Bristol is the sixth largest city and is home to more than 450,000 inhabitants. The region has been inhabited by people since Iron Age with evidence of antiquated forts as well as Roman villas that lie in the countryside.
Bristol has been thriving throughout the centuries, being an important port for travel to America as well as it is a center for aviation, culture and business. Nowadays, Bristol is a colourful and welcoming city that has an easy access to the coast and natural landscapes and is a fantastic starting point for exploration of England. Here are a few of the best activities to take part in on your next visit to Bristol.
1. Bristol Harbour
Begin your Bristol adventure with a visit through Bristol Harbour. The harbor has been in existence since the 13th century, due to its location on the River Avon. The past was when it was the point of departure for ships heading to the “New World” and a favorite destination for arrivals for Europeans.
The port of the present is being moved further downstream, but the harbor is still bustling with numerous arts and exhibition spaces along with cafés and other interesting places to visit. Enjoy a river cruise with a ferry to discover more about Bristol as well as its River Avon, and nearby towns. Make sure to plan your visit so that it coincides with Bristol Harbour Festival to see the many vessels on display which include Royal Navy vessels as well as tall vessels.
2. Clifton Suspension Bridge
It is the Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic Bristol landmark, which was opened in 1864. The bridge spans an overall length of 214m in the Avon Gorge, linking Bristol with the stunning Leigh Woods. The design for the bridge was based on Isambard Kingdom Brunel the well-known English Industrial designer.
Before crossing the bridge, take a hike up Observatory Hill for one of the best views of the bridge in Bristol which is a great spot to photograph! Enjoy a free walk of the bridge, and check whether you notice the bridge swaying in a gentle manner, like all suspension bridges do.
Then, you can visit the Visitor Centre situated at the Leigh Woods side of the bridge. It is free to enter and has an online shop for gifts The Visitor Centre can be also the perfect location to find out more about the past and impact of this famous Bristol landmark.
3. At-Bristol
At-Bristol is Bristol’s science centrethat offers interactive exhibits, activities that are hands-on workshops, and talks. Exhibits focus on fascinating subjects like Human body and geography,, and the science of physics. There are plenty of fun activities for the entire family. You can design an animated film film, make a flying object and experiment with optical illusions.
Participate in the planetarium’s shows on space or go to the Live Science Zone to learn about the most current subjects. At-Bristol hosts continuously changing activities and events and there’s always something new and exciting to try. Begin your visit with an afternoon break at the cafe for healthy and delicious food or pick up a scientific souvenir at the shop.
4. Bristol Zoo
Bristol Zoo is a lovely spot to take an entire day, and it has an abundance of animals to see that include Asiatic red pandas, lions and seals. From 1836 to the present, Bristol Zoo been dedicated to research and conservation. Bristol Zoo was the first in the world to raise okapis as well as also among the very few Zoos in Britain in which you can see lowland gorillas and aye ayes.
Go to the Twilight Zone for a unique indoor experience that leads visitors through artificially-created nighttime habitats that allow visitors to observe nocturnal animals in their natural surroundings. For those who are brave, try ZooRopia which is an adventurous ropes course which will take visitors through the zoo along with gibbons, gorillas, and lemurs. For a truly unique safari experience, plan an overnight stay in The Lodge to see the Zoo after the closing hours, and enjoy the option of a private tour as well as delicious meals.
5. Cabot Tower
Cabot Tower Cabot Tower is 32-meter tall tower located in the picturesque Brandon Hill park. The tower was constructed in 1897 in celebration of John Cabot’s journey to Bristol towards North America 400 years earlier. The tower is listed as a historic building and can be climbed via spiral staircases to take in stunning views of the city.
Then, take some time in Brandon Hill, Bristol’s oldest park. The park is home to a range of gardens that are beautiful in spring. Take a stroll through the park’s nature reserve that houses an open meadow of wildflowers as well as a pond with Frogs and newts, as well as the butterfly garden.
6. SS Great Britain
The SS Great Britain is a historically-important ship, once an iron steamship used to ferry visitors across the Atlantic between Bristol and New York. The ship was constructed in 1845, and was the longest passenger ship for over 10 years.
It was built by renowned artist, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and could accommodate 360 passengers in addition to cabins and leisure facilities. This was a feat of engineering in the time. Over time over the years, the SS Great Britain has transported immigrants to Australia and also served as warehouse. Today, the ship serves as a floating museum that is dedicated to telling the tale of this incredible vessel. It is a must-see in Bristol.
7. St Mary Redcliffe
Built in the 15th century, St Mary Redcliffe is an impressive Gothic-style church with gorgeous architectural designs from the past. The church was constructed on a significant location of Christian worship which has been used for many centuries. It was the focus of queen Elizabeth I. St Mary Redcliffe was an absolute delight to visit and it is a wonderful way to discover the city’s past.
The church has stained glass windows that date from in the 14th century up into the 60s. Inside you’ll also see a collection of monuments and statues and 15 bells inside the church tower dating to the seventeenth century. The church is utilized as a place for gathering and a place for prayer and worship, as well as hosting regular organ and choir performances.
8. Watershed
Watershed is located on the harbor of Bristol since 1982, which makes it the first British space for media. It is housed in former warehouses. Watershed has three theaters as well as a café and numerous open spaces that are ideal for small-scale enterprises and creative usage. Watershed is an excellent place to live Bristol life, since it’s a lively spot that is well-loved by Bristol residents. It is designed to foster the development of culture and connect.
Visit Watershed to watch the latest blockbuster, the hottest unique indie film, and special film-related events, including discussions and seminars. Watch filmmakers discuss their most recent projects or participate by participating in Watershed’s events that are practical. Watershed is home to many events and is used for the British Film Institute to promote films, culture, and critical analysis. It’s a great spot for film enthusiasts and the cafe is an amazing spot to enjoy coffee while overlooking the Bristol waterfront.
9. Queen Square
Queen Square is a popular green space that is situated in the middle of Bristol. The Square offers a calming escape from the bustle of the city’s centre, while keeping a feeling of Bristol’s distinctive energy. The Georgian park was established in 1622 when it was an fashionable spot for residents to reside.
Today, you can walk along the Georgian promenades, and admire the stunning architectural style of the houses surrounding. The sculpture that is of John Michael Rysbrack in the central part of the park that has been there since 1736. It is a wonderful location to relax during a warm day, and also hosts numerous public events, including open-air performances and theatre.
10. Georgian House
The Georgian House is a historic structure, constructed in 1790. It is now being used as an exhibit. The house is a living museum that focuses on life in the 18th century of Bristol and is open for visitors. Discover about the chambers of the housekeeper and servants and explore the meticulously restored house of the resident which includes a drawing room as well as a dining room and bedroom.
There’s also an exhibit that outlines the story of the family who lived in the house and the sugar industry they were involved in. Georgian House Georgian House is a unique chance to get a taste of Bristol’s culture and history.
