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Bookable tours are listed below - please click the drop-down list to view the available dates and times. Tours that are fully booked are indicated as "fully booked". If you would like to be added to the waitlist for one or more of the fully booked tours, please  register for the waitlist . Please note, additional places will become available on fully booked tours only in the case of cancellations.     Because of the current COVID-19 situation, we would ask that you do not book more than one guest and ensure that the number in your party is reflective of your booking. 

After submitting your booking, you will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours. 

Thank you for your interest in postgraduate study at the University of Bristol. Should you have any other questions, please contact  [email protected]

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University of bristol tours.

University of Bristol

  • Things to do

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Visit University of Bristol

Experience student life in and around an acclaimed institute of higher education at the University of Bristol. It is recognizable for its landmark buildings, museums and its proximity to a busy nightlife district. The origins of the University of Bristol date back to 1595 and it received a royal charter in 1909. It counts Nobel Laureates, such as Sir Winston Churchill, among its former chancellors, professors and students.

Located at the northern edge of the city center, the university’s main campus is an integral part of Bristol’s vibrant city life. Observe as students move between the lecture halls, many of which occupy fine examples of Gothic and Georgian-era houses. When not studying, many choose to socialize in the bars that line the Queens Road.

Stroll through the pretty Royal Fort Gardens, the site of Royal Fort House, completed in 1762 for wealthy merchant Thomas Tyndall. The building now houses the university’s Faculty of Science. A permanent exhibition called Hollow decorates the gardens and features 10,000 tree species collected from around the world.

On a guided building and tower tour, discover the splendor of Wills Memorial Building, which houses the university’s law and earth sciences departments. The adjacent Bristol Museum and Art Gallery boasts a fascinating collection of art, dinosaur fossils, Egyptian mummies and natural history artifacts.

Attend performances by student theatrical groups at the Winston Theatre. Browse an extensive archive of costumes, photographs, posters and videos related to British theater at the University of Bristol Theatre Collection. The Greek Revival-style Victoria Rooms is another important building and the location of the university music department.

The university campus is 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) to the northwest of Bristol Temple Meads railway station and a 15-minute walk from the city’s bus terminal. Drivers will find several metered car parks around the city center.

Visit the University of Bristol on any day throughout the year. Guided tours are available for prospective students. You can download a printable self-guided walking tour of the main sights via the university’s official website.

Browse tours and tickets to explore University of Bristol

Shows & concerts.

(9pm) The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show - Smoke & Mirrors

(9pm) The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show - Smoke & Mirrors

The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors Friday 8pm

The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors Friday 8pm

The House Magicians' Comedy Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors in Bristol (Sat 7...

The House Magicians' Comedy Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors in Bristol (Sat 7...

History & culture.

Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol

Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol

St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Walking Tour

St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Walking Tour

Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour

Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour

Inspiring Bristol – Private Walking Tour for Couples

Inspiring Bristol – Private Walking Tour for Couples

Bristol: Smartphone Self-Guided Heritage Walks

Bristol: Smartphone Self-Guided Heritage Walks

Bristol: Blackbeard to Banksy Guided Walking Tour

Bristol: Blackbeard to Banksy Guided Walking Tour

Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide Bristol

Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide Bristol

Bristol Waterfront Outdoor Escape Game

Bristol Waterfront Outdoor Escape Game

The best of Bristol walking tour

The best of Bristol walking tour

Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Food, drink & nightlife.

Bristol private pub hopping and sightseeing with local guide

Bristol private pub hopping and sightseeing with local guide

2 Hours Private Walking to Bristol Cider Tour with Cheese

2 Hours Private Walking to Bristol Cider Tour with Cheese

Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour (Explore Old Market)

Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour (Explore Old Market)

Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour

Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour

Bristol: Old Market Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour

Bristol: Old Market Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour

Bristol: Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour with Optional Tasting

Bristol: Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour with Optional Tasting

Popular places to visit, bristol city museum and art gallery.

From Egyptian mummies to a stuffed gorilla and works by Old Masters, this museum explores life on Earth from its earliest days.

Cabot Tower

Sublime panoramic views of Bristol’s rooftops and surrounding countryside await at the top of a tower dedicated to a medieval-era explorer.

Banksy Graffiti Frogmore Street

Decorating the side of a former medical clinic is a thought-provoking street mural created by one of Britain’s most-loved and prolific graffiti artists.

Brandon Hill

Lush hilly lawns, a children’s playground, sweeping views and a Neo-Gothic tower make Bristol’s oldest park a popular retreat from the city center.

Bristol City Hall

An impressive Neo-Georgian landmark presides over a pretty square and is home to the exquisitely decorated chambers of Bristol’s city council.

Bristol Hippodrome Theatre

This historic theater offers a wide variety of entertainment, from West End productions and Broadway shows, to traditional pantomimes and opera.

Best Lodging Options Near University of Bristol

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visit bristol university

University of Bristol Botanic Garden

Opening times

From November the Garden will be open five days a week, Monday to Friday, 10am until dusk. From Monday 11th March the Garden will be open seven days a week from 10am until 4:30pm until November.

Please note, in the event of dangerous weather we will close at short notice for the safety of visitors, volunteers, and staff.

University of Bristol Botanic Garden The Holmes Stoke Park Road Stoke Bishop Bristol BS9 1JG

Email: [email protected] Telephone: +44 (0) 117 42 82041

Map and travel information

Accessibility

The Garden is largely accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters with a designated path leading around the Garden and glasshouses. Disabled toilet facilities are available on site.

Only registered disability assistance dogs are permitted in the Garden.

Entry price

  • Adults - £9 (or £9.90 with gift aid) , except on WEDNESDAY, which will be DAISY day.
  • Children under 18 - Free
  • Students from all institutions - Free
  • University of Bristol staff (including retired) Free (£5/£5.50 Gift Aid from the 4th of March 2024)
  • Members of the Friends of the Botanic Garden - Free. (If you wish to join the Friends please click here , complete the forms and send to the Membership Secretary before making your booking as no refunds will be given for entry tickets purchased before joining.
  • Carers of visitors are free.
  • University of Bristol alumni - Free

The University of Bristol cannot accept cash payments - please pay by card at the Welcome Lodge or pre-book a ticket.

Book a full price ticket here.

Donate As It Suits You 'DAISY' day - every WEDNESDAY.

To maintain accessibility for everyone to visit the Botanic Garden, we have introduced our 'donate as it suits you' ( DAISY ) day. On DAISY day you can choose either £1, £3, £5 or £7 as your donation for adult entry into the Botanic Garden. DAISY  day is every WEDNESDAY.

On a DAISY day ALL students, Bristol University staff working and retired, Bristol University Alumni and Friends of the Garden are still free entry.

Book a DAISY day ticket here .

Refreshments.

Refreshments are now closed for the winter months and will re-open on Monday 11th March. 

