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aerial view of bridge - Photo by Samuel Oakes

Explore the English Charm of Bristol, United Kingdom

About Bristol, United Kingdom

Bristol is a vibrant city in southwest England, known for its street art, music scene, and historic landmarks. With a rich maritime history, Bristol offers visitors a unique blend of old and new, from the Clifton Suspension Bridge to the trendy bars and restaurants of the Harbourside. Book your trip now!

Bristol, a city in the southwest of the United Kingdom, is often overlooked by travelers in favor of larger and more well-known destinations like London or Edinburgh. However, Bristol has plenty to offer visitors looking for a unique and authentic English experience.

One of the city's main draws is its rich history and architecture. Bristol was an important port city during the 18th and 19th centuries, and many of the buildings in the city center date back to that time period. Visitors can take a stroll through the historic streets and admire the Georgian and Victorian architecture, or visit the harborside and see the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

In addition to its historical charms, Bristol is a bustling and vibrant city with plenty of cultural attractions. The city is home to a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and museums showcasing both local and international works. Music lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, with a range of venues hosting everything from classical concerts to rock shows.

Bristol is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside. The city is located near the Cotswolds, a picturesque region of rolling hills and charming villages. Visitors can take a day trip to explore the countryside, or even spend a few nights in a traditional English inn.

Foodies will also find plenty to enjoy in Bristol, which has a thriving food and drink scene. The city is home to a range of independent cafes, bars, and restaurants, serving up everything from traditional English fare to international cuisine.

Overall, Bristol is a great destination for travelers looking for an authentic English experience away from the crowds of larger cities. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful surrounding countryside, it's no wonder that Bristol is becoming an increasingly popular destination for visitors to the UK.

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Popular Stays in Bristol, United Kingdom

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Bristol, United Kingdom

General view
Business hotels

Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel

Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel has had an extensive makeover in recent years, giving the historic Grade II listed building a stylish and distinctive new look for 2018. The hotel's rejuvenated interior draws inspiration from both the city's independent art scene and the building's rich historic past; creating a classic, yet contemporary, finish. Keepers Bar & Kitchen features solid wood and metal fittings and serves much-loved British meals using quality, locally sourced ingredients.
Conferences
Business hotelsSustainable Hotel

Double Tree By Hilton Bristol North

The following services and amenities are available, but with reduced service: Fitness Center, Breakfast, On-site Restaurant(s), Pool, Room Service, Spa.Easily accessible from both the M4 and M5 motorways and just 8 miles from the city centre. Bristol Parkway railway station is only 3 miles from the hotel and has direct services to London Paddington. Business travelers will also appreciate our close proximity to the Bradley Stoke & Aztec Business Park, home to many corporate clients. The chargeable and well-lit car park is located on the same level as the hotel, Upon arrival to your guest room enjoy a DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie. Guest rooms feature modern amenities including Wi-Fi access and 49-inch LCD TV's. Upgrade to a deluxe room to enjoy extra amenities including Nespresso coffee machine, bathrobes and slippers, with a one-hour extended checkout and more. LivingWell Health Club features a 24-hour fitness room, swimming pool, sauna, and spa pool and steam room. Children swimming pool hours apply. The comfortable Brunel's Hat Restaurant serves delicious British classics or settle into the cozy sofas in the lounge bar with a freshly brewed Starbucks coffee. In the warmer months step out from the lounge bar to the courtyard with a sitting area under the pretty pagoda. 24-hour room service is also available for the ultimate convenience. Ideal location for meetings, special events and weddings. With Six meeting and banquet rooms we offer flexible space for events with up to 200 guests and our beautiful outdoor courtyard offers the perfect place for photographs and summer events.
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Business hotelsSustainable HotelHotels with spaFamily hotels

Novotel Bristol Centre

Discover the city and relax in 4-star comfort at Novotel Bristol Centre hotel. Your airy, spacious room will give you, your family & friends space to stretch out and feel at home. Our modern Gourmet Bar & Restaurant will offer you classic dishes with a twist whilst our sauna and steam room will help you unwind. Make sure you plan ahead as Bristol's road renovations may add some time to your journey.
General view
Business hotelsGolf hotelsSustainable Hotel

