Things to do & places to visit in Bristol, United Kingdom

Bristol is a quirky British city with beautiful hilly vistas and plenty of historic sights to explore. Anyone interested in ships will have a blast aboard Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the world’s first great oceanliner, and the Matthew, a replica of the ship upon which John Cabot sailed to America in the 15th century. The graceful Clifton Suspension Bridge is another must-see.

Bristol #37 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.56 based on 39.0k traveler reviews, of 33 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Wednesday, May 01, 2024, 3:02.

Bristol Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

61°F - 45°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly with a gentle breeze

Feels like

23%

Chance of rain

77.0 millimeters

Amount

14.8 mph

Wind speed

77%

Humidity

15.6

Daylight length

5:20 AM

Sunrise

8:53 PM

Sunset

46%

Cloud cover

Jacket

What to wear

Top things to do (29)

Upcoming events in Bristol 2

Date	Event	Location	Price	Category
Sat Jun 01 2024 at 09:00 am to 03:00 pm (GMT+00:00)	South West Record Fairs	Bristol		Festivals
Sat Jun 15 2024 at 07:30 pm (GMT+01:00)	Hamilton, Bristol Hippodrome	Bristol		Dance

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Brunel's SS Great Britain (8.098 reviews)
- The Ss Great Britain is amazing
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

Step back in time when you board Brunel’s SS Great Britain. Discover the true stories behind the ship that changed the world. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of life on board for Victorian passengers and crew. Descend under water below the glass ‘sea’ to touch the world’s first great ocean liner. See more..
5.0 Smoke & Mirrors Comedy & Magic Theatre Pub (1.633 reviews) from $31.63
- Funny and amazing
Wednesday: 5:30 PM - 11:45 PM Spent More than 3 hours Theaters

Smoke & Mirrors theatre pub, home to The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show, and is open 5 days a week. Our warm and welcoming bar staff will provide you with the very best in fine wines, so why not grab a pizza and watch a show? Our Pub is the best way to experience a night of entertainment whether you are attending one of our shows or one of the many theatres nearby we are the go-to pub for great drink & food before any show in Bristol. Being located right next to the Stage Door of the Hippodrome you can be sure that the cast and crew might be having a relaxing drink while our entertainers entertain them for a change from our Close-Up Magician performing right at your table or our House Musicians singing all the classics every weekend, you'll know that Smoke & Mirrors is the best-hidden Gem in Bristol and of course, we always have local ales always on tap! See more..
5.0 Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing (643 reviews)
- Just Awesome
Wednesday: 4:30 PM - 10:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Game & Entertainment Centers

You'll be slinging axes side by side against your friends or colleagues, hitting bullseyes and cheering on your mates. All backed up with great music and atmosphere and a chance to socialise between throws. Our experienced throwing coaches will get your throwing like a pro in no time. Then once you've got the hang of it we'll take you and your group through a tournament. See more..
5.0 SUP Bristol (630 reviews)
- A great introduction
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Lessons & Workshops • Stand Up Paddleboarding

Private Family SUP session We had an absolutely brilliant time and would highly recommend this to anyone thinking of trying out SUP for the first time. We are a family of four with a 16 and 13 year old, and with varying degrees of confidence on the water. Our instructor, Kate, was relaxed, assured and attentive throughout. She took us to the water as absolute novices, taught us the basics and instilled confidence. The 1 and a half hour session involved travelling up river, stopping occasionally to try some manoeuvres, a short race and a lot of fun. It’s a very relaxing activity but requires some basic skills to enjoy it properly. This basic instruction session is essential for first timers. See more..
5.0 Riddlr Escape Rooms (574 reviews)
- Really well thought through experience!
Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

Bristols best escape room experience , All our games are designed and built by us , we are a truly independant team of Bristolians who love what we do and are passionate about building immersive fun escape rooms,our games have been designed to create the most seamless narrative and unforgettable adventure possible and we are proud to have been nominated as one of the best escape rooms in the world!! Suitable for families, friends, stag & hen do's and corporate team building, come and play our games and chat with the people who designed and built them. We look forward to meeting you. See more..
5.0 Wills Memorial Building (525 reviews)
- Guided tour
Spent 1-2 hours Architectural Buildings

