If ever there was a city with a story to tell, it’s Bristol.
Enveloped in the hills of South West England, Bristol has developed an inimitable identity and fiercely independent spirit, crafted by its passionate locals.
Visit the lively yet laid-back Bristol and find a city bursting with character, centuries-old heritage and an irrepressible creative zeal.
Key things to see/do within the city/region
Brunel’s SS Great Britain
Voyage back in time at Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the world’s first great ocean liner. As Bristol’s No.1 Visitor Attraction (TripAdvisor 2023) Brunel’s SS Great Britain offers an unforgettable day out for families, history fanatics and engineering enthusiasts alike.
Designed by famous engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the iconic steamship SS Great Britain is at the heart of this multi award-winning visitor attraction.
Step aboard the ship to explore the sights, smells and sounds of Victorian life at sea. Discover the SS Great Britain's incredible story and the man behind the design in two interactive museums and go ‘underwater’ for a unique view of the ship’s original iron hull in the Dry Dock.
There are also family activities scheduled throughout the year and special after-hours events.
Great Western Dockyard
Gas Ferry Rd
Bristol BS1 6TY
Brunel's SS Great Britain (visitbristol.co.uk)
Bristol Aquarium
Embark on a fascinating journey; dive in and discover the wonders of the deep in Bristol’s colourful aquarium, right in the heart of the city. Open daily, explore more than 40 naturally-themed displays and spot the thousands of amazing aquatic creatures, including rays, seahorses, puffer fish, piranhas, and so many more.
Bristol Aquarium transports you and your family and friends on a spectacular undersea safari. Wander through the Underwater Tunnel to watch fascinating marine life swim over your head.
Home to a mix of tropical fish from around the world, as well as many that are native to the UK’s waters, all in naturally-themed habitats designed to inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
Bristol Aquarium is the only aquarium in the UK to feature a giant botanical house, teeming with hundreds of exotic plant and tree species from around the world!"
Anchor Rd, Bristol, BS1 5TT
Bristol Aquarium (visitbristol.co.uk)
We The Curious
We The Curious is an idea and a place for everyone. It's about asking questions, getting creative and testing things out. Science is collaborative, living and a vital part of culture - and the exhibits, events and activities aim to stoke curiosity in all of us.
With over 300 exhibits, We The Curious is a must-see for all ages and takes you on an incredible journey exploring the inner workings of the world around us.
Join Morph and friends in Aardman’s exclusive exhibition and become an animator for the day. Be awed by icy bodies and cosmic rays, walk through a tornado or cover yourself from head to toe in a giant bubble!
Plus, there is always something new to discover with the ever-changing programme of special activities covering everything from anatomy and robots, to food and flight!
Millennium Square, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB
We The Curious (visitbristol.co.uk)
Wake The Tiger
Wake The Tiger’s out-of-this-world experience is a self-guided, walk-through labyrinth of exploration which begins in an abandoned paint factory before journeying into the Dream Factory, and finally transcending to the OUTERverse.
For both the young and young at heart, showcasing more than 40 spaces, it encourages visitors to discover and interact with the incredible art, and for those who value a deeper connection, dive into the story behind this unbelievably, challenged alternate world.
This soul-searching experience will take visitors on a limit-pushing voyage where adventure is not just a destination, but a state of mind…some may say a dimension beyond imagination.
127 Albert Rd, Bristol, BS2 0YA
Wake The Tiger (visitbristol.co.uk)
Aerospace Bristol
Aerospace Bristol tells the incredible story of Bristol’s amazing aviation achievements and gives you and your family the chance to step aboard Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the last of the supersonic jets ever to fly.
There's loads to discover at Aerospace Bristol, starting from the earliest days of powered flight, through to today’s cutting-edge aerospace technology. There's aeroplanes, helicopters, missiles, satellites, engines and more to see and lots of interactive exhibits for all ages.
The highlight of your day will surely be the iconic Concorde. You’ll have the chance to step aboard the world's fastest passenger jet, glimpse into the cockpit, and walk through the passenger cabin to discover how Concorde passengers would travel in style. Plus, enjoy an amazing show projected on to the outside of the aeroplane.
Hayes Way, Patchway, Bristol, BS34 5BZ
Aerospace Bristol (visitbristol.co.uk)
M Shed
The 1950s transit shed, originally called M Shed, on Bristol’s historic wharf has been transformed into a museum. Thought-provoking and fun, M Shed challenges the perceptions of what it has meant to live here over the centuries through the recollections of the people who shaped the city.
M Shed explores the city’s history from prehistoric times to the 21st century. Stories about Bristol are told by experts and communities from across the city – an ongoing process. Rich collections of objects, art and archives also play an important part in bringing those stories to life.
Original working exhibits on the harbourside include steamboats, trains and cranes, which you can ride in or even drive on some days of the year.
Recently refreshed displays on protest throughout Bristol’s history now include the statue of Edward Colston which was toppled during the Black Lives Matter march in June 2020.
Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol, BS1 4RN