Come on a tour

Guided tours are a great way to learn about the history of the Garden, our fascinating plant collections, and the work we do.

Tours take around 1 hour 30 minutes and are available at special events. Please see below for Curator's tours and group tours.

Curator's tours

At certain times of the year the Curator leads informative tours of the Garden.

Free to Friends of the Garden, students and University of Bristol staff. £12.00 per visitor. Please book via the Botanic Garden website.

Find out when the next Curator's tour will be.

School visits

We offer inspiring school visits for primary and secondary school pupils. 

Arrange a group tour

We can arrange tours for organised groups of 10 or more. 

Group tours currently cost £12.00 per visitor (this includes the standard entry fee).

Group tour enquiry form

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Clifton2BSuspension2BBridge_by_Laurence2BNorah-4255B4255D

Things to do in Bristol: A Bristol Itinerary and Planning Guide

Last updated: December 16, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 10 Comments

I almost went to university in Bristol, which would have been a great choice, as it’s a fantastically beautiful city. As life turned out though, I ended up at Nottingham, home to the oldest pubs in Britain. Which wasn’t a deciding factor, honestly.

Still, Jess and I have explored Bristol thoroughly as part of our mission to explore as many corners of the UK as possible. We visited when we were living in Edinburgh, and then we moved to Bath which is just a short drive away.

As a result of our time spent in Bristol over the years, we’ve put together our suggestions of some of our favourite things to do in Bristol.

This covers some of our favourite sights in Bristol as well as places to eat and a few photography locations you’ll want to visit.

We’ve laid this guide to things to do in Bristol out in the form of an itinerary for 2 days in Bristol to help you plan, but this list can be used for any length trip to Bristol of course.

things to do in Bristol - Clifton Suspension Bridge

Following this, you’ll find some advice on when to visit Bristol and other planning advice for putting together the perfect trip. Let’s get started!

Things to Do in Bristol

Things to do in Bristol: Day 1

1. Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

We’re starting off our two days in Bristol with a visit to the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery , which covers a wide range of subjects, from natural history through to Egyptology.

things to do in Bristol - Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

There are also exhibitions with a more regional focus, including work by local artists, information on the history of interesting fossil finds in the Bristol area, and a gallery which showcases how Bristol has changed over the centuries. For a more Bristol focused museum though, you’ll want to head to M-Shed, which is on the itinerary for the second day.

We particularly enjoyed seeing the Banksy statue “Paint pot Angel” and the dinosaur fossils, although there is a lot to see here with something for everyone. A good way to start off your Bristol adventure! Entry to the museum is free with a suggested donation. Special exhibits are separately priced.

2. Climb Cabot Tower

One thing I always like to do when visiting an unfamiliar city is to get to a place where I can get a good view of it, to help me get my bearings. In Bristol, the place to do that is at Cabot Tower.

things to do in Bristol - Cabot Tower Bristol

This is a 19th century tower which commemorates the journey of John Cabot from Bristol to what later became Canada, in the year 1497. It’s found near the top of Brandon Hill, just a short walk from the Bristol Museum, and the 32 metre tower offers an excellent view of much of Bristol and surrounds, including the river area.

Climbing the tower is free, and you can see opening times here.

3. Georgian House Museum

We’re going to head towards the old city centre of Bristol now, but on the way you have the opportunity to stop in at the Georgian House Museum , which is on the way down the hill from Cabot Tower on Great George Street.

This house was built in 1790 for a man named John Pinney, who owned a number of sugar plantations in the Caribbean, as well as the slave labour that allowed these plantations to be so profitable. When Jess and I visited the deep south of the USA, we visited a number of plantations along the river road , where we learned a lot about the lives of plantation owners and slaves.

things to do in Bristol - Georgian House Museum Bristol

The Georgian House offers a small insight into slavery in England. Bristol profited heavily from the slave trade and slave-run plantations. Slave ships were operated out of Bristol, running the infamous “slave triangle”, taking goods to Africa from the UK, slaves from Africa to the USA, and then the plantation products from the USA back to the UK. Ships were also built in Bristol, which further added to the city’s wealth.

The Georgian house shows what that wealth would have looked like to a man like John Pinney who profited from the slave trade. Eleven rooms spread across four floors reveal the luxuries available in the late 18th century, as well as the stark difference between life “above stairs” and “below stairs”. Entry is free, and is definitely worth some of your time.

4. Christmas Steps

Next on our list is going to be a photo stop, before we swoop into lunch. Christmas Steps is a small and narrow stepped lane in Bristol’s city centre, dating from the mid 17th century, and lined with beautiful old buildings.

Christmas Steps Bristol

It’s the centrepiece of the Christmas Steps Arts Quarter, eight streets filled with independent shops, bars, cafes and art galleries, many of which don’t seem to have changed too much over the centuries. It’s worth exploring and an excellent photo opportunity.

5. Lunch at St. Nicholas Market

There’s no shortage of places to eat in Bristol, but one of our favourites was definitely the Glass Arcade at the St. Nicholas Indoor Market , which you’ll find on Corn Street. Winner of the award for Britain’s best large indoor market in 2016, and in operation since 1743, this is Bristol’s oldest market, with over 60 stall holders.

Lunch Bristol St nicholas market

But we’re here for lunch, so head to the Glass Arcade – a large open glass-covered area with seating that offers plenty of food stalls to pick from, cuisines that vary from local to worldly. Take a look at some of the stalls available here , to get yourself excited. I went with Moroccan from the Moorish Cafe , whilst Jess had a healthy salad option from the Olive Works . But whatever food you’re into, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed!

6. Explore the Old City

Since our itinerary has brought you down into the old city, our suggestion for your post-lunch activity would be to wander Bristol’s old city for a little while.

Old City Bristol

The crossroads of Corn Street and High Street was the centre of the medieval city, and as you explore this small area you’ll be able to see traces of the old city boundaries, including the walls and gateways that used to mark the edges of the city. Of course, today Bristol has expanded far beyond these old walls, but it’s fun to walk around and imagine what the city might have been like in the past.

Naturally, you can explore the old city on your own, but there are also other options. For example, this self-guided tour you can download to your smartphone is a cost-effective way to learn about what you are seeing in the city.

7. Take a Street Art Tour

Bristol is famous for its street art, not least because it was where legendary street artist Banksy first came into the public eye. It is also believed to be the childhood home of Banksy although there is still speculation about his identity. So we think it’s appropriate to spend some time exploring the street art of Bristol!

You can either do this by yourself, or you can take a specific tour like this .

If you choose to do it by yourself, we highly recommend dropping into a tourist office and picking up a copy of the Bristol Street Art Map by Where the Wall, which has detailed information about where to find all the most famous pieces of street art in Bristol, as well as popular areas to find new street art.

That was what I did, and I documented my adventures in my post on Bristol’s Street Art .

Alternatively, you might consider this interactive street art exploration game .

