Our most recommended things to do in Bristol

Bristol: Blackbeard to Banksy Guided Walking Tour

1. Bristol: Blackbeard to Banksy Guided Walking Tour

Uncover Bristol's historic downtown area on a two-hour tour with an expert guide. Begin your tour outside Bristol Cathedral on College Green, an imposing medieval church built in the 12th century. As you walk through the downtown core, hear about the origins of the city, where it first started, and its medieval center. You'll then continue on to the Norman castle site, situated strategically between the River Avon and River Frome. See evidence of blitz damage, perpetrated by the Nazis against Bristol during the Second World War.  Throughout, you'll learn about Banksy, Brunel, Blackbeard, and many other of Bristol's famous residents (whose names may or may not start with a B). Hear bizarre echoes and finally finish on Bristol's historic harborside after seeing the smallest, largest, and most beautiful pieces of street art in the city.

Bristol: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus 48-Hour Pass

2. Bristol: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus 48-Hour Pass

Explore Bristol, a diverse city with a rich history, with a 48-hour ticket to a sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus. Discover what has been named the most artistic city in the UK and come across its many museums, theaters, music gigs, and vibrant street art scene. Our bus tour makes 14 stops along the way, giving you the chance to explore Bristol's many attractions. You can visit the home of the famous street artist Banksy, see one of the most important historical ships in the world - Brunel's SS Great Britain, or enjoy a meal at one of the excellent restaurants at Bristol's harbourside while soaking up the atmosphere. The Bristol Discovery ticket is valid for 2 days and includes entertaining audio commentary in English on all our buses. So sit back and let the city surprise you. During the tour, we will take you past many notable landmarks such as Bristol Zoo Gardens, Bristol Aquarium, Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol Cathedral, St Mary's Redcliffe, Brunel's Old Station, Bristol Temple Meads, Bristol Hippodrome, Clifton Downs, and Clifton Observatory.

From Bristol: Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Day Tour

3. From Bristol: Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Day Tour

A day full of wonder awaits us today. Departing Bristol, your first stop for the day is the prehistoric monument Stonehenge. Many legends surround these incredible standing stones that weigh about 25 tons each and have attracted people from all over the world for years. Perhaps you believe they were created by Merlin, who magically transported them from Ireland. Maybe you believe Stonehenge is a landing site for alien spacecraft. They might remind you of the ruins of a Roman temple. You can't deny their magnificence, no matter what you believe. Avebury is your next stop. Enjoy your free time here: grab some lunch, wander around the area, and, of course, see the three stone circles. Avebury henge boasts the largest stone circle in Britain, so big it fits the entire quaint English village inside. So you can grab a pint and bite to eat while surrounded by a stone circle. Pretty magical, right? Your journey continues to the quaint village of Lacock. You have free time here, you might be interested in visiting the Abbey. Harry Potter fans will obsess over seeing the Lacock Abbey Cloisters, used as Hogwarts corridors in the movies. Visitors can also explore the medieval rooms and cloister court, before taking a look at the Fox Talbot Museum which explores the history of photography. Castle Combe is our last stop, often called one of the prettiest villages in England. Fans of movies like War Horse and Neil Gaiman’s Stardust may just recognize this spot, so get your camera ready. From here, it’s only a short drive back to Bristol.

Bristol: Guided Ghost Tour

4. Bristol: Guided Ghost Tour

Bristol Ghost Tours is the only dedicated ghost tour available in Bristol today. We offer fully guided tours with a professional costumed guide, to take you around the old medieval heart of the city, that introduce you to a modern city crammed with ghosts and tales of the paranormal. The tour itself is family friendly, meets outside of the Bristol Cathedral on College Green at 7.30pm on tour nights, and lasts for approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. You will be taken around the as part of a group, with never more than 32 people and be immersed into the many hidden secrets and horrors that are waiting at up to 17 different haunted locations. The tour begins outside the Bristol Cathedral at 7.30pm and then weaves a trail that passes by The Hatchet Inn, the Bristol Beacon, Christmas Steps, Lower Maudlin Rd, Union St, St Nicholas Markets, Bristol Bridge, King St, Bristol Old Vic, Queens Square. The route itself is almost circular, taking in the oldest parts of the city and up to 17 different haunted locations. The tour ends in Queens Square which is very close to bus stops and the centre of the city and many pubs, cafes restaurants and hotels.

