Things to do in Bristol

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Bristol Travel Guide

A city street at night with a historic building in the background.

A river with a bridge and buildings along the riverbank.

A museum interior with a large mural, red railings, and various labeled exhibits.

A suspension bridge over a river, surrounded by buildings and greenery.

A row of bicycles parked outside a building with the sign "SLAND".

Bristol Attractions

If you're on the lookout for things to see and do in Bristol, get ready to be busy. This thriving city knows how to entertain. Whatever your tastes, you'll be inspired by the diverse range of tourist attractions to get stuck into here. Keep reading to discover some of the best of them.

Learn what makes Bristol tick with the most popular tours & day trips. Check out our top { fun activities in Bristol fun activities in Bristol}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

Things to do

Bristol: Blackbeard to Banksy Guided Walking Tour

$17

per adult

100% of travellers recommend

Stonehenge, Avebury & the Cotswolds from Bath (Small group)

$99

per adult

St Mary Redcliffe Church Bristol: Guided Tour

per adult

Bath: Private 2-Hour Bridgerton Experience Walking Tour

Bath: Private Bridgerton Walking Tour for upto 20 people

$331

per traveler

The Cotswolds Tour From Bath (Small group)

$113

per adult

From Birmingham: Stonehenge & Bath Day Tour

$106

per adult

Stonehenge & Cotswold Villages from Bristol

$141

per adult

96% of travellers recommend

See all activities in Bristol

Bristol must see attractions

1. Cabot Circus Shopping Centre

At Cabot Circus Shopping Centre you can shop at popular brand-name stores, dine on contemporary cuisine and have fun at an adventure golf course. Cabot Circus Shopping Centre opened in 2008 and replaced a precinct of post-war retail buildings. It features three split-level shopping streets covered by a striking shell-shaped roof. The roof’s glass panels create the effect of an outdoor mall while protecting visitors from unfavorable weather conditions.

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A multi-level shopping mall with a glass ceiling, various stores, and a central walkway.

2. Clifton Suspension Bridge

The Clifton Suspension Bridge spans the River Avon and links Clifton, a shopping district in Bristol, to Leigh Woods in the county of Somerset. Opened in 1864, the bridge is the brainchild of renowned mechanical and civil engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. It has become a major landmark of the area, and is worth visiting even if you don’t need to cross it.

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A suspension bridge with two towers, a river below, and a cityscape in the background.

3. University of Bristol

Experience student life in and around an acclaimed institute of higher education at the University of Bristol. It is recognizable for its landmark buildings, museums and its proximity to a busy nightlife district. The origins of the University of Bristol date back to 1595 and it received a royal charter in 1909. It counts Nobel Laureates, such as Sir Winston Churchill, among its former chancellors, professors and students.

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A city street with a historic cathedral in the background.

4. Bristol Hippodrome Theatre

Visit the Bristol Hippodrome for a wide variety of performances and to see the domed ceiling that can be opened up to the night sky.

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A street with various shops, including a cinema and a pub.

5. Thornbury Castle

Set in an estate of lush parkland and glorious Tudor gardens is Thornbury Castle. Spend a day enjoying the regal elegance and sumptuousness of this one-time residence of British monarchs. Treat yourself to a night of romance in the castle’s ornate rooms. Dine on meals inspired by food grown in the castle gardens and indulge in therapeutic massage treatments.

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A luxurious bedroom with a four-poster bed, a stone fireplace, and a chandelier.

6. SS Great Britain

The SS Great Britain, permanently docked in Bristol Harbour, is one of the city’s most visited attractions. Between 150,000-170,000 people come to look at this great vessel each year. For your visit, allow a couple of hours as there is a lot to see.

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A large industrial structure with a rusty exterior, surrounded by metal railings and walkways.

Recommended things to do in Bristol

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	:
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Bristol

Free Things to Do in Bristol

Leave your wallet in the hotel. It's possible to have fun in Bristol without paying a cent.

