in the north of Bristol is not the easiest place to get too. But nothing worth having comes easy, as they say. You’ll have to climb upwards through woodland to reach the glade where this folly sits. But trust us, it’s worth it. Especially if you are looking for romantic things to do in Bristol. (Lovers’ Leap there might offer the best view of the city.)
Blaise Castle Estate also offers a museum to discover Victorian objects of the past, while the surrounding 400 acres of parkland – full of babbling brooks and exciting overgrowth – are worth a visit alone. Nearby Blaise Hamlet, a cute collection of cottages, is also only a short walk away.
Blaise Castle Estate, Kings Weston Rd, Bristol BS10 7QS
25. Go for a swim in the UK’s oldest heated pool
Tucked away in Clifton, this refurbished Victorian outdoor pool offers Wes Anderson-vibes and a relaxed swimming spot. The water is always heated between 22-25°C, so ideal any time of year, and you also have access to a sauna, outdoor hot tub, steam room and spa treatments. After a dip, head to the Bristol Lido restaurant in the original viewing gallery for Mediterranean cuisine cooked in a clay oven. Or some tapas-style dining at the poolside bar.
Bristol Lido, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1LP
26. Grab a pint at Bristol’s cat pub
One of the more unusual things to do in Bristol, you’ll find nearly a dozen cute cats roaming this traditional pub. Bag Of Nails is about more than just its feline friends though. You’ll also find some of the cheapest pints in Bristol here. (There are pints of real ale costing as low as £3.70.) Be warned, however, the cat pub has some strict rules you can learn more about here.
Bag of Nails, 141 St George’s Rd, Hotwells, Bristol BS1
27. Grab some food from Wapping Wharf
Recently voted one of the coolest places to live in the UK, everyone in Bristol spends summer days (and some winter days too) down by the harbour. It’s perfect for sitting down with a few cans of beer, dangling your legs over the water and soaking in the sight of passing kayaks, canals and yachts.
It’s also home to Bristol Harbour Festival once a year, bringing a mix of circus performers, local musicians and water activities to the area. While nearby, you’ll also find Wapping Wharf. These cargo containers are full of the best restaurants in Bristol.
28. Get active in a bar with mates
Bristol’s home to some pretty unique bars where you can challenge your friends over a few drinks. Head to Sixes to bat against some of the world’s finest (virtual) bowlers or enjoy a round of golf with Gareth Bale’s Par 59. Hit the bullseye at the social darts venue, Flight Club, or let’s go bowling at Roxy Lanes, or unleash your inner nerd at retro gamer’s paradise NQ64 with classic consoles and arcade games.
Sixes, Bordeaux Quay, Bristol BS1 5EP
Par 59, Unit 3B, Building, 11 Millennium Promenade, Bristol BS1 5SZ
Roxy Lanes, 13-29 Union St, Bristol BS1 2DF
NQ64, 14-16 Baldwin St, Bristol BS1 1SE
29. Watch classic movies in Bristol’s strangest locations
The ongoing Bristol Film Festival offers one of the strangest cinema experiences in Bristol, possibly the UK. From watching David Lynch’s psychological horror Eraserhead in Redcliffe Caves to Top Gun at Aerospace Bristol, Evil Dead at Arnos Vale Cemetery to Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid at Clifton Observatory. You’ve seen these movies a thousand times. But we promise you, never like this. To see what’s scheduled, head here.
30. Support Bristol’s music scene at these free venues
Bristol’s music scene is legendary. From The Pop Group to Idles, via Massive Attack, the city had produced more than its fair share of amazing bands. But what about the music that will come to define the city in the future? Well, there are lots of exciting up-and-coming bands to discover, many of them frequently playing the local circuit. If you’re feeling a little thrifty, many of Bristol’s venues host free music regularly too. Check these free music venues out here.
31. Discover Bristol’s independent craft breweries
At first, St Philip’s Marsh can appear like a fairly barren suburb. But those in the know see it as the burgeoning capital of Bristol’s independent breweries. Sat just behind Temple Meads, you’ll find the likes of Arbor Ales, Dawkins Ales, Good Chemistry Brewing, Wiper & True, Left Handed Giant, Moor Beer and Little Martha Brewing. They often have their tap rooms open over weekends and each year host The East Bristol Brewery Beer Trail too. Nearby you’ll also find Lost & Grounded in St Anne’s, recently named the best brewery in Britain!