Aerospace Bristol Entrance Ticket

5. Aerospace Bristol Entrance Ticket

Step aboard the last Concorde ever to fly and embark upon an exciting journey through the history of flight. From the earliest aeroplanes to space technology and the supersonic Concorde, let Aerospace Bristol take you on a fun hands-on journey through more than a century of incredible aviation achievements. The highlight of your day will surely be the iconic Concorde. You’ll have the chance to step aboard the world's fastest passenger jet, glimpse into the cockpit, and walk through the passenger cabin to discover how Concorde passengers would travel in style. Plus, enjoy an amazing show projected on to the outside of the aeroplane. Aerospace Bristol offers a fun family day out for all ages, with interactive exhibits, an outdoor play area in the shape of an aeroplane, and children’s trails for budding engineers and pilots to enjoy.

Bristol: Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults Experiences

6. Bristol: Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults Experiences

Explore two of the twelve impressive stone vaults that support the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Discovered just 20 years ago, the largest chamber is 11 meters high and covered in incredible stalactites and was built by famous Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. All ticket holders must be aged 7 years or over, and must wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Hard Hat Tour One Hour. £15 General Admission This is your chance to take a look inside Brunel’s hidden vaults, rediscovered by an intrepid team of engineers and construction workers in 2002. Our knowledgeable volunteer guides will explain how the design of Brunel’s bridge was shaped by the influence of others, and how the young newcomer was able to make his name. You’ll hear all about the people who built and rediscovered the vaults before donning a hard hat, descending a ladder and taking a look for yourself. Vaults Visit One Hour. Adults £10, Children £8 Our Vaults Visits are a family-friendly way to explore inside the Leigh Woods Vaults. Put on your hard hat, climb down the ladder and follow our map as you explore the largest and most significant of the twelve stone vaults – an impressive underground echo chamber 11 meters high and festooned in stalactites. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATIONPlease ensure that all members of your group are aware of the following restrictions. For safety reasons, we may not be able to allow members of your party to access the vaults if they have not complied with the following: • Tours are suitable for age 7+ and under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.• There is a minimum height limit of 1.2m. r>• Please wear sturdy shoes with good grip such as hiking boots or trainers. You will not be allowed to join the tour in heels or open-toed shoes.• This tour includes climbing a vertical ladder and passing through a low corridor. Please ensure that you are physically capable of doing so. Find more information at https://cliftonbridge.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Access-Guide.pdf • Please ensure that any camera, phone, or device you bring will fit in your pocket or bag so that you have two hands free to climb the ladder.• Only small rucksack type bags worn over both shoulders or bags with cross-body straps will be permitted inside the vaults. Large bags, handbags, umbrellas and so on can be stored securely at the Visitor Centre during your tour.• Be aware that the vaults can be wet and/or muddy inside, particularly after heavy rain. Please wear suitable clothing and ensure that cameras or mobile phones are protected from the calcite saturated water which may fall from the ceiling.

Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour

7. Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour

Allow local guides to take you on a magical tour through 1,000 years of Bristol's history. Enjoy privileged access to subterranean passageways, rooftop vistas, WW11 air raid shelters, and rooms that once rocked to the best bands of the 1960s. Visit St. Nicholas Market for lunch. Your tour begins outside the main entrance of the Corn Exchange. Stroll through ancient streets to see Blitz damage, castle remains, street art, and much more. After discovering the highlights of the Old Town, head back in time and beneath the streets to explore areas of the city that are usually unavailable to the public. You'll be moved, fascinated, and amazed by the WW2 Air Raid Shelter which remains as a living time capsule hidden beneath the city. You might even meet Margaret — a friendly ghost. Along the way, learn about Bristol's role in the slave trade, piracy, and its current position as the capital of street art. Your guide will keep you informed and entertained until lunchtime when you can sample the delights of St. Nicholas Market and the finest street food in Bristol. Grab some fun souvenirs while you're at it.

