Features / Bristol24/7 Student Guide 2020

Bristol24/7 Student Guide 2020: Seven things that should be on your Bristol bucket list

By Chloe Smith  Tuesday Aug 18, 2020

Culturally diverse, packed with colour, creativity and landscapes, Bristol is bursting with exciting things to do.

Whether you consider yourself a foodie fanatic, an animal lover, an avid architecture enthusiast, or anything in between, Bristol is brimming with experiences that you won’t want to miss.

1. Clifton Suspension Bridge
One of the most beautiful viewpoints in the city, this iconic bridge was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Based in Clifton, you can admire the gorgeous surroundings and check out nearby boutiques and independent shops.

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The photo opportunity is unmissable – don’t forget nearby Clifton Observatory, which has additional viewing points in the “Giant’s Cave”.

Clifton Suspension Bridge should be number one on the bucket list. Photo: Lowie Trevena

2. Graffiti and street art exploring
Bristol is a canvas full of colour! On many streets, such as Nelson Street and near Stokes Croft, you’ll be greeted with vibrant splashes of creative and jaw dropping street art.

Ranging from expressive to visual spectacle, you’ll find a range of street art, including creations by native Bristolian Banksy, dotted around the city.

New art pops up everywhere – even locals enjoy discovering new pieces every day – so take some time to discover Bristol’s art.

3. Bristol Aquarium and Bristol Zoo Gardens
For all the animal lovers out there, nowhere is better than places like Bristol Aquarium and Bristol Zoo gardens. You can see hundreds of different animals and enjoy learning about how they live.

4. SS Great Britain
Rescued and restored, the SS Great Britain is an experience that allows you to step back in time and explore the world’s first great ocean liner.

Each room has different authentic sounds and smells, bringing history to life. Once you step aboard you embark on a voyage through history.

The SS Great Britain is located near the harbourside. Photo: SS Great Britain

5. Harbourside
Bristol’s famed harbourside features local pubs, Arnolfini, M Shed and Spike Island, and much more.

Whether you want to have a cold drink walking down the harbour or if you would rather sit and watch the boats, it’s a place that you can easily love.

You could even take a boat tour in the sunshine to see Bristol in all its glory.

6. Love Local
There is nothing better than finding local treasures. Small and independent businesses can be found throughout Bristol, and not only is it good to support small but looking into lovely local stores and restaurants could help you find a new favourite place to eat or shop that you have never seen before.

These jazzy independents can be found all around the city, including Gloucester Road which boasts numerous small businesses such as Iota and CoLab, which both have a range of gifts, clothing and homeware – some from local designers.

You can also find some sweet small businesses on Park Street, like Mrs. Potts Chocolate House and Cowbee. Try local restaurant Pizzarova for a more savoury choice.

Mrs Pott’s Chocolate House at the bottom of Park Street is a must-visit. Photo: Jess Connett

7. Architecture
Wills Memorial building, Bristol Cathedral, The Victoria Rooms and Clifton Hill House are just some of the beautiful buildings found throughout Bristol.

They all have their different spots of beauty and anyone who appreciates fine architecture would love having a look at any of these.

Main photo: Max McClure

Read more: Instagrammable Bristol

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