2019 OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

EATING & DRINKING / ANNUAL EVENTS / AREA GUIDES / HANDY MAPS

 WELCOME

WELCOME TO BRISTOL
Inspiration
Food & drink – experiences & events ................ 5
Film & TV – events, tours & locations ................ 8
Bristol's music scene – live music & festivals ....... 9
Theatre & exhibitions – what's on .................. 11
Shopping – boutique to high street ................. 13
Sport – where to watch & play ..................... 15
Unmissable Bristol events ............................. 16

Bristol by area
Harbourside .............................................. 18
I am pleased to welcome you Central, Old City & Park Street ..................... 26
to our lively and diverse city. Clifton ...................................................... 34
Stokes Croft ............................................... 38
Bristol is an outward-looking city that’s open to all, Southville & Bedminster ................................ 39
which is why we attract millions of visitors from Gloucester Road ........................................ 40
all over the world every year to our great range Old Market & St Marks Road ....................... 41
of activities, sights and family-friendly events. Blaise, Fishponds & Frome Valley ................... 42
There are many things which make Bristol special: Arnos Vale ................................................ 43
from the people who live here to the place itself,
and at the heart of it is our cultural diversity and
independent spirit. 91 different languages are Beyond Bristol
spoken in the city and our many vibrant local South Gloucestershire & the South Cotswolds ....... 44
communities play important roles in defining our North Somerset .......................................... 50
identity. Bristol prides itself on being an inclusive Bath ......................................................... 54
place – one which works hard to address the
challenges of city life. We are also leading the
way with highly productive creative and tech
Useful info
sectors and our many innovative city projects Getting to Bristol ........................................ 59
reflect our independent flair and entrepreneurial Getting around Bristol .................................. 61
spirit. I hope you enjoy your visit. Tours ........................................................ 62
Map ........................................................ 64
Marvin Rees Mayor of Bristol Translated pages ........................................ 66

Written and published by Destination Bristol (company number 3715280 registered in England and Wales).
While every care has been taken in the accuracy of producing this guide, the publisher is not liable for any errors or
omissions which may occur. All information is subject to change and is correct at the time of going to print, December 2018.
Destination Bristol is a company limited by guarantee and controlled by Bristol City Council. Design: The Group of Seven.
Cover illustration: Jon Trace. All images: Visit Bristol except where credited.Printing: Ancient House Press Plc.

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 3

FOOD & DRINK
THIRSTY
More than 15 independent breweries,
all producing quality craft ales, makes
Bristol one of the UK’s best beer cities.
Local brewers, Moor Beer and Bristol
Beer Factory offer tap rooms and tours,
and you can look behind the scenes at
Bath Ales and Butcombe. Take in a round
of breweries on a beer-themed tour by
boat, bus or on foot with Bristol Hoppers
or Bristol Brewery Tours. There’s a Bristol
Craft Beer Festival in June – there’s even a
Bristol Brewery School. And for legendary
pubs oozing with history, the Old City’s
cobbled King Street is the heart of Bristol’s
‘Beermuda Triangle’.
Gin lovers will not be disappointed , with
tours of the artisan distillery at 6 O’Clock
Gin, and the opportunity to create your
own with Psychopomp. You can enjoy a
taste of West Country at the Bristol Cider
Shop. Look out for their tutoured tastings
and cider-related events, especially
Bristol Cider Salon. There is an exciting
event programme at the historic and
innovative Averys wine cellars.
Bristol is also a great destination
JOHN BLACKWELL / A PATTENDEN
for coffee. There are award wining
roasters in the city and in September,
The Coffee House Project is a festival
dedicated to a great cup of Joe.
Pictured from top: refined dining at Casamia
and a proper pint courtesy of
Butcombe Brewing Company
INSPIRATION
HUNGRY
Bristol is one of the UK’s
most diverse and inventive food
destinations – big on street food,
local markets, ethically-sourced and
seasonal ingredients, vegan restaurants,
world cuisines and award-
winning independents.
The city was proclaimed
a ‘Foodie Hotspot’ by the
Good Food Guide which
recently credited Bristol
with the highest number
of new entries of any
city outside London. The
number of Michelin-starred
restaurants grows apace with
a culinary hotlist that ranges
from gastropub nosh at the Pony
and Trap to refined dining at
Casamia. Three-star members
of the Sustainable Restaurant
Association include sisters No. 1
Harbourside and the Canteen.
Annual food festivals include the
on-the-pulse British Dal Festival in
February and Food Connections in
June: the 12-day community festival
sums up the collaborative nature of
Bristol’s food culture with an epic
collection of small events.
 INSPIRATION

FILM &
TELEVISION

A UNESCO City of Film, Bristol

is home to the BBC Natural
HIstory Unit, Aardman Animations
and world-class festivals
CINEMA AND EVENTS
Bristol hosts a diverse programme of film festivals
and events at venues including Watershed cinema
and alternative microplex, The Cube. It all kicks off in
January with star-studded Slapstick, the world’s biggest
festival of silent-movie comedy. Others include Afrika
Eye, Bristol Bad Film Club (so bad, it’s good) and the
year-long Bristol Film Festival which presents vintage
classics in unusual locations (caves, wine vaults
and Bristol Cathedral among others). September’s
Encounters Festival is the longest-running competitive
short film and animation festival in the UK, a qualifier
for the Oscars and a great place to discover new
talent. The annual Cinema Rediscovered Festival
offers a chance to discover some of the finest new
digital restorations, contemporary classics and film
BBC & MAMMOTH SCREEN / AARDMAN ANIMATIONS

print rarities from across the globe on the big screen.

ON LOCATION
One of the UK’s most successful film studios, The
Bottle Yard, is located in the city, and consequently
Bristol’s diverse architecture and landscapes often
have starring roles on screen. Look out for locations
in TV favourites including Sherlock, Doctor Who,
Wolf Hall and Poldark together with many films –
most recently The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel
From top: This scene from BBC One series Poldark was shot at the
Pie Society and Stan and Ollie. Discover more at city's Bottle Yard Studios, and Aardman Animations' adored duo
visitbristol.co.uk/film-and-tv Wallace and Gromit celebrate their 30th anniversary in 2019

8 visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 From left: Love Saves the Day and Thekla
MUSIC
Bristol’s live music scene offers festivals, gigs on
boats and open mics
There is little doubt that Bristol is a
fascinating and eclectic musical city.
Perhaps best known for the nineties sound
dubbed ‘trip hop’ that included Massive
Attack and Roni Size, Bristol bands are
again at the forefront with The Idles’ Act of
Resistance named 2018 Album of the Year
by BBC 6 Music.
The city is bursting with venues hosting
bands and DJs – pubs and bars including
Crofter’s Rights, Mothers Ruin and
Gloucester Road’s Golden Lion showcase
KHRIS COWLEY FOR HERE & NOW / THEO COTTLE
the best in local talent, and iconic venues
Fiddlers, The Fleece, Thekla, The Exchange
and The Louisiana have a great year-round
programme. It’s also worth checking out
local record shops, especially Rough Trade
and Longwell Records for live gigs.
While Colston Hall, Bristol’s largest concert
hall, will reopen its main auditoria in 2020,
they are still programming across their own
foyer and venues around the city.
www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol
Well-known bands regularly play at the
02 Academy, SWX and Trinity, with
Ashton Gate Stadium welcoming Muse,
Rod Stewart, Take That and the Spice
Girls in 2019. There is a huge range of
music festivals too: June’s Bristol Sounds
and September’s Downs Festival welcome
big-name acts, Tokyo World has an eclectic
line-up at the forefront of modern music,
and Love Saves the Day presents a diverse
range of genres and music styles with high-
end stage designs, top-tier acts and DJs.
St George’s Bristol welcomes jazz, folk,
world and classical artists from across the
globe, and hosts an annual Keyboard
Festival in November. It's also one of the
main venues for the Bristol International Jazz
and Blues Festival in March.
Look out for Bristol Swing Festival in April,
Valley Fest in Chew Magna in August and
the Filmic Season, exploring the creative
connections between film and music.
9
 INSPIRATION

THEATRE &
EXHIBITIONS
From blockbuster musicals and cutting-edge plays
to world-class collections and dynamic exhibitions,
Bristol's theatres, museums and galleries keep visitors
and residents entertained all year round

THEATRE
Bristol Old Vic, the longest continuously running
theatre in the English-speaking world, aims to inspire
audiences with its own original productions while
nurturing the next generation of artists. 2019 will see
the triumphant return of Touching the Void, previously
a sell-out success. Tobacco Factory Theatres produces
and presents an impressive roster of exciting shows
including Shakespeare plays, pop-up opera, comedy,
puppetry and dance in unique, industrial spaces.

