Bristol Travel Guides

Bristol spotlight

A Bristol city guide – industrial relics, quirky shopping streets and vibrant street art

Combining spectacular Georgian architecture, remnants of its gritty industrial past and some of the UK’s best creative scenes, Bristol is a city which packs a punch. Explore its history through engineering marvels turned museums, then experience some of the UK’s most innovative up and coming culture, from colourful graffiti-adorned streets and an ethically focused food scene to acclaimed shopping, museums and bars - independent is the key here and a DIY ethos runs throughout.

View full guide

A Bristol travel guide – hilly landscapes, city waterways and cultural gems

A Bristol city break is a vibrant experience. Book a Bristol hotel in this picturesque West Country port city and explore Bristol’s harbour, maritime heritage and lively restaurants.

Where to stay in Bristol – a neighborhood guide

Quirky Bristol’s mix of architectural styles means every neighborhood has a unique feel. Choose between areas filled with majestic Georgian buildings, pretty cobbled streets and views over the whole city, or contemporary Harbourside developments which are close to the bustle of central Bristol. For peace and quiet, head just outside of the city to the surrounding Somerset countryside.

Where to shop in Bristol - a guide to the best in town

Bristol caters for every kind of shopper. Choose between quirky independent stores filled with second hand treasures in Park Street and Stokes Croft, or from a huge range of classic high street retailers in the Shopping Quarter. Alternatively, visit leafy Clifton for upmarket boutiques and antique shopping. Wherever you choose to splash your cash, you can guarantee you will pick up something that is one of a kind.

Where to eat in Bristol – a food and dining guide

Bristol’s dining culture focuses on British cuisine made from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Restaurants, cafes, and stalls here make use of its position near the surrounding Somerset countryside – home of the best cider in Britain, as well as an abundance of working farms. Choose between a glass-surfaced fine dining restaurant in Harbourside, a quirky canteen in bohemian Stokes Croft or a tray of something tempting from the Old City’s St Nicholas Market.

What to see and do in Bristol – a guide to notable attractions and landmarks

Bristol is one of England’s most cultural cities, and innovation is part of its essence. Industrial relics rise out of the hillside next to graceful Georgian architecture. The river Avon turns through the city, lined with modern restaurants, bars and cafes; kaleidoscopic graffiti decorates streetside buildings. Bristol’s creative spirit is painted, built and in motion all over the city - it’s just a case of tracking it down.

Bristol Travel Tips

Bristol is a major UK hub and a rather photogenic city break destination, with gorgeous Georgian architecture, a bustling, regenerated harbourside, and acres of lush green parkland. You’ll find world-class museums celebrating local history and international art, and a plethora of things to keep you busy once the sun goes down, from first-class theatre to cutting-edge nightclubs and gig venues.

Nightlife & Entertainment in Bristol

Bristol is, unquestionably, the nightlife capital of southwest England. With hedonistic live music venues, beautifully preserved historic pubs, elegant cocktail bars and pumping nightclubs, you’ll be hard-pressed to sample more than a fraction of what’s on offer over the course of a single visit.

Family Friendly Attractions in Bristol

Many of Bristol’s most famous exports – trip hop music, cider, street art – aren’t entirely child-appropriate, but the city is a remarkable destination for families. There are museums and historical attractions, a world-renowned zoo, and one of the country’s largest indoor play parks for starters. There’s also an abundance of welcoming, kid-friendly eateries scattered across town.

Arts and Culture in Bristol

Bristol’s long history is abundantly evident as you wander past exquisitely preserved historical buildings and world-class museums. Saying that, the city is by no means stuck in the past – there’s also a very active performing arts community, comfy independent cinemas, and one of the UK’s most thrilling live music scenes.

Search for Bristol hotels

Explore our travel guides

North America

Europe

Caribbean

Asia

South America

Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

Mexico and Central America

Middle East

Africa and Indian Ocean

Cities near to Bristol