Unmissable Things To Do In Bristol In One Day

Set inland on the Avon River, Bristol is one of England’s oldest port cities and is celebrated for its engineering marvels from the SS Great Britain to the Clifton Suspension Bridge. As a result, the things to do in Bristol are varied and wonderful and it’s easy to get lost in all its splendour even if you’re only here for one day.

The moment I stepped off the bus and was welcomed to a band of talented, historically dressed individuals by the busy waterfront, I knew Bristol’s identity as cultural-infused, lively metropolis was not a lie. Hosting a harmonious blend between the historic and modern, as well as the natural and artificial, the city serves its residents and visitors with constant excitement. Regardless of what you enjoy exploring on your travels, Bristol is bound to have it. Rummage through charity shops, hike through the lush Avon Gorge, take a boat trip, gawk at the architecture, or drink all the cider you desire for a fun-filled and adventurous trip.

And, if you are lucky enough to be blessed with a sunny day and clear skies, the vivid sunset reflecting on the water and golden glow over the beautiful architecture is a sight to be treasured!

Travel and Accommodation In Bristol 

The best way to get to Bristol is by National Rail or the National Express Coach service from any major city such as London and Birmingham and arrive at its various stations within or just outside the city centre.

If travelling from London particularly, and you choose to spend the night in Bristol, I highly recommend taking the coach from London Victoria because it is less than half the price of the train ticket.

Accommodation here consists of a variety of independent, luxury and many chain hotels, all located close to the various main attractions and buzzing centre. Some of the most popular places include:

• Holiday Inn Bristol City Centre
• Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa
• Bristol Marriot Hotel
• The Clifton Hotel Bristol

Five Incredible Attractions In Bristol 

Bristol Floating Harbour 

As the bustling heart of the city, Bristol’s Floating Harbour is one of the best ways to appreciate the culture and history of the city as a port. Though not all fun and games as Bristol was built on the slave trade, today you can walk past hundreds of boats, witness the beauty of colourful buildings standing high over the water, take a boat trip, and eat at waterfront restaurants for a lovely day out.

Brunel’s SS Great Britain 

Brunel’s SS Great Britain was the world’s first passenger steamship and is part of the National Historic Fleet. Exploring the ship as it lies on the dry dock on which it was built nearly 200 years ago, is a surreal experience. There is so much to look at and learn to understand Brunel’s engineering ingenuity, as you wander the decks, peep into the cabins, stroll the mechanical rooms and visit the fascinating museums.

The price of the Brunel’s SS Great Britain tickets may seem expensive, but with the number of things to see – it is highly worth it. It is also a yearlong ticket so you can make as many visits as you’d like in that time frame. 

St. Mary Redcliffe

When Queen Elizabeth I visited Bristol in 1574, she described St. Mary Redcliffe as “the fairest parish church in England”. Today, this 13th-century structure remains just as grand and exploring the magnificent piece of architecture is must-do thing in Bristol.

The Clifton Suspension Bridge 

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is another work of art by Brunel.  Spanning the 260-foot-deep Avon Gorge, the Grade-I Listed structure is the most iconic reflection of the city and a must-visit attraction. The steep climb is worth the view – especially if you are lucky to catch a sunset.

Clifton Downs and The Avon Gorge

Once a rough pasture land used for sheep grazing, the Clifton Downs is now a massive green space surrounded by a collection of independent restaurants and pub gardens. Meanwhile, the Avon Gorge is 2.5-kilometres and runs along the River Avon through a limestone ridges and forestry – making is a beautiful place for outdoor activity.

Both offer nature lovers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city through a quiet landscape of natural beauty.

PS. if you skip this due to lack of time, you can still enjoy views of the Avon Gorge from the Clifton Suspension Bridge!

Average Cost For A Day Trip To Bristol Per Person

Transport (train from London + local travel): £30

Accommodation: £0

Attractions: £25

Food and amenities: £30

Keep In Mind

While my list of things to do in Bristol in one day is short, don’t let that deceive you into thinking you can get through it all quickly. The city’s attractions are scattered all around the city with at least a 30-minute walk between them, so if you truly want to spend as much time in the city as you can – I recommend at least a weekend. 

Nevertheless, you can still explore Bristol in one day – after all, I did!

Practical Information About Bristol

Location: England, United Kingdom

National Languages: English 

Currency: Sterling Pound

Neighbouring Countries: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland