Bristol City Council

Bristol is regarded as the capital of the South West of England. Lively yet laid-back, Bristol blends its rich maritime heritage with an innovative, dynamic culture. It is a leader on the green scene and was proud to be European Green capital 2015 – the only UK city ever to hold the title. It also has an enviable cycling culture.

Compact enough to get around on foot, yet big enough to boast an exciting line-up of entertainment, Bristol has much to offer. The city’s most celebrated sights include the Clifton Suspension Bridge – which was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel – and Brunel’s ss Great Britain in the thriving Harbourside.

There are fine museums and galleries here, many of which are free to enter including M Shed, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, and Arnolfini - one of Europe’s leading centres for the contemporary arts. Attractions such as Bristol Zoo Gardens, Bristol Aquarium and At-Bristol Science Centre make Bristol a particularly family-friendly destination.

Bristol has a well deserved reputation as a foodie destination. Along with award winning restaurants, including Michelin star winners Casamia in a new waterfront location, Bristol has an array of unique and independent places to drink and dine. It’s worth taking time to stroll around the Harbourside and explore off the beaten track to uncover some of these. Bristol’s relaxed atmosphere means that food is often available throughout the day.  Don’t miss the amazing markets dotted throughout the city with local produce, street food and pop ups – in fact, there is a full calendar of food and drink events throughout the year.

The city is wonderful for shoppers looking for high street fashion and designer brands. The Bristol Shopping Quarter in the heart of the city centre has hundreds of shops including Harvey Nichols, there are also great independent shopping areas like Park Street, Clifton Village, The Christmas Steps and Gloucester Road.

Bristol is well-known for its vibrant music scene and nightlife boasting retro nightclubs, live music bars, friendly pubs, sophisticated cocktail lounges, underground clubs and popular gig nights. There is also a daily line-up of live entertainment at the Bristol Hippodrome, Bristol Old Vic, St George’s Bristol, Colston Hall and Tobacco Factory

Not to be missed is Bristol’s ever-evolving street art scene, made famous by the elusive graffiti artist Banksy, whose original murals can be seen around the city. There are regular guided street art tours led by local expert guides.