From bustling independent boutiques to lazy waterside afternoons, Bristol has something for every guest. Home to some of the UK’s most iconic street art and engineering structures, it’s impossible to be bored in this lively, buzzing city. With 48 hours to fill, in a city as diverse as Bristol it’s hard to know where to start. We’ve put together some of our best recommendations to help build a special itinerary.
Day one
Morning
Bristol’s harbourside is particularly lovely on a bright morning. Start your trip to the city with a stroll around the harbour, enjoying the sight of Cliftonwood’s colourful terraces and the gentle bustle of the working boatyard at Underfall Yard. The complete circuit is 4.3km so you’ll definitely build up an appetite – and with plenty of independent cafes along the way, it’s easy to make a breakfast pitstop. We’d recommend sitting on the Knuckle at Underfall Café with its sensational views across the harbour.
Afternoon
While a walk around the harbour may only take an hour, there are plenty of diversions along the way, including SS Great Britain, M Shed, Arnolfini and Spike Island.
Dominating the waterfront, SS Great Britain is a museum ship and former passenger steamship – once the largest in the world! Designed by Bristolian Isambard Kingdom Brunel, she offers visitors a fascinating insight into life on the world’s first great luxury liner.
Two of Bristol’s most innovative contemporary art galleries are found around the harbour. Spike Island is a gallery and artistic community with a fascinating programme of events and shows. Find out more about their exhibitions and visiting times on their website.
Arnolfini is Bristol’s International Centre for Contemporary Arts. Opened in 1961, it has welcomed artists such as Peter Doig and Grayson Perry throughout its history.
Free to enter, M Shed is a museum that tells the story of Bristol. Situated on the harbourside, this repurposed 1950s transit shed details the city’s history through a range of colourful exhibits.
One of the best things about Bristol is the eclectic food scene. Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to independent eateries – why not grab a bite at one of the centre’s streetfood spots? Choose from the many places at CARGO on Wapping Wharf , the mix of food stalls at the Harbourside market or head indoors to the covered glass arcade at St Nick’s market.
Evening
After all that running about, you’re probably ready for a sit down. Did you know that Bristol is home to the oldest continuously working theatre in the English speaking world? Why not see a performance at the spectacular Bristol Old Vic Theatre? Or a West End show at Bristol Hippodrome? If comedy is your bag, there are lots of small independent venues like the Wardrobe Theatre, the Bristol Improv Theatre or the Hen and Chicken. Or simply take a wander round the Old City and soak up the atmosphere.
We’d recommend dining in Clifton’s The Square Kitchen, one of Bristol’s best restaurants. Boasting a delicious seasonal menu and vibrant atmosphere, the Square also offers guests the opportunity to snuggle away in the Secret Garden for some late-night cocktails.
Day two
Morning
Ready yourself for another day exploring with a hearty breakfast at one of our hotels then toddle over to the charming Clifton Village for a morning browsing its independent boutiques and cafes. Take a walk over the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and find out more about this impressive piece of engineering at the Visitor Centre.
Afternoon
Depending on the sort of holiday you’re looking for, either treat yourself to an afternoon tea in No.4 Clifton Village or, if you’re more of a ‘lighter luncher’, grab a snack from one of Clifton’s many little cafes and delis and then set off for Clifton Triangle and more culture. The Royal West of England Academy offers world-class art in an exceptional building (plus there’s a lovely Spicer + Cole café on the ground floor. Further down Park Street towards town is the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, an impressive building housing archaeology, geology and art including fossils, a Romany caravan and artwork by local boy Banksy.
Evening
As day becomes evening, you can either squeeze in some last minute shopping in Cabot Circus or grab a drink by the river as the sun goes down – one of our favourites is Under the Stars, a quirky little bar on a boat right in the centre of the harbourside – perfect for a refreshing glass al fresco. Finish your trip off back up the hill with something a little more casual – either enjoy some authentic Italian fare at Pizza on the Park or try one of Bristol’s best burgers at Racks Bar & Kitchen. Both restaurants have an exciting range of drinks offers so your nightcap won’t break the bank…
Visiting Bristol?
Looking for a character-filled stay in Bristol? All our hotels are in historic buildings packed with original features. Whether you want a luxury four star stay or Clifton’s most reasonable bed and breakfast rate, there’s something for every budget at Clifton Hotels. Book direct for our best rate guarantee.
