Bristol Attractions

Attractions in Bristol are all about the 'Bs': we have Brunel, boats, bridges, bikes and beautiful countryside. Everywhere you turn there is something spectacular to see and do in Bristol. The city is steeped in history and our historical and heritage sites, like Bristol Cathedral and the Lord Mayor's Chapel, are not to be missed. If you're looking for things to do with the family then we guarantee that Bristol will wear the children out with so many fun things on offer.

It has a fascinating maritime history and the association with water flows through the floating harbour and some of the best preserved boats in the country can be found in the docks. The grand SS Great Britain, designed and built by notable Briton, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, is a sight to behold. Go below deck or climb the rigging like a sailor in the 1800s; this wonderfully restored vessel offers something special for everyone. Sail out of the harbour on The Matthew, the replica of the ship that John Cabot discovered Newfoundland on. M Shed is a modern museum documenting the history of Bristol, transforming the old transit shed on the harbour. This is just one of the free days out in Bristol that awaits you.

Not to be missed is the most famous of Brunel's masterpieces, the Clifton Suspension Bridge that spans the picturesque Avon Gorge. The Clifton Observatory is a perfect place to get one of the best views of Bristol. We're not going to spoil it for you; go and see it with your own eyes! If you're a film, music or theatre buff then Bristol hosts some world-class performances covering a wide range of genres.

Millennium Square and the Harbourside offer some fantastic, modern Bristol attractions for small and big kids. We The Curious is a hands-on, interactive playground with planetarium and with Bristol Aquarium on the same site, you can easily spend the whole day here. Combine a trip to the suspension bridge with a visit to Bristol Zoo Gardens, an intimate zoo and an opportunity to get up close and personal with your favourite furry friends.

In the north of the city you will find Aerospace Bristol, giving you the chance to step on board Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the last of the iconic aeroplanes to fly. Nearby is Wild Place Project, a family attraction that provides adventure, play and learning with an emphasis on protecting habitats on our doorsteps and around the globe

There's also some amazing attractions close to Bristol such as Westonbirt Arboretum, Slimbridge Wetland Centre and Longleat Safari Park. There's so much to discover: check out our full list of things to do in Bristol, or take home a memento of your trip from our online shop.

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