Bristol Holidays

Bristol is a city bursting with creativity, history, and top-tier vibes. Whether you’re after stunning street art, fascinating maritime history, or some of the best eats in the UK, this buzzing spot has it all.

Bristol Holiday Highlights

• Home of Banksy – see world-famous street art in its birthplace

• The iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge – a must-see engineering marvel

• Harbourside attractions, including Brunel’s SS Great Britain

• A buzzing independent food and drink scene, from Michelin stars to quirky food markets

Places to see in Bristol

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Bristol's most famous landmark and one of the UK's most recognisable bridges. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it spans the Avon Gorge and offers spectacular views across the city.

Bristol Harbourside

The heart of modern Bristol. This vibrant waterfront area is packed with restaurants, cafés, museums and bars, making it one of the city's most popular places to spend an afternoon.

SS Great Britain

One of Bristol's biggest attractions, this beautifully restored historic ship offers a fascinating insight into Victorian engineering and maritime travel.

St Nicholas Market

A local favourite filled with independent food vendors, vintage stalls and unique gifts. It's one of the best places in the city for lunch.

Cabot Tower

Climb to the top for panoramic views across Bristol's rooftops, parks and surrounding countryside.

Bristol Street Art Trail

Bristol is famous for its street art scene, and you'll find colourful murals throughout the city, including works associated with the elusive Banksy.

Where to stay in Bristol

Bristol has a variety of neighbourhoods and surrounding areas that suit different styles of holiday, from lively city breaks to peaceful countryside escapes.

Couples – Clifton & Harbourside

Couples will love Clifton's elegant Georgian architecture, boutique shops and scenic viewpoints. The Harbourside is another excellent choice, offering waterfront restaurants, cocktail bars and evening strolls beside the water.

Best for: romantic weekends, dining and sightseeing

Groups – City Centre & Harbourside

If you're travelling with friends, staying close to the city centre or Harbourside keeps you within easy reach of Bristol's nightlife, restaurants and entertainment venues. You'll find everything from traditional pubs to rooftop bars and live music venues.

Best for: nightlife, food and city-break adventures

Families – North Bristol & Countryside Surroundings

Families often prefer quieter areas around the edge of the city, where you'll find larger properties, green spaces and easy access to attractions. Staying slightly outside the centre also provides a good base for exploring the wider South West.

Best for: space, family attractions and day trips

Good to know

Fun fact: Bristol is widely considered the birthplace of Banksy, one of the world's most famous street artists.

Best attraction: The SS Great Britain remains one of the city's most visited attractions.

Foodie favourite: St Nicholas Market is packed with independent food stalls serving cuisines from around the world.

Bristol is a walkable city, although some areas are famously hilly, comfortable shoes are recommended!

Local lingo

• Hello – Alright?

• Thank you – Cheers

• Friend – Mate

• Goodbye – See ya

• Excellent – Proper lush

• How are you? – Alright then?

• Yes – Yep

• No – Nope

You'll hear a mix of West Country charm and modern city slang throughout Bristol.

Hotels in Bristol

Holiday Inn Bristol Airport - A convenient option for travellers flying in or out of the city, featuring an airport shuttle service, al fresco dining terrace and early continental breakfast. Ideal for short breaks and travellers with early flights.

Hampton by Hilton Bristol City Centre - A central hotel offering comfortable accommodation and a complimentary buffet breakfast. A great base for exploring Bristol's main attractions, shopping streets and restaurants.

Best Western Henbury Lodge Hotel - Set within a charming listed Georgian house, this hotel offers a more traditional stay with a cosy bar, fireplace and attractive walled garden terrace.

Best Western The Compass Inn - Located in peaceful surroundings on the outskirts of Bristol, this countryside retreat sits within six acres of grounds and provides a quieter alternative to city-centre accommodation.

Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Centre - A popular city-centre choice overlooking nearby parkland. Guests can enjoy terrace seating, a 24-hour fitness centre and easy access to Bristol Temple Meads station.

DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol South – Cadbury House - A stylish hotel located south of the city, offering comfortable accommodation and leisure facilities while remaining within easy reach of Bristol's attractions.

Bristol Travel Guide 2026 / 2027

Things to do for families in Bristol

Families will find plenty to keep little (and big) kids entertained. Start with a trip to We The Curious, a hands-on science centre packed with interactive exhibits. Next, head to Bristol Zoo Project for an outdoor adventure with wildlife. The SS Great Britain is another must-visit, where you can step aboard one of Brunel’s most famous creations and see what life was like on a 19th-century ship. If your crew loves nature, head to Ashton Court Estate for deer spotting, or take a scenic boat ride around the Harbourside. And for a final treat? Pop into Aerospace Bristol, home to the last Concorde ever built – perfect for young aspiring pilots!

Things to do for couples in Bristol

Bristol’s charm makes it a great pick for couples looking for a romantic city break. Take a stroll across the Clifton Suspension Bridge at sunset for some seriously swoon-worthy views. If you love art and culture, explore the city’s many galleries, like the Arnolfini or Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. For a relaxed afternoon, grab a coffee and wander through St Nicholas Market, browsing the independent stalls and picking up unique finds. Feeling adventurous? Hop on a hot air balloon and take in breathtaking views over the city (Bristol is famous for its annual Balloon Fiesta, after all). Round off the day with a cocktail at The Milk Thistle, a hidden speakeasy that oozes old-school romance.

Things to do for groups in Bristol

Whether you’re on a mates’ getaway or a hen/stag do, Bristol is a cracking destination. Start with a Banksy walking tour, spotting the elusive artist’s most famous pieces around the city. Fancy something a bit more high-energy? Try an escape room challenge or head to Wake The Tiger, an immersive art experience unlike anything else. For a proper laugh, sign up for a Bristol stand-up comedy night, or hit the lanes at The Lanes – a retro bowling alley with live music and a great selection of craft beers. If you’re after a big night out, the bars and clubs of Harbourside and Stokes Croft won’t disappoint, with everything from live music to top DJs keeping the party going.

Things to do for foodies in Bristol

Food lovers, rejoice – Bristol’s culinary scene is top-tier. The city is packed with independent eateries, from casual street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. Wapping Wharf is the place to be for a buzzing food scene, offering everything from bao buns to artisan pizza. If you fancy something fancy, book a table at Paco Tapas, a Michelin-starred spot serving up authentic Spanish flavours. Head to St Nicholas Market for street food heaven, where you’ll find Caribbean, Middle Eastern, and classic British bites all in one place. And let’s not forget Bristol’s incredible craft beer scene – take a brewery tour and sample some of the best local brews at places like Moor Beer or Left Handed Giant. Whether you’re after fine dining or a delish snack on the go, Bristol’s got you covered.

Other destinations in England

London – World-famous landmarks, museums and shopping.

Liverpool – Music history, waterfront attractions and nightlife.

Manchester – Football, culture and one of the UK's best music scenes.