Earth Sciences Museum - Young or old, this gallery will rouse your imagination and capture your mind.

Banksy Graffiti Mild Mild West - Plan a visit and discover the artistic and cultural side of the area.

University of Bristol - Fans of architecture will no doubt love admiring the impressive modern design of this local landmark.

Cabot Tower - You'll feel like you've stepped back in time while exploring this historic attraction.

Clifton Village - Mingle with the local residents and seek out the hidden character and spirit of this special place.

Coexist - Hamilton House - Speak to a few locals and learn why many travelers swing by this place.

St James Priory - Mix a little spirituality into your trip with a visit to this religious attraction.

Brandon Hill - Appreciate the stark difference between the urban jungle and nature's beauty at this beautiful spot.

Castle Park - Develop your green thumb and admire the various plants on show.

Things to Do in Bristol with Kids

There's fun for all the family wherever you wander in Bristol. Here are a few family friendly experiences to do together that are certain to make your break unforgettable:

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Bristol? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Stay near popular Bristol attractions

Cabot Circus Shopping Centre

8.8/10 (1,383 reviews)

Cabot Circus dazzles with its striking glass roof sheltering over 120 shops. Browse fashion boutiques, dine at diverse restaurants, or catch a film at the cinema for a complete shopping experience.

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Where to stay in Bristol

Find the best Bristol areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Bristol

A suspension bridge over a river, surrounded by lush greenery and a cloudy sky.

Clifton

Clifton is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Clifton Observatory and All Saints Clifton while you're in town.

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A river with boats, a cityscape, and hot air balloons in the sky.

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.

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A narrow indoor shopping corridor with glass-fronted shops on both sides.

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 Baldwin Street.

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A historic cathedral with intricate Gothic architecture, including pointed arches and a tall spire.

Redcliffe

Redcliffe is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Banksy Graffiti Thekla and Redcliffe Caves while you're in town.

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Stokes Croft

When in Stokes Croft, you can plan a visit to Cabot Circus Shopping Centre and St Nicholas Market, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Popular day trips from Bristol

A long bridge over a calm river with a distant town and mountains.

Alveston

A pier extending over calm water with a rocky shoreline in the foreground.

Clevedon

A large Gothic cathedral with twin towers and intricate stonework.

Wells

A pier with a large building labeled "GRAND PIER" and two towers.

Weston-super-Mare

The ruins of a large, historic stone building with multiple arches and a tall, narrow tower.

Chepstow

A coastal landscape with a golf course, a lighthouse, and cliffs.

Newport

A four-poster bed with red drapery, a chandelier, and a stone wall.

Thornbury

A classical building with a dome, surrounded by well-maintained grass and trees.

Tormarton

Frequently asked questions

Is Bristol worth visiting?

Renowned for its nature and dining, discovering fun things to do in Bristol is easy. Don't forget to add Bristol Cathedral to your trip itinerary when here.

How do I spend a day in Bristol?

Start your sightseeing with a visit to SS Great Britain and We The Curious. Then, tour other areas of Bristol for a quick bite and some shopping.

What is the top tourist attraction in Bristol?

Bristol Cathedral is one of the top tourist attractions in Bristol and should be high on every to-do list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Bristol?

Three days will give you time to tick off popular city highlights, including Bristol Cathedral, We The Curious and Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery. The average stay in Bristol is two days. If you have the urge to extend your escape, Bath isn't far away.

Is Bristol a walkable city?

Some top sights in Bristol, such as Bristol Cathedral and We The Curious, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 1 mile from the city center of Bristol is Bristol Floating Harbour and Redcliffe is 1 mile away.

What are some activities to do in Bristol with kids?

Planning what to do in Bristol with kids has never been simpler. Whether you have teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Bristol for adults?

Baldwin Street and Wills Memorial Building are just two of the things to do in Bristol. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.

Are there free things to do in Bristol?

One of the simplest ways to learn about free things to do in Bristol is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without reaching for your wallet. Bristol Cathedral is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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