The Bristol

THE BRISTOL ENJOYS ONE OF THE BEST LOCATIONS IN THE CITY. WITH A STUNNING WATERFRONT LOCATION RIGHT IN THE CENTRE- IT IS PERFECTLY PLACED TO ACCESS THE CITYS THRIVING CREATIVE QUARTER BRISTOLS THEATRES MUSEUMS AND ART GALLERIES SHOPPING IN CABOT CIRCUS LOCAL ATTRACTIONS - THE CLIFTON SUSPENSION BRIDGE AND SS GREAT BRITAIN THE CITYS AEROSPACE - ENGINEERING AND FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPANIES. THE BRISTOL A DELUXE 4 STAR HOTEL ENJOYS AN UNBEATABLE WATERFRONT LOCATION IN THE HEART OF BRISTOL. WITH ITS LIVELY HARBOURSIDE POSITION IT IS PERFECTLY PLACED TO ACCESS THE CITYS THRIVING CREATIVE QUARTER BRISTOLS THEATRES MUSEUMS AND ART GALLERIES SHOPPING IN CABOT CIRCUS LOCAL ATTRACTIONS - THE CLIFTON SUSPENSION BRIDGE AND SS GREAT BRITAIN THE CITYS AEROSPACE-ENGINEERING AND FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPANIES. POPULAR AMONG BRISTOLIANS AND OFFERING A LIVELY LOCAL AMBIENCE ARE THE HOTELS RIVER GRILLE AND RIVER LOUNGE. WITH ITS FLOOR-TO-CEILING WINDOWS OFFERING STUNNING VIEWS OF THE HARBOURSIDE - THE RIVER GRILLE IS ONE OF BRISTOLS MOST ELEGANT DINING VENUES- FAMED FOR ITS SUPERB STEAKS AND LOCALLY SOURCED SEAFOOD. THEN THERES THE RELAXING AND COSY AMBIENCE OF THE RIVER LOUNGE. OVERLOOKING THE HARBOUR IT IS THE PERFECT SPOT TO SIT AND WATCH THE WORLD GO BY AND TO SAVOUR TASTY INTERPRETATIONS ON CLASSIC BLENDS ALONGSIDE BOLD IMAGINATIVE COCKTAILS. VINTAGE AFTERNOON TEA IS SERVED IN THE RIVER LOUNGE AND IN THE RIVER GRILLE. JUICES AND HEALTHY SMOOTHIES ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE JUICERY AT THE BRISTOL. FOUNDED BY NEW YORK-BASED CINDY PALUSAMY - THE JUICERY IS BASED ON THE CONCEPT OF EXPERT GOODNESS AND OFFERS A WONDERFUL MENU USING LOCALLY SOURCED ORGANIC INGREDIENTS.GUEST ROOMS COMPRISE A MIX OF STYLISHLY APPOINTED STANDARD CLASSIC AND DELUXE ROOMS ALONG WITH A RESTFUL ONE-BEDROOM SUITE WITH HARBOURSIDE VIEWS.
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Business hotelsHotels with charmHotels with spaSport hotelsDesign

Radisson Blu Bristol

Situated in the heart of Bristol's bustling city centre, this hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the Temple Meads train station and 21 km from the historic city of Bath. Overlooking the waterfront, the air-conditioned establishment is housed in a landmark building, with floor-to-ceiling windows and some of the best city views. Its spacious rooms are elegantly decorated in a contemporary design, with either a Chic, Fashion or Fresh theme. The artsy theme is continued through the trendy bar, which features contemporary artwork and harbour views, and boasts a classic set of drinks. For a delicious Italian dish guests can head to the stylish onsite restaurant, which will treat them to an excellent culinary experience, outstanding wine and beautiful views of the popular waterfront.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsGreen HotelHotels with spaSport hotels

