Clifton village with suspension bridge
Clifton village with suspension bridge

The best things to do on a day trip in Bristol

 

Eclectic, artsy and forward thinking pretty much sums up Bristol. This vibrant and bohemian city attracts all sorts, from the original hippies of the 60’s to the hipsters who are too cool even for London. As far as day trips from London go, it’s hard to beat Bristol. These are the best things to do, places to eat and where to visit in Bristol – hop in a Zipcar and see for yourself.

 

 

Eat and drink in Bristol

Bristol’s foodie scene is as eco-friendly as it is exciting. These are some of the best restaurants, cafes and bars in Bristol.

The Bristolian

The Bristolian

The Bristolian

From lazy morning breakfasts to evening cocktails, make a beeline to The Bristolian, as the name suggests, a stalwart in Bristol’s café culture. With healthy veggie dishes and indulgent burgers on the menu, there’s something for everyone.

Poco Tapas Bar

Poco Tapas Bar

Poco Tapas Bar

At Poco they’re on a mission to be at the forefront of the sustainable movement, winning 2016 and 2018 Sustainable Restaurant of the year. The restaurant supports a network of small-scale local food producers to offer the freshest and most delicious seasonal tapas and larger dishes.

The Apple

Pints of cider

The Apple

No trip to the west country would be complete without sampling the famed cider. And where better to enjoy a crisp and refreshing pint in Bristol than on the deck of this boat bar? With plenty of seating both on the quayside and above and below deck, The Apple is the perfect place to wet your whistle when the sun is shining.

Places to visit in Bristol

Explore Bristol’s history, culture and art – as well as it’s iconic attractions.

Clifton Observatory

Clifton Observatory

Clifton Observatory

One of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks boasts unrivalled views of the other – the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Whether you visit the Clifton Observatory simply to admire the views, or to try one of only three working Camera Obscuras in the UK, explore the Giant’s Cave or enjoy a coffee from 360 Café, it’s easily one of the best things to do in Bristol. 

Castle Park

Castle Park

Castle Park

Take a walk through Bristol’s Castle Park, which separates the city’s shopping quarter on one side and the harbourside on the other. You’ll find plenty of creative artworks dotted throughout the park, from sculpture and carvings to water fountains.

Bristol walking tour

banksy mural in bristol

Bristol walking tour

There’s no better way to explore Bristol than with a guided walking tour. Expert local residents will lead you through the city’s diverse and fascinating history, culture and arts, from Clifton Suspension Bridge to world-famous Banksy graffiti.

Shopping in Bristol

Bristol is home to a multitude of independent shops, selling anything from sustainable jewellery to one-of-a-kind pottery. Here’s where to shop when you visit Bristol.

St Nicholas Market

St Nicholas Market

St Nicholas Market

The markets at St Nicks Market have been trading since 1743, and is Bristol’s largest collection of independent retailers. You’ll find anything from street food and fresh produce to fashion, vintage, handmade items, and everything in between, crafted, curated and created by the friendly marketeers.

Prior

Prior, Bristol

Prior

In keeping with the sustainable theme in Bristol, PRIOR is an independent co-operative workshop and shop hybrid where you’ll find responsibly and sustainably made items varying from artwork and jewellery to homeware and gifts.

That Thing

That Thing, Bristol

That Thing

Call it a department store with a difference if you like - That Thing houses around 50 independent Bristol-based designers offering the coolest lifestyle, interiors, art supplies and homewares. It’s also one of Bristol’s oldest independents, running for over 12 years.

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