Visiting Bristol? Plan your day out and discover the top attractions in Bristol. Bristol is famous for its Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol Waterfront and Hot Air Balloons, so why not explore and find out more?
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is the famous landmark of the city of Bristol, which joined the Avon Gorge and the River Avon, linking Clifton in Bristol to Leigh Woods in North Somerset.
For nearly 150 years this Grade I listed bridge has attracted attracts visitors and tourists from all over the world, since it first opened in 1864. The bridge is open 10am to 5pm, 7 days a week throughout the year.
Clifton Suspension Bridge is a great place to visit if you are going to Bristol - you won’t miss it! Plus, there is always something happening at Clifton Suspension Bridge – Make sure to check the events before you visit!
The visitor centre is open every day and offers free guided tours to the public on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. The guided tour will tell you all the history about the bridge and the amazing facts it has. This makes it a great day for the family to learn and discover Bristol!
Contact details
www.cliftonbridge.org.uk
2. Hot Air Balloon Flights
When the wind is in the right direction, you’re most likely to see a hot air balloon in the sky in Bristol! It is home to the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, which is Europe’s largest yearly gathering of hot air balloons from all around the world. It runs in August over four days in Ashton Court Estate.
There are many companies that offer hot air balloon rides in Bristol, such as First Flight, Bristol Balloons, Virgin Balloon Flights and more. Why not surprise your husband on his birthday, or fly up in the sky for your anniversary? It is a great experience for everyone, including the family.
“Magical experience!” First Flight, Bristol TripAdvisor review.
Prices
Visit website for more information
Address
First Flight
Says Lane
Langford
BS40 5DZ
Contact details
01934 852875
www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk
www.hotair-balloonrides.co.uk
www.bristolballoons.co.uk
www.virginballoonflights.co.uk/bristol-balloon-fiesta
3. Bristol Waterfront
Bristol Waterfront was once a busy dock where sailors and merchants would trade goods. The harbour situates in the heart of Bristol and covers an area of 70 acres, since the 13th century. It is well known for being called the Floating Harbour as the water level remains the same and is not affected by the tide on the river.
If it’s a nice day, why not bring the family to Bristol and experience all the activities! There are so many things to do and see, including yachting, paddle boarding, cycling and rowing. If you fancy something a little less energetic, why don’t you take a relaxing stroll along the water’s edge and discover what’s nearby!Bristol’s waterfront is now a modern development full of restaurants, bars and a great buzz of Sunday markets. There are also many shops to visit as well as places to stay if you plan to make a weekend of it.
The harbour is a great and truly vibrant place to visit, with many things to do for all ages. It’s a fantastic place to meet up with friends, where you can go shopping or enjoy a spot of lunch by the peaceful waterside vista.
You can also enjoy events such as contemporary art and historical exhibitions. It’s the best place to take in the sights of Bristol.
Contact details
www.visitbristol.co.uk/about-bristol/areas/harbourside
4. Tobacco Factory Theatres
Tobacco Factory Theatres is situated in the city of Bristol, on the corner of North Street and Raleigh Road. It is a well-sized studio style space, with an acting area. The theatre produces and presents a fantastic programme of excellent theatre, with great opportunities for artists and young people, as well as spaces for hire.
See what events are on at the Tobacco Factory Theatre – There is something for everyone, even the kids!At the venue, there is also a bar area for before and during the shows. It is a classic and contemporary style Theatre which offers comedy, dance, puppetry, film, opera, music and family shows.
Address
Tobacco Factory Theatres
Raleigh Road
Southville
Bristol
BS3 1TF
Contact details
0117 9020344
www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com
5. Brandon Hill Nature Park
Brandon Hill Nature Park is also known as St Brandon’s Hill. It is situated in the heart of Bristol city centre, between the districts of Clifton and Hotwells, in south west England.
The nature park is a haven for wildlife and flowers in the city of Bristol, which makes it a beautiful place in the spring and summer to visit when all the flowers are in bloom. The flowers also give the park some colour, making it a peaceful and picturesque place to visit.
Why not sit down in the sun and have a picnic, or take your children for a walk around the park. In the middle of the park is Cabot Tower, which stands a 105 ft. tall tower, providing stunning panoramic views across the city – Don’t forget to bring your camera!
The most popular time to visit the park would be March to August. Dogs are welcome inside the park but must be on leads. Brandon Hill Nature Park is only a 10 minute walk from the city centre, which makes it a perfect place to visit after sightseeing in the city.
Address
Park Street
Bristol
BS1 5RR
Contact details
www.visitbristol.co.uk/things-to-do
Top 5 kid’s activities
Kids will love a visit to Bristol Aquarium, Bristol Zoo and more - so why not plan a trip out in the school holidays?
