The central Old City is at the heart of Bristolian life, offering superb culture, food, history and shopping, but there are new things afoot in the city too. This is a place that has always prided itself on its musical culture, and that restless energy keeps things interesting.
A sea-faring past
Once a busy dock where merchants traded, and sailors set off on voyages of discovery, Bristol's Harbourside is now an attractive, modern development filled with restaurants, bars, shops and hotels. Start your exploration at Millennium Square, the area’s hub, and fan out to unearth a plethora of top-notch attractions, such as We The Curious, an interactive science museum with over 300 hands-on exhibits, and the Arnolfini, an internationally-renowned contemporary arts centre hosting exhibitions, performances and music and dance events.
Moored opposite, you’ll find the SS Great Britain. Board Isambard Kingdom Brunel's engineering masterpiece and learn about what was the world's first great ocean liner. There’s plenty to explore, from the sumptuous surroundings of the first-class dining saloon and the cramped bunks in steerage, to the iron hull under the glass 'sea' and the massive turning engine.
Bridge magnet
Elegant and picturesque, Clifton is one of Bristol's most exclusive suburbs. The area is best known for the Clifton Suspension Bridge, a stunning vision brought to life by Brunel. Cross the bridge (toll charge of £1) to drink in magnificent views of the Avon Gorge and surrounding countryside. Clifton is also home to Bristol Zoo Gardens, one of the world's longest established and most well-respected zoos, boasting 12 acres of landscaped gardens and over 400 species of exotic animals from around the globe.
Markets and more
For those with a penchant for some retail therapy, Bristol is well known as the shopping capital of the south-west. Sail through the shopping quarter to explore a huge range of large chains. Alternatively, wind through the rabbit warren of narrow cobbled streets and alleys lined by quirky independent shops to find something a little different. Take the time to browse the stalls of the covered St Nicholas Market and the old Corn Exchange, where you’ll find everything from jewellery and crystals to hats and musical instruments. Just a few minutes’ walk from here is the bohemian Old Market, home to an array of traders selling vintage fashion, antiques and art, as well as plenty of cool cafés.
Divine dining
Bristol is a food-lover’s paradise. Pride of place goes to the Michelin-starred Casamia and its sister restaurant, Paco, which blends the ingredients of the West Country with traditional Spanish cooking. There are many fine restaurants around the Harbourside and Millennium Square to discover too, with something for all tastes. The modern River Grille restaurant at The Bristol Hotel offers fantastic views across the Harbourside, as does Za Za Bazaar, which serves up a variety of buffet-style global cuisine.
Best of the West Country
Only 30 minutes east of Bristol lies the glorious ancient city of Bath, famous for its elegant Georgian architecture and perfectly preserved Roman baths. Visiting the baths is a must, but you should also discover the city’s elegant streets, especially the stunning Royal Crescent and Circus.
Car rental in Bristol brings you within easy reach of the copious glories of the Cotswolds. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this region of rolling hills and sweeping meadows is punctuated by timeless towns and villages crafted from honey-hued stone. Visit Bourton-on-the-water, Burford, Chedworth and Cirencester to see the best of this picture-perfect pocket of rural England.
