48 hours in Bristol
The plaudits keep coming for Bristol, top 5 for the happiest places to live in the UK, top food destination, vegan hotspot and Britain’s very first green capital. What’s not to love? With 48 hours to fill, in a city as diverse as Bristol it’s hard to know where to start.
Day one
Morning
The crisp darker mornings are coming, so wrap up warm! Take a stroll through Clifton Village, and the unique and beautiful Victorian shopping arcade Built between 1876 and 1878 by Joseph King, a self-taught architect which is now home to some of the finest independent boutiques in Bristol.
It's time for some top-quality brekkie, you have plenty of independent cafes to pick from such as, Primrose Café, Rosemarino and 99 queens.
Now that the bellies are full, wander through the Georgian style streets of Clifton to Brunel’s most significant masterpiece; Clifton Suspension Bridge. The breathtaking views of South Bristol will blow you away, and it makes a very insta-worthy pic.
Afternoon
Take yourself shopping and splash that hard earned cash! From the cultural diversity of Stokes Crocks to Gloucester road is maverick and energetic city is making waves when it comes to sustainable shopping. Gloucester is the longest road of independent shops in the UK, so if supporting local and sustainable shopping is your thing then you’re in for a treat. There is a huge range of independent and sustainable shops available such as Preserve, Green Wood Furniture, Make and Fig
Evening
Get a taste of the west end at Bristol Hippodrome, or experience a performance like never before at one of the country’s oldest theatres, the Bristol Old Vic. If quirky is your style, then head over to North Street to the Tobacco Factory for a taste of the unusual.
After such a packed day, it’s likely you’ll be desperate for a bite to eat.. Luckily right on your doorstep is the hidden gem, The Square – boasting a delicious seasonal menu and vibrant atmosphere. From there the night is yours – their downstairs cocktail bar leads onto their terrace, The Secret Garden; a cosy heated and sheltered al-fresco dining area.
Day two
Morning
Head down to the Harbourside via park street with its eclectic collection of vintage shops and boutiques that you will find yourself wandering into. Once you’ve had a nosy, head back down the hill to the harbour and grab yourself a coffee and sweet treat from Mokoko Coffee & Bakery located in the famous food quarter in Bristol, Wapping Wharf. Still got an appetite? Fill yourself with Bristol’s maritime history and take a trip alongside the harbour to Brunel’s SS Great Britain.
Afternoon
Heading back to the city centre, you can visit the M Shed Museum for free! It’s a great way to learn about the city through the medium of photographs, film, personal stories and objects. There is currently an exhibition on Bristol Street Art by Vanguard exploring the evolution of the instrumental role street art has in Bristol’s history, it’s a must see. If you’re feeling peckish head back to Wapping Wharf and explore all their incredible lunch options from the likes of Woky Ko, Cargo Cantina and The Athenian and sit on the harbour to enjoy alfresco style.
Evening
By now, your stomach is rumbling and luckily right on your doorstep is the hidden gem; Racks Bar & Kitchen. Bristol’s best party venue, taking you from dinner to the dancefloor. Serving up a delicious menu of seasonal British classics, there is certainly something for everyone. Their outdoor terrace, The Pavilion covers rain or shine if you want to take the party outside.