Traveling to Bristol from London is an easy 90 minute direct train. Trains depart from London Paddington and arrive at Bristol Temple Meads. Direct trains run frequently between the two cities, with a few stops between. As the train is quick, visiting Bristol is easy for just a quick daytrip or full weekend trip.
Upon arriving in Bristol at the train station, the city is very walkable. In fact, walking around the various neighborhoods is a nice way to explore the city. There are buses running throughout the city as well as taxis and ride sharing services if tired of walking or looking to reach an area quickly.
The Artist Residence is an adorable boutique hotel found in the St. Paul's area of Bristol. About a 10-15 minute walk from central sights including the wharf and Bristol's city center and a 20 minute walk from the train station, this cute hotel is a great spot to base yourself when visiting Bristol. The hotel has a variety of cute rooms of different sizes depending on your needs. For those traveling alone, those just looking for a small place to crash, or people traveling together looking for a bit more space, there are different rooms available each with character and unique touches.
The University of Bristol is at the city centre. College Green is a great spot to grab a seat with a book or grab a coffee and wander around the campus buildings.
As Bristol is the grafitti artist's home, his works can be found throughout the city. A few to find when visiting Bristol are noted below. Some are preserved better than others, as unfortunately some habe been vandalised.
Found in the city center, this market is open Tuesday through Saturday during the day. With stalls occupied by independent retailers, there are street food vendors, local craftsmen and other quirky items
One of the most recognizable sights of Bristol, the suspension bridge spans the Avon Gorge above the Avon River. The best views of the bridge can be seen from the park around the Clifton Observatory.
The neighborhood of Clifton is the chic area of Bristol. Perched up on a hill near the bridge, there are an abundance of cute cafes, shops and just a quaint area to wander around the quaint streets. Royal York Crescent is a nice street to walk along in the neighborhood.
The Bristol Harbour has a lot of nice points to explore. Stroll along the river, find a pub or café for a drink, and take in the views of the colorful houses. The best views of the colorful houses are from the Bristol Marina.
The artsy neighborhood of Bristol, there's no shortage of street art in this area. Unconventional and off the beaten path, this spot is ideal for those looking for something different
Found in the neighborhood of Stokes Croft, this breakfast spot often has a line which means you know its good. Stop in here for a weekend morning brunch
With a few locations across Bristol, this café is perfect for a morning coffee or bite to eat. Order your morning fix at the counter and grab a table to start the day off with a bite to eat
Down the street from College Green, this cute chocolate café is ideal for a chocolate lover. From different hot chocolate options to cookie sandwiches to nutella stuffed cookeis to chocolate bars, there's lots to fill your sweet tooth. Grab a snack to go or enjoy a treat sitting in the café.
Delicious gelato spot near College Green around the Bristol City centre. Be sure to try the biscoff and salte caramel flavor if available!
Found in Wapping Wharf, old Cargo containers have been transformed into homes for different food vendors. From Mexican food at Cargo Cantina to Poke to fish and chips to Indian, there's something for everyone. With indoor and outdoor seating available, head over here for a bite to eat or a drink when exploring the Marina side of the wharf.
Bristol is definitely one of the nicer UK cities. Behind London, but perhaps taking second place in England, Bristol has a lot to offer. It's small enough that it is great for a weekend trip or could even be done in a day. The city is known for having more nightlife so it is nice to spend an evening here if possible. Whether that means pub hopping or just enjoying a drink outside watching a sunset, there's different options for how to spend your evening.
Summer time is a great time to visit this English city. If you can time your visit with the Bristol Hot Air balloon festival in August, this would be ideal. The city will be busy, but you'll be able to explore the city while also taking in the beautiful skies filled with hot air balloons.
Transportation and Accommodations
Things to do and see
Food and Drinks