Visit Bristol Official Visitor Guide 2022 by Visit West

2022 OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

South Gloucestershire & North Somerset

Area guides • Things to do • Food and drink • Events • Map South Gloucestershire & North Somerset

CONTENTS

WELCOME TO BRISTOL From green spaces and urban villages to gastronomy, creativity and inspiring street art, get under the skin of this vibrant maritime city

Contents

don't miss Events

LLOYDS AMPHITHEATRE: PAUL BOX

Whatever the season, whatever the day of the week, discover unmissable events during your visit to Bristol. The city is renowned for throwing epic family friendly bashes, including beloved festivals Bristol Harbour Festival and Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. Music lovers are in for a treat in 2022 with bighitting names like The Killers, Elton John and Groove Armada gracing stages around the city. Thought-provoking exhibitions, stand-up comedy, intimate gigs and live sports are staples throughout the year too.

Head to www.visitbristol.co.uk for event listings

Film & TV ....................................... 4 Food & drink .................................. 5 Music ............................................ 6 Street art ....................................... 7 Exhibitions ..................................... 8 Theatre ..........................................10 Sport .............................................11 Shopping destinations .....................13 Harbourside ...................................14 Old City & Park Street ..................... 20 Sacred Bristol .................................. 25 Clifton ............................................ 28 Stokes Croft & Gloucester Road ........ 32 Southville & Bedminster ................... 34 Old Market & St Philips ................... 35 Explore more .................................. 36 South Glos. & South Cotswolds ......... 38 North Somerset ............................... 44 Bath ................................................ 47 Getting to/around Bristol ................. 51 Tours .............................................. 53 City centre map ............................... 54

Written and published by Visit West (company number 3715280 registered in England and Wales) www.visitwest.co.uk. While every care has been taken in the accuracy of producing this guide, the publisher is not liable for any errors or omissions which may occur. All information is subject to change and is correct at the time of going to print, March 2022. Design: The Group of Seven. Cover illustration: Jon Trace. All images: Visit West except where credited. Printing: Precision Colour Printing.

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INSPIRATION

NEED TO KNOW

FILM & TV

BIG TALK / FOUR EYES

A UNESCO City of Film, Bristol is home to Aardman Animations, Channel 4’s Creative Hub and a round of world-class festivals Bristol doesn’t just make the films: the city’s varied architecture and harbourside landscapes often play starring roles: programmes shot in Bristol include The Outlaws (starring Christopher Walken, above), Jane Austen’s Sanditon and hit coming-of-age spy drama Alex Rider. Aardman Animations’ Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep were also born in the city, as was Oscarnominated short Robin Robin. The Watershed Cultural Cinema and Digital Creativity Centre and alternative microplex The Cube are among the city’s independent cinema venues.

l Encounters Festival in September is the longest-running competitive short film and animation festival in the UK, a qualifier for the Oscars™ and a great place to discover new talent. l In November 2022 Afrika Eye, the South West’s biggest celebration of African cinema and culture, will present its 17th edition on the theme of Untold Stories. l The year-long Bristol Film Festival presents vintage classics in unusual locations (like caves or wine vaults). l Bristol’s Bottle Yard Studios is the largest film and TV studio in the West and boasts television credits that include Poldark, Sherlock and The Crystal Maze. l The annual Cinema Rediscovered Festival shows some of the finest new digital restorations, contemporary classics and film print rarities from across the globe on the big screen. l Local rental shop 20th Century Flicks celebrates their 40th anniversary with Forbidden Worlds film festival in May. l Download Sherlock: The Official Outdoor Game online. l January’s star-studded Slapstick Festival is one of the biggest festivals of silent-movie comedy.

For more, head to visitbristol.co.uk/film

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INSPIRATION

FOOD AND DRINK Love food, love Bristol: one of the best places in the world to eat and drink

PAUL BOX

Big on street food, local markets, vegan restaurants, world cuisine and award-winning independents, Bristol is one of the UK’s most diverse and inventive food destinations. Michelinstarred restaurants are just part of the story. You’ll also find small producers using ethical ingredients alongside artisan gin distilleries, wine cellars and craft ales by the gallon: Moor Beer and the Bristol Beer Factory are among the many, distinctive local breweries that make this Britain’s best beer scene. To get a flavour of what the city has to offer, head to St Nicholas Market in the Old City, where you can browse food stalls offering anything from pie and mash to Japanese dumplings, vegan tacos and spicy Szechuan noodles. See if you can find the hidden gin distillery among the food vendors. For more, head to visitbristol.co.uk/food

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This pic: The Milk Thistle. Bottom: Bambalan

NEED TO KNOW l Rolling in the ales: don’t miss the annual Bristol Craft Beer Festival in June, or take a tour of local brewery tap rooms on the East Bristol Brewery Trail. l Plant-based diet? Bristol was heralded Vegan Capital of the World by foodie website Chef’s Pencil. l Get a true taste of the West Country with a cider tasting at The Cider Box in Wapping Wharf or St Philips, or at Bristol’s very own cider boat, The Apple.

INSPIRATION

MUSIC

PAUL BOX / SHOTAWAY

Summer festivals, bar-room jazz, dance, gigs on boats and open mics – Bristol rocks! As well as musical legends playing big-gig venues, listen out for thigh-slapping bluegrass, New Orleans-style jazz, classical concerts, DJ nights and pub gigs, alongside an eclectic programme of outdoor festivals including Love Saves The Day in June, Harbour Festival (below) in July, family-friendly Valley Fest in August and new music festival FORWARDS in September. Dancing feet? Try DJ Mag's 'Best Large Club' Motion or O2 Academy or Propyard. Club nights across the city range from disco and techno to drum and bass. Bristol is full of small live indie music venues, including local legendary venues The Fleece, The Louisiana, Thekla and newcomer Strange Brew. For more, head to visitbristol.co.uk/music

Bristol Music Stage at Bristol Harbour Festival

NEED TO KNOW l Bristol Beacon (above), Bristol’s largest concert venue, continues to programme events in the foyer and across the city during its multi-million-pound transformation. l In June, the Harbourside’s Bristol Sounds series presents Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Jungle and First Aid Kit. l St George’s Bristol boasts superb acoustics and a unique atmosphere that attracts world-renowned artists including the best in classical, chamber, world, folk, blues and jazz, and spoken word. l Bristol is home to the Paraorchestra, the world’s only large-scale virtuoso ensemble of professional disabled and non-disabled musicians. l Former church Trinity Centre is home to a host of events, from gentle dance afternoons to skank nights.

visitbristol.co.uk/music

INSPIRATION

Street Art in Stokes Croft

STREET ART

MORGANE BIGAULT

Banksy’s native city and the home of Upfest, Bristol has turned graffiti into a fine art In the capital of street art, Banksy’s iconic Mild Mild West (right) or his Well Hung Lover are among Bristol’s biggest attractions. Banksy may be the world’s best known, but the city has nurtured an entire community of legendary artists: Cheo, Inkie, Tuco, Andy Council, Gemma Compton, Paris and the Paintsmiths among dozens of others. On landmark buildings or tucked away down side streets, painted walls form an outdoor gallery, most prominently on Stokes Croft, Nelson Street, Leonard’s Lane, Easton and North Street in Southville, the hub of the city’s Upfest – Europe’s largest free festival of urban art (28-29 May 2022). During weekends and holidays throughout the year, the city’s award-winning street art tours are a great introduction.

