The Never-Ending List of Things To Do In Bristol

Bristol is a fascinating place. When trying to pinpoint the most wonderful things for visitors to experience in Bristol an amazing thing kept happening. While writing about an adventure, an area, or a history, suddenly everything would just take a left turn. It would be like we were instantly in a different city. This was a puzzling experience, so we looked deeper.

Bristol is not just one city. It is a collection of a diverse population. No, sectioned off cultures, it is the people. The people of Bristol are dedicated to their neighborhoods. They have their favorite shops, museums, amusement centers, theaters, and restaurants and that is where they go. You can go to one area and you will get directed on anything you want to do and see in that area and rarely another. It is not that people in Bristol do not like people on the other side of the city, they just “love” their part of the city. They live in their part of the city, and think it is the best of everything.

The close proximity to Ireland means there is a large Irish population in Bristol and that has an impact on the culture. The Irish are friendly by nature and experiencing authentic Irish culture in certain areas adds a dimension to your visit. It is normal and comfortable to hear conversations in Irish dialect as people visit on the street. The smell of authentic Irish food often fills the air. Enjoying a cup of Irish coffee while you play the Irish lottery with Lottoland UK online is a normal passtime. You will feel like you are right at home.

Pandemic Prep and Covid Control

When the pandemic hit, Bristol went to work. It was amazing. It is doubtful you will find another city anywhere that puts more plans into action to keep a city in ‘lockdown” alive. So much of what is available was workable, Bristol stands out as amazing during COVID. But, to be safe you should contact your destinations before traveling there. Safety precautions are taken and you do not want to plan a trip on a day when a place is being closed for cleaning or other requirements.

Some things you want to know about Bristol

People often underestimate Bristol. Do not make that mistake. If you do, you will miss some wonderful sights. Let us give you some basic information about this great city.

• Bristol is the largest southern city in England, after London and one of the largest shipping ports. Until the Industrial Revolution and the rise of Liverpool and Manchester, Bristol was England’s largest city.
• In World WarII it was bombed severely, virtually destroying the manufacturing industries. It is now a college town and The University of Bristol (and its students) provides much of the employment for the community.

Now that you know a bit about Bristol, let’s look at some places you must see while you are there.

Photo credit: lankelsall1

Bristol Cathedral

The Bristol Cathedral was built in 1148 and stretches well over 300 feet. Much of the Cathedral has been rebuilt but some of the original structure is still in place. It is Romanesque style and the original name was St. Augustine’s Abbey.

Free tours are available, but donations are appreciated. Please remember, this is a place of worship so appropriate attire and respectable behavior is expected.

Photo credit: Maritime_Filming_UK

Clifton Suspension Bridge

This is Bristol’s most famous landmark. It opened in 1864 and provides panoramic views of the Avon Gorge and River Avon as it is suspended high above them. In the 1970s this is where early bungee jumps were held in the UK. There is a center nearby where you can learn about the history of the bridge.

Photo credit: Pinterest

The Avon Valley Railway - Ride The Steam-Powered Train

This beautiful railway dates back to the 1860s. You can enjoy a 4.828 km ride (3 miles) on the steam engine. Enjoy a fully restored Victorian train station and see how travel really was in the Victorian era. If you fancy an easy hike, there is a walking trail along the track so you can do some walking and a little exploring around the area. This is a nice adventure and a walk back in time. You will be glad you added it to your agenda.

Photo credit: Irenekoolker

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is not your normal zoo. While Bristol does have a wonderful zoo and you certainly should visit while you are in town, you would be doing yourself an injustice if you miss this opportunity. Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm features exotic animals that you rarely see unless you travel to their natural habitats. This includes animals such as, the white rhino, African elephants, giant anteaters, and many more. The farm is designed for their health and comfort.

There is so much more to do than we can list in this article. We urge you to do your own research. Type in the activities that you enjoy. If you are still unsure, there are many guided tours. You can choose hot air balloon tours, automobile tours with recorded destinations and GPS navigation so you can travel at your leisure, or even live tours that include pub hopping. That is one way to have an exciting night on the town. One thing is certain, there is something you will fall in love within Bristol. So, start making your plans to visit soon.