Take a tour of the Bristol University Wills Memorial building and meet the 7th largest bell in the UK, as well as being there when the famous Great George strikes. Whilst on the tour, you can climb to the top of the 68m tower and see the panoramic views of Bristol. You will also visit the Great Hall, the Library, the Old Council Chamber and the Reception Room. The tours are held on Saturdays , Prices Visitors: £5 Students and Senior Citizens: Group bookings and Evening tours are available upon request. See more..
5.0 Brunel's SS Great Britain (8.098 reviews)
- The Ss Great Britain is amazing
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

Step back in time when you board Brunel’s SS Great Britain. Discover the true stories behind the ship that changed the world. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of life on board for Victorian passengers and crew. Descend under water below the glass ‘sea’ to touch the world’s first great ocean liner. See more..
5.0 Smoke & Mirrors Comedy & Magic Theatre Pub (1.633 reviews) from $31.63
- Funny and amazing
Wednesday: 5:30 PM - 11:45 PM Spent More than 3 hours Theaters

Smoke & Mirrors theatre pub, home to The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show, and is open 5 days a week. Our warm and welcoming bar staff will provide you with the very best in fine wines, so why not grab a pizza and watch a show? Our Pub is the best way to experience a night of entertainment whether you are attending one of our shows or one of the many theatres nearby we are the go-to pub for great drink & food before any show in Bristol. Being located right next to the Stage Door of the Hippodrome you can be sure that the cast and crew might be having a relaxing drink while our entertainers entertain them for a change from our Close-Up Magician performing right at your table or our House Musicians singing all the classics every weekend, you'll know that Smoke & Mirrors is the best-hidden Gem in Bristol and of course, we always have local ales always on tap! See more..
5.0 Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing (643 reviews)
- Just Awesome
Wednesday: 4:30 PM - 10:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Game & Entertainment Centers

You'll be slinging axes side by side against your friends or colleagues, hitting bullseyes and cheering on your mates. All backed up with great music and atmosphere and a chance to socialise between throws. Our experienced throwing coaches will get your throwing like a pro in no time. Then once you've got the hang of it we'll take you and your group through a tournament. See more..
5.0 SUP Bristol (630 reviews)
- A great introduction
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Lessons & Workshops • Stand Up Paddleboarding

Private Family SUP session We had an absolutely brilliant time and would highly recommend this to anyone thinking of trying out SUP for the first time. We are a family of four with a 16 and 13 year old, and with varying degrees of confidence on the water. Our instructor, Kate, was relaxed, assured and attentive throughout. She took us to the water as absolute novices, taught us the basics and instilled confidence. The 1 and a half hour session involved travelling up river, stopping occasionally to try some manoeuvres, a short race and a lot of fun. It’s a very relaxing activity but requires some basic skills to enjoy it properly. This basic instruction session is essential for first timers. See more..
5.0 Riddlr Escape Rooms (574 reviews)
- Really well thought through experience!
Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

Bristols best escape room experience , All our games are designed and built by us , we are a truly independant team of Bristolians who love what we do and are passionate about building immersive fun escape rooms,our games have been designed to create the most seamless narrative and unforgettable adventure possible and we are proud to have been nominated as one of the best escape rooms in the world!! Suitable for families, friends, stag & hen do's and corporate team building, come and play our games and chat with the people who designed and built them. We look forward to meeting you. See more..
4.5 Clifton Suspension Bridge (7.743 reviews)
- Great Views And All-round Great Experience for Bridge Lovers
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Bridges

Designed and built in 1836 by a young engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, this 702-foot-long, 250-foot-high suspension bridge gracefully spans the Avon Gorge between Clifton and Leigh Woods. See more..
4.5 We The Curious (1.817 reviews)
- A brilliant family day out!
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent More than 3 hours Science Museums • Observatories & Planetariums