NEED TO KNOW l Take a tour of Bristol’s famous murals and stencils with the awardwinning Bristol Street Art Tours from Where the Wall. l Find your inner graffiti artist in an immersive spray-can session with Graft. l Banksy’s Mild Mild West (below) is tucked away in Stokes Croft. See if you can find it with the Banksy Bristol Trail app. l Seek out the Cary Grant stencil on Gloucester Road. l Nearby Weston-super-Mare is also home to a thriving street art scene.

For more, head to visitbristol.co.uk/streetart

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INSPIRATION

EXHIBITIONS Bristol Museum and Art Gallery presents worldclass collections and high-profile exhibitions including Grayson’s Art Club (until 4 September 2022). Spread across three floors in the museum, this blockbuster show is a vibrant and poignant chronicle of lockdown.

JON CRAIG PHOTOS

The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) reopens in spring following a transformational Light and Inspiration capital build. Me, Myself, I: Artists’ Self-Portraits (2 May-19 June) is their landmark comeback exhibition exploring self-portraiture over the last three hundred years. Think Global: Act Bristol – an evolving exhibition exploring Bristol’s role in the climate and ecological crises will open at M Shed in June followed by the annual Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition from late October until summer 2023. Artist Candice Lin explores marginalised histories, colonial legacies and the materials that link them in Pigs and Poison at Spike Island until 8 May. From 8 October to 15 January, the gallery is also hosting a UK-first exhibition from the late Rosemary Meyer, a pioneer of the feminist art

Grayson and Philippa Perry.

movement. Fellow contemporary arts centre Arnolfini will be showcasing mixed media drawings, sculpture and installations from one of India’s most prominent contemporary artists, Bharti Kher, between 22 October and 29 January. Global touring exhibition Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is coming to Propyard from 9 April to 4 September. Step into more than 300 of Van Gogh’s sketches, drawings, and paintings via floor-to-ceiling digital projections and a ‘day in the life of the artist’ VR experience. With more exhibitions announced throughout the year, check visitbristol.co.uk/whats-on

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INSPIRATION

Bristol Hippodrome

THEATRE From blockbuster musicals and cutting-edge drama to classy collections and dynamic exhibitions

BRISTOL HIPPODROME / JON CRAIG PHOTOS

Bristol Old Vic, the longest continuously running theatre in the English-speaking world, aims to inspire audiences with its own original productions while nurturing the next generation of artists. The 2022 programme is designed to rebuild the organisation after the pandemic with some notable highlights including Giles Terera’s boldly inventive debut play The Meaning of Zong. The theatre’s own story is as compelling as those it stages. Join them behind the scenes for The People’s Tour to hear about the fact and folklore from its two-and-a-half-century tenure. Tobacco Factory Theatres produces and presents an impressive roster of exciting shows including Shakespeare, pop-up opera, comedy, puppetry and dance in unique, industrial spaces. The Bristol Hippodrome (above) is a great allround theatre showing everything from touring musicals to Christmas panto. MAMMA MIA!, Six and Les Misérables are on the bill for 2022. Redgrave Theatre presents family classics alongside shows from acclaimed stand-up comedians. For wacky, raucous comedy and

improv, head to The Old Market Assembly’s tiny Wardrobe Theatre. Enjoy theatre beyond Bristol’s auditoriums too. Show of Strength’s theatre walks tell dramatic tales from Bristol’s past, from Blood and Butchery in Bedminster to Crime and Crinolines in Clifton. Summer sees the return of Bristol Shakespeare Festival, when you can catch performances inspired by the Bard in unique, often al fresco spaces. For a fun night out with a theatrical touch, head for Smoke and Mirrors, a boutique pub and magic theatre where you’ll be charmed by close-up magic and comedy acts. For more, head to visitbristol.co.uk/theatre

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INSPIRATION

SPORT From championship cricket to paddle-boarding, Bristol offers sport and exercise for all

MARTIN BENNETT

For spectators, Bristol has two professional football teams: Bristol Rovers and Bristol City, with City playing home fixtures at Ashton Gate Stadium – also the home of Premiership rugby’s Bristol Bears. The stadium’s Independence Sports Bar has the largest indoor pub screen in the country. For cricket fans, Bristol-based Gloucestershire County Cricket Club is one of 18 first-class professional clubs in the UK. The Seat Unique Stadium is just off Gloucester Road. The city’s outdoor activities include stand-up paddle-boarding on the harbour, climbing the Avon Gorge, cycling, golf and even surfing at The Wave (see p41). Climb the ship’s rigging at Brunel’s SS Great Britain or get a bird’s-eye view of the city from a hot-air balloon. Bristol’s ballooning companies Bailey Balloons, Virgin Balloon Flights and Elite Air run flights throughout the season. For more, head to visitbristol.co.uk/sport Seat Unique Stadium

visitbristol.co.uk/whatson

NEED TO KNOW l Gloucestershire County Cricket Club will host a a number of England matches in 2022 at its County Ground, including the women’s Royal London One-Day International and Men's Vitality IT20 in July. l Run, run, run: take part in the Great Bristol Run. An action-packed day with the 10K and Half Marathon both taking place on 25 September. l Professional basketball club the Bristol Flyers compete in the nation’s top tier, with home fixtures played at SGS Wise Arena. l As the UK’s first cycling city, Bristol offers bike hire, trails and off-road tracks. Look out for cycling events – and bikes available to hire. l The region boasts many excellent golf courses including Bowood and Ashton Court. Harbourside’s InPlay Golf is one of the few simulation centres in the UK. l The Adventurous Activity Company can help tackle thrilling natural landscapes while Bristol’s indoor climbing centres offer the chance to climb whatever the weather. l Ice hockey is back! Bristol Pitbulls compete at Planet Ice, Cribbs Causeway.

