Blog & Guides

Welcome to the Visit Bristol blog, your one-stop shop for ideas, inspiration and handy tips to make your time in Bristol that bit better!

From suggested itineraries to festival round-ups and unmissable things to do, our guides aim to showcase the best of the city, whatever the time of year. We publish new blogs every week and keep our blog posts up-to-date with the latest information, so you can trust that you’re getting the most accurate and useful tips for your trip.

Planning a trip with the family? Check out our guides on Places to stay with kids in and around Bristol and Things to do with teenagers. We’ve also got a list of 60 free things to do to keep costs down.

Coming here to sample as much of the food scene as you can? Have a read through our list of Bristol’s Michelin-starred restaurants, top cocktail bars and pub gardens, or find the best places to go for vegan food while you’re here. We’re sure you’ll also want to try a tasty Sunday roast while you’re here – we've rounded up a few of the best of those too!

If you’re local to Bristol, or here for a few days, we’ve also got plenty of suggestions for day trips to the north, south, east and west of the city so that you can experience as much of the region as possible. Maybe you want to tick off all of the World Heritage Sites near Bristol, or discover our most accessible outdoor attractions.

We’ll also have seasonal guides to help you get the most out of Summer in Bristol, from rooftop bars to scenic cycle routes, or find out what’s on for Christmas in and around the city.

Keep checking back for more brilliant Bristol inspiration!

A group of international students in front of the Clifton Suspension Bridge in West Bristol - credit Roger Harris

Studying in Bristol? Take time to be a tourist in the city

Sep. 05, 2023

Bristol welcomes tens of thousands of students every year, so we asked University of Bristol student Bethany Barrett to round up some of the top attractions to visit when you're getting acquainted with the city... I’m proud to call Bristol my ‘uni-home’, and I’m sure that the many first-years…

Tour group travelling aroundcider orchard at Myrtle Farm, near Bristol - credit Thatchers Cider

The story of Thatchers Cider

Aug. 03, 2023

Did you know that some of the UK's most popualr ciders are made just outside of Bristol on a family-run orchard? We asked the team at Thatchers Cider to talk us through the history of the company, from humble roots on a Somerset farm to having the top-selling ciders in the South West! Cider is a…

A view of the harbour area in the town of Keynsham near Bristol - credit Nick Smith

The local's guide: Keynsham

Jul. 15, 2023

This rural market town is nestled on the south-eastern borders of Bristol. We asked local resident Monika Komar to tell us some of the best spots to seek out... Hop on a train from Bristol Temple Meads, and a mere eight minutes away is Keynsham; part Bristol suburb, part independent market town;…

A view of Castle Street in the town of Thornbury, near Bristol

Exploring South Gloucestershire's vibrant high streets

Jul. 05, 2023

Away from the crowded shopping centres and big-name brands, you'll find a treasure trove of unique and quirky independent businesses on South Gloucestershire's high streets. We've rounded up a few fantastic local businesses that are definitely worth a visit so grab your shopping bag and let's…

Outlaws Season 2 credit BBC One,Amazon Studios, BBC Studios

The Visit Bristol guide to The Outlaws season 2

Jul. 04, 2023

Wholly set and filmed in Bristol, the second series of Stephen Merchant’s hit comedy thriller The Outlaws began on BBC One in the UK on Sunday 5 June 2022, after an extensive shoot that took place at The Bottle Yard Studios and on location across Bristol assisted by the city’s Film Office. The…

A wide shot of a steam train on the track at Avon Valley Railway near Bristol - credit Avon Valley Railway

The local's guide: Lesser-known things to do in Bristol

Jun. 20, 2023

Blue O’Connor is a proud Bristolian, keen adventurer and travel writer. We asked him for his must-do checklist for any Bristol resident or visitor, and this is what he came back with... 1. Hop on a steam engine train at Avon Valley Railway This historical railway line which originally opened in 1869…

Where to find sweet treats in Bristol

May 30, 2023

Whether traditional crêpes, epic pastries, gelato cocktails or luxury chocolates are more your jam, there’s a fine selection of indulgent sugary treats to get stuck into in Bristol. Here’s our guide to some of the best and where to find them. Chez Marcel Chez Marcel has brought a taste of Brittany…

People sitting under the sun on the roof terrace at the Bambalan restaurant, central Bristol - credit Bambalan

10 rooftop bars for summer in Bristol

May 25, 2023

When the temperature rises in the city, it’s hard to beat a rooftop watering hole for an awesome view and glass of something chilled. Here are ten of Bristol’s best rooftop bars: The White Lion Bar Home to one of the most iconic views in Bristol, The White Lion Bar (part of the Avon Gorge by Hotel…

Interior of John Wesley's New Room, Bristol - credit John Wesley's New Room

The story of John Wesley's New Room

May 10, 2023

Learn about the life and legacy of John and Charles Wesley and the history of John Wesley's New Room, a museum in the centre of Broadmead and the oldest Methodist building in the world at over 280 years old. John Wesley was an Anglican clergyman, evangelist, and founder, with his brother Charles, of…

Peanut butter parfait dessert at No. 4 Clifton Village in Bristol - credit Evoke Pictures

10 of the best Bristol hotels for foodies

May 09, 2023

If West Country fodder is calling you, and you’re looking for somewhere to stay in the Bristol area, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect combination of delicious food, fine wines and a comfy bed. We’ve rounded up some top places to stay for foodies, from charming boutique hotels to country…