48 Hours in Bristol

Morning  

If you are arriving at Bristol Temple Meads, look out for the Brunel statue, which stands in front of the engineer’s original station. It’s just a short walk or ferry ride from here to another of his creations – the SS Great Britain! 

Start your day out right with a coffee at the Mud Dock, an iconic dockside bike shop/café with a terrace which offers panoramic views of the harbour. Then head over Prince Street Bridge, and stroll beneath the cargo cranes which tower above the riverside.  

Stop off at the M Shed for a free exhibition which tells the story of the city through moving personal stories and quirky artifacts. Along the quayside you can also witness the Bristol Harbour Railway and explore The Matthew, a modern reconstruction of the caravel sailed by John Cabot in 1497.

Now it is time to experience Bristol from a different angle, board the Water Ferry to the SS Great Britain and enjoy a delicious light lunch at the Harbourside Kitchen, soaking up the atmosphere of a waterfront terrace.

Afternoon 

Wander down to the historic dockyard and be sure to plunge below the glass sea into the dry dock, then step back in time into the Dockyard Museum as you prepare to board the ship herself. 

Alive with sights, sounds and even smells, set sail on the world’s first great ocean liner. Do not miss the Being Brunel Museum, discovering Brunel’s extraordinary achievements by stepping into his world. Before your visit is over, make sure to go to check out the Albion Dockyard viewing platform to get behind-the-scenes of a working shipyard.  

Head round the corner to see the legendary Banksy’s Girl with a Pierced Eardrum, before popping into one of Bristol’s hidden gems, The Orchard Inn, for an extensive range of West Country Ciders and real ales in a traditional Victorian country pub. For another spot of culture, drop by Spike Island for some innovative contemporary art and make sure to visit the Underfall Yard to discover the fascinating story of Bristol’s floating harbour. 

Evening 

After this harbourside adventure, it is time to relax at The Pump House, a former Victorian pumping house at a prime waterside spot. Sample their menu, which is filled with locally sourced food and small independent suppliers, for a taste of Bristol. 

For more eclectic dinner options, circle back towards Cargo, in Wapping Wharf where there is a broad selection of unique resturaunts. Eat at Gambas for their unmatched tapas, Seven Lucky Gods for Japanese-inspired small plates, and Root for an inventive vegetable-focused menu. 

Morning 

Spend your morning exploring Park Street, which is home to an array of unique shops and cafes. If you have a sweet tooth, check out Mrs Potts Chocolate House for melt in your mouth treats. 

Halfway up the famously steep road, down Great George Street you will find Brandon Hill, home to Cabot Tower and famous views of the city. Do not miss the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, where you will discover the region’s natural wonders and experience Grayson’s Art Club, which is exhibiting until September.  

Afternoon 

Now make your way up to Bristol Lido, an urban santuary in the heart of Clifton, for a spot of Mediterranean inspired food at the poolside bar and restaurant. You can also book in to swim in the heated, low-chlorine pool and use the spa facilities. 

Wander over to Clifton Village, for a shopping spree in Clifton Arcade, a community of independent shops in a unique Victorian shopping arcade. Find beautiful vintage costume jewelry, one-of-a-kind furniture pieces and work by local artists. If you have time for a break, grab a cup of coffee at the beloved Primrose Café and try a slice of one of their delicous home-made cakes. 

Stroll up to the Downs where you will come across the famous Rock Slide, a strip of rock which has become naturally slippy from many backsides over the years. Here, you will also find the Clifton Observatory which offers breath-taking views of Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge.  

Evening 

The White Lion’s bar terrace gives you a front row seat to one of the best sunset views in town. Enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills of Somerset, Leigh Woods and of course the world-famous Clifton Suspension Bridge.  

Head back into Clifton Village for a choice of some of the best restaurants Bristol has to offer. Dine out at the chic but friendly New Moon Tapas which serves a distinctive menu of tapas from around the world, or try the vibrant Nutmeg for a menu which gives classic Indian dishes a creative twist.  

To end the night on a high, swing on by to Her Majesty’s Secret Service which is hidden in the center of Clifton Down. The tiny cocktail bar boasts a vast and eccentric drinks menu, which you can enjoy in a cosy setting. If cocktails aren’t your thing, nip round the corner to Steam a quirky venue which has a passion for beer, cider, and Brunel!