Bristol, a fine old city with a proud maritime heritage and some dark connections with the slave trade. It’s a university town and has always welcomed visitors from far and wide. The harbor-side’s been given a face-lift. And the city center’s buzzing. But climb one of the many hills there and you’ll glimpse the green fields and countryside on its doorstep. Between all these and a day trip outside of town, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Bristol in United Kingdom. Here are some of the totally brilliant places to visit in Bristol at the time you’re in town.
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1. Clifton Suspension Bridge
Been a major attraction throughout the 150 years of its existence, and each generation has ensured there’s plenty more to see and do around the bridge than merely admire the views. This is much more than just a masterpiece of design and engineering and is a world-famous icon of the city. No matter how many times you’ve climbed up to Clifton Village to take a look, the giant wrought iron structure never fails to inspire sheer vertiginous awe, whatever the weather or time of year.
2. Bristol Harbor
The old Port of Bristol on the Avon River traditionally known as the Floating Harbor, has been given a new and imaginative lease of life. The area is now home to museums, galleries, exhibitions, the Bristol Aquarium, At-Bristol Science Center, and the Arnolfini visual arts, music, and performance center. Travel in Bristol is easy by Bristol Ferry Boats, which operates five ferries on the Avon River.
3. Bristol Cathedral
Bristol Cathedral took almost 600 years to achieve its present form, the superbly rebuilt Decorated style. The interesting features of the cathedral is the rectangular chapter house, with its late Norman decoration of zigzags, fish scale patterns, and interlacing. Also look for the Great Gatehouse, the gatehouse built for the St. Augustine Abbey.
4. Llandoger Trow
Llandoger Trow building is in King Street. It is famous triple-gabled and half-timbered. The building is linked by an underpass to the Theatre Royal, home of the Bristol Old Vic and therefore the oldest playhouse in England to possess had its stage in continuous use.
5. Brunel’s SS Great Britain
The world’s first iron-hulled passenger ship, lives on at the same dock from which the great vessel is the SS Great Britain. it also was the first use of screw propellers on a ship. Today, you can explore ship’s below decks or stroll the upper decks and peep into the luxury cabins of First-Class passengers.
6. Arnolfini Art Gallery
The Arnolfini art gallery is legendary amongst the Bristol locals and not just for the incredible exhibitions that are on display here. As well as being home to a café-bar which is perfect for enjoying a post-exhibition coffee or glass of wine, there’s also an in-house book shop boasting a range of different specialist publications. In the summer months, swarms of people sit outside the building along the harborside to enjoy the views.
7. Leigh Woods
Leigh Woods is another Bristol spot that offers something completely different, but still practically in the center of town. This walk is suitable for all levels of fitness, or perfect for picnicking on one of their made-for-purpose benches. Here, a number of different trail options available.
8. Christmas Steps
This historic street is located near the fountains in the city center. It is essentially a set of steep, slanted steps. There are shops located on either side as you walk down. There’s also the convenient and aptly named Christmas Steps pub, positioned right at the bottom.
9. Cheddar Gorge
Cheddar Gorge makes an excellent day trip, located just 18 miles from Bristol. Highlights of this National Nature Reserve include its dramatic 450-foot cliffs and stunning stalactite caverns. Other attractions include the spectacular Gough’s Cave, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Solomon’s Temple.