10 must-sees and dos in Bristol

Bristol is a haven of culture, colour and cuisine, so you can’t study here without experiencing at least one of these ten attractions that our wonderful city has to offer.

1. Clifton Suspension Bridge

Quite an obvious one, but the views are incredible – even on a cloudy day. It’s a great photo op.

2. Clifton Village

On the way up to the bridge you’re likely to go through Clifton Village, which in itself is worth a look around. It has an abundance of little independent cafes, as well as plenty of shops to browse through.

3. The harbourside

In the midst of the city is the harbourside, where you can find the historic SS Great Britain and have a wander around M Shed, or just simply pass the time sat outside one of the many cafes and restaurants watching the boats go by.

4. Cabot Tower

If you’re a Skins fan then you’re likely to recognise this one, as it appeared in the TV show plenty of times. Cabot Tower gives you the opportunity to climb one of the highest points in the city and see yet more stunning views.
Note: this is not one for those who are claustrophobic – the walk up is quite tight!

5. Gloucester Road

If you’re a foodie or a fan of a trip down the pub then Gloucester Road is the place for you. It’s full of some seriously cool spots to grab a bite – you will be spoilt for choice!

6. King Street

Gloucester Road isn’t the only stop for those who like a pint: King Street is, simply put, a street of great pubs. From micro-breweries like King Street Brew House, to cider bars on barges like The Apple, there’s somewhere to fit every taste.

7. Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Park Street is dominated by the stunning Wills Memorial Building, often referred to as Hogwarts, but just behind it is Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. It’s the perfect place to have a wander around on a slightly damp, cold day, with some very interesting artefacts along with a set of Banksy originals.

8. Bristol Cathedral

At the bottom of Park Street is Bristol Cathedral. This is a definite must for historians, as the cathedral is packed with antiquity and has plenty of stories to tell, so be sure to take part in one of their audio tours to learn all about its abundant history. The cathedral also hosts special concerts and events.

9. Whiteladies Road

If you haven’t realised by now, Bristol likes its food. But in case you hadn’t guessed that already, here’s yet another example of somewhere to take a trip down to. Whiteladies Road is full of gems: cafes, shops, speakeasies, tapas bars – you name it, it’s probably down there. So if you’re a foodie, make sure to take a walk or two down that way.

10. Bus tour

Photo by Minnie Leaver

I often believe that one of the best ways to see a lot of a city in one go is to go on a bus tour, of which Bristol has a few. You can easily hop on and off as it takes you round all of the major, and slightly more overlooked, sites of the city, while also giving you some interesting information about each place on the way.