Bristol Guide

Take a walk on the wild side at Bristol Zoo Gardens!

Come face to face with the cheeky monkeys in the Monkey Jungle or head over to the Aquarium to see some of the most colourful species at the Zoo. There is also an activity centre where you can learn more about the different animals housed at the zoo and an adventure playground where the kids can run wild!The list of things to see and do at the Zoo is endless and the Zoo keepers advise you allow 2 - 5 hours for your visit to make the most your adventure.

Catch the 8 or 9 bus from Temple Meads Station or the City Centre to Bristol Zoo Gardens. 

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For over 150 years the Clifton Suspension Bridge has been an iconic landmark in Bristol. With breathtaking views and spanning the picturesque Avon Gorge its no wonder the bridge has attracted visitors from around the world.  

Hop on board a number 8 bus to Clifton Village or Christ Church, Clifton – the bridge is a short level walk from either of these bus stops.  

The photo of the Clifton Suspension Bridge was provided by Destination Bristol.

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Bristol’s very own West End theatre has been host to many spectacular shows over the years from Les Miserables to Guys and Dolls. You’re spoilt for choice at Bristol Hippodrome with a programme packed with a variety of shows. They also stage opera, ballet and children’s show so there is a performance bound to suit every taste.

Click here to see what’s on at the moment.  

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Discover what life was like onboard the world’s first great ocean liner by having a go at steering the virtual ship or climbing the main top. Pick up an audio guide and learn about what life was like for the Victorian passengers and crew. The Brunel’s SS Great Britain is a great day out for all and your ticket includes free entry for 12 months so you can keep coming back to explore more.

From Bristol Temple Meads there is a 30 minute walk or a short ferry or bus ride to the ship. 

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Be inspired by the enchanting exhibitions at Bristol’s Museum and Art Gallery.  Explore the Egyptian gallery or have a look at the fascinating fossils in the Geology section.  Take a journey back in time to the dinosaur age and discover the best preserved dinosaurs ever found in Britain – the Scelidosaurus. Wander upstairs to the second floor and explore the array of prints and watercolours as well as ceramics and pottery in the Art Galleries.     

The Bristol Museum and Art Gallery also have dynamic temporary exhibitions throughout the year. 

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At-Bristol brings science to life with over 300 hands-on exhibits, live shows and a Planetarium.

There is so much to see and do at the science and technology centre: exhibits about the world we live in as well as exhibits on the brain, flight and animation. You also have the chance to be an actor or actress for the day and create your own TV show.

Sit back and relax watching the Seasonal Night Sky Show at the Planetarium. Spot the coloured stars and giant planets and discover how to navigate your way through space. The show explores the science behind the stars. 

At-Bristol is a great fun packed day for the whole family!

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Ahoy there! Find out about Bristol’s heritage with Pirate Pete as he leads you on a one hour guided walking tour round the harbour. Step back in time and discover unforgettable maritime history. Search for Long John Silver’s treasure chest and hear tales of pirates in the 16th, 17th and 18th century in Bristol.

Walks start at 2.00pm on Saturday and Sunday from outside At-Bristol in Millennium Square and at any time, by appointment, during the week for parties of six people or more.

Book your place on the tour at the Tourist Information Centre or via Pirate Pete. 

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Take a dive into the ocean at the Blue Reef Aquarium and get up close and personal with freshwater turtles, fascinating pufferfish and tropical sharks.

Discover a world of exotic species in the breathtaking coral reef. The coral reef is the aquarium’s main focal point and is home to over 250 marine animals. Take a walk through the underwater tunnel and be engrossed by your surroundings. Spot a shark or a stingray living within the corals.

There are daily talks and feeds so visitors can learn more about the species living in the coral reef. 

Delve further below the ocean’s surface with a trip to the IMAX 3D cinema. Watch sharks and whales in their natural habitat on the big screen. The 3D effects will make you feel like you’re swimming with the planet’s largest and most fascinating creatures! The unforgettable 3D journey is combined with your entry to the aquarium.   

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Bristol has plenty to offer; with nearly 500 stores and two shopping centres, there is something for everyone. Visit Bristol Broadmead for a selection of high street shops as well as independent boutiques - the roads have been pedestrianised for the comfort of shoppers. Opposite Broadmead is Cabot Circus which offers a diverse range of shops and restaurants. It opened in 2008 and has since received numerous awards; the shopping centre prides itself on being more than a shopping experience.

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Bristol has a vast and varied amount of nightlife for you to enjoy, hit the dance floor at one of its many nightclubs or have a few drinks in Bristol’s thriving Harbourside area. Oceana is a favourite among party-goers as well as Syndicate and Panache. If pubs are more your scene Bristol has an impressive list of places to venture too, from city bars to pubs and inns . Bristol also has numerous live music venues which showcase emerging and internationally renowned artists. Click here for a full list of live music events in Bristol. 

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