1. Bristol Aquarium
Whether it’s rain or sun outside, all children and adults alike love to visit aquariums! It makes a great family day out, where children will learn all about the different aquatic species and have fun taking lots of pictures.
There is also an underwater tunnel, where you can walk beneath the sharks and fish – The perfect picture opportunity! Bristol is the only aquarium in the UK to feature a giant botanical house.There are more than 40 naturally themed aquariums and thousands of amazing aquatic species including sharks, sting rays, seahorses, puffer fish, piranhas and more!
Opening hours
Monday to Sunday 10:00 - 17:00
Closing time varies depending on the season. Call or check the link before you visit.
Pricing
Adult (13+): £14.75
Child (3-12): £9.75
Concession: £13.25
Family: £47.00
Address
Anchor Road
Harbourside
Bristol
BS1 5TT
England
Contact details
0117 9298929
www.bristolaquarium.co.uk
2. Bristol Zoo Gardens
If your children love animals, they will love Bristol Zoo Gardens. It is a great adventure into the animal kingdom, all within 12 acres of beautiful grounds and award winning gardens.
There is so much to discover and explore at the zoo, where children will learn so much about the animals. Before going to the zoo, check what great events they have on – You can’t miss out on the animal’s feeding time!At the zoo, you will be able to get close to over 400 species of exotic and endangered animals from all over the world.
Opening hours
High Season
Monday to Sunday 09:00 - 17:30
Low Season
Monday to Sunday 09:00 - 17:00
Closed Christmas day
Pricing
Adults (15+): £17.00
Kids (2 - 14): £11.00
Under 2s: Free
Address
Clifton
Bristol
Somerset and Bristol
BS8 3HA
England
Contact details
0117 974 7300
www.bristolzoo.org.uk
3. Windmill Hill City Farm
Windmill Hill City Farm is a great place to visit with young children. Children love animals and visiting the farm is a fun day out for all the family, as well as keeping the children entertained!
The farm was formed in 1976 by volunteers of local residents, wanting to create the land into productive use and also to show the local community a great farming experience in the heart of Bristol.
The farm offers great educational activities for children, making it a great trip out for school trips. If you’re planning to visit for the day, there is a great range of farmyard animals, gardens, picnic areas and an onsite café - Why not bring the family along?
Opening hours
Monday to Sunday 09:00 - 17:00
Pricing
Free admission
Address
Phillip Street
Bedminster
Bristol
Somerset and Bristol
BS3 4EA
England
Contact details
0117 963 3252
www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk
4. The Matthew of Bristol
The Matthew of Bristol is a wonderful replica of the English ship that discovered North America in 1497. You can visit The Matthew in the Bristol Floating Harbour – bring your camera along!
Why not spend a day at the harbour with the family and take a trip down the river or out to sea on The Matthew. You can even dress as a pirate for a day – Maybe just the kids?!
The Matthew is permanently moored alongside M Shed on Princess Warf, where you can admire its historic design. There is so much to do around the harbour, such as restaurants, cafes and shops.
There is nothing better than a relaxing trip along the water and then a lunch by the harbour.
Prices
Free Admission
Address
Princes Wharf
Wapping Road
Bristol
Somerset and Bristol
BS1 4RN
England
Contact details
0117 9276868
www.matthew.co.uk
5. Bristol Ferry Boats
Bristol Ferry Boats is a great way to see Clifton’s Suspension Bridge from the water and if you’re lucky, you might see some wildlife on your travels too!
Enjoy a ride along the river, offering luxury, education, adventure and fun for everyone! If you love nature, why not go on a 3 hour nature spotting cruise along Bristol, with commentary from wildlife expert Ed Drewitt.
It’s a great family trip out, even when it’s raining! There’s not a better way to see Bristol.
Address
44 The Grove
Bristol
Somerset and Bristol
BS1 4RB
England
Contact number
0117 927 3416
www.bristolferry.com
Top 5 restaurants in Bristol
On your visit to Bristol, don't miss out on one of these delicious restaurants. From Fine Dining, to family restaurants.
1. Casamia
www.casamiarestaurant.co.uk
0117 959 2884
The General
Lower Guinea Street
Bristol
BS1 6SY
England
2. Bulrush
www.bulrushrestaurant.co.uk
01173 290990
21 Cotham Road South
Bristol
BS6 5TZ
England
3. Everyday Thai
www.everydaythai.co.uk
0117 965 7007
11 New Station Road
Bristol
BS16 3RP
England
4. The Lock Up
www.thelockupbristol.com
0117 329 0707
182 Church Road
Redfield
Bristol
BS5 9HX
England
5. Ciao
www.ciaobristol.com
01179 279516
5 Denmark Street
City Centre Bristol
Bristol
BS1 5DQ
England