With West End musicals, touring blockbusters, family-

friendly productions and an annual panto, The Bristol
Hippodrome is a great all-round theatre. Matilda, Kinky
Boots and Annie are all on the bill for 2019. In Clifton,
the Redgrave Theatre presents family classics like
EXHIBITIONS Aladdin alongside shows from highly-acclaimed stand-
Exhibition highlights for 2019 include Leonardo da up comedians and ‘intimate’ evenings with esteemed
Vinci: A Life in Drawing (2 February-2 May), featuring figures. For wacky, raucous comedy and improv, head
12 of the artist’s drawings. Bristol’s oldest gallery, to The Old Market Assembly’s tiny Wardrobe Theatre.
The Royal West of England Academy (RWA), aims to
be the South West’s leading centre for the visual arts
with international shows including this year’s Albert
Irvin and Abstract Impressionism (until 3 March) and
the RWA Sculpture Open Exhibition (16 March-2
June). At the M Shed on the Harbourside, don’t
miss Tattoo: British Art Revealed (16 March-16 June)
and On Set with Aardman: Making Early Man (6
July-29 September), showing the creative skills of the
Bristol-based animation team behind the movie. The This picture: Bristol Old
JON CRAIG

Vic. Top: the Royal West

Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition runs from of England Academy
October to March every year.

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 11

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS
11
9 6
7
Use our map to discover the wealth of markets, independents and high-street stores Bristol has to offer
1 Cabot Circus All sorts of amazing
shops, restaurants and entertainment under
one dramatic shell-shaped roof.
MORGANE BIGAULT / GILES ROCHOLL PHOTOGRAPHY / PAUL BOX
2 Quakers Friars High-end shopping
around a European-style piazza.
3 The Arcade Explore a Grade II-listed
Victorian shopping arcade with boutique
shops and cafes.
4 Broadmead This pedestrianised street
is your one-stop shop for high-street names
like Marks & Spencer and Primark.
5 The Galleries More than 80 stores with
a great family-friendly Food Court.
6 St Nicholas Markets St Nick’s glass-
covered market has over 90 independents.
Its other markets include the Nails Market
and St Nicholas Night Market.
www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol
INSPIRATION
10
3 1
4 2
5
7 Park Street & The Triangle
Vintage shops and independent labels.
8 Harbourside Market Foodies and
makers meet along the Harbourside (Weds
& Thurs 12-2.30pm, Sat & Sun 11am-
4pm) to sell clothing, books, art and more.
9 Clifton Village Pretty Georgian streets
lined with boutiques plus a restored
Victorian arcade housing bijou stores.
10 Gloucester Road
The longest independent shopping street
in Europe is known for its buzzing cafes,
greengrocers and pubs.
11 The Mall At Cribbs Causeway
This shopping centre houses over 150
shops including department stores, high-
street favourites, restaurants and cafes.
13

SPORT
Bristol also has a huge range of sporting
activities on offer for spectators and participants
CRICKET
Home to Gloucestershire County
Cricket Club, Bristol has a
fascinating cricket heritage. The
2019 ICC World Cup will host
matches in the city, with league
and other international fixtures at
the Brightside Ground.
FOOTBALL AND RUGBY
Bristol has two professional football
teams: Bristol Rovers and Bristol City.
City play home fixtures at Ashton Gate
Stadium, which is also the home of
Premiership rugby’s Bristol Bears. FA
Women’s Super League side, Bristol
City WFC, play in north Bristol.
BASKETBALL
The Bristol Flyers are a professional
basketball club competing in the
nation's top tier, with home fixtures
played at SGS Wise Arena.
CLIMBING
The Adventurous Activity Company
can help you tackle the stunning
natural landscapes and Bristol’s
indoor climbing centres offer the
chance to climb whatever the
weather. You can even climb the
rigging at Brunel’s SS Great Britain.
WATER SPORTS
Explore the city by water: stand-up
paddle-boarding, sailing, rowing
and kayaking are all available.
www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol
INSPIRATION
GOLF
The region's many
excellent courses include
the Kendleshire and
Tracy Park. You can
play at Ashton Court, try
Foot Golf or Disc Golf
or visit InPlay Golf, one
of the few golf simulation
centres in the UK.
CYCLING
As the UK’s first cycling city,
Bristol offers bike hire, trails and
off-road tracks. Look out for cycling
events through the year and even
food tours by bike.
BADMINTON HORSE TRIALS
The world's premier three-day
event takes place in rural South
Gloucestershire,
welcoming
competitors from
across the globe.
ROAD RACES
The Great Bristol Half
Marathon (September) and
10K (May) take place
annually, welcoming runners
from across the world.
From top: Bristol City fans celebrate at Ashton
Gate Stadium and spectators enjoy a day at
Gloucestershire County Cricket Club
15
 INSPIRATION

EVENTS
You’ll find a festival or event dedicated
to everything from swing to cycling
and cricket to crime. For the most
up-to-date information on what’s
happening in Bristol this year, see
www.visitbristol.co.uk
12-23 JUNE
BRISTOL FOOD CONNECTIONS
A week when food takes over the city,
shining a light on all the great people,
businesses and organisations that
make Bristol’s food culture so uniquely
independent and creative.

ALL YEAR ROUND

VERY BRISTOL EVENTS!
Start the year with a laugh at
the Slapstick Comedy Festival in
PAUL BOX / MARTINS KIKULIS / PAUL BLAKEMORE / MANUEL @ DARC.MEDIA / FIGURENTHEATER TUBINGEN

January, go green at the Festival

of Nature in June, dance in
the streets at St Paul’s Carnival
in July, peak into buildings at
Doors Open Days in September
and join the 30th anniversary
19-21 JULY
celebrations of Wallace
BRISTOL HARBOUR FESTIVAL
and Gromit in autumn. Stay
This annual free dance, music
connected with what's going
St Paul's and arts extravaganza returns
Carnival on throughout the year at
for a weekend of family
www.visitbristol.co.uk
activities, music, circus, food
markets and visiting vessels.
Stages and entertainment stretch
the length of the Harbourside,
from Brunel’s SS Great Britain
to Queen Square.

