History & Culture

Bristol has enjoyed a rich and eventful past, and many parts of the city are much as they were hundreds of years ago. From medieval town to cutting-edge cultural city, Bristol continues to move forward and lead the way in its own unique style. Below are some of the best things to see, do and experience in Bristol, ideal for those who are interested in anything and everything from ancient history to the arts and modern culture.

Historic Attractions

• Brunel’s ss Great Britain - Take a trip back through time as you explore the authentically-restored decks of Brunel’s great propeller-driven ship.
  

• City Museum & Art Gallery - Enjoy free entry to this impressive city museum and art gallery containing ancient artefacts, precious works of art and an ever-changing schedule of events and exhibitions.
  
  
• Clifton Suspension Bridge - Enjoy an entertaining free guided tour of Bristol’s most famous landmark and take in the incredible views of the Avon Gorge and the sprawling city beyond.
  
  
• Cabot Tower – Towering 105 feet above the city, this impressive monument was built in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot's voyage from Bristol.
  
  
• Old City - Explore the narrow cobbled streets and magnificent buildings of Bristol's original old town. Don't miss the Llandoger Trow on King Street or the Corn Exchange in Bristol's old financial quarter.
  

Castles and Stately Homes

• Berkeley Castle – Explore over 900 years of history at this impeccably-preserved medieval fortress.
  
  
• Tyntesfield National Trust - Wander the sympathetically-restored rooms of this Victorian country mansion and explore the stunning grounds and gardens of the estate.
  
  
• Blaise Castle Estate – Wander the splendid grounds and folly castle of this romantic estate.
  
  
• The Red Lodge – Historic Elizabethan house and tranquil walled garden located in the heart of Bristol’s West End.
  
  
• Ashton Court Estate – Historic park and country home covering 850 acres of woods and grassland just minutes from Bristol’s centre.
  

Churches & Cathedrals

• Bristol Cathedral – One of the UK’s finest hall churches, Bristol Cathedral plays host to regular choirs, concerts and special services throughout the year.
  
  
• St Mary Redcliffe – Explore the centuries-old gothic arches and beautiful stain glass windows at this fine English church.
  
  
• John Wesley’s Chapel ‘The New Room’ – Step back in time and visit the world’s oldest Methodist building as it was in the 18th century.
  
  
• Glastonbury Abbey – Marvel at the mysterious ruins of this world-renowned Abbey, said to be the burial place of King Arthur.
  
  
• St John the Baptist’s Church – The only surviving church built on the 12th century Saxon wall of Bristol’s old inner town.

Film, Music and the Arts

• Arnolfini – Situated in a prime position on Bristol’s harbourside, Arnolfini is one of Europe’s leading centres for the contemporary arts.
  
  
• Watershed - Watch unique world cinema and attend intriguing events at this trendy media centre and café bar on Bristol’s harbourside.
  
  
• Bristol Old Vic – Bristol’s oldest working theatre, the Bristol Old Vic has continued to draw in crowds for over 200 years.
  
  
• St George’s Bristol – One of the country’s top concert halls hosting the very best in classical, chamber, world, folk, blues and jazz.
  
  
• Spike Island – A unique art centre and gallery space hosting art exhibits ranging from paintings and sketches to multi-media and moving images.
  
  
• Paintworks – Bristol’s new creative quarter featuring an impressive gallery and art space and a packed schedule of events and exhibitions.
  
  
• Royal West of England Academy of Arts – Bristol’s most boasted art gallery featuring 5 magnificent naturally-lit galleries and a new commercial art space.
  
  
• Tobacco Factory – A contemporary café bar and working theatre staging new and classic touring productions.