INSPIRATION

Clockwise from top: Broadmead, Cabot Circus, Clifton Arcade and Gloucester Road

JON CRAIG PHOTOS / MORGANE BIGAULT

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS Cabot Circus Enjoy a variety of amazing shops, restaurants and entertainment under one dramatic shell-shaped roof. Quakers Friars Harvey Nichols and high-end shopping set around a lovely piazza. The Arcade Step back in time and explore this Grade II-listed Victorian shopping arcade with its boutique shops and cafés. Broadmead This pedestrianised shopping centre is your one-stop shop for high street favourites like Boots, TK Maxx and Primark as well as a selection of indie retailers. The Galleries Indoor shopping with over 80 stores plus a great family-friendly Food Court. St Nicholas Markets St Nick’s glass-covered market dates from the 1700s and has over 90 independent stalls. Sister markets include Bristol Indies' Market and Night Market. Park Street & The Triangle Popular for its mix of vintage,

visitbristol.co.uk/shopping

thrift, fashion, furniture, books and independent labels. Bedminster & Southville Just south of the harbour you’ll find the bustling suburb of Bedminster, with East Street and North Street brimming with local shops, delis, indoor markets and more. Clifton Village This leafy urban village features pretty Georgian streets and garden squares lined with boutiques and cafés, plus the restored Victorian Clifton Arcade’s unique collection of small, independent shops. Gloucester Road The longest independent shopping street in Europe, this bohemian neighbourhood is also known for its buzzing cafés, food and drink shops, and pubs. The Mall At Cribbs Causeway Just off junction 17 on the M5 motorway, this indoor shopping centre houses more than 150 shops including department and high-street stores, restaurants and cafés.

CITY

THE HARBOURSIDE Explore the city’s bustling waterfront with its mix of restaurants, bars, boat trips, family attractions, art, movies and maritime history HISTORY OF THE HARBOUR Bristol’s history as a trading port stretches back to 1051 when it was listed in the AngloSaxon Chronicle. By the early 14th century, its importance was second only to London. The city’s role during the triangular slave trade is introduced in an exhibition at M Shed, the museum on the Harbourside that tells the story of Bristol. In 1809 Bristol was transformed by the opening of the Floating Harbour. Built to overcome the challenge of the second highest tidal range in the world, the harbour became increasingly unable to manage the growing size of ships and the commercial port eventually moved to Avonmouth. The old City Docks finally closed to commercial traffic in 1975 and is now a lively leisure destination packed with visitor attractions, adventure and water sports, restaurants, bars and, on occasional weekends, a working steam railway. ATTRACTIONS The best way to get to know the Floating Harbour is by boat. There are ferry trips around the harbour and themed cruises on the water, including visits to country pubs, river tours which pass under Clifton Suspension Bridge and fish-and-chip cruises aboard The Matthew. Back on dry land, Millennium Square is a great outdoor spot where children paddle in the fountains during the warmer months and there are free film screenings on Big Screen Bristol. Hands-on science centre We The Curious and

SHIP AHOY! Brunel’s SS Great Britain was constructed in the very dry dock where she now sits. In 1845 (177 years ago) she arrived in New York for the first time, setting a transatlantic speed record and marking a new era for passenger ships and luxury travel. Fastforward to 1970 and Bristol triumphantly welcomed the Victorian ocean liner after an 8,000-mile journey from the Falklands where she had been abandoned years earlier. Restored to the dock where she was originally built, she has now been back in Bristol for over 50 years. Bristol Aquarium offer family-friendly days out along with adult-only evenings. The area is packed with museums and galleries, including Watershed and Arnolfini, home to contemporary arts. No visit to Bristol would be complete without a visit to Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the world’s first great ocean liner, and its companion museum, Being Brunel, which tells the story of the Victorian genius who transformed Bristol’s landscape.

visitbristol.co.uk/harbourside

For city centre map, see page 54

CITY

DAVID PAGE / DANIEL WATKISS

Clockwise from top: Kayaking on the harbour, We The Curious, Bristol Aquarium.

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CITY

LEE PULLEN / WATERSHED / PAUL BLAKEMORE

THINGS TO DO ON THE HARBOURSIDE

Arnolfini An international centre for contemporary art which combines gallery exhibitions, live performances and independent cinema with a bookshop and café. Bristol Aquarium Tropical marine and freshwater creatures from around the world, seen in naturally themed habitats. Brunel’s SS Great Britain Explore this Victorian masterpiece, from the top of the ship’s rigging to the sumptuous first-class dining saloon. On the same ticket, museum Being Brunel celebrates the life and work of the great engineer. Design West A lively new venue for design and placemaking, home to talks, events and the co-ordinating hub for Bristol Open Doors. Ferries and boat tours Bristol Ferry Boats and Bristol Packet are among the companies who operate trips and cruises around the Harbourside. The Matthew (centre right) Take a trip on the replica of the

boat sailed by John Cabot when he discovered Newfoundland in 1497. M Shed Films, photographs, interactive exhibits and displays tell the story of Bristol and its place in the world, from prehistoric times to the present day. Spike Island Once a tea packing factory, this arts centre now presents free exhibitions of contemporary art and is home to a café and more than 70 artists’ studios. Watershed Independent arts cinema and digital creativity centre (top right) with a café and bar serving breakfast, lunch and evening meals. We the Curious This interactive science centre (bottom right) is a playground of creative exhibits and home to the UK’s first 3D Planetarium. Underfall Yard Working boatyard with history, visitor centre and café. For more, head to visitbristol. co.uk/harbourside

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CITY

FOOD AND DRINK ON THE HARBOURSIDE Adelina Yard Relaxed fine dining with optional tasting menus throughout the week. Cargo Repurposed shipping containers at Wapping Wharf (below) make a home for a diverse collection of indie food and drink outlets including The Cider Box, Gambas, Woky Ko, Cargo Cantina and Box E. Casamia Fine dining with a Michelin star, this is one of the UK’s best restaurants. Finzels Reach New waterfront village, home to Bocabar (top right), Left Handed Giant’s Brewpub and a Friday streetfood market. The Grain Barge Drink a Bristol Beer Factory brew on board a boat afloat (centre right). Harbourside pubs Soak up the atmosphere by the water with a local tipple at Ostrich, The Cottage or Pump House.

visitbristol.co.uk/food

Pictured from top: Bocabar Finzel's Reach, The Grain Barge, Three Brothers Burgers and Cargo

Mud Dock Cycleworks & Café Nutritious seasonal food with a terrace overlooking the harbour. No. 1 Harbourside Lovely food, live music and a weekly market. Paco Tapas From the team behind Casamia: traditional tapas with a Michelin star. The River Grille Harbourside views from The Bristol Hotel’s waterfront restaurant. Seven Lucky Gods Casual Japanese Izakaya-style bar serving sushi and Asian-inspired small plates. The Stable Award-winning pizzas and over 60 types of cider. Steak of the Art Serving fine cuts in a gallery-style setting. Three Brothers Burgers Burgers on a boat with craft beer, shakes, sundaes and floats (bottom right). Za Za Bazaar The UK’s largest restaurant dishes up a variety of buffet-style global cuisine.