16 visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk

1-14 JULY
BRISTOL PRIDE
Bristol Pride celebrates its
10th anniversary in 2019.
The main Pride Day festival
takes place on Saturday 13
July celebrating the LGBTQ+
community.
8-11 AUGUST
BRISTOL INTERNATIONAL
BALLOON FIESTA
Marvel as more than 100
balloons take off together in
early morning and evening.
Don’t miss the spectacular
Night Glow on Thursday
and Saturday evening.
www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol
23 AUGUST-1 SEPTEMBER
BRISTOL FESTIVAL OF
PUPPETRY
This biennial international
event showcases the very
best in cutting-edge puppetry
from Bristol, the UK and
around the world.
9-13 OCTOBER
IBT WE RISE
A four-day gathering of
conversations, performances
and provocations from artists,
citizens, curators, activists,
thinkers and dreamers interested
in live art, activism, socially
engaged practice, gender
politics and how to end the
end of the world.
INSPIRATION
31 OCTOBER
HALLOWEEN
There is no better time to
experience Bristol's sense of
fun than at Halloween, when
there's spooky, exciting and
ghoulish goings on across the
city. Visit if you dare....
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Follow #MerryBristmas for all
things festive in Bristol including
a mile of markets, ice skating,
light installations, inspiring
theatre, mulled cider and more
than a little sparkle.
17
BRISTOL
THE HARBOURSIDE
MODERN
ART & INDIE
MOVIES
LIVELY BARS, CAFES
& RESTAURANTS
HISTORY OF THE HARBOUR
Bristol’s history as a trading port stretches back
to 1051 when it was listed in the Anglo-Saxon
Chronicle and from 1300s was the second
most important port to London. The role of the
city’s role during the triangular slave trade is well
documented and features in an exhibition at M
Shed, the museum on the Harbourside telling the
story of Bristol.
In 1809 Bristol was transformed by the opening
of the Floating Harbour, built to overcome the
challenge of the second highest tidal range in
the world but the small historic harbour became
increasingly unable to manage the growing
size of ships, with the commercial port moving
to Avonmouth. The old City Docks closed to
commercial traffic in 1975 and is now a lively
leisure destination packed with visitor attractions,
adventure and water sports, restaurants and bars.
18
WATERSIDE
VIEWS &
WALKS
FERRY TRIPS &
STEAM TRAIN RIDES
ATTRACTIONS
The best way to get to know the Floating
Harbour is by boat. There are ferry trips around
the harbour and themed cruises on the water,
including trips to country pubs and under the
Clifton Suspension Bridge. Back on dry land,
Millennium Square is a great outdoor spot
where children paddle in the fountains during
the warmer months and there are free film
screenings on Big Screen Bristol.
We The Curious and Bristol Aquarium offer
family-friendly days out along with adult-only
evenings. The area is rich in museums and
galleries, including The Architecture Centre,
Watershed and Arnolfini, home to contemporary
arts. No trip to Bristol would be complete without
a visit to Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the world’s
first great Ocean Liner, and Being Brunel, the
new museum telling the story of the genius who
transformed Bristol’s landscape.
visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 “THE CITY'S A DELIGHT
FOR FOOD AND NEWISH
WAPPING WHARF IS A
MUST FOR INDIE FANS”
Stephen Emms, Weekendr
SIMON BURGESS / DAVE PAGE

Clockwise from this picture: the Flaating Harbour has been reinvented
as a lively leisure destination, the colourful houses of Hotwells and
shoppers and stallholders at the Harbourside market

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 19
 BRISTOL For a detailed city map, turn to page 64

THINGS TO DO ON
THE HARBOURSIDE

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3 1
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4

11 8 6 7

1 Architecture Centre Free exhibitions of the boat sailed by John Cabot when he
on architecture, design and the built discovered Newfoundland in 1497.
environment, plus talks and workshops. 7 M Shed Films, photographs, interactive

2 Arnolfini One of Europe’s leading exhibits and displays tell the story of
contemporary art galleries with exhibitions, Bristol and its place in the world, from
live performances and indie cinema. prehistoric times to the present day.
3 Bristol Aquarium Tropical marine 8 Spike Island A working art and design

and freshwater creatures living in naturally studio with its own cafe, shop and gallery,
themed habitats. hosting a vibrant programme of events.
4 Brunel’s SS Great Britain Explore 9 Watershed Popular arts cinema and
SHONETTE LAFFY / WATERSHED

this Victorian masterpiece, from the top of digital creativity centre with a café and bar
the rigging to the first-class dining saloon. serving breakfast, lunch and evening meals.
New museum Being Brunel celebrates the 10 We The Curious An interactive science

life and work of the great engineer. centre, brimming with creativive curiosity.
5 Ferries and boat tours Trips and Home to the UK’s first 3D Planetarium.
cruises around the Harbourside. 11 Underfall Yard Working boatyard

6 The Matthew Take a trip on the replica with visitor centre and cafe.

20 visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 For a detailed city map, turn to page 64 BRISTOL

FOOD & DRINK ON

THE HARBOURSIDE

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4 11 13
8 5
2
1
7

1 Cargo A collection of repurposed 8 Revolucion De Cuba

shipping containers make home for indy Latin-inspired tapas, Cuban cocktails and
food and drink outlets including Bristol Caribbean music. The outdoor terrace
Cider Shop, WokyKo and Better Food. has a fire pit and lovely waterside views.
2 Casamia Michelin-starred dining, 9 The River Grille Waterfront

voted the UK's best restaurant. restaurant features a live pianist and jazz
3 Glassboat An elegant French at the weekends.
restaurant on a converted barge. 10 The Stable Award-winning pizzas

4 The Grain Barge Drink Bristol- and more than 60 types of cider.
brewed beer on board a boat. 11 Steak Of The Art Serving fine cuts
MR NICK HOOK / A PATTENDEN

5 Mud Dock Cycleworks & Cafe in a gallery-style setting.

Nutritious seasonal food upstairs with a 12 Three Brothers Burgers
bespoke bike workshop and shed below. Burgers on a boat with craft beer,
6 No.1 Harbourside Top-notch food shakes, sundaes and floats.
and live music plus a weekly market. 13 Za Za Bazaar The UK’s largest

7 Paco Tapas Traditional tapas with a restaurant dishes up a variety of buffet

Michelin star from team Casamia. style global cuisine.

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 23
BRISTOL
CENTRAL, OLD CITY
& PARK STREET
CRAFT BEER, STREET
FOOD & FINE DINING
VAST
SHOPPING
DISTRICT &
MARKETS
ENTERTAINMENT
A few minutes’ walk from the Harbourside, the
Old City is bursting with character, its cobbled
streets and alleyways lined with some of Bristol’s
oldest buildings. This is where you will discover
the oldest continuously-working theatre in the
country, The Bristol Old Vic; the west end shows
of the Bristol Hippodrome and St Georges Bristol
– one of the world’s finest acoustic auditoriums.
You can discover more about the city’s past with
behind the scenes tours and dedicated heritage
exhibitions or glimpse into Bristol’s past at The
Georgian House and The Red Lodge.
SHOPPING
Park Street is a great place to discover eclectic
style, with a huge range of vintage clothing shops,
beautiful jewellery and the fascinating Bristol Guild.
Behind Bristol Hippodrome, food and drink lovers
will be spoilt by one of Bristol’s largest Oriental
supermarkets, Wah Yang Hon, and the 225-year-
old Averys, fifth generation family wine merchants
26
For a detailed city map, turn to page 64
MUST-VISIT
LANDMARKS
& FLAGSHIP
MUSEUMS
with more than 1,000 wines in historic cellars.
Christmas Steps Arts Quarter is a unique collection
of eight streets bursting with artisans and creative
traders. The Georgian St Nicholas Markets is home
to more than 60 stallholders offering everything from
vinyl to ice cream.
TOWERS AND TOURS
The area is overlooked by the Wills Memorial
Building, the heart of the University of Bristol, with
regular tours available. Just off Park Street, Cabot
Tower offers inspiring city views from the top of
Brandon Hill – the oldest park in Bristol. Stroll to the
bottom of the road to see Banksy’s Well- Hung Lover
opposite City Hall.
NIGHTLIFE
Find LGBTQ+ bars and clubs in the West End gay
village with Pride Week taking place in July. Beer
drinkers converge on King Street and speakeasy-
style cocktail bars cater for sophisticated tastes.
visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 “THIS ANCIENT MARITIME
CITY IS PERFECT FOR
WEEKEND BREAKS FOR
VISITORS OF ALL AGES”
Lorna Hogg, Senior Times
TAMANY BAKER

Clockwise from this picture: local landmark Cabot Tower,

picnickers at Castle Park and the Wills Memorial Building

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 27
 BRISTOL For a detailed city map, turn to page 64

FOOD & DRINK IN CENTRAL,

OLD CITY & PARK STREET

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1 4
6 9
8
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5
2
3

1 Friska Dishes made using responsibly- and wine bar with killer cocktails at
sourced ingredients. upstairs Noche Negra.
2 Graze Bar & Chophouse "Heaven 8 Pinkmans Craft bakery known for its

for beer-loving foodies" at Bath Ales' naughty sour-doughnuts.

sophisticated chophouse. 9 St Nicholas Markets A colourful

3 Llandoger Trow Believed to have variety of food stalls including Pieminister

been the inspiration for the Admiral and food from around the world.
Benbow in Treasure Island. 10 Swoon Dreamy gelato made from

4 The Milk Thistle The younger sister scratch using Somerset milk.
to Clifton's Hyde & Co serves late-night 11 The Rummer First-rate cocktails,

cocktails in sumptuous surroundings. delicious brunches and gin tastings.

