BUZZING BRILLIANT BRISTOL
Find out all about Bristol’s unique, colourful, and vibrant spirit on a Bristol tour.
Clifton
Clifton is a charming area to the northeast of the city centre and home to Bristol’s landmark, the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. An architectural masterpiece built by one of Britain’s finest architects Isambard Brunel. The 200feet hanging bridge covers the Avon gorge and is one of the beauty spots of the city. In summer months Bristolians head for the surrounding greens sipping their much-loved cider and gazing at hot air balloons flyovers. If you fancy a ride to have one of these once in a lifetimes moment, contact us here. But no problem if you prefer to stand on firm ground. This area is a great place for picknick or to end a busy Bristol sightseeing tour. Enjoy the gorgeous views over the Avon and let your mind wander. Head for the Clifton Observatory – Tourist Attraction Museum Cafe & Event Venue for one of the best viewing spots.
Harbourside
Another Brunel masterpiece which tops every visitor Bristol’s sightseeing tour is the SS Great Britain. Visit Bristol’s No.1 Attraction | Brunel’s SS Great Britain | and learn all about its illustrious history.
Built in 1850 it was the world’s largest passenger vessel in the world the SS Great Britain rose to fame and glory. It quickly fell out of fashion and was eventually sunk near the Falklands. In 1970, 33 years after it has been sunk, the vessel was raised, meticulously rebuilt, and brought back home by proud Bristolians. It now serves as a museum ship in Bristol’s beautifully restored harbour area.
Traditionally known as the Floating Harbour the area also carries Bristol’s darkest piece of history, the slave trade. From here African slaves were shipped to work in America and much of Bristol’s wealth stems from these days.
The harbour is now home to museums and galleries such as the Bristol Aquarium |, We The Curious | science museum, and Arnolfini – Bristol’s International Centre for Contemporary Arts.
Visit the neighbouring the dockyard and discover maritime treasures from the times when Bristol’s port was one of the biggest in Europe.
Old City
Museum M Shed
A little further up the road you find a modern history highlight of your Bristol tour. The M Shed | Bristol Museums is all about Bristol’s people and what makes them tick. The former cast iron railway shed is today home to one of Bristol’s greatest museums. It’s dedicated to Bristol life which stands for creation, trade, challenge, and celebrations. You also have a great view over the former port from the top floor of the museum. For a full list of Bristol’s cultural attractions check here Cultural Attractions – VisitBristol.co.uk.
Gloucester Road and Stokes Croft
Bristol’s Stokes Croft has developed into a cultural and artistic hub. The area just north of Bristol is full of local shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s got a character of its own, is colourful, free spirited, and lively. And one major part contributing is the ever-changing street art which adorns the buildings. In fact, it boasts quite a few Banksy’s, Bristol most famous resident – so keep your eyes peeled! The street art scene is world class. It’s easy to spend a whole afternoon wandering the different areas of Bristol. A street art walk is arguable one of the best things to do on a Bristol tour. Find your detailed Banksy walking tour itinerary here Banksy Walking Tour – Visit Bristol .And, if all that walking wears you out, you can pop into one of the many bars to refuel and refresh.
Nightlife
Bristol’s nightlife is lively and diverse, but always buzzing. From historical pubs, trendy bars and clubs, craft beer and cider tap rooms to live gigs and festivals, Bristol’s night life is legendary. Wild student nights, alternative gatherings, a thriving LGBT scene, hen & stag parties, settled tipplers, theatre aficionados and fine dinners, all merge together to play their part in an amazing nightlife scene. Let us tailor your ideal night put for you (info@ato-tours.com)
Cabots Tower
After a great night out, it’s time to clear your head a Bristol walking tour. Visit the beautiful Brandon Hill Park in Bristol’s West End with Bristol’s second landmark, the Cabots Tower. It was built to commemorate John Cabot’s discovery of North America in 1497. Cabot whose real name Giovanni Caboto was Italian, and only changed his name because King Henry VII hired him, set sail from Bristol and a replica of his boat can be seen in Bristol’s harbourside. Today, visitors can take on the challenging climb through the spiral staircase inside Cabot Tower to enjoy the panoramic, far reaching views over Bristol. And on a clear day you can spot England’s historical honey pot Bath.
Bath
If it all gets too lively and you are longing for some peace and a trip back to the “Goode Olde England”, then just jump on a train to Bath. Within 15min you immerse yourself in Jane Austen land, rich in history and full of architectural highlights. Or why not combine it? Spend some nights in Bristol and then head to Bath for a Weekend Tours of Bath 2021 | ATO Tours (ato-tours.com). A perfect way if mixing two great cities and satisfying different tastes and preferences of your fellow travellers! Book your trip with us here
Where to Stay
- Luxury Boutique Hotels UK – Hotel du Vin & Bistro: Spoil yourself at this luxurious boutique hotel, perfect for those who like an elegant and comfortable stay. Prices start from £88 per person.
- Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa | Luxury boutique | City centre (harbourhotels.co.uk): Classic architecture in extravagant surroundings, a real treat. Prices start from £79 per person.
- City Centre Hotel – Bristol, UK | Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel: A grand hotel housed in a Grade II listed building. Modern, central, and luxurious. Prices start from £85 per person.
- Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel | Hotel in Bristol – ALL (accor.com): Oozing with Victorian heritage and full of modern artworks. Plus a real steal with prices starting from £60 per person.
- The Berkeley Square Hotel Bristol – Boutique Bristol Hotel, UK » Clifton Hotels: An ultimate Georgian experience in this fine boutique retreat. Prices start from £65 per person.
Like what you read or not your style yet? No worries, just talk to us. We happily find the right accommodation for you.
Surely you will be fascinated by Bristol on your tour. And why not combine it with combine it with neighbouring Bath?! Have a look at our Weekend Tours of Bath 2021 | ATO Tours (ato-tours.com) for a contrast programme or to satisfy all your travel party interest. Or make it a proper holiday with a Classic Tours & Holidays in the Cotswold | ATO Tours (ato-tours.com).
See you in Bristol!