Double Tree By Hilton Bristol South Cadbury House

Hiltons Commitment to You During COVID-19 ” Weve updated our reservation and cancellation policies, extended Hilton Honors Points and status and may be requiring face coverings, temperature checks, health declarations and use of mobile contact tracing at our hotels around the world. Please visit our dedicated COVID-19 page for the latest and before traveling.DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol - South Cadbury House is located only minutes from Junctions 20 & 21 of the M5 motorway, Bristol International Airport & Yatton Railway station which has direct links to Bristol City Centre and London. This vibrant Bristol hotel is set against a backdrop of woodland and the semi-rural location is complemented by wonderful views across the Bristol Channel and beyond into Wales. Our full service hotel offers a relaxed country ambiance with a warm and friendly service. Our contemporary hotel features conveniences suited to the business traveler, along with a great location and recreational amenities to please leisure guests. Spacious Guest Rooms and Suites boast a long list of guest amenities, such as generous work surfaces and the luxurious Sweet Dreams Bed Experience. Free WiFi is also available in public areas. Our guests have full use of our many amenities including: * Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill * An award winning Health Club and Spa * Well equipped fitness center, with spinning and dance studios * Sauna and steam rooms * Indoor pool and whirlpool * Spa with over 80 treatments available * Hair Salon * Executive car hire onsite * Bicycles are available from the hotel to enjoy the local area * Golf is available nearby DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol-South Cadbury House has 12 flexible Conference and Banqueting rooms to meet all your needs, including the magnificent Great Room and the equally impressive Drawing Room.
General view
Business hotelsGreen Hotel

Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Centre

Located in the heart of Bristol, the contemporary Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Centre hotel is within short walking distance of many tourist attractions and local businesses. Bristol International Airport is 10 miles southwest of Bristol. All 171 of the Guest Rooms at this Bristol hotel offer a choice of king, queen and twin beds, many of which offer views of Temple Park. Each room is equipped with a 42-inch television, complimentary WiFi access, air conditioning a mini cooler and tea and coffee making facilities. Dine on the terrace in Recess, the hotel bar and restaurant and enjoy unrivalled views of Temple Park. Shop for snacks and ready-made meals any time in our 24-hour Shop. Keep fit in our complimentary 24-hour Fitness Centre. Bristol's city centre offers a large variety of shops, bars, restaurants and leisure activities.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsGolf hotels

Mercure Bristol North The Grange Hotel

Mercure Bristol North The Grange Hotel is an elegant 4-star hotel set amongst 18 acres of landscaped gardens. This Bristol hotel is only a short drive to the city centre. Complimentary high speed WiFi is available in the 68 guest rooms and throughout the hotel. Enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel's contemporary lounge or a freshly prepared meal in The Brasserie at The Grange. The hotel's 7 meeting rooms can hold up to 150 people for a banquet.

Things to do in Bristol, United Kingdom

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Bristol, United Kingdom

Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Digital Voucher120 minutes

Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!

Calling all curd nerds and turophiles – yep there’s a word for your love of cheese – Bristol’s finest cheeses are being wrapped up into one 2 hour walking tour! You have not truly explored Bristol until you tour as a turophile. Get involved in Bristol’s first and grate-est cheese crawl! The crawl is 2 hours of non stop in-curd-edible action. There will be a cheese whizz quiz and of course a little bit of apple fizz. Calling all curd nerds and turophiles – yep there’s a word for your love of cheese – Bristol’s finest cheeses are being wrapped up into one 2 hour walking tour! You have not truly explored Bristol until you tour as a turophile. Get involved in Bristol’s first and grate-est cheese crawl! The crawl is 2 hours of non stop in-curd-edible action. There will be a cheese whizz quiz and of course a little bit of fizz.
Stand-up Paddleboard SUP Safari on The River Avon For Beginners
Digital Voucher150 minutes

Stand-up Paddleboard SUP Safari on The River Avon For Beginners

We really are fortunate here; the River Avon is a slow, winding, dreamy escape of a river that meanders away from roads, towns and the noise of civilization into a quiet wilderness full of creatures large and small. I regularly see deer swimming in the river during the Summer and Red Kites are starting to shadow us as we paddle along too! This is more than just your average 'learn to SUP' session, this is a complete experience giving you the skills to escape into nature safely on a paddleboard so you can explore these natural spaces from the unique perspective of walking on water! WAY more than just a SUP adventure this comprehensive beginner's paddle lesson and SUP safari experience is all about skills, safety, confidence and tranquillity! If you feel that your or a loved one’s neurodiversity or disability might impact your SUP adventure, please talk to us so that we can curate a plan and a safe space for you.
The Hotwell Spring
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Guided Walking Tour Suspension Bridge Clifton Splendour & City.