The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show

8. The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show

The House Magicians Comedy & Magic show will have you gasp, laugh and entertained for 1hr 30mins (ADULTS ONLY SHOW) The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show 1hr and 30mins. Even our previous guests have rated Mark's show with excellent reviews. On entering Smoke & Mirrors we ask that you adhere to our safety policy and maintain social distancing you will be greeted by our host who will be on hand to look after your drinks and food requirements. At 7:45 pm we will invite you to enter our secret 1920s style theatre it's cosy and the atmosphere is electric. Our theatre host will seat you at your table and take your interval drinks for you. So once we have seated all our guests the show starts at 8:00 pm and finishes at 9:45 pm We pride ourselves in offering full-blown entertainment from the moment you walk through the door to when you leave. Book now to avoid disappointment.

From Bristol: Somerset and Glastonbury Day Tour

9. From Bristol: Somerset and Glastonbury Day Tour

Leaving Bristol behind, it’s time to explore the city of Wells. It may not seem big enough to be a city, but Wells has held city status since medieval times due to the presence of Wells Cathedral. Take a wander around England’s smallest city and take in the beautiful cathedral that has been used as a filming location in many films, including The Huntsman: A Winter’s Tale and the TV show Wolf Hall. Next, it’s Glastonbury, a stop you won’t want to miss because there’s so much to do here. You can choose to hike up to Glastonbury Tor for an incredible view of the countryside. Take a peaceful stroll around the Chalice Well, which has links to King Arthur and the waters of Avalon. Explore the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey. Or simply wander the streets and try not to spend all your money. Time to quench your thirst at Burrow Hill Cider Farm, a stunning apple orchard that sits on 180 acres in beautiful Somerset. They’ve been pressing cider for over 200 years, so it’s no surprised they were granted the UK’s first ever full cider-distilling license back in 1989. Enjoy a tasting in the shop or even simply wander the lovely orchard grounds. The last stop of the day is a visit to the village of Cheddar. We know what you’re thinking: is the whole place made of cheese? If only. However, you should definitely get yourself some cheese while in town. This is a beautiful little spot and we know you’ll have a great time exploring it. Not to mention, we take a scenic drive through the jaw-dropping Cheddar Gorge before we head back to Bristol.

Bristol: Urban Axe Throwing Experience

10. Bristol: Urban Axe Throwing Experience

Experience the thrill of axe throwing to a pumping soundtrack in Bristol. Benefit from the skills of professional instructors as you toss around some steel in the heart of the city. Pick a spot in one of 10 lanes and size up your two targets. Let your instructor show you the basics before letting loose. Aim for the bullseye and feel the thrill as your axe hits the targets. Unwind with some drinks at the on-site bar after your experience.

Add dates

Things to do in
Bristol

Top activities

Top sights in Bristol

All activities

29 activities found
Sort by:
Page 1 of 2

Immersive experiences

Go beyond Bristol

Explore all

Frequently asked questions about Bristol

What top attractions are a must-see in Bristol?

The must-see attractions in Bristol are:

Other Sightseeing Options in Bristol

Want to discover all there is to do in Bristol? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Bristol

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 208 reviews

I brought this for myself, my husband and our dog for a visit to Bristol. It was lots of fun. Great way to see Bristol and you get to go to some great pubs. Took us longer as we ended up having a few drinks in each pub. Really recommend. Great clues and great for all ages. Some really interesting facts and easy to follow. Will definitely look at doing something similar again! :)

Very clear concise narrative. Could stop and start as much as we wanted to. Interesting and not overdone facts about a lovely city. Although we'd walked around the day before this tour took us to places we wouldn't have seen or particularly noticed.

Easy to follow and interesting historical tour. It’s a lot about pubs/breweries and street art though!!

Really cool! Very interesting and my husband loved it! Definitely will go back

Great tour, very interesting and two superb guides....