5 The Old Duke Much-loved jazz pub 12 1776 Bar & Kitchen Dining

hosting live music every night of the week. experience set against the backdrop of
6 The Ox Famed for sensational steaks the Bristol Old Vic theatre.
TAMANY BAKER

and cocktails, The Ox also serves up 13 Strawberry Thief Elegant bar serving

super fish and vegetarian dishes. more than 70 types of Belgian and local
7 Pata Negra Authentic Spanish tapas beers and ciders.

28 visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 BRISTOL
SACRED BRISTOL
Explore extraordinary architecture and rich
history at these places of worship
1 St James Priory St James Priory is
the city’s oldest church. Dating back to
1129 it has been used as a place of
worship for almost 900 years.
2 St John On The Wall St John on the
Wall was built into the original city walls
in the 12th century and features beautiful
Jacobean details. Visitor interpretation
helps uncover its history.
3 The Lord Mayor’s Chapel
DAVE PRATT / ST MARY REDCLIFFE
The Lord Mayor’s Chapel on College
Green, directly opposite Bristol
Cathedral, is hidden away behind an
unassuming entrance.
4 John Wesley’s Chapel
The oldest Methodist building in the
world, the chapel’s ‘New Room’ features
30
For a detailed city map, turn to page 64
4
2
a new multimedia visitor centre. Further
Methodist heritage trails can be found in
nearby South Gloucestershire.
5 Bristol Cathedral
The site of a place of worship for over
1,000 years, Bristol Cathedral is one
of the world’s finest examples of a hall
church, as well as being a very popular
film location.
6 St Mary Redcliffe
Beautiful Grade I-listed church St Mary
Redcliffe is a masterpiece of Gothic
architecture with a slender, soaring spire
that stands at 89 metres high.
For more information go to
www.visitbristol.co.uk
visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
BRISTOL
CLIFTON
GEORGIAN
BUILDINGS
VILLAGE EXPERIENCE
With its chic boutiques, intimate cafes,
Georgian terraces and leafy garden squares,
Clifton is one of Bristol’s most attractive districts.
The area is home to Clifton Suspension Bridge,
a spectacular feat of engineering designed by
Isambard Kingdom Brunel and completed in
1864. Walk or cycle across the bridge (only
drivers pay the toll) for magnificent views of the
Avon Gorge and a visitor centre on the Leigh
Woods side.
Clifton Village is a hive of interesting shops –
check out the Victorian Clifton Arcade with its
quirky independents. On nearby Oakfield Place,
the Clifton Lido has been beautifully restored
and offers year-round outdoor swimming, spa
treatments and award-winning dining. Also in
Clifton, Bristol Zoo Gardens stretches over 12
acres and is home to over 400 species of animal
including a family of seven western lowland
gorillas. The number 8 bus and Bristol Insight
open-top bus both stop outside.
OPEN SPACES
An area of protected parkland on the northern
fringes of Clifton, the Downs is home to the
University of Bristol Botanic Garden. Just across
Clifton Suspension Bridge you’ll find the 850-acre
Ashton Court estate and Leigh Woods (see page
50 for more). Clifton Village boasts an adventure
play park for families and picnickers. For some
quiet time, The Mall Gardens is a peaceful oasis in
the heart of the village.
34
For a detailed city map, turn to page 64
WORLD-FAMOUS
BRIDGE & ZOO
FOOD AND DRINK
The Clifton Sausage Modern British food in
a relaxed setting. Lactose and gluten-free dishes
available alongside daily specials and a kids' menu.
Cowshed Quality countryside cuts for an urban
audience. All meat comes from neighbouring
butcher, Ruby & White.
Goram & Vincent Modern dining and views of
the Clifton Suspension Bridge from Hotel du Vin at
the Avon Gorge Hotel.
Heartfelt Vintage Vintage boutique and tearoom
serving "fashion, bridal and afternoon teas".
Hyde & Co Award-winning cocktails served in a
stylish prohibition-style bar.
The Ivy Clifton Brasserie The first Ivy outside
London is right at home in Clifton Village.
The Lido Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-
inspired menu served in a relaxed atmosphere
"where suits and robes sit cheek by jowl".
No.4 Clifton Village Award-winning à la carte at
The Rodney Hotel.
Racks Bar & Kitchen A top spot for Sunday
roasts, pizzas, gluten-free dishes and their famed
£5 lunch, served Monday-Saturday 12-5pm.
The River Cottage Kitchen Seasonal, wild food
from Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s talented team.
Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan
options available.
The Thali Restaurant Inspired by the heart and
soul of India, Thali showcases the hero dishes of the
subcontinent.
White Lion Bar Informal gastro pub at Hotel du
Vin at the Avon Gorge. The roomy terrace offers
jaw-dropping views of Clifton Suspension Bridge.
visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 BRISTOL

COFFEE SHOPS HIGH-END SHOPS

& RESTAURANTS & BOUTIQUES

“ A PERFECT
SUNDAY BEGINS
WITH BREAKFAST
IN ONE OF
CLIFTON'S CAFES”
David Wickers,
Good Housekeeping
PAUL WINCH-FURNESS

Clockwise from this picture: University of Bristol Botanic Garden, Clifton

Suspension Bridge, the gorillas at Bristol Zoo and the Ivy Clifton Brasserie

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 35
 BRISTOL For a detailed city map, turn to page 64

STOKES CROFT
STREET ART,
PUBS, GREAT
FOOD &
SHOPS

Take a walk to Stokes Croft to see some

of Bristol’s most celebrated street art,
including Banksy’s famous Mild Mild
West. Also look out for the unique Stokes
Croft China. The Cube Microplex on
Dove Street is a cinema and arts venue
presenting film, music and cabaret.
Some of the city’s best-known bars and
live-music pubs are here too. On the food
front, you’ll find pie purveyors Pieminister,
Jamaican cuisine at Rice and Things,
tapas at Poco and ethical cooking and
free live music at The Canteen. Jamaica
Street Stores has a dedicated raw menu
and knocks up a great roast. There
RICHARD PERRIN

are more colourful shops, cafes and

restaurants on Cheltenham Road, which
joins Stokes Croft to Gloucester Road.

38 visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 For a detailed city map, turn to page 64 BRISTOL

SOUTHVILLE & STREET ART,

THEATRE &
SPORT

BEDMINSTER

ART AND CULTURE

Southville's Upfest, the largest festival of urban art
in Europe, takes a break for 2019, but Upfest
gallery is still a local fixture. The Tobacco Factory
Theatres stage Shakespeare, opera, Christmas
shows, stand-up, puppetry and dance. The
adjoining cafe bar also hosts events while serving
up good food, Bristol Beer Factory ales and a
Sunday morning market. Sports fans can get their
fix at nearby Ashton Gate, home to Bristol City FC
and Bristol Bears Rugby.

FOOD AND DRINK

The North Street strip offers a lively mix of
independent shops, cafes, bars and markets. For
good food, try Mark’s Bread or the Southville
Deli, small plates at The Old Bookshop, Lebanese
cuisine at Souk Kitchen or tasty pizza (and stand-
up comedy) at the Hen & Chicken. Ashton Gate
Sports Bar & Grill has the biggest indoor screen in
the country.

OPEN SPACES
In neighbouring Bedminster, Windmill Hill City Farm
is a voluntary community project that runs social,
environmental and educational activities alongside
seasonal events with a farming theme. Victoria Park
ROGAN THOMSON/JMP / PAUL BOX

has a children’s play area and offers great views

of the city. Urban climbers can tackle state-of-the-art
Redpoint, based in an old cinema.