*Please note that due to a fire in April, we're closed for a few months. Thanks for all your support and we'll be back very soon!* We The Curious is an educational charity and South West England's leading science centre. We produce experiences that bring people together to play, get creative with science and explore different ideas. We work with partners local and nationally, supporting people to be inquisitive, develop new skills and improve their wellbeing. See more..
4.5 Cabot Tower (1.446 reviews)
- John Cabot
Wednesday: 8:15 AM - 3:45 PM Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers

This tower at the summit of Brandon Hill was constructed in memory of John Cabot, who set sail in the Matthew from Bristol in 1497 and landed in what was later to become Canada becoming the first European since the Vikings to visit North America. The tower wasn’t open to visits when I was there. Even from afar it’s an impressive looking building. Looking up at the building, I could see pretty looking corbelled balconies, which I’m sure would provide fantastic views of the surrounding area. But from the summit of Brandon Hill, you can see some impressive views of Bristol. A great landmark of Bristol. See more..
4.5 Bristol Ferry Boats (1.401 reviews)
- Excellent service , great staff
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Ferries

Bristol Ferry is a not-for-profit organisation offering boat trips around Bristol, as well as boat parties, interactive tours, wildlife spotting & storytelling, celebrations and wedding parties. We work with many local organisations, festivals and events, contributing to the vibrant culture in and around Bristol Harbour and delivering visitors to the door. Bristol Ferry is a 'community benefit society', whose main goal is keeping Bristol's iconic blue and yellow boats sailing. See more..
4.5 Bristol Cathedral (1.298 reviews)
- Great building
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Churches & Cathedrals

Bristol Cathedral has been at the heart of the city since it was founded as an Augustinian Abbey in 1140. This spectacular building reflects over 800 years of the history and heritage of Bristol. Today the Cathedral is a place of worship and community for all. From daily services, an astounding programme of live music, the monk's garden, through to one night only events, Bristol Cathedral has something extraordinary for everyone. Head to our website for opening times, services, and upcoming events. See more..
4.5 Bristol Museum & Art Gallery (1.186 reviews)
- Wonderous and out of this world
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Galleries • Art Museums • History Museums

Explore our free collections of art, nature and history on display in this beautiful building. Find out about the last billion years of earth's history, explore the region's natural wonders and discover more about peoples' lives, past and present. See more..
4.5 Bristol City Docks (1.016 reviews)
- Bristol’s live heart
Piers & Boardwalks

Very lively place with cafes and restaurants. Nice do a walk on a sunny day. Kids loved it. There is a ferry service to Ss Brunel which cost £1.20 one way, kids under 5 are free of charge. The waterfront walks are showing the true beauty of this city. The colourful buildings around add some charm. Lovely area! See more..
4.5 St Mary Redcliffe Church (881 reviews)
- Fabulous 14th century church
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Religious Sites

'The fairest, goodliest and most famous parish church in England' - Elizabeth I The Christian community has worshipped continuously on the site occupied by St Mary Redcliffe Church for well over 800 years. The first church may have built here in Saxon times, when Bristol first became a port – the original quayside was just across the road, below the red sandstone cliff from which this area gets its name, located on what is now Redcliffe Quay. The present church is a treasure of international importance, a Grade I listed building that is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. All the features of St Mary Redcliffe speak clearly of the beauty and the infinite variety in God’s world. The church building is open daily for all to visit, reflect, pray, join in formal worship or simply “be”. Everyone is welcome here. Use this page to find out more about our church and some of the famous people who have contributed to its rich history. See more..
4.5 Cabot Circus (606 reviews)
- Fancy shopping mall
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Shopping Malls

Some stores are still operating a click & collect service or food takeaway and essential stores remain open. Individual store times may vary, please check individual store pages on our website for more information. A unique and convenient shopping centre experience with distinct style, unrivalled fashion choice and dining in the heart of a great city. As with our architecture, it's an experience like no other. It's everything all in one place. With 120 stores from high street to high-end labels and a side of restaurants with a world of flavours. Chill-back, unwind and relax in our cafes. See more..
4.5 Arnos Vale Cemetery (503 reviews)
- Gem on the doorstep.
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Cemeteries

