Whether you’re a Bristol local looking to shake up your weekend plans or just visiting and wondering where to start, we’ve got you covered. From scenic strolls and hidden gems to thrill-packed adventures and quirky museums, Bristol and its surroundings are full of surprises. So grab your mates, pack some snacks (or just leave room for a cheeky pub stop), and let’s dive into 15 brilliant days out that’ll make you fall a little bit more in love with the South West.
1. A day at the theatre
Located near the city centre, the Bristol Old Vic and Hippodrome represent over a century of theatre in Bristol. Both venues host a diverse range of acts; however, the Hippodrome features more pantomimes and musicals than the Old Vic, which tends to showcase more comedies and theatre performances. If you are more interested in the history of the theatres, both offer tours of the venue, fully immersing you in Bristol’s theatrical past.
2. A day in Bath
Only a 15-minute direct train away from Temple Meads station, Bath is recognised as a literary and archaeological hub. In December, I went with a few university friends to scavenge the Christmas market. The stalls went on for miles along Bath’s beautiful streets; however, if you aren’t visiting during the winter, there is still plenty to explore. The Roman baths are sure to please any history fanatic, and as an English student, the Jane Austen Festival has always been on my bucket list.
3. A day on the walking trails
Bristol’s picturesque and enchanting scenery makes the city a perfect city for leisurely walks. While the River Avon Trail initially begins in Pill, you can start near the Clifton Suspension Bridge and finish the Trail at Pulteney Bridge, Bath. The walk takes you through the stunning Avon Valley Woodlands and the Cotswold Hills, taking you out of the lively and energetic city and into tranquil surroundings. If you would prefer to remain in the city, there is currently a Gromit Unleashed trail (ending 31st August 2025) where you can find Wallace and Gromit statues scattered across Bristol. Even if you miss the trail, there are still a few statues located near the Bristol Royal Infirmary and the courtyard of the University of Bristol, Unite House accommodation!
4. A day cycling through Bristol
The Bristol and Bath Railway Path is an ideal path for those craving a challenging adventure. You begin on the St Philips Road, Bristol and finish at the Bath’s Pulteney Bridge, a Georgian bridge lined with shops and cafes. The path takes you along a retired railway track, passing by former train stations. After spending the day in Bath, if you are too tired to cycle back, a 15-minute train from Bath Spa will take you to Bristol Temple Meads.
5. A day at the harbourside
Found in the heart of Bristol, the harbourside is a gorgeous, scenic area perfect for a calming walk. If you would rather explore the harbour on the water, The Matthew, a reconstruction of the original 15th-century commercial goods boat, offers a 45-minute journey around the Floating Harbour. You can also opt for a two-hour trip, which includes fish and chips! There is also the SS Great Britain, the world’s largest passenger ship from 1845-1853, which now operates as a museum. They offer sip and paint events, masquerade balls, and Sunday roasts onboard the boat.
6. A day of shopping
Whether you fancy spending a day wandering around an enormous shopping centre or discovering local, small businesses, Bristol can cater to any shopaholic’s desires! The Bristol Shopping Quarter contains The Galleries and Cabot Circus. Both shopping centres offer a wide variety of shops and restaurants. If you are looking for an activity to do with friends, there is an Escape Hunt venue, which offers fun and challenging escape rooms. Additionally, Park Street is filled with cafes, clothing shops, and charity shops. A personal favourite is The Last Bookshop, which sells new books for £5 and under, making it perfect to buy books for my English lectures!
7. A day exploring street art
Bristol is adorned with eye-catching and vibrant street art, including some of Banksy’s early and satirical murals. Some of Banksy’s earlier works remain scattered across the city, including his ‘Cat and Dog’ (1990s) artwork found on Robertson Road and the famous ‘Mild Mild West’ (1999) in Stokes Croft. However, even if you don’t fancy scavenging for Banksy’s artwork, it is impossible to last a day without encountering mesmerising and fascinating street art. Even on my repetitive weekly walks to the supermarket, I would always keep an eye out for the large, blue dog by Spanish artist Aryz (@mr_aryz).
8. A day at the market
St Nicholas Market, one of the UK’s oldest and most iconic markets, offers vintage goods, homemade crafts, and street food. Housed in a Victorian-era building, the stalls fill the air with the scent of freshly baked goods and delicious food from around the world. After indulging in the delightful delicacies and impeccable craftsmanship, make your way to the Christmas Steps on a short walk away. Previously named Queene Street and Knyfesmyth Street, the street dates back to Medieval times and in 1669 the stairs were added. As you ascend the steps, passing by numerous independent shops and cafes, you are embraced by the romantic ambience as you are whisked back in time.