Bristol Street Art Banksy

If you’d rather take a tour, then we suggest the Where the Wall street art walking tour company, who operate the longest running street art tour in the UK. Timings for their tours are up on their website, but based on our itinerary, we’d suggest going for their Banksy tour , which start at 2pm. They also do another tour , which starts at midday, so you’d have to re-arrange this schedule a little to accommodate that.

Whichever tour you choose, we suggest booking in advance and always checking tour times and information on the official website.

8. Watch Sunset at the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Depending on the time of your visit, sunset will be at varying times. But whenever it is, either before you eat or after, we highly recommend that you take the time to go up to the Clifton Suspension Bridge and enjoy the sunset from there.

Clifton Observatory Sunset

This iconic bridge is the symbol of Bristol, with a design based on drawings by one of Britain’s greatest Victorian engineers: Isambard Kingdom Brunel . Whilst it is today accepted that the final version of the bridge differs from Brunel’s original vision, it is certainly the bridge that most associate with Brunel, and when built, had the longest span of any bridge in the world.

Today the bridge is still very much in use, and you can both drive and walk across it. We’d suggest that you head up to the park on the east side of the bridge though, where you’ll find the Clifton observatory, and lovely views of both the bridge, and the sunset. On warm summer days this is a very popular location with locals and visitors alike, who come up here to enjoy the evening warmth and views. A lovely way to end your first day exploring in Bristol!

Things to do in Bristol: Day 2

9. Bristol Cathedral

Our second day in Bristol has you starting off at Bristol Cathedral , seat of the Church of England in the city. This was founded as an Augustine abbey in 1140, although the version you see today largely dates from work undertaken in the 14th –16th centuries.Some parts of the original do survive though, including the Chapter House (dating from 1160!) and the Abbey Gatehouse.

Bristol Cathedral

In its present form the Cathedral is a stunning building both inside and out, with beautiful vaulting, medieval stonework and 14th century stained glass, to name but some of the features. It’s also one of the few churches in Britain to be designed as a “hall church”, where the nave, choir and aisles are all the same height. There’s an on-site cafe too, where you can grab a coffee to fortify you for the rest of your days explorations!

10. Bristol Aquarium

Down in the harbourside area just a short walk from the cathedral there are a number of excellent museums and attractions. Which of these you decide to visit will of course depend on your interests and who you’re travelling with, but we’re including a few highlights to give you ideas, ordered in a logical fashion.

Bristol Aquarium

First on that list is the Bristol Aquarium . This is home to over forty marine life displays, with everything from local specimens through to tropical environments on show. Unusually for an aquarium, there’s also a giant botanical house on site, that you walk through as part of the tour. The aquarium is open year round, and is an excellent attraction for families especially. Check out their official website for opening times, prices, and special events.

11. We the Curious (Bristol Science Centre)

Right next door to the Aquarium is We the Curious (formerly known as the At-Bristol Science Centre), which focuses on highly interactive science themed exhibits. There’s a lot of really hands on stuff here, and we had a lot of fun playing with the various displays.

Bristol We the Curious

There’s also a whole part of the attraction dedicated to animation. Bristol is home to Aardman Animations , the animation studio responsible for Wallace & Gromit as well as UK TV character Morph . This attraction was put together by Aardman, and lets you become an animator for the day – even creating your own TV show.

This is definitely a museum for people who like a more hands-on, interactive attraction, and you could easily spend a whole day here. Again, check the official website for opening times and ticket prices .

If you want to get deeper under the skin of what make Bristol tick, then a visit to M-Shed is an absolute must. This free museum, housed in a former transit shed, has exhibits that focus exclusively on telling the story of the city, from prehistoric times right up to the present day.

MShed Bristol

We don’t like to play favourites, but M Shed was definitely a highlight of the various museums and attractions that we visited. We loved how it explored the history of the city, with everything from the people to the geography to Bristol’s experiences in the war on show. There are even working exhibits on show, including the giant cranes outside the museum, and the museum even has its own Banksy on show. Not to be missed.

13. Visit the SS Great Britain

No visit to Bristol would be complete without a visit to the SS Great Britain – Bristol’s top visitor attraction. Designed by Brunel, the SS Great Britain was built in Bristol and launched in 1845. She was the first ship with both an iron hull and a screw propeller, and was also the longest passenger ship in the world.

SS Great Britain Bristol

Initially built as a transatlantic passenger ship, the cost of building and tweaking such a radical design combined with the cost of rescuing her after she ran aground ended up bankrupting her owners.

As a result she has a varied service history, including 30 years spent taking immigrants to Australia from Liverpool in the UK and coal-hauling. Finally, in 1937, she was scuttled and abandoned in the Falkland Islands.

Of course, the story doesn’t end there, as otherwise there wouldn’t be much to visit! In 1970, a great rescue operation took place, and what remained of her hull was floated onto a pontoon and returned to her place of construction in Bristol.

Following an extensive restoration process, she re-opened to the public, and today you can visit and tour her in a form that resembles her glory days as a transatlantic ship. Tickets are slightly cheaper if you book them online, which you can do online here .

14. Take a picture of the colourful houses

One thing that will catch your eye when you visit Bristol is the variety and colour of many of the homes and buildings in the city. This is one of Bristol’s signature features, and you definitely need to get a photo of these homes.

Bristol colourful houses

We actually visited Bristol during the Bristol Balloon Fiesta , and were lucky enough to go up in a balloon, and see all these houses from above.

But don’t worry if a balloon ride isn’t on the cards. If you walk a little further west along the south side of the river from the SS Great Britain, you’ll come to a lovely harbour area where many boats are moored. On the opposite side of the river, you’ll see a lovely selection of colourful houses for you to get a picture of.

15. Underfall yard

The last stop on our two day Bristol itinerary continues the marine theme. Underfall Yard is a historic Victorian-era boatyard in Bristol. The name “underfall” comes from the design solution that Brunel developed to resolve the issue of silt filling up Bristol’s floating harbour, which used a series of sluices to suck away the mud – a system that is still in use today.

Underfall Yard

Much of the original yard has been preserved, and is home today to a boat building cooperative, as well as various exhibits on the history of the floating harbour and the sluicing technology. I certainly learnt a few things that I didn’t know before, and I’m sure you will too!

With that, we’ve finished our ideas for how to spend two days in Bristol! Let’s take a look now at some practicalities for your visit.

Getting to Bristol

Bristol is a well connected city. There’s a fast train connection to London, which takes less than two hours, and of course it’s connected to a number of other cities in the UK as well.

Bristol temple meads train station

Bristol also has an airport, with connections to a number of UK and European cities.

Finally, Bristol is easy to drive to, although in the city centre, we’d advise leaving the car safely parked somewhere else, as parking can be tricky to come by and fees can add up.

How to Get Around Bristol

Bristol is an easy city to get around, although it does have a few hills. The itinerary we’ve put together can be easily done on foot though, and it’s largely set up to have you travelling downhill for the most part.

