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In a Nutshell
With just under half a million inhabitants, Bristol has been described as “a small city that feels like a big city”. Named as the best place to live in Britain (2015) by The Sunday Times, Bristol is truly worth your attention on your next search for a break. Bristol won the EU’s European Green Capital Award in 2015, which shows how in-tune it is with the world around it. See the video below:
Things to see and do:
Landmarks:
- As Bristol has an extensive maritime history, what way better to honour this on your break than a ferry tour? Bristol Ferry offers sightseeing tours from the water, showing you all the best sights of Bristol. They have different tours every day and you can check their agenda here.
- The best known sight of Bristol is definitely the Clifton Suspension Bridge. This bridge still opens, and is entirely funded by toll-payments. There are free tours and you can climb the observation tower, which gives you the most beautiful views of the area. As the river Avon is tidal, you can visit it multiple times to get a different look of the river!
- If you have come to Bristol by car and fancy a drive, a 45-minute trip will take you to Wookey Hole Caves and is definitely worth your time. It is the UK’s largest cave system and you can look at all the beautiful rock formations and limestone caverns. There is an underground lake and cave-aged cheddar cheeses! It also houses many attractions, like a 4D-cinema, Valley of the Dinosaurs, Pirate Adventure Golf and a Circus Show. You can buy a combination ticket here.
Hidden gems:
- Located a 10-minute walk from the city centre with a lovely walk through Castle Park, you’ll find The Old Market Assembly on West Street. A wonderful cafe, bar, restaurant and theatre in one. With its beautiful roof terrace, this is perfect for the summertime. Caught in British weather? No problem! find something fun to watch in The Wardrobe Theatre! Check what they have on here.
- A 13-minute drive or 30-minute cycle ride from Bristol Station lies Blaise Castle Estate. If you enjoy country walks, this estate has the most beautiful stroll paths, and admission is completely free. There are kid-friendly activities like horse riding, a children’s play area and even a cricket pitch. Buggy-friendly walks available too!
- Every year, Bristol is home to the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. In 2018, it takes place between 9 to 12 August at Ashton Court Estate. It is completely free of charge and the colourful balloons in the blue sky are truly a beautiful sight. If you want to to more than just watching balloons, the site is filled with fairground rides, trade stands and other forms of entertainment. A fun day out! Coming by car? Make sure to book your parking to ensure a space here.
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Where to stay:
There are many available options for your stay in Bristol, depending on the area of your stay. You can use our search page if you want to browse or see our top three picks below:
- If you are looking for some luxury on your Bristol break, visit the Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa. A chic, four-star accommodation located in the city centre. With rooms under £100 a night, this hotel with its spa located in the former bank vault, is great value for money. Find the best rates here.
- Need a proper break and want to stay outside of the city? Consider the Berwick Lodge Bristol. Under a 25-minute drive from Bristol City Centre, this Lodge Hotel is perfect if you want to be around nature on your trip. The facilities are truly beautiful and quintessentially British. With their in-house restaurant, you can relax here after your day-trip in Bristol. Get your deal here.
- You can choose for a budget-option without losing the luxury by staying at the Clifton House Hotel. This b&b is housed in a stunning double-fronted Victorian house and located in Bristol’s favourite area: Clifton. It serves a lovely breakfast every morning to get you ready for your day in Bristol. At around £60 a night, this is a lovely budget-friendly option.
Where to eat and drink:
- If you fancy an unpretentious meal, visit Birch. With their ‘produce grown for the menu’, it is ever changing and beautifully fresh. Their third of an acre of field helps them grow their pro cuts, which again shows the environmental awareness of the city. You can book a table by popping in, emailing or calling. Find their details here.
- Cassia is perfect for special occasions. They also choose their menu based on seasonal products, and offer a tasting menu. They advise about 3,5 hours for a fully enjoyable ‘dining-experience’. Their restaurant only has nine tables, so make sure to book a table, which you can do here
- Want to try a different cuisine? Souk Kitchen serves Middle-Eastern dishes in brunch, lunch, dinner or mezze form. Plenty of chances to try it out! As winner of two (!) Bristol Good Food 2016 awards, Souk Kitchen cannot be missed on your next Bristol break. You have to call the restaurant to make a reservation, and you can find their details here.
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