History & Heritage

Historic Attractions

• Arnos Vale Cemetery – A historic cemetery featuring 45 acres of beautiful landscape, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife as well to the graves of hundreds of famous social reformers, celebrities, religious pioneers, nautical and military heroes.

• 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.

• 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.

• Clifton Suspension Bridge - Enjoy an entertaining free guided tour of Bristol’s most famous landmark and take in the incredible views of Avon Gorge and the city beyond. 

• 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.

• Kings Weston Roman Villa - 4th Century Roman villa displaying the impressive remains of the original mosaic flooring, heating system and bath suite.

• The Edward Jenner Museum - Located in Berkeley next to the famous Berkeley castle, this museum gives a fascinating insight into the home of the vaccination pioneer Edward Jenner, who discovered the cure for smallpox.

Castles and Stately Homes

• Tyntesfield National Trust - Wander the sympathetically-restored rooms of this Victorian country mansion and explore the stunning grounds and gardens of the estate.

• Berkeley Castle – Explore over 900 years of history at this impeccably-preserved medieval fortress.

• 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.

• Thornbury Castle – Magnificent Tudor country house hotel which was once owned by King Henry VIII.

• Ashton Court Estate – Historic park and country home covering 850 acres of woods and grassland just minutes from Bristol’s centre.

• Dyrham Park – Explore over 265 acres of ancient deer park and preened gardens located just outside of Bath.

Churches & Cathedrals

• Bristol Cathedral – One of the UK’s finest hall churches, Bristol Cathedral plays host to regular choir performances, concerts and special services throughout the year.

• St Mary Redcliffe – Explore the centuries-old gothic arches and beautiful stained 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 original 12th century Saxon wall of Bristol’s old city.