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 balloons lifting off in a mass ascent at Bristol International Balloon Fiesta - credit Andrew Varcoe

6 top tips for Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Jul. 22, 2026

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is one of the most popular and striking outdoor events on the calendar. This year, the world-renowned free Fiesta returns to Ashton Court between Friday 7 August and Sunday 9 August 2026. Each morning and evening of the fiesta, you can join one of the fiesta's…

People enjoying small plates and cocktails at Rick's Bristol

10 of the best Bristol hotels for foodies

Jul. 21, 2026

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…

Tree top high ropes course - credit Adventure Bristol

Tree Tops Adventure Bristol: An unforgettable outdoor adventure for all ages

Jul. 17, 2026

If you’re looking for exciting outdoor activities for kids in Bristol, something different to do with friends, or even school holiday clubs, Tree Tops Adventure Bristol is the perfect destination. Set in the beautiful surroundings of Leigh Woods, just moments from the iconic Clifton Suspension…

Boy playing with giant bubble at We The Curious, Bristol - credit Lisa Whiting

7 reasons to visit We The Curious this summer

Jul. 16, 2026

A day out at Bristol’s surprising science experience, We The Curious, is the perfect way to enjoy some time out together over the summer holidays. You’ll find We The Curious right in the heart of Bristol’s historic harbourside. Step through the rainbow-coloured entrance to two floors full of things…

Holiday parks and campsites near Bristol

Jul. 15, 2026

Summer is the perfect time for a break outside of the city, whether you opt to stay on site at a local attraction with the family or enjoy a peaceful countryside camping trip. Bristol is surrounded by stunning countryside, dramatic coastline and some award-winning attractions just waiting for you to…

Family playing in kitchen - credit Upside Down House

Fun things to do with teenagers in Bristol

Jul. 14, 2026

Worried about keeping teenagers entertained during a visit to Bristol? Don’t be! There’s an endless amount of fun and adventure on offer for their age group, thanks to exciting attractions and activities. Whether they’d be happiest in a wetsuit, on roller skates or holding a spray paint can, here…

People swimming at Lido Bristol and chilling by the pool

Outdoor swimming pools and splash parks in Bristol

Jul. 10, 2026

Make the most of warmer days and cool off at these alfresco swimming spots, from Bristol Harbourside to open air lidos, marine lakes and more. Jump to: Outdoor swimming pools - Open water swimming - Splash parks Outdoor pools Bristol Lido Tucked away down a quiet street in Clifton, this Victorian…

Hot air balloons at Bristol International Balloon Fiesta - credit George Blagdon

8 ways to make the most of #SummerInBristol

Jul. 08, 2026

Bristol is a city made for summer. From soaring hot air balloons to bustling Harbourside festivals, incredible live music, family fun and outdoor adventure; there’s something very special about #SummerInBristol... Read on to find out why Bristol is always a good idea: find out what’s coming up and…

Terrace at 360 Cafe in Bristol - credit Clifton Observatory

10 rooftop bars for summer in Bristol

Jul. 07, 2026

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

People watching football at The Prospect Building in Bristol - credit The Prospect Building

Where to watch the World Cup in Bristol

Jul. 06, 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on Thursday 11 June, with 48 teams taking part in a total of 104 matches in just over five weeks. The tournament is being hosted across Canada, Mexico and the United States, but this is our guide to where you can catch all of the action right here in Bristol…