Things to do in
Bristol

Our most recommended things to do in Bristol

Bristol: Blackbeard to Banksy Guided Walking Tour

1. Bristol: Blackbeard to Banksy Guided Walking Tour

Uncover Bristol's historic downtown area on a two-hour tour with an expert guide. Begin your tour outside Bristol Cathedral on College Green, an imposing medieval church built in the 12th century. As you walk through the downtown core, hear about the origins of the city, where it first started, and its medieval center. You'll then continue on to the Norman castle site, situated strategically between the River Avon and River Frome. See evidence of blitz damage, perpetrated by the Nazis against Bristol during the Second World War.  Throughout, you'll learn about Banksy, Brunel, Blackbeard, and many other of Bristol's famous residents (whose names may or may not start with a B). Hear bizarre echoes and finally finish on Bristol's historic harborside after seeing the smallest, largest, and most beautiful pieces of street art in the city.

From Bristol: Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Day Tour

2. From Bristol: Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Day Tour

A day full of wonder awaits us today. Departing Bristol, your first stop for the day is the prehistoric monument Stonehenge. Many legends surround these incredible standing stones that weigh about 25 tons each and have attracted people from all over the world for years. Perhaps you believe they were created by Merlin, who magically transported them from Ireland. Maybe you believe Stonehenge is a landing site for alien spacecraft. They might remind you of the ruins of a Roman temple. You can't deny their magnificence, no matter what you believe. Avebury is your next stop. Enjoy your free time here: grab some lunch, wander around the area, and, of course, see the three stone circles. Avebury henge boasts the largest stone circle in Britain, so big it fits the entire quaint English village inside. So you can grab a pint and bite to eat while surrounded by a stone circle. Pretty magical, right? Your journey continues to the quaint village of Lacock. You have free time here, you might be interested in visiting the Abbey. Harry Potter fans will obsess over seeing the Lacock Abbey Cloisters, used as Hogwarts corridors in the movies. Visitors can also explore the medieval rooms and cloister court, before taking a look at the Fox Talbot Museum which explores the history of photography. Castle Combe is our last stop, often called one of the prettiest villages in England. Fans of movies like War Horse and Neil Gaiman’s Stardust may just recognize this spot, so get your camera ready. From here, it’s only a short drive back to Bristol.

Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour

3. Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour

Your local guide will take you on a magical tour from Bristol's Saxon origins to the city's vibrant present! Enjoy privileged access to subterranean passageways, rooftop vistas, WW11 air raid shelters and rooms that once rocked to the best bands of the 1960s. Your tour begins outside the main entrance of the Corn Exchange. You'll then stroll through ancient streets to see WW2 Blitz damage, spectacular architecture, learn about Bristol's trading past! After discovering the highlights of the old town, your guide will lead you beneath the streets for a subterranean adventure through Bristol's biggest public air raid shelter. A complete time capsule and hidden gem! This unique tour gives you exclusive access to areas of the city that are usually unavailable to the public. You'll be moved, fascinated, and amazed by the WW2 Air Raid Shelter which remains as a Bristol's best kept secret. You might even meet Margaret — our friendly ghost! Your guide will keep you informed and entertained until lunchtime when you can then sample the delights of St. Nicholas Market and the finest street food in Bristol. Grab some fun souvenirs while you're there!

eSIM Europe and UK for Travelers

4. eSIM Europe and UK for Travelers

Whether you're a traveler exploring the UK or embarking on a multi-country European adventure, an eSIM card ensures you're always connected. Enjoy instant mobile delivery and 1- to 30-day coverage options with 500 MB to 10 GB. This eSIM is ideal for modern travelers using devices like the iPhone or other smartphones supporting the eSIM feature. Enjoy the convenience of prepaid coverage in all major European destinations with uninterrupted connectivity and no surprises. This eSIM covers the following locations: Austria (Österreich) Belgium (Belgien) Bulgaria (Bulgarien) Cyprus (Zypern) Croatia (Kroatien) Denmark (Dänemark) Estonia (Estland) Finland (Finnland) France (Frankreich) Germany (Deutschland) Greece (Griechenland) Hungary (Ungarn) Ireland (Irland) Iceland (Island) Italy (Italien) Latvia (Lettland) Lithuania (Litauen) Luxembourg (Luxemburg) Malta Norway (Norwegen) Netherlands (Niederlande) Poland (Polen) Portugal Slovakia (Slowakei) Slovenia (Slowenien) Spain (Spanien) United Kingdom (Vereinigtes Königreich) Czech Republic (Tschechische Republik) Romania (Rumänien) Sweden (Schweden) Switzerland (Schweiz) Ukraine

