6 Fun Things to Do In Bristol

Bristol England often wins awards as “Best City in the UK”. The reason for this is Bristol is such a unique place. The city is filled with young and vibrant people, living and working in this historical city. The combination of the history of yesterday and the youth of today is an interesting trip for everyone. Bristol is 499 km from Dublin and 514 km from Ireland. Being this close to Ireland means Bristol has a heavy Irish culture. The Irish are friendly and welcoming. They have unique food and love the pubs. You will often hear the Irish dialect and you will not have a problem finding a great cup of Irish coffee.

Bristol has been around since the stone age. There is evidence of Roman occupation. The history in the area is evident in every area. Bristol is one place in the world where you can touch places that people touched generations before you. Do not make the mistake of underestimating this beautiful city. 

• After London, Bristol is the largest shipping port in England. Bristol was England’s largest city until the Industrial Revolution.
• Today Bristol looks like a warm and wonderful college town. The University of Bristol is a major employer in the area. But, during World War II the city’s manufacturing industries were destroyed. In their destruction, Bristol was severely bombed.

Now that you know a bit about Bristol, let’s look at some places you must see while you are there. 

Bristol Cathedral

The original name was St. Augustine’s Abbey. The Bristol Cathedral still has some of its original structure from 1148 when it was constructed. The Romanesque style has been protected in the rebuilding process. Bristol Cathedral stands over 300 feet tall. You are welcome to join a free tour that is offered, but please remember this is a place of worship so dress and behave appropriately. Donations are appreciated.

 

Clifton Suspension Bridge

This is probably the most famous landmark in Bristol. It offers a panoramic view of the Avon Gorge and River Avon from its position way above them. When bungee jumping began in the 1970s this is where jumps were held in the UK. Near the entrance of the bridge is an information center that gives you all the details of the history of the bridge.

The Avon Valley Railway

This is one of the few places in the UK where you can ride the steam-powered train

from a railway dates back to the 1860s. This is a fully restored Victorian train station, and the ride is 4.828 km (3 miles). That is just enough time to give you an idea of how travel really was in that era. If you prefer a simple hike, there is a walking trail along the route through some of the surrounding land. It is a lovely walk with the train nearby, you will feel like you stepped back in time.

 

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm

Bristol has a regular (and wonderful) modern zoo. But while in Bristol, you have to visit Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm. Here you can see exotic animals that you rarely see in this part of the world. For example, they feature White Rhinos, African Elephants, and Giant Anteaters among many more species. The farm is specifically designed to provide each animal with a home that is conducive to their health and comfort. 

 

Old Fish Market Pub

Bristol has lots of pubs, restaurants, and shops where you can stop and have a drink and a quick bite to eat. But the Old Fish Market Pub is a favorite. This old-fashion pub is welcoming and relaxing and it is a favorite of locals and visitors. This is where you will find the guys after work enjoying one of their favorite pastimes, playing the Powerball Lottery.

Bristol has had several lottery winners in recent years. Some people have started using their smartphones or computers to play the Lottoland app. Lottoland is a fully licensed and insured offshore casino and home to the Powerball Lottery. Playing the lottery with Lottoland is easy. It looks, feels, and plays just like the lottery you have always played, except you play from your phone. You win based on the results of the lottery. If the winning numbers are the same as your numbers, you win. Lottoland is the industry leader and the largest company of its kind in the UK.

 

Haunted Walking Tour

Bristol has its share of ghost stories and people who have had the legends passed down through generations. For almost 1,000 years Bristol has been an important port. Enjoy a 90-minute tour and visit some of the haunted and hidden ghost walks. This is a frighteningly good time that you won’t soon forget. 

 

 Here are a few other “must-see” places to consider:

• SS Great Britain – Import ship from 1845

• At-Bristol – science center

• St Mary Redcliffe – 15th century gothic-style church 

• Queen Square – green space in the heart of the city

• The Georgian House – historic building, built-in 1790 and currently used as a museum.

 

There is much more to Bristol than we could list here. We encourage you to do your own research and discover this wonderful city for yourself. You will be sure to add it to your vacation agenda if you do. Bristol has something for everyone.