CITY

CENTRAL, OLD CITY AND PAR K STREET The hilly streets and hidden alleys of the city’s historic merchants’ quarter combine culture and creativity with quirky shops and great places to eat

EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY, BRISTOL

PARK STREET AND QUEENS ROAD This culturally rich area has it all, from Bristol’s oldest art gallery, the Royal West of England Academy, to Banksy’s cheeky mural Well Hung Lover. Take a tower tour at Bristol University’s Wills Memorial Building to experience sky-high views, pop into Browns restaurant next door (originally a library, the building was based on the Doge’s Palace in Venice) or venture below ground to the historic cellars of Averys family wine merchants. Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, The Georgian House and Red Lodge museums are all free to enter, as is the city’s grand medieval Cathedral on College Green – a regular venue for outdoor events right in front of the City Hall. Music lovers can catch a gig at Bristol Folk House or at St George’s Bristol, famed for world-class acoustics. Park Street shops offer everything from contemporary jewellery to vintage clothes, and don’t miss local favourites the Guild for designer goods or Swoon for authentic Italian gelato. The area has a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene too, with bars and clubs including OMG and Queenshilling. OLD CITY The cobbles of King Street are home to the handsomely renovated Bristol Old Vic where visitors can enjoy performances, behind-thescenes tours or pre-theatre dinners. Celebrated

jazz venue The Old Duke pub is just a moment away and offers free live music any night of the week. Browse the city’s largest collection of small traders gathered within the historic St Nicholas Markets. Other independents stud the surrounding streets, from bookshops to vintage clothing stores. CENTRAL A walk along Nelson Street reveals some of the city’s most ambitious outdoor art; join one of Bristol’s popular guided street art tours to hear its history. Boutique bowling alley The Lanes is here too or try Whistle Punks urban axe throwing for entertainment with an edge. Newcomer Strange Brew on Fairfax Street is a DIY bar, live music venue, café, record shop and exhibition space. The Christmas Steps Arts Quarter is the perfect place to meet local artisans. There are pleasant views of this historic area from the balcony of microbrewery Zerodegrees, a popular spot for craft beer and wood-fired pizza. Bristol Hippodrome attracts major musicals from the West End, or experience a live performance at Bristol Beacon, which is hosting exhibitions and music in its foyer while the auditorium undergoes an exciting multi-million-pound transformation.

Clockwise from top: St Nicholas Market, King William Ale House and Bristol Museum & Art Gallery and Wills Memorial Building

visitbristol.co.uk/citycentre

For city centre map, see page 54

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CITY

THINGS TO DO IN CENTRAL, OLD CITY AND PAR K STREET

PAUL BOX / TUFFIN FERRABY TAYLOR / A. PATTENDEN

Cabot Tower, the Royal West of England Academy, Park Street and The Hatchet Inn.

Brandon Hill Believed to be the country’s oldest public park, this urban green space and mature reserve overlooks the city from one of Bristol’s highest points. It’s home to Cabot Tower, an icon of the city skyline built in 1897 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s voyage to America. Bristol Cathedral At the foot of Park Street adjacent to City Hall (see p25). Bristol Museum & Art Gallery Explore art, nature and history in the galleries at one of Bristol’s finest free museums. The Georgian House Museum Step back in time and imagine what life was like in this affluent part of the city hundreds of years ago. Palestine Museum in Broad Street is a permanent exhibition of Palestinian heritage, culture and daily life.

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Queen Square A petite park against a backdrop of Georgian houses, Queen Square also hosts annual Bristol events including Bristol Harbour Festival. The Red Lodge Museum Explore the elegant Elizabethan features of this historic house and restored walled garden. Royal West of England Academy The RWA is the country’s only regional Royal Academy of Art and hosts a dynamic and varied programme of exhibitions, events and lectures. St George’s Bristol This former church is now an atmospheric concert hall tucked away behind Park Street. Walled City Walk Conceived by Bristol Civic Society, this self-guided circular walk around the Old City follows the town walls of Norman Bristol.

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JASON INGRAM

FOOD & DRINK IN CENTRAL, OLD CITY AND PAR K STREET Bambalan Mediterranean-style dishes and pizza at this playful restaurant and bar, with a large terrace for summer. Bocabar At Finzels Reach, with stone-baked pizzas, burgers, mezze plates and a lively sociable vibe. The Coconut Tree Sri Lankan street food, tapas and fiery ‘cocotails’. Four Wise Monkeys Asian fusion food and an explosion of retro vibes. Hyde & Co Fabulous cocktails in a stylish prohibition-style bar. Little China Town Food hall and supermarket on Nelson Street. The Milk Thistle Hyde & Co’s younger sister serves cocktails in a clubby lounge bar. The Old Duke Much-loved trad jazz pub hosting live music

Clockwise from top: Bambalan, The Coconut Tree, The Strawberry Thief and Swoon

every night of the week. The Ox Famed for sensational steaks and cocktails. Pinkmans Craft bakery known for wild yeast baking, healthy salads and naughty sour-doughnuts. St Nicholas Markets A colourful variety of around-the-world food stalls ranging from British Pieminister pies to tacos, tapas and more. The Strawberry Thief Relaxed bar with over 70 local and international beers, plus a seasonal menu with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. Swoon Dreamy homemade gelato, sorbetto, Neopolitan coffee and Swoon shakes. Woky Ko Grab-and-go Asian bites, from from poke bowls and flatbreads to hot and cold rice dishes.

For more, head to visitbristol.co.uk/citycentre

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CITY

SACRED BR ISTOL

JOHN WESLEY’S NEW ROOM / DAVE PRATT / ST MARY REDCLIFFE / DAVE PRATT

Explore the extraordinary architecture and rich history of these places of worship. St James Priory The city’s oldest church. Dating from 1135 the former Benedictine monastery has been used as a place of worship for almost 900 years. St John on the Wall This church was first built into the medieval city walls in the 12th century and has beautiful Jacobean features. Visitor interpretation helps uncover its history. The Lord Mayor’s Chapel Hidden away behind an unassuming entrance on College Green, directly opposite Bristol Cathedral, is The Lord Mayor’s Chapel. Free concerts take place on most Saturdays.