Step into a secret world and discover 45 green acres, close to the heart of Bristol, where the history of the city is told in a leafy and tranquil setting, rich in walks, wildlife, architecture, fascinating displays and memorials. Arnos Vale has something for everyone and it is open all year round with FREE admission. The Gift Shop is open 7 days a week. Cafe open 7 days a week. With a varied and exciting events programme - there is so much happening at Arnos Vale - see our website for more details See more..
4.5 Bristol Old Vic (429 reviews)
- Fascinating backstage tour
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 11:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Theaters

Built in 1766 as a place where the people of Bristol could come together, Bristol Old Vic is the oldest continuously working theatre in the English speaking world. It was built as a symbol of the pride we have in our city and what it can achieve and remains a place of joy, discovery and adventure to this day. See more..
4.5 Oakham Treasures (394 reviews)
- A Real Hidden Treasure
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM History Museums

A group of 25 members from Hambrook Probus visited the Museum and were made very welcome by the team on site. Members spent many hours looking at the exhibits and reminiscing about things they remembered from from years gone by. There was something for everyone to talk about and share memories. All enjoyed the Museum and time in the Café where the food was excellent and very good value. See more..
4.5 John Wesley's New Room (325 reviews)
- Hidden architectural and social history gem in the middle of Bristol's shopping quarter!
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

The New Room in Bristol is the oldest Methodist Chapel in the world (originally built in 1739 and extended in 1748) and the cradle of the early Methodist movement. It was built and used by John and Charles Wesley and the early Methodists as a meeting and preaching place and the centre for helping and educating the needy members of the community. The chapel itself is on the ground floor (where there is also a shop) and is accessible from either the Broadmead or Horsefair courtyards. Upstairs, there is an admission charge Arts Council accredited museum which tells the story of John and Charles Wesley and their life and work in Bristol. See more..
4.5 Tobacco Factory Theatres (312 reviews)
- Snow White with Ellie Showering was AWESOME!
Spent 2-3 hours Theaters

Tobacco Factory Theatres produces and presents excellent art in unique, intimate spaces, including our Factory Theatre, off site in Bristol and in venues across the country. See more..
4.5 Harbourside (279 reviews)
- Really nice part of the city....
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Marinas

This part of Bristol is truly superb! We were lucky enough to have been in the city whilst the weather was perfect in early September. The area is relaxing, uplifting & it was lovely to be able to stroll along the riverside taking in the scenery & photographing the area. The multicoloured houses perched high over the river were especially pretty to photograph. Lots of boats on the water including canoes, rowing boats & tourist boats doing trips up & down. See more..
4.5 Clifton Suspension Bridge Visitor Centre (277 reviews)
- Insight into Brunel
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Visitor Centers

Find out about the competition to design the bridge, learn about the project which established Brunel as one of the greatest British engineers, and find out how we maintain the working historic structure today. See more..
4.5 Blaise Hamlet (243 reviews)
- Tucked away secret
Historic Sites

National Trust - free to the public to enter. The cottages were originally built for servants of the Estate. Now modernised and are homes, so do not expect to go inside. There’s a peaceful atmosphere to soak up the beauty of the buildings. There’s parking close to the entrance which is through a metal gate, easy to miss, just be observant walking along the wall/hedge. A National Trust sign, which is in a triangle of grass on the B4057 close the Blaise Castle Estate, directs you down the one-way road. There’s a metal NT sign next to the gate. See more..
4.5 The Georgian House Museum (242 reviews)
- Georgian House Alive with Family Back then
Wednesday: Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums

Discover what a Bristol sugar plantation and slave owner's home might have looked like around 1790. Eleven rooms spread over four floors reveal what life was like above and below stairs, from the kitchen in the basement where servants prepared meals to the elegant formal rooms above. See more..
4.5 The Red Lodge Museum (201 reviews)
- an elizabethan gem
Wednesday: Historic Sites

What secrets lie behind the bright red door? Step inside the TARDIS and experience more than 400 years of history in the museum where you feel you have left the modern world behind. From 'royal party house' of the 16th Century to Victorian reform school for girls, see how the lodge has changed over time. See more..