From Brunel to Banksy, Bristol's cityscape reflects the personalities of those who shaped it. Once the center of Imperial Britain's aspirations, the city was overshadowed by the rise of industrialization in the north. More recently it has returned to prominence with a vibrant artistic culture that makes great use of the city's historic warehouses. Some neighborhoods ooze a gritty, youthful vibe, whereas others boast stately hotels overlooking historic churches and cobbled streets. It doesn't matter where you stay, it's hard to go wrong with a Bristol vacation.
Where to stay
in Bristol
Where to Stay for Outdoor Activities
Bristol is filled with a surprising number of opportunities for outdoor adventuring. Harbourside is a historic dock where many visitors try out paddle boarding, yachting and rowing. Relax in Victoria Park before embracing the slightly off-beat community spirit of the Windmill Hill neighborhood, only a 30-minute walk from the center of town. From accommodations in Almondsbury, a charming village just outside the city, you can spend your days rambling walking trails or visiting wildlife parks.
Harbourside
Harbourside is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Wills Memorial Building or We The Curious.
Recommended hotels in Harbourside
Windmill Hill
Windmill Hill is popular for its abundant dining options, and you can check out St. Mary Redcliffe Church, a top attraction in the neighborhood.
Almondsbury
Almondsbury is noteworthy for its bars, and you can plan an outing to The Wave and The Mall at Cribbs Causeway while you're in town.
Recommended hotels in Almondsbury
Top Areas to Stay for History
There's no better way to appreciate the old and the new of Bristol than in Clifton, home to Brunel's Clifton Suspension Bridge and hip accommodations in Georgian townhouses. For even more history, stay in the medieval Old City, which also bustles with restaurants, shops, and pubs. A quick train ride away from central Bristol's delights is the historic spa town of Bath, made famous by Jane Austen and filled with stately hotels. Consider booking a room in Temple to be near the ruins of a 12th-century church.
Clifton
Clifton is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Clifton Downs and Observatory and Clifton Cathedral while you're in town.
Recommended hotels in Clifton
Bristol Old City
Bristol Old City is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to St Nicholas Market or St. Peters Church.
Recommended hotels in Bristol Old City
Best Neighborhoods to Stay for Shopping
Bristol was and still is a merchant city. By staying in a hotel in modern Bristol City Centre you can spend your days shopping for international and local brands in boutique stores. Get a room in Old Market, a bohemian, historic area, to browse through quirky antique shops and vintage stores. Right across from the floating harbor, in the shadow of a Gothic church, accommodations in the Redcliffe neighborhood offer plenty more opportunities for retail therapy.
Bristol City Centre
The fantastic nightlife and popular shops are just a few highlights of Bristol City Centre. Make a stop by St Nicholas Market or Old Vic Theatre while you're exploring the area.
Recommended hotels in Bristol City Centre
Redcliffe
Redcliffe is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to St. Mary Redcliffe Church and Banksy Graffiti Thekla while you're in town.
Recommended hotels in Redcliffe
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- Banksy Graffiti Mild Mild West
- Showcase Cinema De Lux
- Avon Gorge National Nature Reserve
- Cabot Circus Shopping Centre
- Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf
- Castle Park
- Bristol Castle Park
- St. Peters Church
- Visit Cotham
- Visit Bristol Old City
- Visit Bristol City Centre
- St Nicholas Market
- Baldwin Street
- University of Bristol
- Colston Hall
- Bristol Hippodrome Theatre
- Bristol Temple Church
- Banksy's Well Hung Lover
- Old Vic Theatre
- Harveys Wine Museum
- BBC Bristol
- College Green
- Queen Victoria's Statue
- Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery
- Watershed
- Bristol City Hall
- Bristol Cathedral
- Cabot Tower
- Victoria Rooms
- Queen Square
- Visit Redcliffe
- Bristol Aquarium
- Visit Temple Quay
- UK Bungee Club Bristol
- Brandon Hill
- Arnolfini Gallery
- Visit Bristol Floating Harbour
- St. Mary Redcliffe Church
- We The Curious
- Visit Harbourside