John Wesley’s New Room The oldest Methodist building in the world, the chapel’s ‘New Room’ features a fascinating multimedia visitor centre which tells the story of John and Charles Wesley (bottom right). Bristol Cathedral Originating as an Augustine Abbey in the 12th century, Grade I-listed Bristol Cathedral (top right) is one of the world’s finest examples of a hall church with a medieval Chapter House, a peaceful garden and a track record as a film location for costume dramas. St Mary Redcliffe A place of worship for over 800 years, beautiful Grade I-listed church St Mary Redcliffe (centre right) is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with a slender, soaring spire 89 metres high.

Main image and top right: Bristol Cathedral. Middle: St Mary Redcliffe. Bottom: John Wesley’s New Room

visitbristol.co.uk/sacred

NEIGHBOURHOODS

CLIFTON Georgian terraces, fine dining, boutique shopping and one gurt big bridge VILLAGE EXPERIENCE With its chic boutiques, Bath-stone terraces and leafy garden squares, Clifton is one of Bristol’s most beguiling neighbourhoods. Discover the sweeping curve of Royal York Crescent, one of the longest terraces in Europe; spy on the world from a magical camera obscura at the summit of the Clifton Observatory; or gaze at the spectacular Avon Gorge from the dizzying heights of the Clifton Suspension Bridge: a feat of engineering designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and completed in 1864. Walk or cycle across (only drivers pay the toll) to reach the visitor centre at the gateway to Leigh Woods. THINGS TO DO Check out the Victorian Clifton Arcade with its quirky independent shops. Nicolas Wylde Jewellers is home to the Wylde Flower Diamond®. Each one has 81 precisely cut facets, including eight perfectly cut on the base to reveal a stunning flower, visible from above. On Oakfield Place, the old Clifton Lido has been beautifully restored to offer year-round outdoor swimming, spa treatments and award-winning dining. Visit 400 species of exotic animals at the historic Bristol Zoo Gardens before the site closes in September.

FOOD & DRINK 360 Café The glass café at Clifton Observatory with a spectacular roof terrace. Ashwell & Co Vintage boutique and tearoom. The Clifton Sausage Modern British food in a relaxed setting. Coppa Club A stylish spot for all-day dining, from brunch to evening cocktails. The Ivy Clifton Brasserie The first Ivy outside London is right at home in Clifton Village. KIBOU A contemporary taste of Tokyo in Clifton Village. The Lido (pictured below) Poolside dining with a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired menu. No.4 Clifton Village Award-winning à la carte at The Rodney Hotel. Papadeli Award-wining deli, takeaway and cookery school. Racks Bar & Kitchen A top spot for Sunday roasts. White Lion Bar Informal gastro pub at Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin with amazing views of Clifton Suspension Bridge.

GREEN SPACES An area of protected parkland on the northern fringes of Clifton, the Downs is home to the University of Bristol Botanic Garden with its Mediterranean Collection, Tropical Zone and West Country habitats. Just across Clifton Suspension Bridge is the 850acre Ashton Court Estate. Clifton Village boasts an adventure play park for families. The Mall Gardens is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the village.

visitbristol.co.uk/clifton

NEIGHBOURHOODS

TAMANY BAKER / ANDRE PATTENDEN / GARY NEWMAN

Clockwise from top: Clifton Suspension Bridge, Royal York Crescent and a majestic gorilla at Bristol Zoo Gardens

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NEIGHBOURHOODS

STOKES CROFT AND GLOUCESTER ROAD Street art, ethical restaurants, independent shopping, nightlife and a boho vibe

PIEMINISTER

STOKES CROFT Head for the Stokes Croft cultural district to see some of Bristol’s most celebrated street art, including Banksy’s famous Mild Mild West. The Cube Microplex on nearby Dove Street is a cinema and arts venue presenting film, music and cabaret. Legendary nightclub Lakota is here, along with some of the city’s best-known bars and live-music pubs. On the food front, the emphasis is on local, ethical and vegan fare as well as global cuisines. Look out for Stokes Croft China – makers of ‘radical’ English bone china that encapsulates the mood of this bohemian neighbourhood. There are more colourful shops, cafés and restaurants on Cheltenham Road, which joins Stokes Croft to Gloucester Road. GLOUCESTER ROAD They say it’s the longest independent shopping street in Europe, and Gloucester Road is certainly one of the liveliest of Bristol’s neighbourhoods. The high street is a vibrant part of the community with wide pavements decorated with plants and flowers and crowded with cafés, bars and interesting shops. There are some great places to eat and drink in the neighbourhood including artisan bakeries and atmospheric pubs serving craft ales from local breweries. For live music, try the Gallimaufry or the Golden Lion. Nearby, St Andrews Park has children’s playgrounds and open spaces. Just off Gloucester Road, the George Müller Museum tells the story of this Victorian cleric’s pioneering homes for orphans. Gloucestershire County Cricket Club and Bristol Rovers Football Club are also in the area.

FOOD & DRINK Bakers & Co Choose from a tempting range of sourdough pastries and breads along with excellent coffee at this popular artisan bakery. The Canteen An all-veggie menu made using ethical, sustainable and seasonal ingredients, plus free live music five nights a week. The Coconut Tree Flavourful Sri Lankan street food dishes made for sharing and served with fiery ‘cocotails’. Full Moon & Attic Bar Pick from wood-fired pizzas, Mexican street food and fried chicken at this backpackers’ hostel and music venue. The Gallimaufry Home cooking, curio bar, local art, live music and more at what the locals call the ‘Galli’. Koocha Mezze Bar Colourful plant-based Persian dishes and cocktails match the vibrant décor in this fun vegan restaurant. Lakota Gardens Party at this rain-or-shine outdoor bar serving cocktails, beers, ciders and cool sounds. Pieminister The original pie shop behind the award-winning Bristol-born chain. Purezza This vegan pizzeria puts a plant-based spin on traditional Neapolitan pizzas using innovative, sustainable ingredients.

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NEIGHBOURHOODS

Clockwise from top: Room 212, Pieminister in Stokes Croft and Purezza.

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NEIGHBOURHOODS

SOUTHVILLE & BEDMINSTER In the former hub of Bristol’s tobacco industry, mix craft beer and artisan bakeries with urban art and city farming ART AND CULTURE Southville’s Upfest, the largest festival of urban art in Europe, returns to this south-of-the-river neighbourhood in 2022. See murals emerge from 5 May, before hundreds of artists come together for live painting on 28 and 29 May. The Tobacco Factory Theatres stages Shakespeare, opera, stand-up, puppetry and dance. Its Café Bar (below) serves up good food, Bristol Beer Factory ales and a Sunday morning market. FOOD AND DRINK The North Street strip offers a lively mix of independent shops, cafés and bars. Try Mark’s Bread, Southville Deli, small plates at the Old

Bookshop, Lebanese cuisine at Souk Kitchen or tasty pizza (and stand-up comedy) at the Hen & Chicken and Tobacco Factory. Ashton Gate Stadium’s Independence Sports Bar has the biggest indoor screen in the country. OPEN SPACES In neighbouring Bedminster (‘Bemmie’ in Bristolian), Windmill Hill City Farm is a voluntary community project that runs social, environmental and educational activities alongside seasonal events with a farming theme. Victoria Park has a children’s play area and great views of the city. Urban climbers can tackle state-of-the-art Redpoint, which is based in an old cinema.