Bristol: Guided Ghost Tour

5. Bristol: Guided Ghost Tour

Bristol Ghost Tours is the only dedicated ghost tour available in Bristol today. We offer fully guided tours with a professional costumed guide, to take you around the old medieval heart of the city, that introduce you to a modern city crammed with ghosts and tales of the paranormal. The tour itself is family friendly, meets outside of the Bristol Cathedral on College Green at 7.30pm on tour nights, and lasts for approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. You will be taken around the as part of a group, with never more than 32 people and be immersed into the many hidden secrets and horrors that are waiting at up to 17 different haunted locations. The tour begins outside the Bristol Cathedral at 7.30pm and then weaves a trail that passes by The Hatchet Inn, the Bristol Beacon, Christmas Steps, Lower Maudlin Rd, Union St, St Nicholas Markets, Bristol Bridge, King St, Bristol Old Vic, Queens Square. The route itself is almost circular, taking in the oldest parts of the city and up to 17 different haunted locations. The tour ends in Queens Square which is very close to bus stops and the centre of the city and many pubs, cafes restaurants and hotels.

Bristol: Wake The Tiger Amazement Park Entry Ticket

6. Bristol: Wake The Tiger Amazement Park Entry Ticket

Begin your Wake The Tiger experience in an abandoned paint factory before journeying into the Dream Factory, and finally making your way to the OUTERverse. Walk through the labyrinth of different rooms, enjoying the displays at your own pace. Check out the unique artworks in more than 40 different spaces and discover the story behind this alternate world during this self-guided activity that's perfect for both the young and the young at heart. Stay curious as you make your way through the various exhibits admiring and interacting with the work of hundreds of local artists. This one-of-a-kind amusement park is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Aerospace Bristol Entrance Ticket

7. Aerospace Bristol Entrance Ticket

Step aboard the last Concorde ever to fly and embark upon an exciting journey through the history of flight. From the earliest aeroplanes to space technology and the supersonic Concorde, let Aerospace Bristol take you on a fun hands-on journey through more than a century of incredible aviation achievements. The highlight of your day will surely be the iconic Concorde. You’ll have the chance to step aboard the world's fastest passenger jet, glimpse into the cockpit, and walk through the passenger cabin to discover how Concorde passengers would travel in style. Plus, enjoy an amazing show projected on to the outside of the aeroplane. Aerospace Bristol offers a fun family day out for all ages, with interactive exhibits, an outdoor play area in the shape of an aeroplane, and children’s trails for budding engineers and pilots to enjoy.

Bristol: Self-Guided Sightseeing Audio Tour

8. Bristol: Self-Guided Sightseeing Audio Tour

The tour begins on Bristol Bridge and tells the story of Bristol’s beginnings. Learn how the city got its name, then stroll to Castle Park, the site of the original Anglo-Saxon settlement. Arrive in the Old City area of Bristol next, and learn about its fascinating history. Explore the charming Saint Nicholas Markets then pass through the only remaining city gate. Check out the area where the See No Evil Street Art Festival was held, and admire the gray buildings that have been brightened up by artists from across the world. Continue onto the Christmas Steps and then Colston Hall. Arrive at Bristol’s oldest pub, then pass by two of Banksy’s most famous pieces of street art. Stop by Bristol Cathedral, followed by a stroll around the College Green. Continue onto the historic Bristol Docks, then visit the famous Old Vic where you can grab a bite to eat. Along the way, listen to your audio guide’s fascinating stories about local history and culture, as well as recommendations for the best spots to visit on your stay. Please note that this tour is all in English and sadly does not have an option to translate to any other language.

