Map Of Bristol Area

Introduction

Bristol is a bustling city located in the southwest of England. It is a city that is rich in history, culture, and diversity. The city is home to some of the best attractions, hidden gems, food scenes, and outdoor adventures in the country. This comprehensive travel guide will help you discover the best that Bristol has to offer, and take you on an adventure of a lifetime.

Top Attractions

Bristol Zoo Gardens

The Bristol Zoo Gardens is a must-visit attraction. It is home to over 400 species of animals, from lions and tigers to gorillas and meerkats. The zoo also has a botanical garden, which is home to a wide range of exotic plant species.

Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

The Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is another top attraction in the city. The museum houses a collection of art and artifacts from around the world, ranging from ancient civilizations to contemporary art.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic landmark in Bristol. The bridge spans the Avon Gorge and offers stunning views of the city and the countryside beyond.

Hidden Gems

The Lido

The Lido is a hidden gem in Bristol. It is a beautifully restored Victorian swimming pool that is now a spa and restaurant. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day exploring the city.

St Nicholas Market

St Nicholas Market is a hidden gem in the heart of Bristol. It is home to over 60 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It is the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir or sample some of the local cuisine.

Food Scene

The Bristolian

The Bristolian is a popular café in Bristol that serves up delicious breakfast and lunch dishes. They use locally sourced ingredients and have a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options.

The Ox

The Ox is a popular steakhouse in Bristol. They serve up high-quality meat dishes and have an extensive wine list to match.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Walking Tours

Bristol offers a range of free walking tours that are a great way to explore the city without breaking the bank. The tours cover everything from the city’s history to its street art scene.

Picnic in the Park

Bristol has a range of beautiful parks that are perfect for a picnic. Pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the sunshine.

Outdoor Adventures

Kayaking on the River Avon

Kayaking on the River Avon is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. There are a range of companies that offer kayak rentals and guided tours.

Biking the Bristol to Bath Railway Path

The Bristol to Bath Railway Path is a 13-mile cycle path that follows the route of a disused railway line. It is a great way to explore the countryside surrounding Bristol.

Historical Landmarks

Bristol Cathedral

The Bristol Cathedral is a stunning example of medieval architecture. It was founded in the 12th century and has been a place of worship ever since.

The Red Lodge Museum

The Red Lodge Museum is a 16th-century house that has been preserved as a museum. It offers a glimpse into life in Bristol during the Tudor period.

Family-Friendly Activities

Bristol Aquarium

The Bristol Aquarium is a great place to take the kids. It is home to a range of marine life, from sharks and stingrays to seahorses and jellyfish.

We The Curious

We The Curious is a science museum that is perfect for kids of all ages. It offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that are both educational and fun.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Banksy Trail

Bristol is home to a number of murals by the elusive street artist Banksy. Follow the Banksy Trail to discover some of his most famous works.

The Georgian House Museum

The Georgian House Museum is a hidden gem in the heart of Bristol. It is a perfectly preserved 18th-century townhouse that offers a glimpse into life during the Georgian period.

Natural Wonders

The Avon Gorge

The Avon Gorge is a stunning natural wonder that is located just outside of Bristol. It is a great place to go hiking or rock climbing and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The Bristol Channel

The Bristol Channel is a beautiful stretch of water that separates England and Wales. It is home to a range of marine life, including seals and dolphins.

Vibrant Nightlife

Thekla

Thekla is a nightclub that is located on a boat in the Bristol Harbour. It offers a unique nightlife experience and hosts a range of DJs and live music events.

The Old Duke

The Old Duke is a traditional pub that is famous for its live jazz music. It is a great place to grab a pint and listen to some of the best jazz musicians in the city.

Local Markets

The Tobacco Factory Market

The Tobacco Factory Market is a weekly market that is held on Sundays. It offers a range of locally sourced produce, handmade crafts, and vintage clothing.

The Harbourside Market

The Harbourside Market is a daily market that is held on the Bristol Harbour. It offers a range of street food, handmade crafts, and vintage clothing.

Beaches and Mountains

The Mendip Hills

The Mendip Hills are a range of hills that are located just outside of Bristol. They offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are a great place to go hiking or rock climbing.

Weston-super-Mare

Weston-super-Mare is a seaside town that is located just a short drive from Bristol. It has a range of beaches that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Cultural Immersion

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is an annual event that takes place in August. It is the largest hot air balloon festival in Europe and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.

The St Paul’s Carnival

The St Paul’s Carnival is an annual street festival that celebrates Caribbean culture. It features music, dance, and food from the Caribbean.

Art and Music Scene

The Arnolfini

The Arnolfini is a contemporary art gallery that is located on the Bristol Harbour. It features a range of contemporary art exhibitions and events.

The Bristol International Jazz and Blues Festival

The Bristol International Jazz and Blues Festival is an annual event that takes place in March. It features some of the best jazz and blues musicians from around the world.

Walking Tours

The Bristol Street Art Tour

The Bristol Street Art Tour is a walking tour that takes you through the streets of Bristol to discover some of the city’s best street art.

The Bristol Historic Harbour Tour

The Bristol Historic Harbour Tour is a walking tour that takes you through the history of the Bristol Harbour. You will discover the role that the harbour played in the city’s development and learn about the people who lived and worked there.

Architectural Marvels

The SS Great Britain

The SS Great Britain is a historic ship that is located on the Bristol Harbour. It was the first iron-hulled, propeller-driven steamship and is now a museum.

The Cabot Tower

The Cabot Tower is a historic tower that is located on Brandon Hill. It was built in the late 19th century to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s voyage to North America.

Historical Sites

The Redcliffe Caves

The Redcliffe Caves are a series of man-made caves that were carved out of the red sandstone cliffs beneath the city. They were once used as wine cellars and smugglers’ hideouts.

The Temple Church

The Temple Church is a medieval church that was founded in the 12th century. It is famous for its round nave and has been featured in a number of films and TV shows.

Biking Routes

The Bristol and Bath Railway Path

The Bristol and Bath Railway Path is a 13-mile cycle path that follows the route of a disused railway line. It is a great way to explore the