Tobacco Factory

the Flaating Harbour has been Hotwells and shoppers and stallholders CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

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For city centre map, see page 64

NEIGHBOURHOODS

OLD MAR KET & ST PHILIPS

Pictured from top: Trinity fireworks and live music at The Exchange

KHALI ACKFORD

Venture east, beyond the city centre, and discover a reinvented market street and a beacon of diversity Just a few minutes’ walk from Bristol Shopping Quarter, Old Market is a bohemian corner of the city that combines history, diversity, a friendly gay village and a vibrant nightlife set against a backdrop of interesting old buildings. As the name suggests, it was once the city’s main market street; now it’s home to a cluster of independent shops, galleries, cafés and local pubs. For live music, performances and more, try Trinity Centre (a converted church) or the Old Market Assembly (café, cabaret, bakery, bar and the teeny Wardrobe Theatre, all housed in a former bank). Old Market is well known for its strong connections to the LGBTQ+ community and popular venues include the Old Market Tavern and Old Castle Green. Cabaret, burlesque and ‘Drag Queen Bingo’ are run of the mill around here. Head south from Old Market Street to discover a land of beer in St Philips. Traditional pub

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The Barley Mow serves Bristol Beer Factory brews and there are a host of local breweries in this area. Check out the tap rooms at Moor Beer and Good Chemistry, by the start of the off-road Bristol and Bath Railway Path walking and cycling route.

NEIGHBOURHOODS

EXPLORE MORE... Head out to the suburbs, where the city meets country parks, green spaces and rural idylls ARNOS VALE Arnos Vale is home to the Original Bristol Blue Glass Factory and Shop, a thriving creative enterprise which continues the city’s long tradition for glassmaking in striking blue. See glassblowing demos in the studio workshop or blow your own bauble. Directly opposite, Arnos Vale Cemetery has been the final resting place for some of Bristol’s most notable citizens since opening in 1837. This arcadian garden cemetery has a Green Flag award for its mix of wildlife and urban woodland and offers leisurely walks among ornate Victorian tombs and picturesque landscaping, plus regular events, a self-guided Discovery Trail and café.

PAUL BOX

Nearby Paintworks is home to the Martin Parr Foundation’s gallery and the Royal Photographic Society’s Bristol HQ – a pair of complementary visitor centres presenting talks and exhibitions dedicated to the art of photography. Hang out in neighbouring Bocabar for casual dining, cocktails, DJs and live music. BLAISE Blaise Castle House Museum and Estate is a 19th-century mansion set in 400 acres of parkland and is home to the city’s social history collection. Collect a key from Blaise Castle to access Kings Weston Roman Villa. Blaise Hamlet is a group of nine 19th-century cottages centred around a ‘village’ green complete with its own pump. Originally built for the estate’s servants, the hamlet was given to the National Trust in 1943. The picture-perfect cottages feature tall brick chimneys and decorative thatch.

FISHPONDS & FROME VALLEY Fishponds Road is a thriving suburban high street popular with locals and a great place to join the cycle path that runs between Bristol and Bath. Nearby Oldbury Court’s beautiful estate combines woodland and riverside paths with historic parkland and children’s play areas. Beyond the parkland, follow the path down to the River Frome, where trails lead towards Frenchay and its Village Museum or, in the other direction, to Snuff Mills. Look out for wildlife: this is a great place to spot kingfishers, herons, foxes, owls, bats and even deer.

ST MARKS ROAD Get a flavour of real Bristol life on a visit to this small but thriving street in Easton. St Marks Road has won the Academy of Urbanism’s Great Street Award thanks to its tight-knit community spirit and diversity. Here’s where church and mosque rub shoulders with local restaurants, cafés and independent shops (including the legendary Bristol Sweet Mart, The Garden of Easton and East Bristol Bakery). The street is also home to Thali Café, renowned for authentic South Indian food and a novel tiffin takeaway scheme. Get there by train, alighting at Stapleton Road station, or hop on a bike (Easton is a stop-off on the Bristol to Bath Railway Path).

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NEIGHBOURHOODS

Clockwise from top: The Folly at Blaise Castle, Arnos Vale Cemetery and dog walking at Oldbury Court.

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BEYOND BRISTOL

SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE & SOUTH COTSWOLDS From castles and medieval villages to surfing, cycling and bears in the woods MARKET TOWNS Picturesque medieval market towns and villages dot the countryside to the north and east of Bristol. The medieval town of Thornbury is home to Thornbury Castle, where King Henry VIII stayed with Anne Boleyn in 1535. The High Street is lined with independent shops and gastropubs while nearby Mundy Playing Fields offer facilities for children including a paddling pool. Distillery 6 O’clock Gin is also based here. The Tourist Information Centre is in Thornbury’s Town Hall. The charming market town of Chipping Sodbury was founded in the 12th century and features medieval architecture and 17thcentury Cotswold stone. The Tourist Information Centre is in the clock tower on the High Street. OUT AND ABOUT In South Gloucestershire, Badminton Horse Trials take place in May and the 27-hole Kendleshire Golf Club is one of several local golf courses. Almondsbury’s inland surfing lake, The Wave – the first of its kind in Europe – offers a seaside experience in a rural eco environment. The Wild Place Project offers animal adventures inspired by different corners of the world – from ancient Britain to Madagascar. At Aerospace Bristol, Concorde is at the heart of Bristol’s aviation story. Just off the M5 motorway at junction 17, The Mall at Cribbs Causeway combines shopping, restaurants, free parking and entertainment, including the new Planet Ice skating rink.

Walkers and cyclists can enjoy traffic-free routes along the National Cycle Network, including a popular stretch which links Bristol and Bath via a disused railway path, passing through Warmley with its historic signal box, tea gardens and Bath Ales’ Hare Brewery. Just north of the district family-friendly attractions include Westonbirt Aboretum and beautiful Berkeley Castle. AVON VALLEY Family friendly Avon Valley Railway at Bitton runs steam-train rides throughout the year. In nearby Keynsham, Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park offers indoor and outdoor play areas, farm animals and exotic species set in 50 acres of countryside, plus an annual FEAR Scream Park during Halloween season. Join Bristol Packet Boat Trips (below) for one of their cruises along the River Avon. Enjoy a cream tea on board or hop off at Beese’s Bar and Tea Gardens for lunch or drinks.