Clockwise from bottom: the bustling Tobacco Factory cafe bar,

Bristol City fans, art by Braga at Upfest and state-of-the-art
climbing wall Redpoint

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 39
 BRISTOL For a detailed city map, turn to page 64

GLOUCESTER ROAD
They say it’s the longest independent
shopping street in Europe, and
Gloucester Road is certainly one of the
liveliest of Bristol’s neighbourhoods.
This high street is a vibrant part of the
community with wide pavements full of
plants and flowers and plenty of cafes,
restaurants and bars.

Among its top food spots, try tasty craft

loaves and cakes at Joe’s Bakery or a
hearty brunch at Bakers & Co. Atomic
Burger is family-friendly and Pizzarova
serves sensational sourdough. For beer
enthusiasts, The Wellington majors on
Bath Ales and The Drapers Arms is big
on small, local breweries. For live music,
try The Gallimaufry or The Golden Lion.
Nearby, St Andrews Park has children’s
playgrounds and open spaces.
PAUL BOX / SAM GIBSON / BATH ALES

Just off Gloucester Road, Gloucestershire

County Cricket Club attracts international
fixtures as well as league cricket
matches, plus the exciting T20 summer
events. The Memorial Stadium, home
of Bristol Rovers Football Club, is also
located in the area.
This page, clockwise from top: the ever-lively Gloucester Road, The Wellington
pub and Hobbs House Bakery. Opposite page, clockwise from top: historic Old
Market Street, the area has a friendly LGBTQ+ community and St Marks Road
INDEPENDENT
SHOPS &
ARTISAN CAFES

40 visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 For a detailed city map, turn to page 64 BRISTOL

OLD MARKET
Just a few minutes’ walk from Bristol
Shopping Quarter, Old Market is a
bohemian corner of the city that combines
history, diversity, a friendly gay village
and a vibrant nightlife. As the name
suggests, it was once the city’s main
market street; now it’s home to a cluster of
independent businesses including shops,
galleries, cafes and pubs.

For live music, performances and more,

try Trinity Centre (a converted church) or
the Old Market Assembly (cafe, cabaret,
bakery, bar and the teeny Wardrobe
Theatre, all housed in a former bank).
DESTINATION BRISTOL

Old Market is well known for its strong

connections to the LGBTQ+ community FRIENDLY GAY
and popular venues include The Gin VILLAGE & LIVE
Palace and the Old Market Tavern. MUSIC VENUES

ST MARKS ROAD

THRIVING NEIGHBOURHOOD

This small but thriving street in Easton boasts

award-winning restaurants, cafes and independent
shops including the legendary Bristol Sweet
PAUL BOX

Mart and East Bristol Bakery. Get there by train,

alighting at Stapleton Road station.

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 41
BRISTOL For a detailed city map, turn to page 64

BLAISE

Blaise Castle House Museum and Clockwise from this picture: beautiful
Estate is a 19th-century mansion set in Blaise Castle, Blaise Castle House Museum
and charming Blaise Hamlet
400 acres of parkland and is home
to the city’s social history collection.
Collect a key from Blaise Castle to
access the nearby Kings Weston Roman
Villa. Pop across to the National Trust’s
Blaise Hamlet – charming 19th-century
cottages centred around a ‘village’
green complete with its own pump.

FISHPONDS &
FROME VALLEY
Fishponds Road is a thriving
suburban high street popular with
locals, and a great place to join the
cycle path linking Bristol and Bath.
Nearby Oldbury Court is a beautiful
estate that combines woodland and
riverside paths with historic parkland
and children’s play areas. Follow the
path down to the River Frome, where
trails lead towards Frenchay and
its Village Museum or, in the other
direction, to Snuff Mills. Look out for
wildlife: it’s a great place to spot
kingfishers, herons, foxes, owls, bats Snuff Mills
and even deer.

42 visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
For a detailed city map, turn to page 64 BRISTOL

AR NOS VALE

Arnos Vale is home to the Original

Bristol Blue Glass Factory and Shop,
a thriving creative enterprise which
continues the city’s long tradition for
glassmaking in striking blue. Directly
opposite, Arnos Vale Cemetery has
been the final resting place for some
of Bristol’s most notable citizens
since opening in 1837. This garden
cemetery offers a haven for wildlife and
leisurely walks (trail maps are available)
among ornate Victorian tombs and
picturesque landscaping.

The ‘creative quarter’ at nearby

Paintworks is home to the Martin
Parr Foundation’s gallery, the Royal
Photographic Society and popular
Bocabar.

Clockwise from top: Arnos Vale Cemetery, Bristol Blue

Glass and the Martin Parr Foundation

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 43
BEYOND BRISTOL
SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE
& THE SOUTH COTSWOLDS
COUNTRYSIDE
ACTIVITIES
& EVENTS
MARKET TOWNS
Picturesque market towns and villages dot the
countryside to the north and east of Bristol. The
medieval town of Thornbury is home to Thornbury
Castle, where King Henry VIII stayed with Anne
Boleyn in 1535. The High Street is packed with
independent shops and gastropubs while nearby
Mundy Playing Fields offer facilities for children
including a paddling pool. Thonbury is also the
home of 6 O'Clock Gin. The Tourist Information
Centre is in Thornbury’s Town Hall.
The charming market town of Chipping Sodbury
was founded in the 12th century and features
medieval architecture and 17th-century Cotswold
stone. The Tourist Information Centre is in the
clock tower on the High Street.
COUNTRYSIDE
In rural South Gloucestershire, Badminton Horse
Trials take place in May and there are plenty of
44
SHOPPING MALL
MEDIEVAL
MARKET
TOWNS
golf courses including the 27-hole Kendleshire. The
Wild Place Project offers great days out, plus the
chance to sleep over at Camp Baboon – look out
for Bear Wood opening in 2019. Also new this
year, The Wave brings inland surfing in an eco-
environment. Nearby Aerospace Bristol, home ot
Concorde, tells the story of Bristol’s aviation history.
Walkers and cyclists can enjoy traffic-free routes
along the National Cycle Network, including
a popular stretch which links Bristol and Bath
along a disused railway path, passing through
Warmley,with its historic signal box, tea gardens
and Bath Ales’ Hare Brewery.
SHOPPING
The Mall at Cribbs Causeway is a large shopping
centre with free parking and regular bus services.
Find John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, high-street
favourites and places to eat. Or head into the
towns, for independent shops and boutiques.
visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 “PICTURESQUE MEDIEVAL
MARKET TOWNS AND
VILLAGES DOT THE
COUNTRYSIDE NORTH
Clockwise from this picture: the STIHL
Tree Top Walkway at Westonbirt,
Chipping Sodbury's pretty High Street
AND EAST OF BRISTOL”
and a tranquil cycle path.

AVON VALLEY
For a great family-friendly day out, try one of
Avon Valley Railway's steam-train rides, which
run throughout the year from Bitton. In nearby
Keynsham, Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife
Park offers indoor and outdoor play areas
plus farm animals and exotic species across 50
acres of countryside. Alternatively, cruise along
the River Avon to Beese’s Bar and Tea Gardens
or day-trip to Bath in the spring and summer
with Avon River Cruises and Bristol Packet
Boat Trips. The well-trodden Bristol and Bath
Railway Path also runs through the valley.
PAUL GROOM / JIM JOHNSTON

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 45
 BEYOND BRISTOL

THINGS TO DO IN SOUTH
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
ATTRACTIONS The Wild Place Project
Aerospace Bristol See Concorde Alpha Foxtrot A family attraction that
in situ at this new museum (inset), which tells the provides adventure,
story of Bristol’s world-class aerospace industry. educational play and, new
Airhop Bristol The world's biggest trampoline this year, a Bear Wood.
park is filled with wall-to-wall bouncing, foam WWT Slimbridge Wetlands
pits and battle beams. Centre Award-winning home
Berkeley Castle Take a tour of the castle, to water voles, waders and the world’s largest
dating from the 12th century and still home to collection of swans, geese, ducks and flamingos.
the Berkeley family, before exploring the butterfly
house and extensive gardens. FOOD AND DRINK
Cattle Country Adventure Park Meet guinea Bath Ales Brewery Shop Buy bottles of the
pigs, lambs, deer, ducks and other furred and Warmley-based brewery’s popular tipples or take
feathered creatures. a behind-the-scenes tour.
Old Down Country Park Fun family days Bramley & Gage Visit this family-run business
out await at this country park with adventure to learn about gin making on the 6 O’Clock Gin
playground. Distillery Tour.
The Wave The new inland surfing lake at Country pubs Explore the country pubs of South
Almondsbury on the edge of Bristol opens in the Gloucestershire and the South Costwolds and try
summer and will cater for all ages and abilities. local food and beers.
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum Hattusa at Berwick Lodge Tuck into a classic
Discover more than 15,000 tree specimens from all afternoon tea in the garden or in front of the
over the world and enjoy events and workshops. fireplace in Almondsbury.

