Bristol

The South West's largest city has witnessed a real rejuvenation in recent times. Once an industrial and seafaring stronghold, Bristol today prides itself on the emergence of a diverse cultural and creative arts scene, mixing a contemporary flavour with fascinating history.

The city has several distinctive areas to explore each with their own unique character. The re-developed Harbourside provides a window into a past of pirates, trade and overseas explorers, plus has some unique visitor attractions too.

Many galleries and theatres reveal a thriving arts scene, there are a huge number of festivals and events year-round, and if you like the nightlife then top-notch restaurants, pubs, bars and clubs will have you up until the early hours. Shopaholics will while away afternoons with no worries - hunting for bargains in the cobbled streets of St. Nicholas Market or splashing out at large shopping malls.

The city boasts many acclaimed attractions and buildings steeped in history to discover. No visit would be complete without a stroll across Brunel's Clifton Suspension Bridge - commanding impressive views over the city, this bridge is a masterpiece in itself.

Take a look at the ideas below for more things to do in Bristol, or for detailed information go to the official Vist Bristol website. 

To search for a wide range of fantastic accommodation in Bristol and to book online, go to:
visitbristol.co.uk

5 Must Sees

Clifton Suspension Bridge

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A spectacular setting on the cliffs of the Avon Gorge have made this the symbol of Bristol, stroll across for amazing views of the gorge and elegant Clifton.

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St Nicholas Market & Old City

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Fantastic stalls and quirky ambience create a vibrant and buzzing market in the heart of the old city. A perfect place to shop, eat and loose track of time.

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Floating Harbourside

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Once a busy working dock, Bristol's historic harbourside is now an attractive, modern development lined with restaurants, bars, hotels and top attractions.

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Brunel's ss Great Britain

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Experience what life was like aboard the world's first ocean-going, propeller driven, iron ship. Conserved in the dockyard where she was originally built.

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Bristol Zoo Gardens

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Set within 12 acres of award winning gardens, meet over 450 species of exotic, endangered and just plain cute animals from the four corners of the globe.

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5 Must Dos

Shopping

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Fantastic shopping highlights include the £500 million Cabot Circus, bustling Broadmead and The Mall at Cribbs Causeway. Clifton Village, St Nicholas Market and Park Street provide quirky alternatives.

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Sample the Nightlife

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Mai tai, Cosmopolitan or a pint of tasty local beer - whatever your tipple, you'll find a stylish bar or cosy old pub to suit your tastes.

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Eat Out

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Whether you enjoy hearty pub grub, French classic cooking or lively Mexican food, you'll have an abundance of great places to choose from.

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Explore-At-Bristol

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Take an exciting interactive journey through the workings of the world around us with action-packed science exhibits, live shows and a planetarium.

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Hop on a Bristol Ferry Boat

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Discover the sounds and sights of Bristol's historic harbourside with a Ferry Boat trip. Hop on and off at key points along the waters' edge connecting you from one attraction to the next.

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5 Hidden Gems

Christmas Steps Arts Quarter

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The area around this ancient, steep, winding street contains a host of fascinating old shops, novelty stores, art galleries, and cafes and bars.

St. Mary Redcliffe Church

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Explore the centuries-old gothic arches and beautiful stained glass windows at this fine English church, once described by Queen Elizabeth I as "the fairest, goodliest and most famous parish church in England"

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Bristol's City Museum, Galleries & Archives

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Outstanding collections of art and archaeology, geology and natural history await you in a magnificent Edwardian baroque building.

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Bristol Pirate Walks

Join Pirate Pete for a guided walking tour of Bristol's historic harbourside. Covering a maritime history of discovery, trade, slavery and piracy.

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John Wesley's Chapel 'The New Room'

The oldest Methodist building in the world, fascinating and free to enter.

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Image: Clifton Suspension Bridge © Pawel Libera