Bristol is a place like no other - a city that is known for its fascinating landmarks and quirky music and art scene, loved by lifelong Bristolians as well as those who are simply passing through. It boasts worldwide cuisines with a range of independent restaurants and food market stalls, whether that's in the bustling city centre or beyond, like along the popular Gloucester Road.
The city is full of charm and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered by nature lovers, architecture fanatics, thrill seekers and adventurers. It’s impossible not to fall in love with the countless picturesque landscapes our South West city has to offer and the range of activities to do here, from Banksy spotting to balloon riding.
As Bristol residents, though, we might have a different idea of how to spend a day here - so, what are the experiences that visitors say are a must-see? Everyone knows about our top landmarks like the SS Great Britain and Clifton Suspension Bridge, but here are some less well-known ideas to add to your itinerary, as recommended in the top picks from Tripadvisor traveller reviews.
READ MORE: Visit the family attraction in Bristol that the kids 'won't stop talking about for months'
Here are TripAdvisor’s top picks
Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol
A two-hour tour around the city centre where visitors can expect “1000 years of city history with Bristol's vibrant street art scene and hints and tips to make the most of your stay” according to its description. It is recommended by 98 per cent of reviewers including heswiger1 who gushed: “Had an amazing experience with a great blend of history, art and random interesting facts! Definitely recommend.” While Hannidos from Southampton added: “The best £11 we could have spent."
Smoke & Mirrors Comedy & Magic Theatre Pub
A lively evening inside a pub venue hosting a 1920s-style theatre. It offers performances from resident magicians alongside food and drinks. Eleanor B said: “Amazing magic show, definitely lots of wow moments! Highly recommend! Speakeasy-style theatre with great ambience and local acts. Fantastic evening. Fun to do something different." Jennifer E added: “I went in sceptical, thinking magic wasn’t really ‘my thing’! But after only a matter of minutes, I felt relaxed and fully immersed in the show! The magicians were fantastic, effortlessly funny, while also being able to put everyone in the room at ease.”
Hot air balloon flights from Ashton Court, Bristol
We all look forward to seeing balloons on the Bristol skyline, but how about actually getting inside one? Enjoy stunning views of Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol City Docks and more as you take to the skies in a hot air balloon from Ashton Court for £185 per adult. Lol205 from Marlborough said: “We had a private flight, brought as a gift for the two of us. It was fantastic, easy to book and find the take-off point. We flew from Bristol over Cheddar Gorge and the views were just amazing. If you get the chance, don’t hesitate, just do it you won’t be disappointed.”
Treasure Hunt Bristol
This promises a fun-filled day using your mobile phones to discover beautiful routes and places in Bristol where your mission will be to find its hidden treasures. According to the description you can "take it at your own pace" or even turn it into a pub crawl. You will also learn interesting facts and stories along the way, for £9.99 per adult. Laura from Bristol said: “Fun for the whole family and it's nice to get out and about this New Year. Got to see Bristol and learn some history in a fun adventure”.
Matt A reviewed: “Bristol Boxing Day fun for the family, it was cold but the game kept us on our toes! It was really good fun and my blasé daughters actually enjoyed it immensely despite themselves. Some of the answers to the clues are super easy, but some are cleverly hidden and take a bit of sleuthing. The mobile phone-based delivery worked flawlessly. Super fun, go for it!”
Only Fools and Horses Tour of Bristol
For £35 fans of the British television show ‘Only Fools and Horses’ can take a three-hour and 30-minute tour around Bristol to see some famous filming sights. This includes the Batman and Robin scene, Nelson Mandela's house, the wine bar, Sid's Cafe, and more. Tonie N said: “What a wonderful tour. So much to see and the tour guide knew so much and kept us entertained right to the end. The tour guide bill was amazing and made us laugh very friendly. Keep it up. Definitely recommend this tour. BRILLIANT!”
SUP Harbourside Adventure - paddle boarding
Whether you are a beginner or professional, a stand-up paddleboarding session on the harbour is another great vantage point to see the city. Prices range from £30-40 per person for one to three-hour package options. Mary said: “The instructors were friendly and made the session great fun, my first go at paddle boarding. We explored Bristol Docks, learning some of the history along the way.”
St Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Walking Tour
A historic tour of Bristol buildings from £11 which includes "privileged access to subterranean passageways, rooftop vistas, WW11 air raid shelters and rooms which once rocked to the best bands in the world" as per the description. The tour finishes in St Nicholas Market where some of the best street food in the city can be found.
Emma P said: “An absolutely fantastic, informative and hilarious tour. The underground element is not to be missed, and the stories are very moving. Highly recommend!". Carl S said: "Very interesting and fun. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and clearly has a passion for history. The tour highlights how our history is embedded in the streets and buildings that surround us. I would highly recommend this tour."
Cocktail classes at Stag and Hen
Bristol is home to many great cocktail bars, but fancy making your own? Why not have a two-hour hands-on session at a cocktail class in this Bristol bar from £45 per adult, where you will get to make and drink three cocktails each while learning from a professional. Dean J said: “We all had an amazing time. Great atmosphere and staff. We had a wide variety of ages on our trip and everyone had an amazing time. Would definitely recommend.”
Guided Walking Tour of Bristol Old City and Harbour
From £20 visitors can spend up to three hours touring fascinating buildings and landmarks across the city such as Bristol Cathedral, the Bristol Old Vic, Queen Square, and Bristol City Docks. You can even check out some more Banksy art. Mike W said: “Non stop fun packed facts old & new. 2 and a half hours flew by! Thoroughly recommended to whet your appetite for Bristol.”
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