Known for its small-town charm with an international twist, thought-provoking street art and world-class museums, Bristol Guide is a must-visit destination. The UK’s third-largest city offers something for every kind of traveller, whether it’s a laid-back stroll along the waterfront, an expertly guided tour or a spot to enjoy Michelin-starred food and drink.
Art and Culture in Bristol: Galleries, Museums, and Events
Throughout your trip, you’ll discover the city’s big historic attractions. Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s ingenious engineering projects, including the Clifton Suspension Bridge, are unmissable. In the central city, you’ll see Queen’s Square, the first residential square outside London, and admire the Gothic-style Bristol Cathedral. You may also get to see the Bristol Old Vic Theatre, one of England’s oldest working theaters with an alumni list that includes an Academy Award winner.
Edgy Bristol is epitomized by Stokes Croft, a formerly seedy area that now boasts bars rising from the ashes of derelict buildings and several original works by the covert street artist Banksy. The area is also a hotspot for murals and graffiti. You can join a tour with Where the Wall to see some of the best—from animals peering round street corners to god-like figures emerging from brick walls.
Bristol’s most famous resident is a masked character who may not be as elusive as many assume. You can learn more about the myth and history of this mysterious figure on a guided tour. The city’s many museums, markets, and churches offer a wide variety of cultural options as well. And, if you’re lucky enough to visit during a festival, you’ll get to experience some of the most vibrant entertainment in the country.
