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Bristol

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Bristol

Loved for its independent spirit and alternative vibe, Bristol boasts culture, creativity and an impressive maritime legacy.

Bristol at a glance

  • This lively university city is full of exciting attractions and hosts one-of-a-kind events and festivals throughout the year, from Caribbean carnivals to ballooning spectaculars.

  • There's fantastic shopping on independent-minded Gloucester Road, great global cuisine from Georgian market hall St Nick’s, and buzzing bars and cafes along the Harbourside.

  • The most iconic attraction is Isambard Kingdom Brunel's Clifton Suspension Bridge – a treat to walk or cycle across. Then marvel at another of the engineer’s feats at Brunel’s ss Great Britain museum. The ship was the largest afloat when it was launched in 1843.

  • Did you know? The elegant Bristol Zoo Gardens now has a luxury lodge onsite. The unique stay includes a behind-the-scenes tour with a zoo keeper, a 4-course meal cooked by your personal chef, and in the morning - breakfast with the gorillas!

  • VisitBristol has all sorts of ideas for things to see and do during your visit, from a Banksy street art tour to a visit to the 3D planetarium at the We the Curious science and arts centre.

  • Just a short trip away is the Roman city of Bath and the rural splendour of Gloucestershire and The Cotswolds.

  • Bristol is 1 hour 40 minutes from London by train.
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Cool creative Bristol is a must-see destination if you’re a fan of art, culture and action-packed adventure. And when it comes to great grub and welcoming pubs, the city’s no slouch! For a true taste of Bristol, head out on a street art tour to discover the works of the city’s most famous son, Banksy. Delve into maritime history at the legendary SS Great Britain steamship, or discover awe-inspiring views on a tour of the historic Clifton Suspension Bridge. Feel your adrenaline pumping at the Wave, the city’s brand new inland surfing site, see historic works of art at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, or savour local ale and cosy up in one of its eclectic bars, pubs or breweries. With shopping ranging from budget to blowout and an impressive music scene to boot, one thing’s for sure - the home of Massive Attack and The Eagles doesn’t disappoint.

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Where is Bristol?

Nestled between Gloucestershire and Somerset, Bristol is just a one-hour-40-minute journey from London. Easily accessible from across the UK by train and car, the city is served by Bristol International Airport.

Getting around Bristol

As you’d expect from the south west’s biggest city, Bristol has fast, efficient transport connections, from regular buses to trains aplenty running from Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway Railway Stations.

  • For information on bus services, ticket prices and discounts across the city and the south west, visit FirstGroup
  • The UK’s first Cycling City, Bristol is easy to explore by bike and on foot too
  • Fancy getting out on the water? Number Seven Boats and Bristol Ferry Boats run frequent ferries to major attractions

BY BUS

With ticket stations at every stop, you can buy tickets for the city’s environmentally-friendly metrobuses before you board.

BY TRAIN

Save money on train and bus travel in and around Bristol and explore more with a Freedom Travelpass.

BY BIKE

You can discover the best cycling routes and find out how to hire bikes and equipment at Better by Bike.