Arbor Ales, 181 Easton Rd, Easton, Bristol BS5 0HQ
Dawkins Ales, Easton Brewery, Unit 2, Industrial Units, Lawnwood, Lawnwood Rd, Bristol BS5 0EF
Good Chemistry Brewing, 2 William St, Bristol BS2 0RG
Wiper and True, Unit 11, City Business Park, St Jude’s, Bristol BS5 0SP
Left Handed Giant, Wadehurst Industrial Park, Unit 3 St Philips Rd, Bristol BS2 0JE
Moor Beer Co, Days Rd, Bristol BS2 0QS
Little Martha Brewing, 23 Oxford St, Bristol BS2 0QT
Lost And Grounded, 91 Whitby Rd, Brislington, Bristol BS4 4AR
32. Pet a sheep at Bristol’s city farms
We’re not all farmers in Bristol, but some are! If you want to meet some cute animals head down to one of the two wonderful city farms. Windmill Hill City Farm was founded in the mid-70s and provides some inner city access to goats, pigs, sheep and cows, as well as gardens and shops selling handmade crafts and local produce. Plus, it has its own sauna!
Meanwhile, on the other side of Bristol, you’ll find St Werburghs City Farm – which fans of the Bristol-based crime-comedy, The Outlaws might recognise. It’s also home to lots of livestock, as well as woodlands, allotments and a community garden to explore. A true taste of the countryside without leaving the city.
Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip St, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 4EA
St Werburghs City Farm, Watercress Rd, Bristol BS2 9YJ
33. Check out the coolest neighbourhood in Bristol
You’ll go mad trying to exactly define what counts as Stokes Croft. Whether it’s the community organisation People’s Republic of Stokes Croft (PRSC) – which runs various politically engaged events, from the People’s Art Fair to the School of Activism – or Bristol’s most famous nightclub, Lakota, all anyone can agree is that Stokes Croft is where it’s happening.
You’ll get a true taste of Bristol at Turbo Island; find a big hangover-curing brunch at The Crafty Egg; and see movies at one of the smallest cinemas in Bristol, Cube Microplex. And why not grab a pint at the galaxy-inspired graffiti’d pub, The Full Moon? But these barely begin to scratch the surface of the exciting things to do in Stokes Croft.
PRSC The Space, 17-25 Jamaica St, Bristol BS2 8JW
Lakota, 6 Upper York St, St Paul’s, Bristol BS2 8QN
Turbo Island, Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QP
The Crafty Egg, 113 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3RW
Cube Cinema, Dove St S, Avon, Bristol BS2 8JD
The Full Moon, 1 North St, St Paul’s, Bristol BS1 3PR
34. Visit the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
It’s free entry to the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, so there’s no real exbcuse not to go if you’ve for some time to kill. Contained within, you’ll find sections on everything from ancient history to modern art. Across three floors of exhibitions, discover Egyptian mummies, explore the wetlands of the southwest, meet extinct wildlife from the UK and soak up stunning collections of British and European art. It’s also home to Banksy’s iconic Paint Pot Angel! To see all the free museums in Bristol head here.
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Queens Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1RL
35. Party at the Harbourside
Bristol is legendary for throwing a party. Every year the music gig series Bristol Sounds and Siren bring some of music’s biggest names to the city’s Amphitheatre. Meanwhile, Bristol’s biggest free festival, Bristol Harbour Festival, celebrates the city’s maritime connection every year in July – so keep an eye on the calendar for a party that only Bristol could throw!
Bristol Amphitheatre, Harbourway, Bristol BS1 5LL
As you can see, Bristol is absolutely brimming with exciting things to do. Whether you’re after a bit of interesting history, incredible activities or delicious food, you can hardly put a foot wrong in this city. Even still, we barely feel like we’ve scratched the surface, but hopefully, this list will set you on your way. Just head into Bristol and you’re bound to discover something we even don’t know about!