Ferry Bristol

Of course, there’s an excellent public transport network, as well as a ferry boat service that will take you to various points along the harbour.

Where to Stay in Bristol

Bristol has lots of accommodation options, pretty much something to suit every budget, from hostels through to boutique hotels and five star luxury.

There’s also a wide range of apartment rentals, and we opted for an apartment rental on our most recent visit as it gave us the flexibility to dine in as well as some working space and laundry facilities.

Check out all the Booking.com listings for Bristol, we find they usually come up with the best deal on a wide range of properties.

We also recommend Plum Guide if you’re looking for an apartment rental. Plum Guide carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. We’ve stayed at a number of their properties around the world, and you can see our  review of the Plum Guide here . See their  listings for Bristol here .

For more vacation rental options in the UK, see our guide to our favourite holiday rentals websites in the UK .

When to Visit Bristol

Bristol is a pleasant city to visit year round, and there are plenty of indoor attractions to keep you entertained should the weather turn against you.

Probably the busiest time of year to visit is during the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta , which takes place in early August. Whilst this is a fantastic time to visit the city and see the skies filled with beautifully coloured balloons, it’s also definitely going to be a very busy time to visit as well.

We visited during the Fiesta, and had a wonderful time, but do be aware that accommodation, traffic and visitor levels are certainly higher at this time of year.

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Otherwise, for the best weather we’d recommend visiting from May through to September. Also, do check out the official Visit Bristol website for all the events taking place throughout the year, to get an idea of what’s on.

Day Trips from Bristol

If you’re in Bristol for a little while and wondering if there are any good nearby spots for a day trip, then you’re in luck. Bristol makes a great base for exploring a number of nearby attractions, including the following.

  • Bath. This beautiful Roman-era spa town is filled with beautiful Georgian architecture. It’s also just a 13-minute train ride from Bristol, so very easy to reach.
  • The Cotswolds. This beautiful part of England is filled with postcard perfect villages and lovely countryside. Explore with your own vehicle or take a tour like this .
  • Stonehenge . An incredible ancient monument, the origins of which are still debated to this day. Can be visited by car or public transport from Bristol, or as part of a tour like this .
  • Cardiff. The capital city of Wales is easy to reach by train from Bristol, and offers museums, castles and plenty more to fill a day.
  • Glastonbury & Somerset. Glastonbury is famous for its Tor and links to St. Arthur. A day out from Bristol can easily cover other highlights of Somerset as well, including Cheddar Gorge and the incredible cathedral at Wells. You can drive yourself, or take a tour like this .

visit bristol university

Further Reading for your Bristol Visit

That sums up our suggested things to do in Bristol for two days! As you can see, there’s plenty to see and do in Bristol, and you’ll easily be able to fill two days – or extend your trip for a few more days!

We’re got more content coming up on Bristol, so do subscribe to stay updated. In the meantime, here’s a series of resources to help you plan your trip to both Bristol and the wider UK!

  • The official Visit Bristol tourism page , which has loads of ideas on what to do, where to stay, transport information as well as event information.
  • Our detailed guide to attending the Bristol Balloon Fiesta
  • The official Bristol International Balloon Fiesta website
  • The Rough Guide to Bath, Bristol and Somerset , which is available in both digital and physical book formats
  • My guide to the best locations to find Street Art in Bristol
  • Our detailed one week itinerary of the UK , as well as a two week version
  • A guide to driving Scotland’s epic North Coast 500 , as well as accommodation options on the North Coast 500
  • A guide to 10 of the best Stately Homes in England , to give you some ideas as you plan your itinerary
  • We also have number of other guides to UK cities, including things to do in Cambridge , things to do in Edinburgh  and  things to do in Belfast , amongst others.
  • For London, we have some detailed itineraries to help you plan your visit. These include a 1 Day London Itinerary , a Two Day London itinerary and a six day London itinerary
  • The top Harry Potter sites in London
  • Tips on Buying and Using the London Pass
  • A guide to Visiting Oxford on a Day Trip
  • Visiting Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds
  • A guide to things to do in Portsmouth
  • Getting online when travelling in a foreign country can be daunting – check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options for your trip
  • If you’re interested in getting better photos when you travel, take a look at my online photography course , where I’ll teach you everything you need to know about getting better photos – whatever camera you have!

And that’s it for our suggestions for the best things to do in Bristol over 2 days! Have you ever visited Bristol? Do you have anything you’d add to the above? Just let us know in the comments below!

The ideal itinerary for a two day visit to Bristol, UK, including all the highlights, a detailed itinerary, and planning tips!

So you know: For some of the attractions we visited in Bristol, Visit Bristol provided us with complimentary entry. We covered our own accommodation, transport, meals, and other expenses.

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28th January 2023 at 2:29 pm

Thank you so much for this wonderful itinerary! I’ll be traveling with my husband to Bristol from the US in about a month. It’ll be my first time in the UK. He’s going for his work so the first 4 days of our 10 day trip I’m on my own to explore. I may need to spread this out for 3-4 days vs. 2 but it looks like plenty to keep me busy seeing all the sights :)…Thank you!

Laurence Norah says

29th January 2023 at 9:05 am

It’s my pleasure! I think you will easily be able to spread this out over a few days. However, as you have 4 days I can highly recommend jumping on the train and riding for 11 minutes or so from Bristol to the historic town of Bath which is a world heritage site and well worth a half day or full day of your time. It’s very different from Bristol, all Georgian architecture and lovely streets. Well worth it!

Safe travels!

Macarena says

13th January 2023 at 12:45 am

Thanks you so much for this guide! My husband and I are visiting UK for the first time from Argentina, and I was not very sure about including Bristol in our itinerary, but reading your blogue has convinced me! best wishes!! Macarena

14th January 2023 at 10:08 am

Thanks Macarena, have an awesome time in Bristol and the UK 🙂

17th December 2022 at 1:39 pm

This is a lifesaver! My girlfriend is coming to Bristol for the first time over Christmas, and I had no clue where to take her until reading your blog. Thanks again. Any to-do lists for Bath? 🙂

18th December 2022 at 11:45 am

It’s my pleasure! So we lived just outside Bath for three years, but haven’t really written much about it! However that’s not to say we don’t have recommendations. Obviously the town centre is pretty to walk around, and sights like the Royal Crescent, Circus and Bath Abbey are a must to see. There is an excellent free walking tour that meets most days in front of the Abbey that is worth doing. If you like walks, the Bath Skyline walk is really lovely. The Roman Baths are also of course worth a visit, and there also the thermal spa if you prefer a more relaxing experience. That should get you started hopefully!

Have a lovely Christmas 🙂

Mahmud says

1st January 2022 at 8:53 am

thank you so much Laurence and Jessica. We are on our way now. It was a fantastic blog really helpfull.