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 47
BEYOND BRISTOL
NORTH SOMERSET
MUCH-LOVED
BEACH RESORTS CLIFFTOP &
SEASIDE WALKS
ASHTON COURT ESTATE AND LEIGH WOODS
The verdant hills of North Somerset’s Ashton Court
Estate are just across Bristol’s Clifton Suspension
Bridge and provide off-road cycling routes,
pathways for walkers and acres of green space.
Watch hot-air balloons take off from here and
don’t miss the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta in
August. Just a few minutes away Leigh Woods is
a National Trust-owned broadleaf woodland that
sits on the plateau just above the Avon Gorge.
PORTISHEAD AND CLEVEDON
Portishead is about 10 miles from Bristol and has
a 250-berth marina featuring a public arts trail
and Lake Grounds, home to an open-air pool and
a boating lake. Nearby Clevedon is graced with
a Grade 1-listed pier dating from 1869 and a
vintage cinema dated 1912. The town was also
a location for the TV drama series Broadchurch.
50
CYCLING &
WALKING ROUTES
WESTON-SUPER-MARE
Further south, this Victorian beach resort, offers
traditional seaside attractions – from go-karts
to dodgems and F1 simulators – on the famous
Grand Pier, alongside the Tropicana’s theatre,
exhibition and live music venue. Walkers should
take a saunter along the Clevedon coast path
to Portishead, part of the West Mendip Way, or
head for the National Trust’s Sand Point.
CYCLE ROUTES
If you prefer getting around on two wheels, try
the Strawberry Line from Yatton to Cheddar,
a smooth, traffic-free cycle path that takes in
Congresbury, Sandford, Winscombe and
Axbridge, or the recently-opened Brean Down
Way cycle route from Weston to the National
Trust’s spectacular Brean Down.
visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 “ASHTON COURT ESTATE
PROVIDES CYCLING
ROUTES AND ACRES
OF GREEN SPACE"
ALANA WRIGHT

Clockwise from this picture: Clevedon's Grade I-listed pier,

Portishead marina, Noah's Ark Zoo Farm and the National
Trust's spectacular Gothic Revival house, Tyntesfield

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 51
 BEYOND BRISTOL

THINGS TO DO IN SOMERSET
ATTRACTIONS
Cheddar Gorge & Caves
Spectacular caves,
dramatic clifftop walks
and amazing attractions
that take you back to
prehistoric times.
Curzon Cinema This
charming picture house
is the oldest continuously
This picture: Butcombe Brewery.
working cinema in the UK. Inset: Cheddar Gorge.
Fleet Air Arm Museum Get up close to Europe’s
largest collection of naval aircraft.
Grand Pier, Weston-super-Mare Indoor theme FOOD AND DRINK EXPERIENCES
park fun for all plus seafront restaurants with Aldwick Court Estate Tour the vineyards and
magnificent views taste award-winning English wines.
Noah's Ark Zoo Farm You’ll meet all sorts here, Butcombe Brewery Go behind the scenes at this
from elephants and white rhinos to donkeys and regional brewer.
sheep. The Ethicurean Ethical and local cuisine at the
Tyntesfield The National Trust’s Victorian Gothic Barley Wood Walled Garden in Wrington.
JON CRAIG PHOTOGRAPHY

house has 540 acres of gardens, woodland and
parkland to explore.
Wookey Hole Caves Wander through the valley
of the dinosaurs and meet the Witch of Wookey.
Wells Cathedral In England’s smallest city, Wells’
cathedral is one of the finest in the country.
Farm shops Rural Somerset is jam-packed with
farm shops to please every foodie.
Thatchers Cider Learn about how ciders are
crafted down at Myrtle Farm.
Salt & Malt Award-winning fish and chips from a
Michelin-starred chef overlooking Chew Valley Lake.

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 53
BEYOND BRISTOL
BATH
RENOWNED
CHRISTMAS MARKET
WORLD
HERITAGE
ARCHITECTURE
COMPACT AND PICTURESQUE
Bath makes an ideal day trip as part of a short
break to Bristol. The two cities complement each
other perfectly and they are so close: Bath is
just 12 miles away by car or 12 minutes by
train. For a more leisurely journey, you can
cycle the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. The
surrounding countryside is also great for bike
rides and walking. From the magnificent Bath
Abbey and the famous Roman Baths, one of the
best-preserved Roman sites in the world, to the
sweeping crescents and terraces of its World
Heritage architecture, the city’s many attractions
are easily explored on foot.
ART AND CULTURE
Since Roman times, Bath has been offering a
mix of health and wellbeing with indulgence and
pleasure – now on offer at Thermae Bath Spa.
Relax in the steamy waters of the rooftop pool
and drink in the spectacular views over the city.
54
NATURAL
THERMAL
WATERS
The city’s 13 museums are within easy walking
distance of each other. Art Lovers will be
impressed by The Holburne Museum, combining
classic and modern art in a stunning setting,
along with the Museum of East Asian Art and
the Victoria Art Gallery.
The city’s historic past can be uncovered at
No. 1 Royal Crescent and discover more about
Jane Austen’s time in the city at the Jane Austen
Centre. The Fashion Museum showcases both
historic and contemporary design. Just outside the
city, the American Museum & Gardens takes you
on a journey through the history of America from
its early European settlers to the 20th century.
Bath also offers plenty of entertainment with star-
studded productions at the Theatre Royal, the Egg
theatre for children and a regular programme of
festival and arts events.
visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 “RELAX IN THE STEAMY
WATERS OF THERMAE
BATH SPA'S ROOFTOP
POOL AND DRINK IN
SPECTACULAR VIEWS
OF THE CITY”

Clockwise from this picture: Thermae Bath Spa's rooftop pool, the
striking Circus and the National Trust's Prior Park Landscape Garden
CHRIS NORTH / LLOYD EVANS / COLIN HAWKINS

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 55
 USEFUL INFO

GETTING TO BRISTOL

BUS
National Express and Megabus run services from
across the country to Bristol’s bus and coach station
in the city centre. Regional bus services terminate
here too. Snap runs regular on-demand services to
Bristol from London and Birmingham. Falcon runs a
service from Plymouth to Bristol 24 hours a day with
various stops including Bristol Airport.

TRAIN
Bristol Temple Meads is the city’s central station
while Bristol Parkway is located to the north. There
are regular train and bus services between the two
stations. You can catch a ferry from Temple Meads
(Temple Quay landing) into the City Centre.

AIR
Bristol Airport is approximately 25 minutes from
central Bristol and offers direct scheduled flights
across Europe and connections worldwide. The
Bristol Flyer express bus connects the city to the Clockwise from top: GWR train services, Bristol Airport public
airport with frequent services 24 hours a day. transport and Temple Meads Railway Station

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 59
 USEFUL INFO

GETTING AROUND BRISTOL

BRISTOL TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE (TIC)
The TIC serves both visitors and locals, offering everything
from help with bus timetables and accommodation booking to
a wide range of souvenirs, gifts, books and maps. Book tickets
for tours as well as local transport including buses and ferries.
The TIC also acts as an access point for the local currency,
the Bristol Pound. Exchange your sterling to spend with local
independent traders or keep the notes as a unique souvenir.