From Bristol: Oxford and the Cotswolds Full-Day Tour

9. From Bristol: Oxford and the Cotswolds Full-Day Tour

Your journey begins as you head out of Bristol and enter a dream. North Wessex Downs is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a treasure to its country. As you drive through a landscape of grasslands and valleys, all you need to do is enjoy and take it all in. Your first stop is Oxford, where you have time to explore the precincts of the many colleges, climb to the vantage points to admire the skyline, or see the art and antiquities collections in the Ashmolean Museum. Spires rocket towards the sky as you wander elegant halls straight out of Harry Potter. Next you stop in Burford, the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’... some argue it's better than stepping into Narnia through some wardrobe. Trust us. This small market town overflows with character and depth. The main street is lined with all those quaint properties that you’ve dreamt of owning. You have time here to take in the local charm and hospitality; and if you’re hungry, you can try a traditional English ‘Afternoon Tea’. Then, you make the short journey to Bibury. You might need a moment to take it all in. This place was described by William Morris as the prettiest village in England, and Henry Ford wanted to dismantle it and ship it back to the USA. You have time here to stroll to the famous and fairytale-like Arlington Row. If you wander the length of the Coln River, make sure and wave to the trout swimming alongside you. After a full day exploring the city of Oxford and the villages of the Cotswolds, you embark on the comfortable return journey to Bristol. This route may be reversed on some occasions.

Bristol: Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults Experiences

10. Bristol: Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults Experiences

Explore two of the twelve impressive stone vaults that support the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Discovered just 20 years ago, the largest chamber is 11 meters high and covered in incredible stalactites and was built by famous Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. All ticket holders must be aged 7 years or over, and must wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Hard Hat Tour One Hour. £15 General Admission This is your chance to take a look inside Brunel’s hidden vaults, rediscovered by an intrepid team of engineers and construction workers in 2002. Our knowledgeable volunteer guides will explain how the design of Brunel’s bridge was shaped by the influence of others, and how the young newcomer was able to make his name. You’ll hear all about the people who built and rediscovered the vaults before donning a hard hat, descending a ladder and taking a look for yourself. Vaults Visit One Hour. Adults £10, Children £8 Our Vaults Visits are a family-friendly way to explore inside the Leigh Woods Vaults. Put on your hard hat, climb down the ladder and follow our map as you explore the largest and most significant of the twelve stone vaults – an impressive underground echo chamber 11 meters high and festooned in stalactites. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATIONPlease ensure that all members of your group are aware of the following restrictions. For safety reasons, we may not be able to allow members of your party to access the vaults if they have not complied with the following: • Tours are suitable for age 7+ and under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.• There is a minimum height limit of 1.2m. r>• Please wear sturdy shoes with good grip such as hiking boots or trainers. You will not be allowed to join the tour in heels or open-toed shoes.• This tour includes climbing a vertical ladder and passing through a low corridor. Please ensure that you are physically capable of doing so. Find more information at https://cliftonbridge.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Access-Guide.pdf • Please ensure that any camera, phone, or device you bring will fit in your pocket or bag so that you have two hands free to climb the ladder.• Only small rucksack type bags worn over both shoulders or bags with cross-body straps will be permitted inside the vaults. Large bags, handbags, umbrellas and so on can be stored securely at the Visitor Centre during your tour.• Be aware that the vaults can be wet and/or muddy inside, particularly after heavy rain. Please wear suitable clothing and ensure that cameras or mobile phones are protected from the calcite saturated water which may fall from the ceiling.

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The Cotswolds

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What people are saying about Bristol

Overall rating

4.5
(208 reviews)

The trip was amazing. Alan was the funniest host. He shared many insights and really made us feel the character of each place we visited. The places we went to were incredible, a bit like time travel, each with its unique energy. Honestly, one of my best day trips ever! Thank you, Alan for all the information and laughs.

Loved the wild place, plenty of space for the animals to move around and very well planned out . I especially liked the fact that there were little glass windows for the children to see the animals from their height.

Absolutely brilliant show!the magicians were fantastic I cnt rate this show highly enough 10/10 well done guys I can’t wait to go back

It’s been very good. Thanks for that assurance, it’s what you need when you’re long way from home. So Thank you

it was easy to catch up with when we missed the start it would be good to have some more stories