In South-West England, just a few hours’ drive from London, is one of Europe’s most scenic, youthful and livable cities. Bristol and its friendly population of a half million has become a regular holiday destination for many including ourselves.
Through guided tours from friends and even strangers around Bristol’s historical landmarks and pubs we rediscovered the connection between Bristol and our home province of Newfoundland, visited some of the world’s most pioneering engineering marvels and were reminded that even bright cities can have a dark past…
This is what we’ve learned. Here are our top things to do in Bristol and surrounding area!
The Clifton Suspension Bridge and the first bungee jump
High above the city is the Clifton Suspension Bridge, easily the most recognized landmark in Bristol. Designed by Brunel, a famous English Engineer, it was built in 1864 and is still a fully functioning toll bridge today. Drive or take a walk across and see the location of the first bungee jump in 1979 and the handover of the 2012 Olympic torch.
Clifton Observatory and the best views
Located very close to the Suspension Bridge, this former tobacco mill turned artist’s studio and now observatory is a must see. On the top floor, apart from an amazing view, is a Camera Obscura which is a series of camera and lenses that reflects a true image of the outdoors onto a five-foot surface inside. It’s only one of three in the UK. Under the building there is a narrow tunnel with stone stairs that lead to to St Vincent’s Cave above Avon George. Check it out for a unique view of the Suspension Bridge.
Bristol Zoo and the Silverback Gorilla
Within walking distance of the Bridge and Observatory is the Bristol Zoo, the fifth old zoo in the world opened in 1836. Upon entry you’ll be greeted by a flock of flamingos and for the brave there are rooms full of exotic spiders. You’ll also see lions, penguins, red pandas, a family of gorillas and the zoo’s most famous resident Jock, the Silverback Gorilla.
SS Great Britain
Brunel also designed the SS Great Britain. Completed in 1845 it was both the longest passenger ship in the world and the first iron ship to use a screw propeller. If you want to step back in time, it’s on display in Bristol’s Great Western Dockyard and tours are available.
The Matthew and discovering North America
Shipping and ship building are major parts of Bristol’s history and a replica of one of the world’s most renowned ships was built and is now moored on Prince’s Wharf in Bristol. The original Matthew was sailed by John Cabot in 1497 from England to Newfoundland, Canada. It would become the first European ship to discover coastal North America!
This replica of the ship repeated the voyage for its five-hundredth voyage anniversary in 1997. And after a long voyage back, it’s now back in Bristol available for tours, weddings and corporate events.
Get a better look at the Matthew ship and its history in our visit below.
Cabot Tower
There is a Cabot Tower in St. John’s, Newfoundland but also another in Bristol. The 32-meter-high sandstone tower was completed in 1898 in memory of John Cabot and his famous voyage. Located in Bristol’s Brandon Hill Park, the tower is free to the public and is worth the walk up its winding stairway to get a stunning view of the city.
The Hatchett Inn – the Pub Made of Human Skin?
For those drawn to the dark side, part of Bristol’s past is a bit…murky. It was once known for its slave trade and pirates.
At Bristol’s oldest pub that opened in 1606, The Hatchett Inn may appear like any other historical pub but there is one creepy difference. The large front door is said to be covered in human skin…and it looks it. Try and open it without getting shivers down your spine. We dare you.
The Roman Baths of Bath
Just a 45-minute drive East of Bristol is the World Heritage City of Bath. Surrounded by breath-taking architecture made from local bath stone, the city is a gem and often frequented by English tourists. Its most famous landmark is the Roman Baths that date back to the first century. This religious spa harnesses a hot spring below the city that still flows today.
Cardiff Castle
About an hour West of Bristol is the Celtic city of Cardiff, the capital of Wales. Cardiff Castle is a top attraction with a 2000-year history owned by the Romans, Tudors and eventually the Bute family before giving it to the city in 1947. Make sure to walk around the castle grounds.
A Lively City
The former industrial town of Bristol is now a vibrant city full of trendy restaurants and bustling nightlife. It pays respect to its past and attracts young professionals and families. Being close to London, Bath and Cardiff makes it a desirable location and since it has an airport it’s easy to jet around Europe.
Take time to stroll through its city parks, walk along the Avon River which runs through the city and take in the sunset with a pub crawl along the water as the lively sounds of city’s bustling music scene begins to fill the air.
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Thanks guys!
Chris and Larry
