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Old City

The Old City area encompasses the original city of Bristol, and some of the city's most historic buildings.

At its heart stands the Corn Exchange, where Bristol merchants used flat top pillars - or 'nails' - for the exchange of money, hence the term to pay on the nail.

Corn Street and the Exchange bustle with activity during the regular street markets, with the award winning Farmers Market every Wednesday, Arts and Craft market at weekends and a Slow Food Market on the first Sunday of every month.

Things to See and Do

Bristol Old Vic Theatre on King Street is the oldest continually working theatre in England. As well as ground-breaking contemporary theatre, you can take a fascinating backstage tour.

Queen Square has been restored to its original Georgian elegance. It's a picturesque park, ideal for relaxing and watching the world go by, so it's hard to believe that Queen Square was at the centre of the Bristol Riots of 1831.

From Queen Square, you can look across to the majestic St Mary Redcliffe Church, described by Elizabeth I as 'the goodliest, fairest and most famous parish church in England'.

Eating and Drinking

Many of the Georgian merchants' clubs and banks around Corn Street have been transformed into modern restaurants and bars, serving cuisine from around the world.

King Street is lined with historic Jacobean pubs nestled alongside modern bars. The famous Llandoger Trow dates back to 1664 and was the inspiration for Robinson Crusoe. La Taverna Dell Artista on King Street is a favourite haunt for theatre goers, serving drinks and fabulous pizzas.

There are plentry of lively modern bars for you to party the night away in.

Where to Stay

You can stay in the heart of the old city at the Thistle Bristol Hotel and Hotel Du Vin.

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