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BEYOND BRISTOL

WWT SLIMBRIDGE

Clockwise from top: Flamingos at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Avon Valley Railway and Bear Wood at Wild Place Project

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GLOBAL SHOTS

BEYOND BRISTOL

Surfing at The Wave

BEYOND BRISTOL

SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE & SOUTH COTSWOLDS FOOD & DRINK THINGS TO DO Aerospace Bristol See Concorde Alpha Foxtrot at this contemporary museum (above), which tells the story of Bristol’s pioneering aerospace industry. Airhop Bristol One of the world’s biggest trampoline parks is filled with wall-to-wall bouncing, foam pits and battle beams. Berkeley Castle Take a tour of the castle, dating from the 12th century and still home to the Berkeley family, before exploring the butterfly house and extensive gardens. Dyrham Park The National Trust’s 270-acre deer park, spectacular 17th-century mansion and formal garden. Sudeley Castle Explore 1,000 years of history at this magnificent Cotswold castle and gardens. The Wave This inland surfing lagoon at Almondsbury on the edge of Bristol provides perfect surf breaks all year round, for all ages and abilities. Westonbirt, The National Arboretum Discover more than 15,000 tree specimens from all over the world and enjoy events and workshops (below).

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Bramley & Gage Visit this family-run business to learn about gin making on the 6 O’clock Gin Distillery Tour. Jekka’s Herb Farm Discover over 400 culinary and medicinal plants at this rural herbetum, visitor centre and shop. Country pubs There are some great pubs in the region: try Butcombe Brewery’s Bowl Inn at Almondsbury or Bath Ales’ boozer, the Swan at Swineford. Hattusa At Berwick Lodge Tuck into a classic afternoon tea in the garden or in front of the fireplace in Almondsbury. The Wild Place Project A family attraction that provides adventure, educational play and unique exhibit Bear Wood, where wolves, lynx, wolverine and brown bears have made a home in ancient woodland. WWT Slimbridge Wetlands Centre Awardwinning home to water voles, waders and the world’s largest collection of swans, geese, ducks and flamingos, plus an Arctic Adventure experience complete with tundra research huts.

BEYOND BRISTOL

NORTH SOMERSET For woodland walks, cycle paths and classic seaside towns Cross the Clifton Suspension Bridge for Leigh Woods, the National Trustowned broadleaf woodland that sits on the edge of the Avon Gorge. A few minutes further on, the verdant hills of North Somerset’s Ashton Court Estate provide off-road cycling routes, pathways for walkers and acres of green space. Watch hotair balloons take off from here – and don’t miss the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. PORTISHEAD & CLEVEDON Roughly 10 miles from Bristol, Portishead has a 420-berth marina featuring a public arts trail and Lake Grounds, where there is an open-air pool and a boating lake. Nearby Clevedon boasts an elegant Grade I-listed pier constructed in 1869 and the Curzon cinema dated 1912. The town was also a location for the television drama series Broadchurch. WESTON-SUPER-MARE Further south, this Victorian beach resort offers various seaside attractions (go-karts, dodgems and F1 simulators) on the famous Grand Pier. From July to September, visit SEE MONSTER, the world's first and only repurposed North Sea offshore platform, a large-scale outdoor public art installation located at the town’s seafront Tropicana site. Walkers should take a saunter along the Clevedon coast path to Portishead, part of the West Mendip Way, or head for the National Trust’s Sand Point. The town is also home to a thriving street art scene. CYCLE ROUTES If you prefer getting around on two wheels, try the Strawberry Line from Yatton to

Cheddar, an easy traffic-free cycle path that takes in Congresbury, Sandford, Winscombe and Axbridge, or the Brean Down Way cycle route from Weston to the National Trust’s spectacular Brean Down. Continued on page 46.

FOOD & DRINK Aldwick Court Estate Tour the vineyards (above) and taste award-winning English wines. The Ethicurean Ethical cuisine at Barley Wood Walled Garden in rural Wrington. Butcombe Brewery Go behind the scenes at this local brewer. Limeburn Hill Vineyard Tours, tastings and organic wines at this small, biodynamic vineyard. Salt & Malt Fish and chips from a Michelinstarred chef overlooking Chew Valley Lake. Thatchers Visit Myrtle Farm shop, pub and orchards, the home of Thatchers Cider. Tiffany’s, Grand Pier Weston’s elegant restaurant and tearoom at the end of the pier.

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BEYOND BRISTOL

NATIONAL TRUST

Clockwise from top: The Grand Pier at Weston-super-Mare, Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm and National Trust Tyntesfield.

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BEYOND BRISTOL

NORTH SOMERSET

FURTHER AFIELD Make Bristol a base for exploring the wider region. Cardiff is just under an hour away: combine with a visit to the Royal Mint or the beautiful Wye Valley. Take a direct train to discover Magna Carta at Salisbury Cathedral in neighbouring Wiltshire and board the shuttle bus to nearby Stonehenge (pictured below). Combine these with Bath for a classic day out. Roughly an hour south-east of Bristol is the Longleat estate with its Elizabethan house, grounds and famous safari park.

VISIT WILTSHIRE

NORTH SOMERSET FAMILY ATTRACTIONS Cheddar Gorge & Caves Spectacular caves, dramatic clifftop walks and natural wonders that take you back to prehistoric times. Clevedon Pier This beautiful Victorian pier was also featured in a One Direction video. Grand Pier, Weston-super-Mare Indoor theme park fun with Bristol Channel views plus seafront restaurants views. Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm Meet elephants, white rhinos, donkeys, sheep and more. Ham Wall Nature Reserve At the RSPB’s wetland centre, see bitterns, kingfishers and views across the marshes towards Glastonbury Tor. Somerset Rural Life Museum Dedicated to the region’s social and agricultural history from the 1800s onwards. Tyntesfield A National Trust Victorian Gothic house with 540 acres of grounds to explore. Wookey Hole Caves Wander through the valley of the dinosaurs and meet the Witch of Wookey. Wells Cathedral In England’s smallest city, Wells Cathedral is one of the finest in the country.