•
i QUEEN SQUARE

•
SS GREAT
BRITAIN
•
ST MARY
REDCLIFFE

BUS
There are several bus operators in Bristol and the
surrounding area. Full route maps, timetables and
tickets are available at the TIC or online.
TRAIN
Bristol has local stations which are convenient for
getting around the city. The mainline stations are
Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway; you can
access many rural stations from these.
BOAT
There are regular ferries around the Harbourside.
See our map pages for ferry landing locations.
TAXI
Hackney carriage taxis are painted in Bristol blue
and can be picked up at ranks across the city or
hailed on the street. There are also private hire
companies operating in the city, and Uber services.
CYCLING AND BIKE HIRE
As the UK’s first cycling city, Bristol has many
cycle lanes and routes. The TIC stocks free route
maps. Bikes can be hired from locations around
the city, including the Brompton Dock at Temple
Meads station, Pedal Progression at Ashton
Court, Webbs Cycle Shop on the Bristol and
Bath Railway Path, and Cycle the City and Bristol
Tandem Hire from the city centre area.
ACCESSIBILITY
Bristol can be explored on foot although some
steep hills and cobbled streets can be difficult to
access with a wheelchair. The Accessible Guide
is available from the TIC. Wheelchair and scooter
hire are both available from Shopmobility,
located in Cabot Circus.

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 61
 USEFUL INFO

GUIDED &
SELF-GUIDED
TOURS
SIGHTSEEING BUS TOURS
Bristol Insight open top bus tours take 75
minutes with numerous stops to hop on and off
along the way, including all major attractions.
This is a great way to familiarise yourself with
the city too. Tickets are available from the
driver, the TIC and online.

BOAT
The Matthew runs regular harbour trips and some
cruises include a cream tea or fish and chips.
They also run four-hour trips along the Avon
Gorge. Number Seven Boat Trips and Bristol Ferry
Boats operate regular ferry services to and from
waterfront attractions along the Harbourside. The
Bristol Packet offers guided trips around Bristol
ANNA KILCOOLEY / BRISTOL BREWERY TOUR

and along the River Avon to Bath.

CYCLING
The Adventurous Activity Company runs organised
tours for groups with bike hire included. For longer
rides there are dedicated routes such as the Bristol
and Bath Railway Path, the Strawberry Line and
the Avon Cycleway. Cycle the City offer guided
cycling tours in the city centre.

Clockwise from this picture: Where The Wall, The Matthew,

Bristol Insight and Bristol Brewery Tour

62 visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 USEFUL INFO

WALKING & SPECIAL INTEREST

The Bristol Highlights Tour (Easter to November), The
Ultimate Bristol Walking Tour, Bristol Pirate Walks and
Hidden & Haunted Bristol Walks all offer fascinating
insights into this historic city. Take in a mixture of the
latest street art combined with some classic Banksy
on a tour by Where the Wall or Graft, and the
Blackbeard to Banksy tour includes historic highlights.

There are a range of theatrical tours telling some of

the city’s more unusual stories including Blood and
Butchery in Bedminster. Foodies can try a culinary
tour with EatWalkTalk or Bristol Food Tour and Bristol
Hoppers offers an introduction to the local craft beer
scene and pub scene. Free guided tours of Clifton
Suspension Bridge are available at weekends and
bank holidays and Wills Memorial Tower offers
weekend tours. Self-guided walks are available from
the TIC or you can download free audio tours from
the Visit Bristol website. Don’t miss the annual Bristol
Walk Fest in May, offering over 150 of the best
walks in and around the city.

Film and TV fan? You can now take a mini coach

tour of the iconic Only Fools and Horses scenes
filmed in Bristol, download a copy of the Sherlock
trail or discover more about Bristol film locations at
visitbristol.co.uk/film-and-tv

www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol 63
Bristol city centre map

IL E
Bristol Insight bus stops Ferry landing stages Hospitals

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64 visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk
 Featured Hotels
01 The Bristol 04 Novotel Bristol
02 Mercure Holland House 05 Mercure Brigstow

Hotel & Spa 06 Mercure Bristol Grand

03 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Bristol City Centre

Aerospace Bristol
Gloucestershire CCC

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www.visitbristol.co.uk @visitbristol 65
48 HORAS EN BRISTOL
DISFRUTA DE UN FIN DE
SEMANA INOLVIDABLE...
Bristol es una magnífica elección para una
escapada corta con un montón de cosas que
hacer o para una estancia más larga con
excursiones a lugares cercanos.
Día uno - Comienza en Harbourside y explora
Mshed, que cuenta la historia de la ciudad, y
no dejes de acercarte a Wapping Wharf para
disfrutar de sus cafés y restaurantes independientes.
Date un paseo hasta Arnolfini para visitar
las últimas exposiciones y disfruta de las
especialidades locales almorzando en Watershed
o No. 1 Harbourside
Toma un ferry hasta el SS Great Britain de
Brunel, el primer trasatlántico de lujo del mundo,
y en la actualidad un museo galardonado con
prestigiosos premios. No te pierdas la exposición
Being Brunel. Solo hay un breve paseo hasta
Spike Island donde se organizan periódicamente
exposiciones de artistas líderes y donde
encontrarás un estudio de trabajo.
Si te apetece salir a divertirte por la noche, no
dejes de ir a King Street con sus numerosos pubs
de cerveza artesanal o disfruta de una actuación
en Bristol Old Vic, el teatro en funcionamiento
continuo más antiguo del Reino Unido.
Día dos - Dirígete a Clifton para ver el Puente
Colgante (Suspension Bridge) y el centro de
visitantes. Curiosea por las boutiques y almuerza
en Clifton Village.
Vuelos directos a Bristol desde Alicante, Barcelona,
Madrid, Palma, Málaga, Murcia, Seville y Valencia
66
Visita Parque Zoológico de Bristol, el 5º zoo más
antiguo del mundo, responsable de haber salvado a
más de 175 especies de la extinción.
Bristol cuenta con numerosos espacios verdes, entre
ellos el Jardín Botánico de la Universidad de Bristol.
Brandon Hill es el parque más antiguo de Bristol
y en él encontrarás la Cabot Tower con preciosas
vistas de la ciudad. Haz una visita a St Georges
Bristol para escuchar a músicos e intérpretes de
clase mundial. Y ha llegado la hora de un poco de
terapia de compras en el barrio comercial de Bristol.
Disfruta de la escena musical en directo y los DJ
sets de gran prestigio de la ciudad en los pubs y
clubes; hay muchos lugares entre los que elegir y
podrás encontrar de todo, desde los éxitos más
recientes hasta jazz y folk tradicional.
Día tres - Comienza con un tour de arte urbano,
guiado por uno de los propios artistas, y después
explora las galerías y exposiciones en el Bristol
Museum and Art Gallery y la vecina Royal West
of England Academy. Para comer, pásate por el
Mercado de St Nick en la zona antigua de la ciudad.
Explora algunas de las preciosas ciudades
mercado del sur de Gloucestershire, a muchas de
las cuales puedes llegar en autobuses locales, y
tómate el tiempo de visitar el famoso Concorde en
Aerospace Bristol.
Si quieres más sugerencias, entra en
www.visitbristol.co.uk
visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk

