Bristol is as well known for Brunel's elegant Clifton Suspension Bridge as it is for Banksy's street art. And not forgetting Aardman, creators of plasticine superstars Wallace and Gromit. It's little wonder that innovative museums packed with objets d'art and historic relics have set up shop here. This combination of attractions make Bristol an amazing place for a family day out. Start your intrepid adventure of this southwest city at flamingo lagoons, monkey islands or the depths of the Amazon at the city's aquariums and zoo, or meander along the River Avon's locks and gorges. Shopaholics can head to the Bristol Shopping Quarter, a collective of galleries, malls and independent shops. Little chance of buying The Wrong Trousers here. With so many places to visit in Bristol, adults and kids will be spoilt for choice.
Places to visit in Bristol
Top places to visit in Bristol
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Whether it’s the sophisticated streets of Clifton Village or the wild waters at The Wave, there are plenty of reasons to make Bristol your next city break.
Gold winner: Noah's Ark Zoo Farm
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Take a walk on the wild side at this pioneering zoo just outside of Bristol – winner of 2023 award for Accessible and Inclusive Tourism.
Experience life at sea aboard Brunel’s ss Great Britain
One of the world's most important ships brought to life for modern-day visitors.
Location: Bristol
Rainy Day Activities: Climb the walls of St Werburgh’s Church
Test your strength as you climb up the walls of this 15th-century church on an indoor activity break in Bristol.
Location: Bristol
Step into the St Mary Redcliffe
Standing for over 800 years , St Mary Redcliffe Church was described Queen Elizabeth I as 'The goodliest, fairest and most famous parish church in England'.
Location: Bristol
Sleep in a royal bed at Thornbury Castle
Get treated like royalty at Thornbury Castle, where its opulent bedchambers, award-winning food and picturesque gardens will bring out your regal side.
Location: Thornbury, South Gloucestershire
Discover 600 years of history along Bristol’s Park Street
Stroll Bristol's iconic Park Street and unearth the city’s history, including the university where Winston Churchill was once Chancellor.
Location: Bristol
Take a nature break at Westonbirt Arboretum
Venture into Westonbirt’s leafy grounds for a touch of nature’s magic and see the English countryside at its verdant best.
Location: Tetbury, Gloucs
Discover Bristol’s myths and legends
Delve into ancient folklore and uncover Bristol’s iconic landmarks on a family city break
Location: Bristol
Relax in the famous Hole in the Wall Pub
Kick back in the inspiration for the Spyglass Tavern where Long John Silver meets protagonist of Treasure Island, Jim Hawkins.
Location: Bristol
Discover new worlds on The Matthew
A replica of John Cabot's ship that discovered America in 1497, The Matthew sailed the Atlantic in 1997 and now offers trips around the harbour.
Location: Bristol
Be richly rewarded at the Bristol Harbour Hotel
Bristol’s new Harbour Hotel & Spa is sure to make you feel a million dollars - or should we say, Bristol pounds.
Location: Bristol