Thanks Mahmud & Şendül

1st January 2022 at 12:31 pm

Hey Mahmud & Şendül! Thanks so much guys 🙂 Have an awesome time in Bristol, what a great way to start 2022 🙂

All the best,

Dory Merriman says

8th May 2021 at 7:56 am

Thank you so much Laurence and Jessica for taking the time to put together this fantastic guide. It has helped me greatly for my forthcoming short visit to Bristol. Best wishes Dory

8th May 2021 at 11:18 am

Thank you so much Dory – have a wonderful trip to Bristol!

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Join The London Crew: Grab this checklist with 110 things to do in london from a local.

Hues Of Delahaye

What to Do in Bristol | 2-Day Bristol Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer  here.

Planning a trip to Bristol, England soon? You’re going to want to make sure that you read this post on the thing to do in Bristol .

I had the opportunity to visit Bristol recently and spend a few days exploring the city. The city is a treasure trove of places to see and things to do.

Bristol Floating Harbour 1

I am kicking myself as I wondered why I hadn’t visited this gorgeous city before.

So, if you’ve never been to Bristol, it’s a good thing you’re finally planning your trip there now. Once you arrive, you too will wonder what took you so long to visit.

To help you make the most of your time in the city, this guide to the perfect 2 days in Bristol itinerary gives you all the information you need. It’s all here from, getting there and travelling around the city to where to stay, eat, and visit.

Bristol Things to see

Facts About Bristol

Let me drop some facts on why Bristol should be on your list of must-visit cities in the UK!

Bristol was named the ‘Best City in Europe’ by the Academy of Urbanism in 2017. The city also won the 2015 ‘European Green Capital’ title and was also awarded European City of the Year in 2008.

This English city is also known as one of the friendliest cities in England (they are way friendlier than Londoners), and the local accent is recognisable miles away.

With a deep and fascinating history, Bristol offers plenty for visitors to learn about and immerse themselves in.

Girl with a Pierced Eardrum Bristol

This is a popular place, which makes it a worthwhile spot to travel to at least once.

Where Is Bristol, UK?

Bristol is a city in southwest England, south of Birmingham and west of London and the River Avon runs through the city centre.

Bristol’s Old City has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique combination of Georgian and Victorian architecture.

Is Bristol Worth visiting?

Bristol offers a lot in terms of architecture, history, nightlife, and food. The city is a hub of creativity, with plenty of artists and musicians among the population.

This is all apparent in the eclectic mix of bars, clubs, restaurants, and music venues that are dotted around the city centre.

Cliftton Bridge Bristol

Bristol also has two universities and youthful energy to it, thanks to the students. So, you can expect a wide range of clubs and music events to take place throughout the year.

Away from the friendly energy of people and celebrations, though, is a quieter side that offers stunning photography locations. If this sounds like the kind of place that tickles your travel fancy, then it’s safe to say it’s worth the visit.

For more inspiration read my guide on the best places to visit near Bristol UK

What Is Bristol Most Famous For?

Bristol has a fascinating history involving pirates and service in the British navy. Today, the city is known for its creative character and charming architecture.

Things to Do in Bristol

The universities also put Bristol on the map, as do the Bristol Balloon Fiesta and, of course, the famous landmarks like the SS Great Britain and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Is Bristol a Good City Break?

Bristol’s unique mix of Victorian, Georgian, and modern architecture makes it a delight to explore by foot.

There are plenty of great boutiques, cafes, bars, pubs, and restaurants to be found too. Add in some interesting art galleries and museums plus the city’s maritime history points of interest, and its clear why Bristol can be considered as a viable alternative city break .

How Many Days Do You Need to See Bristol?

Whether you want to spend just a day in Bristol or two, there are enough interesting things to do and see here that any length of stay is worthwhile.

Thankfully, the best and most exciting attractions in Bristol are all located relatively close together, and you can do a day trip to Bristol from London.

Clifton Village Bristol 1

However, I think 2 days in Bristol would be better and should be enough time for anyone looking to get the most out of the city.

And if you’re tempted to stay longer, an extended trip to Bristol gives you time to further explore and visit some of the surrounding areas, such as Bath and Wells in Somerset.

The Best Time to Visit Bristol

Bristol is a city that experiences all four seasons. The highest population of students is here during the fall and spring terms, so these are the most popular months to travel if you’re hoping for something lively.

Winter can be quite bleak; however, it’s ideal if you want to avoid crowds and experience some quieter times in Bristol. Most activities in Bristol can be done year-round, and the varying seasons only change the city’s vibe.

If you’re looking for a vibrant feel, go during the summer months. But if you want something a little quieter and more mellow, come in the spring or when it’s colder.

How to Get to Bristol

Getting to Bristol is easy, no matter where you start from. The quickest way to get to Bristol from London is by train – it’ll take you just over 90 minutes from London to Bristol by train.

Trains leave from London Paddington Station and arrive at Bristol Temple Meads station every half an hour during peak times.

Bristol Temple Meads station

You can also take the bus from London Victoria coach station to Bristol bus station in the city centre. You can bag these coach tickets for as cheap as £3.90, and the journey takes around 2 and a half hours.

If you’re coming from South Wales or Southwest England, then you’ll be able to arrive by train too. It takes over an hour for services to depart Swansea and Cardiff Central stations and get you into Bristol Temple Meads station.

Alternatively, it’s around a three-hour drive from London (if there’s no traffic) and around two hours from South Wales.

Routes to Bristol

The M5 runs between Bristol and Birmingham, with the M4 running in tandem further west for most of its route through South Wales.

At junction 17 you can take the A38 north toward Bath, while at J18 you can take the A37 south toward Yeovil via Glastonbury.

North of Bristol, you can take the A38 south to Exeter via Glastonbury, Wells, and Burnham-on-Sea. If you’re arriving by ferry or on foot then your route will be into Prince Street (Bristol’s old town).

Getting Around – To and From ​​Bristol Tourist Attractions

Bristol is a small city that’s perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Most buildings are close together and it doesn’t take long to get from one side of Bristol to another.

There are plenty of options for buses and taxis. Bristol also has an extensive ferry network (the Bristol Ferry Boat Company) which is great for exploring the River Avon.

If you want to make the most of your time in Bristol, using your contactless debit/credit card is recommended. You can get preloaded cards that will cover both bus and ferry services – remember that it’s not valid on trains.

Parking in Bristol

If you’re driving yourself to Bristol, you can also easily drive in and around the city. Parking your car overnight in a car park or at your accommodation is safe and often free.

For parking, while you are sightseeing in Bristol, it may be easiest to find the nearest free parking spot and then walk between your stops. 

How to Spend Two Days in Bristol – Weekend in Bristol Itinerary

Bristol has plenty to offer for anyone who wants to visit. From the museums and old-time architecture to the nightlife that attracts both students and older, fun-loving tourists.