UN WEEK-END
INOUBLIABLE
Bristol est la ville parfaite pour une escapade riche
en activités ou comme base pour explorer plus
longuement la région.
Jour 1 : Commencez sur le port par découvrir
l’histoire de la ville à l’occasion d’une visite au
Mshed, avec un détour par un des cafés ou
restaurants de Wapping Wharf.
Marchez jusqu’à Arnolfini pour voir une exposition
d’art contemporain puis régalez-vous de
spécialités régionales au Watershed ou à No. 1
Harbourside.
D’un coup de ferry, faites la traversée jusqu’au
S.S. Great Britain de Brunel, premier paquebot
de luxe de l’histoire, aujourd’hui transformé en
superbe musée. Ne manquez pas l’exposition
permanente Being Brunel. À quelques pas de là se
trouve Spike Island, espace d’exposition et studio
d’artistes.
Pour une soirée animée, cap sur les pubs et bars
à bière artisanale de King Street. Vous y trouverez
aussi le plus ancien théâtre toujours en activité du
Royaume-Uni, le Bristol Old Vic.
Jour 2 : Direction le quartier de Clifton et son pont
suspendu, avec visite du centre d’information.
Faites les boutiques dans Clifton Village avant le
déjeuner.
Visitez ensuite le Zoo de Bristol, 5e plus ancien
zoo du monde, qui ont contribué à sauver de
Vols direct pour Bristol depuis Grenoble, Limoges,
Lyon, Montpellier, Nantes, Nice, Paris et Toulouse
www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol
48 HEURES À BRISTOL
l’extinction plus de 175 espèces menacées.
La verdure est partout à Bristol, par exemple au
jardin botanique de l’Université. Sur Brandon Hill,
au milieu du plus ancien parc de la ville, se dresse
la tour Cabot du haut de laquelle on admire
le panorama. Offrez-vous ensuite un intermède
musical à St Georges Bristol où se produisent des
interprètes de premier plan. Ensuite, séance de
lèche-vitrines au Bristol Shopping Quarter.
Laissez les pubs, boîtes et salles de spectacle de
la ville vous en mettre plein les oreilles avec une
multitude de groupes et de DJ. Il y en a pour tous
les goûts, du jazz classique aux derniers hits, en
passant par du rock & folk traditionnel.
Jour 3 : Lancez-vous dans un parcours-visite
guidé par un artiste de street art puis admirez
les collections permanentes et les expositions
temporaires du Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
et de la Royal West of England Academy toute
proche. Trouvez à déjeuner à un des étals de St
Nick’s Market dans la vieille ville.
Poussez jusqu’aux jolis bourgs du South
Gloucestershire, pour la plupart accessibles en
bus, et n’oubliez pas d’aller saluer le Concorde
à Aerospace Bristol.
Pour d’autres idées, rendez-vous sur
www.visitbristol.co.uk
67
48 STUNDEN IN BRISTOL
EIN UNVERGESSLICHES
WOCHENENDE
Bristol eignet sich bestens für einen aufregenden
Kurzurlaub oder einen längeren Aufenthalt mit
Tagesausflügen in die Umgebung.
Tag 1 – Startet den Tag im Hafen, erkundet das
junge Stadtmuseum Mshed und lasst euch auf der
Suche nach unabhängigen Cafés und Restaurants
Wapping Wharf nicht entgehen.
Lauft zum Arnolfini hinüber um die aktuellen
Ausstellungen anzuschauen und genießt lokale
Spezialitäten zum Mittag im Watershed oder No.
1 Harbourside
Nehmt die Fähre zu Brunel’s SS Great Britain,
dem weltweit ersten Luxusdampfer und heute
preisgekrönten Museumsschiff. Dabei unbedingt
auch die Ausstellung Being Brunel ansehen. Einen
kurzen Fußmarsch entfernt liegt Spike Island,
mit regelmäßigen Ausstellungen von führenden
Künstlern und einem Filmstudio.
Für einen lustigen Abend schaut am besten in der
von Pubs gesäumten King Street vorbei. Dort findet
ihr lokale Biersorten und könnt eine Aufführung
im Bristol Old Vic, dem ältesten durchgehend
geöffneten Theater Englands, besuchen.
Tag 2 – Macht euch auf den Weg nach Clifton
zur Suspension Bridge mit ihrem Besucherzentrum.
Stöbert durch die Geschäfte und geht in Clifton
Village zum Mittagessen.
Besucht Bristol Zoo Gardens, den fünftältesten Zoo
Direkte Flüge nach Bristol von Berlin, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt,
Hamburg und München mit bmi regional, easyjet und Ryanair
68
der Welt, der maßgeblich dazu beigetragen hat,
über 175 Arten vor dem Aussterben zu retten.
Es gibt viele Parks in Bristol, darunter die
botanischen Gärten der University of Bristol.
Brandon Hill is der älteste Park der Stadt und
bietet eine tolle Aussicht auf die Stadt von Cabot
Tower. Schaut bei St Georges Bristol vorbei und
lauscht Musikern und Interpreten der Weltklasse.
Danach geht es zum Einkaufsbummel in Bristols
Shoppingviertel.
Taucht in die Livemusikszene der Stadt ein oder
geht mit den besten DJs feiern– die Auswahl an
Pubs und Clubs ist groß und reicht von aktuellen
Charts bis zu traditionellem Jazz und Folk.
Tag 3 – Startet mit einer Street Art Tour in den
Tag, die von den Künstlern selbst angeboten wird,
dann erkundet die Kustgallerien und -ausstellungen
in der Bristol Museum and Art Gallery und der
nahegelegenen Royal West of England Academy.
Zum Mittagessen geht es in die Altstadt zu St
Nick’s Market.
Entdeckt auch die malerischen Marktstädte
in South Gloucestershire, von denen viele mit
örtlichen Bussen erreichbar sind, und nehmt euch
Zeit für einen Besuch der berühmten Concorde im
Luftfahrtmuseum Aerospace Bristol.
Für mehr Anregungen,
besucht www.visitbristol.co.uk
visitbristol www.visitbristol.co.uk

PER UN WEEKEND
DA RICORDARE
Bristol è un'ottima scelta per una breve pausa,
con le tante cose da fare, o per prolungare il
soggiorno aggiungendo altre gite giornaliere.
Primo giorno - Partite dall'Harbourside, visitate il
museo Mshed, che racconta la storia della città,
e non perdetevi il quartiere Wapping Wharf per i
ristoranti e le caffetterie indipendenti.
Passeggiate fino all'Arnolfini per dare un'occhiata alle
ultime mostre e a pranzo scegliete Watershed o No.
1 Harbourside per assaggiare le specialità locali
Prendete un traghetto che vi porti alla Brunel’s
SS Great Britain, la prima nave da crociera di
lusso al mondo, diventata ora un museo insignito
di premi. Non perdetevi il museo Being Brunel.
Quattro passi a piedi e arriverete a Spike Island,
uno spazio espositivo che ospita regolarmente
mostre di artisti importanti e uno studio in cui è
possibile vedere gli artisti all'opera.
Per una serata all'insegna del divertimento,
recatevi a King Street con i suoi molti pub che
servono birra artigianale oppure andate a vedere
uno spettacolo al Bristol Old Vic, il più antico
teatro del Regno Unito ancora in attività.
Secondo giorno - Dirigetevi a Clifton per vedere il
Ponte sospeso e il centro visitatori. Fate un giro per
le boutique e pranzate al Clifton Village.
Visitate il Giardino zoologico di Bristol, il quinto
zoo più vecchio al mondo, che ha il merito di aver
Voli diretti per Bristol da Milano Malpensa, Roma e
Venezia con bmi regional, easyJet e Ryanair
www.visitbristol.co.uk @ visitbristol
48 ORE A BRISTOL
aiutato a salvare dall'estinzione oltre 175 specie.
A Bristol ci sono tanti spazi verdi, tra cui il
Giardino botanico dell'Università di Bristol.
Brandon Hill è il parco più vecchio di Bristol,
nonché sede della Cabot Tower con le sue vedute
della città. Fate un salto a St Georges Bristol dove
potrete ascoltare musicisti e vedersi esibire artisti di
prim'ordine. Dopodiché, sarà il momento di fare
un po' di shopping terapeutico nel Quartiere dello
shopping di Bristol.
Controllate quali sono gli eventi di musica dal
vivo e i DJ set più importanti offerti nei pub e nei
club della città: avrete un'ampia scelta con i tanti
luoghi in cui è possibile ascoltare di tutto, dai
pezzi delle classifiche del momento alla musica
jazz e folk tradizionale.
Terzo giorno - Iniziate con un tour dedicato all'arte di
strada guidato proprio da uno degli artisti, per poi
esplorare gallerie e mostre alla Bristol Museum and
Art Gallery e poi nella vicina galleria d'arte Royal
West of England Academy. Per pranzo dirigetevi al
mercato St Nick's Market nella città vecchia.
Andate alla scoperta di alcuni dei bellissimi borghi
del South Gloucestershire, molti dei quali collegati
tramite autobus locali, e prendetevi del tempo per
visitare il famoso Concorde nel museo Aerospace
Bristol.
Per ulteriori suggerimenti, visitate il sito
www.visitbristol.co.uk
69