Bristol - What you need to know before you go - Go Guides

Bristol lies in the heart of the south west along the River Avon and is known for its creative and offbeat counter culture fuelled by activists, artists and a large student population. Look between the rows of Victorian brick terraced housing, revamped harbourside warehouses and historic landmarks like the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and you'll likely spot the odd mural from the city's famed street artist Banksy.

It doesn't matter what floats your boat – there's a shedload to do around these parts, like spotting Asiatic lions at Bristol Zoo, climbing aboard Brunel's SS Great Britain or getting hands-on at the interactive We The Curious science centre.

What to see & do in Bristol

Featured stories & fun stuff

10 Best Things to Do in Bristol
The best things to do in Bristol include grand old buildings, proud maritime history and cool independent shops. These really make Bristol unique when compared to other big cities in the country. It has a vibrant youth culture, friendly vibes...
10 Best Things to Do in Bristol
10 Things to Do in Bristol Off the Beaten Track
Bristol is a world-renowned city known for its Iron Age hill forts and Roman villas in addition to its modern attractions and love for the arts. Being so famous, however, much of what you can see in Bristol will be...
10 Things to Do in Bristol Off the Beaten Track
10 Money Saving Tips in Bristol
Bristol is one of the most iconic cities in the UK with plenty to do and see that everyone can...
10 Money Saving Tips in Bristol
5 Places to Learn Something New in Bristol
Bristol’s long history is abundantly evident as you wander past preserved historical buildings and world-class museums. Saying that, the city...
5 Places to Learn Something New in Bristol
4 Best Family Things to Do in Bristol
Many of Bristol’s most famous exports – trip-hop music, cider, street art – aren’t entirely child-appropriate, but the city is...
4 Best Family Things to Do in Bristol

Where & what to eat in Bristol

8 Places Where Locals Love to Eat in Bristol
Bristol has a vibrant dining scene that's steeped in history. While it dates back thousands of years with Iron Age hill forts and Roman villas existing in the area, the city itself didn't receive its official charter until 1155. Bristol's economy...
8 Places Where Locals Love to Eat in Bristol
10 Great Restaurants in Bristol
This guide to great restaurants in Bristol showcases some of the city’s best fine-dining and award-winning spots. The River Avon and Wapping Wharf make unique settings for these restaurants, providing stunning views from your dinner table. Of course, excellent service...
10 Great Restaurants in Bristol

Where to shop & what to buy in Bristol

10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Bristol
You’ll find plenty of choices when shopping in Bristol. Choose between quirky independent stores filled with second-hand treasures in Park Street and Stokes Croft, or classic high street retailers inside multi-storey complexes. Alternatively, you can make you your way to Clifton for upmarket boutiques and antique stores. The Bristol Shopping Quarter is excellent for those who love high street stores as...
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Where to go & what to do at night in Bristol

10 Best Nightlife in Bristol
The nightlife in Bristol has got to be among one of the most culturally diverse, inclusive and exciting in the whole of the UK. From traditional speakeasies and live jazz venues to trendy cocktail bars and underground dance music clubs, every taste is catered for here. Whether you’re heading to the UK’s South West for the world-renowned St Paul’s Carnival or...
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Useful information

Bristol Travel Essentials
Our Bristol Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help planning your trip to one of the most popular destinations in the UK. No matter how frequently you travel, some questions will always need answers: What’s the weather like? How can I get from the airport to my hotel? What currency and type of plug do I...
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