Bristol Tourist Attractions

Trying to fit in all the great places to see in Bristol in just 48 hours is a near-impossible task. But you can hit all of the best parts of the city if you plan well enough.

Here is a detailed 2-day itinerary to help you get a better idea of how to spend your time while visiting Bristol.

Bristol Day 1 – Top Things to Do in Bristol

What to see in Bristol in one day? On your first day in Bristol, there is an excellent mix of history, art, and plain old good fun on offer.

Put on your walking shoes, get your camera out, and make a date with a different kind of first-rate attraction around every corner.

Brunels SS Great Britain

Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Your first stop is the SS Great Britain Museum which is on the dockside. This ship was launched in 1843, carrying passengers to Australia and New Zealand.

It was the first iron-hulled transatlantic steamship, and its success led to more large ocean liners like it. These massive ships changed travel forever.

Visitors can board the ship itself, which is now a museum covering both sides of the ship; you can see the cargo holds and how the crew lived.

Brunels SS Great Britain UK

In addition to this you can go up onto the deck and see how sailors used to work aloft – just bear in mind that this part of the ship is not accessible to those with walking difficulties.

M Shed Museum

Just a few minutes walk from SS Great Britain. You’ll find the M Shed, a museum that provides an overview of Bristol’s heritage and culture through the years.

We the Curious Museum scaled

There is a fantastic mix of history and culture on display here, including the world’s first hovercraft.

Visitors can learn about the city’s role in the slave trade and even discover what life was like for children during WWII.

M Shed Museum

You can also see exhibits that look into Bristol’s modern-day culture, such as their contribution to music and digital technology.

I saw a fantastic street art exhibition while visiting the M Shed and it is where you will also find the Banksy piece, the ‘Grim Reaper’.

Grim Reaper Banksy Bristol

We the Curious Museum

Next up on the way to Bristol’s Old City is We The Curious Museum . This museum is designed to be interactive and encourage more play within the science spheres.

There are various exhibits here, including ones surrounding the science of food and interactive displays on light and sound.

This museum is great fun for all ages, but it might be worth bearing in mind that things get busy here during school holidays.

There are multiple activities and shows that happen throughout the year, so check the program out online before you go so you know what to expect.

The museum also includes a planetarium with multiple shows each day and stargazing at night, but you will need to book your tickets in advance.

Bristol’s Old City and Harbourside

Bristol Corn

Just on the other side of We The Curious, on Anchor Road, is Bristol’s Old City. This area fuses together impressive architecture with significant landmarks and highlights here include the Christmas Steps and Kings Weston Roman Villa.

Spend some time here, strolling through the streets and discovering the more magical side of Bristol.

You can stop in at one of the pubs for a drink, take a few photos, or do some shopping.

Bristol UK 1

Finally, your last stop for the day should be Bristol’s Harbourside area which is a lovely place for a walk or to get something to eat after a busy day of sightseeing.

In addition to many restaurants here, there are also some great views across the harbour.

Bristol Things to see 1

The Beer Emporium

Before you head back to your accommodation, make a stop at The Beer Emporium. This is a unique bar that offers an eclectic range of beers from all over the world to suit both novices and experts.

They have over 400 bottles of beer to choose from in their fridges, so you truly are spoilt for choice.

Pick your favourite or discover a new brew and enjoy a cold beer with the friendly locals who frequent the bar.

These are just a few of the things you can see with the Bristol 1 day itinerary, up as you have more sightseeing tomorrow.

Bristol Day 2 – What to See in Bristol

Once you have finished exploring Bristol’s Old City and Harbourside on day one, it is time to move onto its modern heart.

Clifton Village Bristol

Head to the other side of Bristol and discover some more of the top attractions and landmarks across the city.

Bristol Cathedral

Bristol Cathedral was founded in 1140 and consecrated in 1148. The site was originally St Augustine’s Abbey, however but after the Dissolution of the Monasteries, in 1542 it became the seat of the newly created Bishop of Bristol and the cathedral of the new Diocese of Bristol.

Bristol Cathedral 2

Bristol Cathedral is a Grade I listed building which includes fabric from the 12th century, with the Elder Lady Chapel added in the early 13th century.

Cabot Tower

Start the day with a climb up Cabot Tower for some splendid views across Bristol. The tower is open daily, and it’s free to climb the steps.

DSCF3402

But be warned, they are steep and winding steps – the view from the top makes it worth it, though.

The tower is situated on Brandon Hill in the Clifton area of the city, not far from Clifton Suspension Bridge. It was built in 1897 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s discovery of Newfoundland .

Cabot Tower Bristol

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

After you have enjoyed the views, your next stop should be Bristol Art Gallery. This is a beautiful art gallery with some wonderful paintings displayed inside. Look out for pieces by both local artists such as Banksy as well as pieces by international stars.

Bristol Museum Art Gallery

The gallery houses a variety of artworks from British and European, French, and Victorian artists. As well as a collection of Eastern, modern and contemporary art.

There are also some great sculptures to see here too, including ceramics and pottery creations.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

This is one of Bristol’s most recognisable landmarks, and you will probably recognise it even if you haven’t visited Bristol before. Built-in 1864, this suspension bridge spans nearly 400 metres over the Avon Gorge.

Clifton suspension bridge Bristtol England

Visiting the Clifton suspension bridge as the green spaces on either side of the bridge is peaceful. I recommend visiting at the sunset and walking up to the Clifton Observatory to watch sunset over the bridge.

The bridge is still open to pedestrians and cyclists, so you can take your time crossing this landmark to see some fantastic views across the city. Take photos of the incredible engineering, but make sure to be careful on your way back down.

Clifton suspension bridge England

Once you have finished exploring here, take a stroll through Clifton Village and visit some of the independent shops and restaurants around here too.

And if you have time, book a boat trip along the Avon River for a look at the surrounding city from a different viewpoint.

Where The Walls Art Tour

All along the streets of Bristol, you will find numerous spots that have been adorned by street art. The colourful wall art is a part of the city’s history and holds much of the culture within the artistic designs.

Well Hung Lover Banksy

The Where the Walls Art Tour is a fantastic way to explore this artwork further and find some of Bristol’s best spots for street art as well as learn about its history. You will visit many famous landmarks across the city, including Stokes Croft and Park Street.

You can find dates and times for available tours online and join a guide who will be able to give you in-depth details and explanations around the art.

You can also download an audio self-guided tour and go at your own pace.

However, I did this Bristol street art tour, and I think that you will miss out on the wealth of knowledge that the tour guide has.

Bristol Streat Art Guide

My guide has been in the Bristol Street art scene for more that 20 years and knew some of the biggest Bristol Street artists and was able to detail accounts of different artists and how their work has evolved over time.

If you’re a photographer who enjoys street art walking tours, this is ideal. You’ll go home with new insights on the fascinating art in Bristol and some amazing photographs as well.