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BEYOND BRISTOL

BATH Georgian elegance, World Heritage architecture and steamy thermal spa waters set in the green hills of Somerset

COLIN HAWKINS

COMPACT & PICTURESQUE Bath makes an ideal day trip as part of a short break to Bristol. The two contrasting cities complement each other perfectly and they are so close: Bath is just 12 miles away by car or 12 minutes by train. For a more leisurely journey, you can cycle the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. The surrounding countryside is also great for bike rides and walking. From the magnificent Bath Abbey and the famous Roman Baths – one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world – to the handsome crescents and terraces of its World Heritage architecture, the city’s many attractions are easily explored on foot. ART & CULTURE For more on Bath’s historic past, explore some of its museums. For a slice of Georgian life, head to No. 1 Royal Crescent (a popular setting for period costume dramas) or learn about Jane Austen’s time in the city at the Jane Austen Centre. For art lovers, the Holburne Museum combines classic and modern art in a stunning setting; the Victoria Art Gallery’s fine collection of British oil paintings date back to the 17th century; and the Museum of East Asian Art represents over 7,000 years of artistry and craftsmanship. The Fashion Museum showcases both historic and contemporary design. Step into the dark world of the author and her greatest creation at Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein. Just outside the city, the American Museum takes you on a journey through the history of America from its early European settlers to the 20th century. Find out more at visitbath.co.uk

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REST & RELAXATION Bath has been a leading destination for rest and relaxation since the Romans constructed the baths 2,000 years ago. The natural thermal springs that lie beneath the city still produce over a million litres of mineral water every day. At the thoroughly modern Thermae Bath Spa (above), relax and recuperate in the steamy waters of the rooftop pool and soak up spectacular views of the city. In 2021 Bath gained its second UNESCO World Heritage award as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. The water contains 43 minerals and has a rather unusual taste!

The Kennet & Avon Canal running through Sydney Gardens

For map of the area: 54

USEFUL INFO

GETTING TO BRISTOL AIR Bristol Airport is approximately 25 minutes south of central Bristol and offers direct scheduled flights across Europe and connections worldwide. Bristol Airport Flyer express bus runs a frequent service, or taxis are available from departures.

GWR

BUS National Express and Megabus both run services from across the country to Bristol’s bus and coach station and Bond Street in the city centre. Regional bus services terminate here too. Falcon runs a service from Plymouth to Bristol 24 hours a day with various stops including Bristol Airport. TRAIN There are regular train and bus services between the two stations. High-speed services from London are operated by GWR. You can catch a ferry or walk from Temple Meads (Temple Quay landing) into the City Centre and Harbourside attractions.

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GREAT WEST WAY® Bristol sits at the Western end of England’s Great West Way®. As well as travelling by bicycle, walking the landscapes, relaxing on waterways, or taking the road, you can also take advantage of the Great West Way® Discoverer pass from GWR offering unlimited train and bus travel along the route from London to Bristol – see more online. ROAD Visitors are encouraged to use public transport to get to Bristol, wherever possible. Bristol has Park & Ride services at Portway, Long Ashton, Brislington and Lyde Green. Check online for fares and operating times.

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USEFUL INFO

GETTING AROUND BRISTOL BUS There are several bus operators in Bristol and the surrounding area. A handy journey planner is available via TravelWest. Day tickets are usually the cheapest option for getting around. See page 53 for more detail on the Tootbus hop-on, hop-off Open Top Bus tours.

PAUL BOX

TRAIN The mainline stations are Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway; you can access many rural stations from these. Bristol has local stations which are convenient for getting around the city and the surrounding areas. The historic Severn Beach line connects the city centre with the coast and the Severn Way walking route. BOAT Bristol Ferry Boats (below) offer a year-round service with stops all around the Harbourside from Temple Meads station to Hotwells. Number Seven Boat Trips offer a similar service during weekends and school holidays. There is a cross-harbour ferry running from Hannover Quay to Brunel’s SS Great Britain. See our map on pages 54-55 for ferry landing locations. See the tours on page 53 for more information about pleasure cruises around the Harbourside and further afield.

CYCLING, SCOOTERS AND BIKE HIRE As the UK’s first cycling city, Bristol has many cycle lanes and routes. Bikes can be hired from various businesses and locations around the city, including the Big Issue eBike, the Brompton Dock at Temple Meads station, Pedal Progression at Ashton Court, Webbs Cycle Shop just off the Bristol Cycle Railway Path, as well as Cycle the City and Bristol Tandem Hire from the city centre area. Some hotels also offer bikes for hire on request. Riding an electric Voi scooter is also a great way to get around the city, while sparing it from both noise and pollution. ACCESSIBILITY Bristol can be explored on foot although some steep hills and cobbled streets can be difficult to access with a wheelchair. The Visit Bristol website contains links to accessible audits of accommodation and attractions. Wheelchair and mobility scooter hire are both available from Shopmobility, located in Cabot Circus. TAXI Hackney carriage taxis are painted in ‘Bristol’ blue and can be picked up at ranks across the city or hailed on the street. There are also private hire companies operating in the city and app-based taxi services such as Uber and Ola.

Bristol Ferry Boats

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For map of the area: 54

USEFUL INFO

GUIDED AND SELF-GUIDED TOURS WALKING Take in a mixture of the latest cutting-edge street art combined with some classic Banksy on a guided tour by Where the Wall or Graft (the Blackbeard to Banksy tour throws in a bit of Norman history and Long John Silver too). Cactus Apps offer several themed self-guided tours including Banksy’s Bristol trail and the Seven Saints of St Paul’s heritage trail. Get your pirate on and follow the barrels of the Treasure Island Trail around the Old City streets. Be introduced to the local craft beer scene with Bristol Hoppers (guided and self-guided available). Show of Strength Theatre Walks offer a fun and interactive way to discover stories of Bristol’s past. Free guided tours of Clifton Suspension Bridge are available at weekends and bank holidays (seasonal). Find ideas for seasonal walks on the Visit Bristol website blog and don’t miss the annual Bristol Walk Fest in May, offering special themed and guided walks all around the city.

HOP ON A BOAT Bristol Ferry Boats and Number Seven Boat Trips operate regular ferry services to and from waterfront attractions along the Harbourside. The Matthew (above) runs regular harbour trips, and some cruises include a cream tea or fish and chips. They also run four-hour trips along the Avon Gorge. The Bristol Packet offers guided trips around Bristol and along the River Avon to Bath.

CYCLING The Adventurous Activity Company runs organised tours for groups with bike hire included. For longer rides there are dedicated routes such as the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, the Strawberry Line and the Avon Cycleway. BUS Tootbus open-top bus tours (bottom) start at Broad Quay with numerous stops to hop on and off along the way, including all major city centre attractions. Only Fools and Horses fan? You can now take a mini coach tour of iconic scenes filmed in Bristol.

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Bristol city centre map Ferry landing stages

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Hotels: For a map of accommodation in Bristol, scan the QR code or go to: VisitBristol.co.uk/your-visit/maps

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Visit Bristol Official Visitor Guide 2022

Articles inside

Tours

North Somerset

Bath

Getting to/around Bristol

Old City & Park Street

Stokes Croft & Gloucester Road

Old Market & St Philips

Southville & Bedminster

Explore more

South Glos. & South Cotswolds

Sacred Bristol

Clifton