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10 Fun Things to Do in Bristol for a Memorable Adventure

Harbor at Bristol, United Kingdom
Harbor at Bristol, United Kingdom

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‍If you’re looking for a fun and exciting adventure in the United Kingdom, look no further than Bristol, England. Located in South West England, Bristol is the largest city in the region and is full of history, culture, and adventure. From the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge to the bustling Bristol Harbourside, there is something for everyone in Bristol. Here are 10 fun things to do in Bristol for a memorable adventure.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Hot air balloons above the Clifton Suspension Bridge,
Hot air balloons above the Clifton Suspension Bridge,

The city of Bristol has a rich and vibrant history, dating back to the Middle Ages when it was a major port for trade between the United Kingdom, Europe, and the Americas. Today, Bristol is a bustling metropolis with a diverse population and a thriving arts and culture scene. With its cobbled streets, Georgian townhouses, and picturesque riverside walks, Bristol is the perfect place for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, a romantic weekend away, or a solo adventure, Bristol has something to offer everyone. Here are 10 fun things to do in Bristol to make your adventure even more memorable.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol
Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of the most iconic sights in Bristol. Built in 1864, the bridge spans the River Avon and is an impressive feat of engineering. The bridge is open to pedestrians and cyclists, and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside. Make sure to take a camera with you to capture the beautiful views of the Avon Gorge and the surrounding area.

If the weather is nice, take a picnic and spend some time admiring the bridge from one of the many vantage points. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour and learn more about the history and construction of the bridge. Whatever you choose, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is a must-see for anyone visiting Bristol.

Bristol Zoo Gardens

Falmingo at Bristol Zoo
Falmingo at Bristol Zoo

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Bristol with kids, a visit to the Bristol Zoo Gardens is a must. The zoo is home to over 400 species of animals, from tigers and gorillas to penguins and meerkats. The zoo also offers a range of interactive activities, such as feeding the animals and animal encounters, as well as educational talks and activities.

The zoo also has a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as a gift shop, so you can make a day of it. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even spend the night at the zoo with one of their unique sleepovers.

Bristol Aquarium

Manta Ray at Bristol Aquarium
Manta Ray at Bristol Aquarium

The Bristol Aquarium is another great place to visit with the family. Located in the heart of the city, the aquarium is home to over 5000 species of fish and sea creatures, from tropical fish to sharks and rays. You can also explore the underwater tunnels and take a walk through the rainforest.

The aquarium also offers a range of interactive activities, such as touch tanks and educational talks, as well as a cafe and gift shop. It’s the perfect place to learn more about the amazing creatures that live beneath the sea.

Bristol Harbourside

Cruise at Bristol Harbourside
Cruise at Bristol Harbourside

The Bristol Harbourside is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Located on the River Avon, the harbourside is a bustling area full of shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars. The area is also home to a number of historic ships, from old fishing boats to tall ships, which are open to the public.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a guided boat tour of the harbour and learn more about the area’s maritime history. Alternatively, you can take a stroll along the harbourside and admire the views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

The Matthew of Bristol

The Matthew of Bristol ship in Bristol
The Matthew of Bristol ship in Bristol

The Matthew of Bristol is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, a replica of the ship that sailed to North America in 1497. The replica is open to the public and visitors can explore the deck, cabins, and museum. The ship is also home to a range of interactive activities, such as cannon firing and knot-tying, as well as educational talks and workshops.

If you’re feeling brave, you can even take a guided night tour of the ship and learn more about its history and legends. It’s the perfect place to take the family for a fun and educational day out.

Cabot Tower

Top of Cabot Tower in Bristol
Top of Cabot Tower in Bristol

The Cabot Tower is a Victorian tower located on Brandon Hill in the centre of Bristol. Built in the late 19th century, the tower offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The tower is open to the public and visitors can take a walk up the spiral staircase to the top and admire the stunning views.

The tower also offers a range of interactive activities, such as bell-ringing and archery, as well as educational talks and workshops. It’s the perfect place to take the family for a fun and educational day out.

Ashton Court Estate

Hot air balloons above Ashton Court Estate
Hot air balloons above Ashton Court Estate

The Ashton Court Estate is a sprawling estate in the heart of Bristol. The estate is home to a vast park, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with the family. The estate also offers a range of activities, such as horse riding, archery, and golf, as well as educational talks and workshops.

The estate is also home to a range of historic buildings, from the 16th century manor house to the 18th century folly, which are open to the public. It’s the perfect place to explore the area’s history and culture.

SS Great Britain

SS Great Britain ship in Bristol
SS Great Britain ship in Bristol

The SS Great Britain is a 19th century steamship located in the Bristol Harbour. The ship is open to the public and visitors can explore the deck, cabins, and museum. The ship is also home to a range of interactive activities, such as cannon firing and knot-tying, as well as educational talks and workshops.

The ship also offers a range of special events, such as ghost tours and moonlight cruises, so you can make a night of it. It’s the perfect place to take the family for a fun and educational day out.

Bristol Cathedral

Bristol Cathedral architecture and skyline
Bristol Cathedral architecture and skyline

Bristol Cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1140, the cathedral is a stunning example of medieval architecture and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the cathedral, including the crypt, cloisters, and the famous stained glass windows.

The cathedral also offers a range of interactive activities, such as bell-ringing and tours of the crypt, as well as educational talks and workshops. It’s the perfect place to take the family for a fun and educational day out.

Conclusion

Bristol is a vibrant and exciting city full of history, culture, and adventure. From the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge to the bustling Bristol Harbourside, there is something for everyone in Bristol. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, a romantic weekend away, or a solo adventure, Bristol has something to offer everyone. So why not make the most of your trip to Bristol and check out these 10 fun things to do in Bristol for a memorable adventure.

Written by
David Prior

David Prior is an NCTJ-qualified journalist and the editor of Big Family Breaks. He is also a father of five and an experienced traveller, especially with kids.

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