DSCF2800

Bristol Zoo Gardens

Next up is an experience that will be enjoyed by young and old alike with a trip to Bristol Zoo Gardens.

This zoo has been around since Victorian times, but it continues to be at the forefront of animal preservation and conservation.

Bristol Zoo Gardens

This zoo includes some impressive exhibits that are home to creatures from far-flung locations across the world, including monkeys, lemurs, African penguins, and orangutans. There is also a fun space with farm animals so those travelling with children will be well catered for.

Along with the activities and educational opportunities, this is a great spot to stop before leaving Bristol.

Visitors to the zoo can enjoy both outdoor and indoor exhibits with a choice of events, including feeding demonstrations, talks, and behind-the-scenes tours.

Bristol Trip Planning

Along with finding all the best things to do in Bristol, here are some more important things to keep in mind when visiting the city.

The LLandoger Trow Bristol 1

Where to Stay in Bristol

Finding accommodation for your Bristol weekend won’t be hard. There are plenty of options for every budget. Here are some great accommodation options in Bristol:

Self-Catering

If you want to go it alone and self-cater, then you’ll need somewhere to stay that offers cooking facilities as well as a place to rest your head. Luckily, there are many apartments available for rent short term.

Self Catering Stay in Bristol scaled

You’ll find a number of places listed on yourapartment.com which offers homelike spaces close to all of the top Bristol tourist attractions. This allows you independence and freedom but still offers a feeling of luxury and being on vacation.

During my stay in Bristol, one of my accommodations was a one-bedroom apartment complimentary of yourapartment.com in the Clifton area. The apartment was cosy and equipped cooker, dishwasher, fridge and anything you could ever need when away from home.

IMG 4176 scaled

The apartment was also only 20 minute’s walk from the Clifton suspension bridge and Clifton Observatory.

Book Into a Hotel

There is no shortage of hotels in Bristol, from complete luxury options to more budget-friendly choices. Take a look at a few below:

Where to Stay in Bristol scaled

Leonardo Hotel Bristol Glassfields is located close to the Bristol docks area. It has excellent family rooms with panoramic views of the marina and city, so you’ll never get bored of your view.

If you want the best luxury experience possible, then book a room at The Marriott Hotel – conveniently located by Cabot Circus shopping mall.

The hotel offers wonderful spa facilities, and you can even book a table in one of the many restaurants.

Select a Bed and Breakfast in Clifton

Staying at a bed and breakfast in Clifton instead. This area is the most beautiful part of the city thanks to its gorgeous views over the Avon Gorge.

Many also offer fantastic dining facilities so you can eat like a local and enjoy some delicious food!

Or Find a Cozy Hostel

If you want the best budget experience possible, then book a room at The Rutland Backpackers – very centrally located and within walking distance of all major attractions. Rooms and facilities are basic but clean and tidy.

Where to Eat in Bristol

A great way to explore an area or city is through its food, sampling local delicacies and enjoying some traditional fare while learning about what makes each place special.

HOT DOG BRISTOL scaled

If you’re in the mood to splurge on delectable food, then try Casamia which serves up English cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. The restaurant is exclusive, with space for only 35 diners and offering a 14-course tasting menu.

The Pump House

This charming restaurant is set in a former Victorian pumping station at the waterside. This is a stunning building inside and out.

The food is all made from locally sourced ingredients and there is absolutely no shortage of flavour in these meals.

Where to eat in Bristol

Number 7 Kitchen

Number 7 Kitchen provides a more casual space to enjoy a lunchtime meal or just a quick coffee and cake in between your sightseeing.

There is indoor and outdoor seating, and if you’re around on a Friday evening, be sure to pop in for some live music.

The Burger Joint

As far as budget options are concerned, you can’t go wrong with The Burger Joint. It uses only locally sourced beef to make all its burgers fresh every day.

They do the standard meat burgers along with some more unusual flavours like Moroccan chicken.

The Royal Oak is a no-fuss place to go if you want some delicious British cuisine made with local ingredients. Enjoy a burger, a wood-fired pizza, or a homemade pie and pair it with a drink as you enjoy it in the garden or on the terrace.

Where to Eat in Bristol UK scaled

Where to Go out in Bristol – Nightlife

There are some great places to go out drinking or clubbing when visiting Bristol. Whether you’re after a cosy pub to throw back a beer before bedtime or a nightclub to dance the night away, there’s something for everyone.

The Butcher’s Arms

This family-run pub is relaxed but still plenty of fun. Stop here after a long day for some unwinding with your favourite beer, wine, or cider.

The Green Man

If you’re looking for somewhere more traditional, then try The Green Man which is found right in the centre of Bristol. It’s an 18th-century building that serves up hearty English food as well as micro-brewery ales and stouts.

If it’s DJs and dance floors that you’re after, Thekla offers a unique kind of clubbing experience. The venue is set inside a moored cargo ship and covers two floors.

There’s more than enough space to dance, an endless supply of drinks, and you’ll often find live bands here. 

Things to See in Bristol – Photo Stops

For hobbyists, amateurs, and even professional photographers, there are a few Bristol must-see locations. Some you’ll find along the way as you go through the above itinerary, others you may need to make the time to seek out.

Stokes Croft Bristol

Wills Memorial Building Tower

When visiting the University of Bristol, be sure to get a photo at its impressive Wills Memorial Building. This structure towers over the campus and is worth seeing up close.

Christmas Steps

This is an urban flight of steps that lead up to St Michael’s Hill and are most beautiful when they are decorated with festive lights. But regardless of the time of year you visit, this alleyway makes for some beautiful photos.

Christmas Steps

This elegant and simple structure has stood for centuries, and you can go inside it to admire the architecture and historical features. Photos of the outside of the building are simply mesmerising.

If you seek some greenery during your trip to Bristol, then take a trip down to The Downs – this is a large parkland area that is popular with walkers and dog-walkers. This is great for some people watching and landscape snaps.

Bristol Downs

University of Bristol Botanic Garden

This garden has an impressive collection of plants from all around the world. There are also numerous rare plants to photograph here.

Where to Day Trip from Bristol

Once your time is over in Bristol, there is still so much of the English countryside to explore. Why not continue on your trip and head to one of these close-by destinations?

The next city from Bristol is Bath which is just 24 miles away. Spend some time exploring Bath and the fantastic history of the city.

Start off by visiting the Roman Baths. This was a temple to the god Sulis Minerva, and you can still see the hot water bath that people used here thousands of years ago.

Next up is The Royal Crescent which dates back to 1767 and offers a glimpse into how wealthy people used to live.

The Circus is the last thing that you should visit here, and this is where you’ll find three curving terraces that date back to 1760.

From Bath, you’re just under an hour away from Stonehenge which is one of Britain’s most famous historical sites.

You could also travel further afield and go to London – this will take around 2 hours by train from Bristol Temple Meads Station. You’ll find so much to do and see here including all of the major sites of this iconic world city.