A guided walk, for a maximum of six people, between 2.5 - 3 Hrs long, 12-15,000 steps circa 4-5 miles long, listening to the guide on Audio devices to interesting facts, colourful characters, history and anecdotes on the way. Clifton, a sleepy village in 1700, developed into the ‘Mayfair’ of Bristol. Walk the suspension bridge, view the dramatic ‘Avon Gorge’, Historic Buildings, Grand Terraces, Crescents & Squares, see the Harbour, Banksy’s, University, Museum, that statue, ending at the Cathedral and Centre. Join your guide, who having moved to Bristol in 1980, attended Bristol Poly (UWE), I have lived, played rugby, worked off and on in the City for 40 years. I am now semi retired, continually research the city as a Hobby and want to give something back to a place I adore. The style is interactive, flexible, light-hearted and personal.
Brunel Guided Tour in Bristol
Digital Voucher120 minutes

Brunel Guided Tour in Bristol

Join our guided tour, telling the story of Brunel and how his designs have shaped our wonderful city of Bristol. By joining one of our small group tours, you will be in the safe hands of our highly trained tour guide. Who will tell the story of Bristol and Brunel, we have a number of locations you will be able to have your photos taken in front of Brunel’s landmark locations. Along the tour we will take you to locations, including the SS Great Britain, Clifton Seawalls with amazing views along the river Avon and Brunel’s Bridge, we have the chance to walk over the Clifton Bridge, have your photo taken with Brunel’s Statue followed by taking a look at the original passenger shed built for the Great Western Railway. Our tour guides will are on hand to answer any questions you have, and give more information about any points of interest for you. Subject to time and access restrictions, our driver and guide’s maybe able to add additional points of interest onto the tour as requested.
Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour

Discover Bristol's rich history with Helen's self-guided walking tour of the city's harborside. Led by a local expert with 25 years of experience, she'll take you through the heart of the city, showcasing its vibrant culture and fascinating past. From the ruins of the old castle to the SS Great Britain, you'll experience firsthand the transformation of the city over the centuries. With insider recommendations on the best places to visit, eat, and drink, this tour offers a unique and immersive way to explore Bristol. Our self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace, take breaks when you need to, and even revisit your favourite spots. The app is designed to provide a seamless experience, with offline maps, audio commentary, and insider recommendations for you to get the most out of your visit. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to experience the city like a local, Helen's Bristol Experience is the perfect way to discover all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Bristol Bike Rental 
Digital Voucher1440 minutes

Bristol Bike Rental 

The best way to explore Bristol's beautiful streets is by bike! Get onto some of the best bike paths in the UK and conveniently park near the best attractions. Safe bike lanes will help you explore the parks and harborside easily, allowing you to get to fantastic restaurants, cafes, attractions, or even all the way to Bath!
Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol
Digital Voucher120 minutes

Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol

Join us for a fantastic fun filled and fact packed tour of Bristol, take in world leading street art by Banksy and others, nestled in 1000 years of city history.
Over The Planet
Digital Voucher135 minutes

Guided Walking Tour of Bristol Old City and Harbour

Walking around a city, whilst listening to a tour guide, is a perfect form of exercise. 1000 years of Trade and Industry made Bristol the UK’s second city. See the Cathedral, Banksy’s, Harbour, Docks, Georgian Square, Old Vic, ‘Bridge’, Castle site, Old City, corn exchange, markets, Guilds, Street Art, and Sugar House. We take a maximum of six people on our walk. Enjoy a 2-hour guided walk, circa 12,000 steps and 3-4 miles long, listening to interesting facts, colourful characters, history and anecdotes on the way. Each person has an audio receiver so they can here the guide above all the city noise. Join your guide, who having moved to Bristol in 1980, attended Bristol Poly (UWE), has lived, played rugby, worked off and on in the city for 40 years. He is continually researching the city as a hobby and wants to give something back to the place he adores. The style is interactive, flexible, light-hearted and personal. Nature breaks are limited, so please plan ahead.

Why People Love Bristol, United Kingdom

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Bristol, United Kingdom

2
238tinao
4
Aug 2022
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
The host was lovely. The meeting spot was a little confusing, had to ask people if they were there for the tour. and hard to find parking. Go early, or get dropped off. It’s just at a public park/open space, just wait until a group forms ;p this is quite a bit of walking, I enjoyed it but others...
K
Kay_M
5
May 2022
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
It was great fun. There was 15 peope on the tour. The tour guide Flo was very informative and we weren't rushed. A really nice experience, good fun. I would do it again.
L
luciegM3157YS
5
Jul 2023
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Bristol Cheese Crawl with Cider!
Excellente guide, nous avons adoré c’était top ! Merci c’était super . Nous recommandons vivement .