9. A day of beer and hot air balloons
One of Bristol’s most popular festivals is the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, where over 100 balloons ascend to the skies. The two mass ascents occur approximately at 6 am and 6 pm with different events, such as stunt kite shows and police dog displays, occurring in between. During the Nightglow at 9 pm, dozens of balloons are released into the sky, lighting up the night with fiery bursts of colour as BBC Radio Bristol accompanies the dreamlike sighting.
Even if you don’t manage to purchase a flight during the fiesta, you can still contact one of the ride operators at the event to organise an unforgettable experience. Once you have landed, the adventure doesn’t have to end if you head to many of the city’s renowned breweries for locally brewed beers. Bristol Beer Factory, a 35-minute walk away from Ashton Court Estate, frequently holds public brewery tours. Each tour lasts two hours and includes 3 gluten-free pints from freshly racked kegs, allowing you to savour a variety of brews while learning about the brewing process.
10. A day in Clifton
A neighbourhood lined with Georgian architecture and incredible views, Clifton has beautiful boutiques and impressive landmarks. One of the most famous views in Bristol is the Clifton Suspension Bridge, which stretches across the Avon Gorge, connecting Bristol to North Somerset. While visiting the bridge, you can attend a weekend walking tour or an Underground Vault Visit, which takes you into the Bridge’s underground vaults. Also, if you cross the bridge to North Somerset, you can enter the museum for free!
Furthermore, the Clifton Observatory is located 5 minutes away, offering a museum and access to the Giant’s Cave, a natural cave that opens out onto the cliff face. The Observatory also offers beer tasting events and jazz nights.
11. A day in the museums
If you find yourself at the mercy of Bristol’s rainy and stormy days, but still with a yearning to explore the city, museums are a perfect solution! The Georgian House Museum is located near Park Street and is the townhouse of John Pinney, a slave plantation owner and merchant. The Museum was refurnished in the 18th century style, providing insight into the life of the workers and owners of the house. A 5-minute walk up Park Street will take you to the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. Here you can find exhibitions of gender stories and tours of Bristol’s dinosaurs!
12. A day in Cardiff
Wales’ capital city is only an hour’s train journey away from Bristol Temple Meads. From there, a 15-minute walk will take you to Cardiff Castle, a capsule containing 2000 years of history. Founded by William the Conqueror, utilising Roman stonework and featuring Victorian apartments, the castle…A 7-minute walk from the Castle will take you to Cardiff Market, an indoor shopping centre with a wide array of shops and food stalls.
13. A day in Weston-Super-Mare
Weston-Super-Mare is a 30-minute train journey away, a beachside town with an extravagant carnival and a Grand Pier. A visit to the beach would be perfect for those looking for a relaxing trip and a day out in the sun! The Grand Pier on the sandy beach has a pavilion featuring dodgeball, football, and VR arcade games.
14. A day at a festival
Bristol’s festivals reflect the city’s diverse culture and lively nature. Summer music festivals such as Love Saves the Day and Bristol Sounds are a perfect way to celebrate the end of an academic year at university. St Paul’s Carnival also acts as a celebration, as each float commemorates African Caribbean culture using music, art, and dance. If you are visiting in the winter, the annual Bristol Light Festival lights up the city with immersive artworks, including light-up swings, 1,000 flamingos, and a mirror ball heart.
15. A day experiencing Bristol’s nightlife
After spending your days roaming the sensational city, use the morning of your 15th day to relax before experiencing Bristol’s dynamic nightlife. To celebrate Galentines, I visited Tonight Josephine’s, a cocktail bar on Baldwin Street, to try their interesting and unique drinks. The elaborate venue is illuminated by neon lights reflecting off a ceiling mirror, and guests are seated on plush sofas. Another eccentric bar is NQ64, an arcade bar. The bar has 35 arcade machines, 2 pinball machines, and 6 retro consoles, so you’ll never be bored!
Bristol has something for everyone, whether you have two weeks or two days, you’ll always find something to enjoy. From soaking in the city’s fascinating history and art scene to indulging in local beers and beautiful views, the lively and charming city is a great place to wander around and find whatever suits your vibe. Also, with Bath and Cardiff a train journey away, you will never run out of places to explore!
