Bristol
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Logistics
Getting There
Traveling to Bristol from London is an easy 90 minute direct train. Trains depart from London Paddington and arrive at Bristol Temple Meads. Direct trains run frequently between the two cities, with a few stops between. As the train is quick, visiting Bristol is easy for just a quick day-trip or full weekend trip.
Getting Around
Upon arriving in Bristol at the train station, the city is very walkable. In fact, walking around the various neighborhoods is a nice way to explore the city. There are buses running throughout the city as well as taxis and ride sharing services if tired of walking or looking to reach an area quickly.
Accommodations
The Artist Residence is an adorable boutique hotel found in the St. Paul’s area of Bristol. About a 10-15 minute walk from central sights including the wharf and Bristol’s city center, and a 20 minute walk from the train station, this cute hotel is a great spot to base yourself when visiting Bristol. The hotel has a variety of cute rooms of different sizes depending on your needs. For those traveling alone, those just looking for a small place to crash, or people traveling together looking for a bit more space, there are different rooms available each with character and unique touches.
Things to do and see
College Green
The University of Bristol is at the city centre. College Green is a great spot to grab a seat with a book or grab a coffee and wander around the campus buildings.
Banksy
As Bristol is the grafitti artist’s home, his works can be found throughout the city. A few to find when visiting Bristol are noted below. Some are preserved better than others, as unfortunately some habe been vandalised.
Valentine’s day: near Netham Park
The Girl with the Pearl Earring: found on the wharf on the south side of the river near the Bristol Marina
Wall Hung Lover: Near College Green
The Mild Mild West: found in the Stokes Croft neighborhood
You Don’t Need Planning Permission to Build Castles: near the Bristol Cathedral
St. Nicholas Market
Found in the city center, this market is open Tuesday through Saturday during the day. With stalls occupied by independent retailers, there are street food vendors, local craftsmen and other quirky items
Clifton Suspension Bridge
One of the most recognizable sights of Bristol, the suspension bridge spans the Avon Gorge above the Avon River. The best views of the bridge can be seen from the park around the Clifton Observatory.
Clifton
The neighborhood of Clifton is the chic area of Bristol. Perched up on a hill near the bridge, there are an abundance of cute cafes, shops and just a quaint area to wander around the cute streets. Royal York Crescent is a nice street to walk along in the neighborhood.
Bristol Harbour
The Bristol Harbour has a lot of nice points to explore. Stroll along the river, find a pub or café for a drink, and take in the views of the colorful houses. The best views of the colorful houses are from the Bristol Marina.
Stokes Croft
The artsy neighborhood of Bristol, there’s no shortage of street art in this area. Unconventional and off the beaten path, this spot is ideal for those looking for something different
Breweries
Visit some of the breweries in town. Left Handed Giant Brewpub is a fun spot to grab a few drinks and enjoy an afternoon.
Food and Drinks
The Crafty Egg
Cafe
Found in the neighborhood of Stokes Croft, this breakfast spot often has a line which means you know its good. Stop in here for a weekend morning brunch
Spicer + Cole
Cafe
With a few locations across Bristol, this café is perfect for a morning coffee or bite to eat. Order your morning fix at the counter and grab a table to start the day off with a bite to eat
Mrs. Potts Chocolate House
Dessert
Down the street from College Green, this cute chocolate café is ideal for a chocolate lover. From different hot chocolate options to cookie sandwiches to nutella stuffed cookies to chocolate bars, there’s lots to fill your sweet tooth. Grab a snack to go or enjoy a treat sitting in the café.
Swoon Gelato
Dessert
Delicious gelato spot near College Green around the Bristol City centre. Be sure to try the biscoff and salted caramel flavor if available!
Cargo Containers
Lunch or Dinner
Found in Wapping Wharf, old Cargo containers have been transformed into homes for different food vendors. From Mexican food at Cargo Cantina to Poke to fish and chips to Indian, there’s something for everyone. With indoor and outdoor seating available, head over here for a bite to eat or a drink when exploring the Marina side of the wharf.
Other Notes
Duration
Bristol is definitely one of the nicer UK cities. Behind London, but perhaps taking second place in England, Bristol has a lot to offer. It’s small enough that it is great for a weekend trip or could even be done in a day. The city is known for having more nightlife so it is nice to spend an evening here if possible. Whether that means pub hopping or just enjoying a drink outside watching a sunset, there’s different options for how to spend your evening.
Time of year
Summer time is a great time to visit this English city. If you can time your visit with the Bristol Hot Air Balloon festival in August, this would be ideal. The city will be busy, but you’ll be able to explore the city while also taking in the beautiful skies filled with hot air balloons.