Bristol’s attractions: cultural and natural highlights
A tour of the harbour
A stroll along the docks in Bristol Harbour reveals the city’s maritime history, with more than 40 bridges crossing the harbour’s waterways. One of them leads towards the amphitheatre. From along the waterfront, you can see the colourful façades of the houses. Many small shops and restaurants are located right by the water, including the “Harbour House”, which has won awards for its cocktails.
Through the city by water
You can also explore the harbour extensively from the water. Enjoy sporting activities like windsurfing or canoeing, or else go on one of the numerous boat tours that’ll take you to the most famous sights, such as the “SS Great Britain”. In the 19th century, it was the largest passenger ship in the world, becoming known as “The Ship that changed the World”.
The cathedral’s eternal splendour
Colourful stained-glass windows and high columns with stone ornamentation adorn the interior of Bristol Cathedral. The huge building is also a distinctive landmark from the outside. Its history dates back about 900 years, beginning with its construction in 1140. The repertoire of organ and church choir concerts is surprisingly diverse, ranging from classical compositions to modern works.
Free by foot: the Clifton Suspension Bridge
The route across the Avon Gorge is almost 412 metres long: the Clifton Suspension Bridge connects the district of Clifton with Leigh Woods. Nestled in rolling greenery, it offers a view of Bristol’s majestic silhouette. When it was completed in 1864, the chain bridge was a much-admired innovation and one of the longest in the world. Today, it is free for cyclists and pedestrians, though drivers must pay a toll.
Green oasis: Brandon Hill Park
If you’re looking for nature, you can visit Brandon Hill Park in the city centre, a small nature reserve that is home to many native plants and animals. Bristol’s oldest park leads up Brandon Hill to the Cabot Tower, a red sandstone building enthroned on the top. A spiral staircase leads up to two observation platforms, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of Bristol’s skyline.
Fantasy with a tiger
The path through a seemingly abandoned paint factory leads into the “Dream Factory” and through the “OUTERverse”; in “Wake The Tiger”, you can immerse yourself in another reality. The interactive museum tells the story of the fictional world of “Meridia”. You’ll encounter many cultures and civilisations, with every region and every room telling a unique story while boasting imaginative, often brightly coloured architecture.
Browsing the selection at St Nicholas Market
At St Nicholas Market in the city centre, you’ll find nearly 60 stalls displaying handcrafts, clothing and books. Dating back to 1743, the historic market is housed in an old Georgian building and is open from Monday to Saturday, offering a great opportunity to look for souvenirs. If you’re in need of refreshments, you can refuel at various food stalls. From Mediterranean and Asian cuisine to British snacks, there’s something for everyone.
Bristol’s mysterious alleys
Hidden between alleyways, the Christmas Steps looks just like Diagon Alley from the “Harry Potter” films - which is hardly surprising as J.K. Rowling grew up in the immediate vicinity. But the history of the old town goes back much further. Many of the old buildings are well-preserved, especially on King Street, which is known for the Bristol Old Vic Theatre, one of the oldest continuously operating British theatres, having been in business since 1766.
A window into the past at the art museum
Situated between two stone columns, the entrance takes you into the huge building that houses the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery in Clifton. Spanning three floors, here you can visit exhibitions on natural history, archaeology and art history. One of the highlights is its collection of Egyptian artefacts, including mummies, statues and burial objects. The museum also displays modern artworks and often hosts special exhibitions.
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