In London, you can go see one of the most famous landmarks in the world – The Tower of London. This is where you’ll find the Crown Jewels as well as a number of other historical exhibits.

If that wasn’t enough, then check out Shakespeare’s Globe and Westminster Abbey which are both must-see attractions if you’re visiting London.

Also close by is Windsor Castle which is one of the official residences of Queen Elizabeth II. If you get time, also try to go see Hampton Court Palace  – this is another royal property not far from London.

You can also travel from Bristol to Oxford – this will take around 45 minutes by train. This is a beautiful place that deserves some attention too as it’s steeped in history and has some impressive buildings.

Oxford has many great attractions that visitors to this city enjoy. For example, you can check out the impressive Bodleian Library which holds over 12 million books and other items that date back to 1602 (when it first opened).

The city is also home to another library called The Taylor Institution. If you’re a fan of art then Oxford has many great galleries for you to experience too. The Ashmolean Museum is one of the most famous museums.

You’ll see items going back thousands of years including Egyptian artefacts and more.

If history is your thing, then check out Christ Church Cathedral which is one of the most beautiful churches in Oxford.

You can read my guide of things to do in Oxford .

DSCF3242

Visiting Bristol for the Weekend

With so many things to see and do in Bristo l, two days doesn’t seem nearly enough time to really get a good feel for this unique city. But there is no rule saying that you can’t come back to the city as soon as you are able.

For your first trip, though, it’s important to choose a plan in order to get the most out of your visit without overwhelming yourself.

Hopefully, this has given you some ideas on how to spend 2 days in Bristol and what there is to do during your stay here.

Let me know how your first time in Bristol goes! Did you find any other gems that you feel should be included in this guide?

If you liked this guide and want real-time London/UK travel information, make sure you follow me on Instagram @huesofdelahaye and subscribe to my Youtube channel for weekly travel videos.

This post was in partnership with VisitBristol.co.uk . Although all thoughts and experiences are entirely my own.

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'Blood' poured over XR protesters at Bristol University as prospective students visit

They want the university to "stop encouraging students into unethical companies"

  • 19:09, 29 FEB 2024
  • Updated 06:45, 1 MAR 2024

visit bristol university

Activists poured fake blood over themselves in protest of the University of Bristol’s ties to the arms industry. Three students doused themselves in fake blood outside the university's Royal Fort Gardens yesterday afternoon (Wednesday).

Extinction Rebellion Youth Bristol (XRYB) activists held a banner reading 'Blood out of Education' while others had fake blood poured over them opposite Senate House. This is the second gory protest by XRYB as part of its 'Arms out of Bristol' and 'Arms off Campus' campaign.

The protest took place during an offer holder day for the university. Spider, a member of XRYB and a university student, said: "We decided to target an offer holder day to encourage prospective students to look at the ethics of the university that they choose and to increase the pressure on the university to cut ties with arms companies."

Read more: Call for Ashton Gate Stadium to cancel two-day 'arms fair' military conference

Read more: Shocking moment van driver ploughs through LTN protest

As well as highlighting the environmental impact of the arms trade, XRYB said their campaign is also in solidarity with Palestine, as it said the university (UoB) has connections with some companies that trade arms with Israel. The group is making the following demands: UoB must commit to no new research partnerships with companies that produce arms; UoB must immediately end all promotion of arms-related careers.

The university released a statement in December after the first 'drowning in blood' action. A spokesperson said at the time: " "We respect our students’ right to raise concerns about issues they feel strongly about and we will continue to listen to and engage with their views. It’s important to remember that defence companies do a lot more than arms manufacturing and development.

"All partnerships undergo stringent due diligence checks and ethical review first, ensuring the University is using its expertise to influence positive change. One example is creating materials for lighter, more fuel-efficient cars and planes which will benefit the environment.

"These connections also mean that we can provide our students with information about a wide range of organisations offering placements and graduate jobs at our careers fairs so they can make personal informed decisions about their future careers."

A spokesperson for XRYB said: "While we understand that UoB wants to offer a wide range of career opportunities, we believe that can be achieved without connections with arms companies. It is past time that the university career service will transition to promoting more green careers with green companies and stop encouraging students into unethical companies."

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Jack Levin and Julie B. Wiest, "Covert Violence: The Secret Weapon of the Powerless" (Bristol University Press, 2023‪)‬ New Books in Policing, Incarceration, and Reform

Covert violence occurs in all social institutions—including families and close relationships, education, workplaces, politics, mass media, and healthcare—each with its own unique power dynamics that shape the incidence and patterns of these vicious acts. Covert Violence: The Secret Weapon of the Powerless (Bristol University Press, 2023) by Dr. Jack Levin and Dr. Julie B. Wiest focuses on the types of surreptitious murder and mayhem that perpetrators intend to go unnoticed by would-be victims—until it’s too late. When such attacks are carried out with efficiency and competence, they may be disguised in official records as the result of illness, accident, or intentional self-harm, only on occasion to be later reclassified as the brutal crimes they are. This compelling and much-needed book is for all those who seek to understand—and strive to prevent—violence in society. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose forthcoming book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Alumni Goldenberg and Hardy of MASS Design Spring 2024 Teaching Firm in Residence

Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, 2022

Alumni Emily Goldenberg'10'12 and Chris Hardy'12'16 of MASS Design Group , Boston are serving as a Spring 2024 Teaching Firm in Residence, teaching a Graduate Architectural Design Studio. Each received their undergraduate and graduate degrees in Architecture from RWU. MASS Design Group received the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2022 Firm of the Year Award, the highest honor the AIA bestows on an architecture practice. The award recognizes a firm that has consistently produced distinguished architecture for at least 10 years. 

Goldenberg in her 10+ years at MASS has contributed to projects including the National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Birmingham, Alabama—which honors more than 4400 historical victims of lynching in the American South and was heralded as “the single greatest work of 21st century American architecture that will break your heart” by the Dallas Morning News, the New Redemption Hospital, and African Leadership University. She recently spent four years in the Kigali office leading the design and construction of the recently opened Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund . Prior to working at MASS, Emily was a Designer at Sasaki Associates . At RWU she was awarded the Architecture Thesis Award for her work on informal architecture and slum redevelopment for a potters community in Dharavi, Mumbai, India.

Chris Hardy joined MASS in 2018, and has focused on complex projects and delivery methods. He spent four years in the Kigali, Rwanda office leading the design and construction of the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture and the Western Serengeti Research Centre for the Grumeti Fund in Tanzania. He has contributed to or managed a number of projects at MASS, including the New Lots Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, Haven Domestic Violence Shelter, Children’s Services Roxbury, Caddo Childcare Center, 110 Ocean Housing, among others. He teaches at the Boston Architectural College. 

Goldenberg and Hardy’s Spring 2024 graduate design studio is focused on Empowerment Centers: Cultivating a Future-proof Workforce.

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