Explore The Street Art Scene
Ah, Bristol—a city so vibrant it’s like a rainbow threw a party and decided not to clean up. The streets are adorned with spectacular street art, including works by the mysterious Banksy. Arm yourself with a camera, wear your best detective hat, and go on a self-guided tour. If you’re anything like a true Brizzle (that’s a Bristol local, for the uninitiated), you’ll spend half the day standing on a random street corner, squinting at a wall, wondering if that unassuming cat is actually a Banksy original. Pro tip: even if it’s just an ‘interesting’ water stain, take a photo and add it to your “artsy” Instagram feed. No judgment here.
Visit The SS Great Britain
Welcome aboard the SS Great Britain! One of the top attractions in Bristol, this historic ship is perfect for a solo explorer. Walk the decks and imagine life as a 19th-century sailor. For those with a vivid imagination, be prepared to fend off imaginary krakens. If oceanic fantasies aren’t enough, the ship offers a brilliant audio guide to accompany your visit. With Barnacles Bob speaking right into your ear, you’ll find yourself more committed to boat life than Jack Sparrow.
Immerse Yourself At The Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
This local gem is what happens when history gets cozy with art. Featuring everything from Egyptian mummies to dinosaur fossils, there isn’t a dull moment. The exhibits are so engaging you’ll practically hear the din of Victorian Bristol around you, if only in your head. However, let’s be clear: talking to the mummies is not encouraged. Constructing an imaginary friendship with ancient pharaohs is not your average way of making acquaintances, but it beats small talk about British weather.
Go For A Stroll Through Brandon Hill
Start your Brandon Hill adventure with a hike up the Cabot Tower for panoramic views that scream, “you forgot your binoculars!” If climbing the 105 feet tower solo doesn’t fill you with pride, just imagine the faces of all those who opted for an elevator somewhere else. It’s a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and people-watching—a skill that’s essentially Bristolian espionage. Plus, with blossoming gardens and cheeky squirrels, you might just narrate your own nature documentary.
Savor The Culinary Delights
Picture yourself munching on cider and cider cake (when in Rome) at St. Nicholas Market. Fancy a vegan adventure? At Café Kino, you can indulge in delicious plant-based feasts. Your self-control might be tested with Bristol’s culinary delights, but hey, when in Rome—or Bristol. Dining solo means you also won’t have to share that mouthwatering cake with anyone else. See? Silver linings everywhere! And don’t even get me started on the numerous vibrant bars in Bristol ready to welcome you as the ‘mysterious lone stranger at the bar.’ Own it!
Enjoy A Performance At The Bristol Old Vic
Fancy a night out enjoying the dramatic arts? The Bristol Old Vic offers productions so enthralling you’ll forget you’re sat among strangers. Here’s the kicker—sometimes the strangers even become friendly faces. Just don’t stand up mid-performance to offer your own encore. Remember, one is a soloist exploring, not auditioning for Shakespeare.
Get Lost In A Bookshop
If your idea of companionship is between the covers of a good book, then the city’s bookshops are calling. Tread softly and carry a big book at stores like Waterstones or the independent treasure trove, Foyles. With numerous nooks to squish yourself into, you can pop down in a corner and emerge with multitude of new friends—albeit, paper ones. Choose your adventure carefully, intrepid solo traveller, for you may never want to leave.