Bristol’s Harbourside: Splash Into History
Bristol’s Harbourside is the maritime heart of the city and a must-see for both locals and tourists. Once the arrival and departure point for countless trading ships, it now hosts an eclectic mix of restaurants, museums, and cultural attractions. Hungry history buffs will find themselves at home at the M-Shed, an immense museum dedicated to all things Bristol. From pirate tales to the world’s first chocolate factory, the M-Shed is a treasure trove that’ll keep you entertained faster than you can say “Arrrr!”
Clifton Suspension Bridge: Engineering Marvel or Slightly Terrifying Walk?
Suspended dramatically over the Avon Gorge, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is Bristol’s pièce de résistance. Designed by the legendary engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, this jaw-dropping bridge offers panoramic views and an exhilarating walk. With its signature Georgian architecture and bustling boutiques, Clifton Village is just a hop, skip, and a nerve-steeling jaunt over the bridge. Not to worry, the bridge is far more secure than the spelling on Isambard’s first-grade report card.
Street Art Extravaganza: Banksy’s Beginnings
Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t love a city that encourages public doodling? Bristol is the stomping ground of the world’s most famous street artist, Banksy. While the elusive artist’s graffiti can be found all over the city, locals and tourists alike gawk at the dozens of other incredible street art pieces that brighten Bristol’s walls. A Street Art Walking Tour is the definitive way to catch a glimpse of these secretive spray-painted wonders — plus, it’s a great cardio workout when you inevitably lose yourselves trying to find them all.
Bristol Zoo Gardens: A Roaring Good Time
Though technically more of a “stroll” from the city center, Bristol Zoo Gardens is the perfect retreat for animal lovers and curious cats. Boasting a vast array of wildlife, from gentle giraffes to magnificent meerkats, the zoo’s immersive ecosystems offer the chance to walk among exotic animals. While these walks may leave you panting like a penguin in the Sahara, the zoo’s conservation efforts warrant leaving a print smaller than an elephant’s.
SS Great Britain: Steam Into the Past
Ah, the SS Great Britain, the ship that launched a thousand Wellies. This iconic iron ship was born in 1843 from Brunel’s inventive genius. Step aboard, and be transported back to the age of Queen Victoria, where you can relive the cramped conditions of a trans-Atlantic voyage. Pro tip: Dressing up in period clothing while shouting “Land ho!” from the deck is all the rage among Bristol’s seasoned sailors.
Bars In Bristol: Sip Like A Local
If there’s one thing the Bristolians know, it’s [how to enjoy a cheeky tipple](https://www.enjoybristol.com/category/bars-in-bristol/). Whether you shimmy over to a secret speakeasy, take a tumble into a trendy craft beer bar, or sink into a lovingly restored Victorian pub, the bars in Bristol cater to every taste. No matter what your drink of choice may be, remember to pace yourself — it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
We The Curious: Curious Minds Welcome
Channel your inner scientist at We The Curious, an interactive science and arts center that offers hands-on exhibits sure to ignite any imagination. Blow bubbles bigger than your head and meet life-size animatronic robots without risking a Skynet-like future. Whether you’re a pint-sized prodigy or a grown-up genius, We The Curious is the perfect place for inspiration, giggles, and sometimes explosive experiments.