In the UK we are incredibly lucky to have cities of all shapes and sizes offering something unique and different to each other and all relatively near to us. And yet, even though we have this wealth of culture and history on our doorstep many of us look to Europe to places like Seville, Rome or Prague for a city break. But maybe it’s time we stopped jumping on planes and traveling abroad for our weekend getaway’s and delighted in places closer to home.
For this blog we have decided to give the hot spot to Bristol, a city on the water that has so much to offer and is also perfectly placed to discover the surrounding beautiful countryside of Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. Bristol also has an official city guide app to help you get around and about.
Here are 6 reasons of why your next weekend getaway should be in Bristol:
Shoppers Paradise
Bristol has many different shopping areas which cater for all shopping tastes! For those who like independent shops and hand-made items Clifton Village is the place to go. For those who enjoy the hustle and bustle of a City Centre, Bristol Shopping Quarter will not disappoint. And finally Cribb’s Causeway offers over 500 brands under one roof and also stays open late for those who prefer a little night-time shopping.
Animal Magic
Bristol Zoo Gardens offers a great day out for the whole family with over 400 species spread out over 12 acres of glorious landscaped gardens. You can travel to the zoo easily by taking the sightseeing bus which stops right outside the zoo gates. If you prefer aquatic animals head to the Bristol Aquarium where over 4,000 species await your perusal close to the City Centre.
Entertainment – spoilt for choice
Bristol’s gastronomic choices of food will have everyone’s palate covered. French fine dining, Caribbean Cuisine, American Steaks, Spanish Tapas, you really are spoilt for choice. There are also several award winning restaurants where you can enjoy the best Bristol has to offer. If you’re dining out with the family there are plenty of family friendly restaurants ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable meal for everyone.
Art Delights
The elusive Banksy hails from Bristol and his iconic love of art lives in the streets. Cutting edge graffiti decorates the city’s walls, side streets and bridges. You can embark on a walking tour to explore the latest street art but be warned the walls change from week to week so you’ll never see the same tour twice! The Bristol Museum & Art Gallery are also great places to while away a wet afternoon and is also home to Banksy’s 2009 exhibition.
Culture and History
Bristol is very much a modern City and yet it is steeped with history dating back thousands of years. From the fine architecture of Bristol Cathedral to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge finished in 1864 by Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, there is a wealth of history in and around Bristol. Why not also take some time out in the gorgeous Castle Park where the remains of the medieval castle still stand nestled between the Bristol Shopping Quarter and the beautiful Harbourside.
Brunel’s SS Great Britain
No trip to Bristol would be complete without out a tour around the world’s famous first great ocean liner, voted Bristol’s number one attraction and in the UK’s top ten! Explore the decks, both above board and below and see for yourself just what it took to be a Victorian sailor! Could you have lived on the high seas?
There are a many different accommodation options you can choose from while you enjoy the delights Bristol has to offer. From Hotels to Bed & Breakfasts, from Camping and Caravanning to beautiful Serviced Apartments there are certainly many places to stay to make your visit as perfect as possible.