Explore all stays in Bristol, United Kingdom

Explore all things to do in Bristol, United Kingdom

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bristol

What are some must-see attractions in Bristol?

Bristol is home to some great attractions. The Clifton Suspension Bridge, Brunel's ss Great Britain, and Bristol Museum and Art Gallery are just a few. The Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of Bristol's most iconic landmarks and offers stunning views of the city. Brunel's ss Great Britain is a museum ship that allows visitors to step back in time and experience what life was like on board. Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is a great place to go if you are interested in history and art. It has a range of exhibits that cover everything from ancient Egypt to modern art.

What are some fun things to do in Bristol?

There are plenty of fun things to do in Bristol. You can take a hot air balloon ride over the city, go on a street art tour, or visit the Bristol Zoo Gardens. The hot air balloon ride offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding countryside. The street art tour takes visitors around the city to see some of the world's best street art. The Bristol Zoo Gardens is a great place to go if you are interested in animals. It has a range of exhibits that cover everything from reptiles to primates.

What are some family-friendly activities in Bristol?

Bristol has plenty of family-friendly activities. You can visit the We The Curious science museum, explore Bristol Aquarium, or take a trip to the Wild Place Project. We The Curious is a great place to go if you are interested in science. It has a range of exhibits that cover everything from space to the human body. Bristol Aquarium is a great place to go if you are interested in marine life. It has a range of exhibits that cover everything from fish to sharks. The Wild Place Project is a great place to go if you are interested in animals. It has a range of exhibits that cover everything from giraffes to meerkats.

What are some of the best places to eat in Bristol?

Bristol has a great food scene. Some of the best places to eat include The Ivy Clifton Brasserie, The Ox, and Tare. The Ivy Clifton Brasserie is a great place to go if you are looking for classic British cuisine. The Ox is a great place to go if you are looking for steak. Tare is a great place to go if you are looking for a modern British dining experience.

What are some of the best pubs in Bristol?

Bristol is home to some great pubs. Some of the best include The Apple, The Famous Royal Navy Volunteer, and The White Lion. The Apple is a great place to go if you are looking for cider. The Famous Royal Navy Volunteer is a great place to go if you are looking for a traditional English pub experience. The White Lion is a great place to go if you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere and great beer.

What are some good hotels in Bristol?

There are plenty of good hotels in Bristol. Some of the best include The Bristol Hotel, The Berkeley Square Hotel, and The Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel. The Bristol Hotel is a great place to stay if you are looking for a luxury experience. The Berkeley Square Hotel is a great place to stay if you are looking for a boutique hotel. The Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel is a great place to stay if you are looking for a comfortable and convenient hotel.

What are some good budget accommodations in Bristol?

Bristol has plenty of good budget accommodations. Some of the best include The Full Moon Backpackers Hostel, The Rock N Bowl Motel, and The Clifton Hotel. The Full Moon Backpackers Hostel is a great place to stay if you are looking for a hostel experience. The Rock N Bowl Motel is a great place to stay if you are looking for a budget hotel. The Clifton Hotel is a great place to stay if you are looking for a budget hotel in a great location.

What are some good shopping areas in Bristol?

Bristol has some great shopping areas. Some of the best include Cabot Circus, The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, and St Nicholas Market. Cabot Circus is a great place to go if you are looking for high street brands. The Mall at Cribbs Causeway is a great place to go if you are looking for designer brands. St Nicholas Market is a great place to go if you are looking for independent retailers and artisans.

What is the best time of year to visit Bristol?

Bristol is a great city to visit year-round. However, the best time to visit depends on what you are interested in. If you are interested in festivals and events, the summer months are a great time to visit. If you are interested in Christmas markets, the winter months are a great time to visit. If you are interested in the outdoors, the spring and autumn months are a great time to visit.

What is the transportation like in Bristol?

Bristol has a great public transportation system. There are buses and trains that run throughout the city and the surrounding area. The city is also bike-friendly, with plenty of cycle lanes and bike rental options. If you are driving, there are plenty of parking options available throughout the city.