13 Best Places to Visit Near Bristol England
Have you ever been to Bristol, England? It’s a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do. But what if you’ve already seen all the sights in Bristol and are looking for something new? Don’t worry. There are plenty of places to visit near Bristol that are just as amazing as the city itself. So without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best places to visit near Bristol, UK.
Best places to visit near Bristol England
We are starting with simple trips. These are the best places near Bristol to visit within 1 hours drive or train of Bristol’s city centre and are ideal for staying locally.
1. Cheddar Gorge
Distance : 192 km/40 minutes
In Cheddar, one of its most popular tourist attractions is Cheddar Gorge. This attraction near Bristol is a limestone formation that dates back to the Jurassic period, located in a limestone valley on Mendip Hill (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). The area has rugged and spectacular landscapes and is home to various rare plants and animals. It is an excellent option for a day trip from Bristol, particularly if you schedule it right before the Cheddar show, which occurs there.
Visitors to the gorge can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities. In addition, the area is home to several historical sites, including a medieval castle and an Iron Age hill fort. Besides the Cheeseman, a complete skeletal system that was believed to date to 900 years is also located here.
It is located just minutes from South Bristol, so it is ideal as a place where children can enjoy some fun activities near Bristol.
2. The Cotswolds
It takes 17 miles / 35 minutes
The Cotswolds is a picturesque region of England renowned for its rolling hills, quaint villages, and beautiful scenery. There are plenty of things to see and do in the Cotswolds, from exploring the many charming towns and some of the prettiest villages in England to scenic walking trails. Here are just a few of the best things to do in the Cotswolds:
Explore the Cotswold Villages: The Cotswolds is dotted with countless idyllic villages, each with its own unique atmosphere and history. Visitors can wander through the streets, poking their heads into shops and stopping for a pint in traditional pubs. Some of the most popular Cotswold villages include Bibury, Castle Combe, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold.
Visit Sudeley Castle: Located in the town of Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle is a must-see for any visitor to the Cotswolds. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has been home to several prominent figures, including Katherine Parr, one of Henry VIII’s wives.
Today, Sudeley Castle is open to the public and features extensive gardens perfect for a summer stroll.
Enjoy the Scenic Views: The Cotswolds is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, so be sure to take some time to appreciate the region’s natural beauty.
One of the best ways to do this is by going for a hike, cycling or walking around the countryside. There are many lovely walking and cycling trails that wind their way through the Cotswolds, so you’re sure to find one that suits your fitness level.
There are also guided tours of the Costwolds villages.
These are just a few great things you can do during a visit to the Cotswolds.
3. Cardiff
Distance: 44km
Cardiff is Wales’s Capital and is an excellent option for a day trip out of Bristol. Cardiff has a vibrant capital city feel yet still has an ‘urban-like feeling ‘. The city is packed with shopping malls, streets lined with restaurants, bars and shops, and Cardiff Castle to explore.
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Cardiff, here are a few options available.
Cardiff Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cardiff. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has been extensively restored. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, which include a walled garden and a medieval keep.
The National Museum Cardiff houses an impressive collection of art and artefacts from Wales and worldwide. The museum is located in Cardiff’s city centre and is free to enter.
Bute Park is a large public park located in Cardiff’s city centre, and park is home to various plant life and several ponds and streams. You can also find several walking and biking trails throughout the park.
Cardiff Bay is a water area located just outside of Cardiff’s city centre. You can take a boat tour around the bay or walk along the waterfront path to enjoy views of the bay and its many dockside restaurants and cafes.
One of the best ways to explore Cardiff is on by taking a Cardiff street art tour. This is a great way to see some of the fantastic street art found throughout Cardiff and learn more about the city’s history and culture.
The tour takes you to some of Cardiff’s most famous street art locations, including Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Bay, and Cardiff City Centre. You’ll also see some of the town’s less well-known but equally impressive street art, such as the “Love” mural in Bute Park.
4. Bath
Distance: 13 miles / 30 minutes
Bath is an important city in Somerset and an ideal location for a short weekend trip from Bristol. Rich in tradition and architectural beauty, quaint streets are filled with boutiques and restaurants. It’s one of the many places of interest near Bristol.
Bath is known for its Roman Baths, well-preserved ruins from the Roman empire and situated on the Avon River valley. The Baths were built around a natural hot spring and were used as a public bath houses.
Today, the Baths are a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can also see the Pump Room, where people used to drink the water for their health. Bath is one of the fun things to do near Bristol.
Bath is also home to many other historical sites, such as the Royal Crescent, a row of Georgian townhouses, and the Bath Abbey, a beautiful Gothic church. In addition to its historical attractions, it is also a great place to shop and eat, with plenty of quaint shops and restaurants.
The town’s famous names come from Roman bathing. It’s only 11 miles east of Bristol, making it the perfect place to visit in the morning to explore the beauty and making Bath a ideal days out near Bristol for history enthusiasts that love Roman history.
5. Glastonbury
Distance: 27 km / 35 mins
Glastonbury is internationally known for its music festival. Its one of many great places to go near Bristol. Although Glastonbury is an important festival, it is also an excellent location for a day trip from Bristol.
Glastonbury is a town in England with a long and exciting history. According to legend, Glastonbury is the site of the burial of King Arthur. The town is also home to Glastonbury Abbey, the earliest Christian foundation in Britain.
Glastonbury Abbey is set on 37 acres of beautifully peaceful parkland, and you can explore the ruins of the Abbey and the surrounding gardens.
Bride’s Mound is a small hill located west of Glastonbury, and it is believed to be the site of Arthur’s tomb.
The Beckery island area is also an exciting place to explore, and it is home to Chalice Well, a spring surrounded by gardens and orchards. Chalice Well is a living sanctuary and a quiet healing space.
It is considered a sacred place by many, and it is well worth a visit. The Glastonbury Way is a trail that runs through Glastonbury, and it is one of the best day trips from Bristol.
6. Gloucestershire
Distance: 58 km / 45 minutes
Gloucester is located near the countryside in the Cotswolds. The town has a rich history and many historic landmarks and buildings located throughout the city. One of Gloucester’s most famous landmarks is St Michael’s Tower, the surviving 15th-century tower of the Church of St Michael the Archangel.
St Michael’s Tower is the city’s highest point and offers stunning views of Gloucester.
The Jet Age Museum is another popular attraction in Gloucester and is home to a unique collection of historic aircraft and artefacts. The museum tells the story of Gloucestershire’s aviation heritage.
Other popular attractions in Gloucester include the Museum of Gloucester, Beatrix Potter’s House of the Tailor of Gloucester, and the National Waterways Museum. It’s worth visiting the National Waterway Museum to celebrate the industrial history and industrial life. It’s a perfect choice to consider one of the best great day trips from Bristol.
7. Wookey Hole
Distances: 18 miles / 45 minutes
Wookey hole is a small yet vibrant community in Somerset.
The most famous attraction is Wookey hole Cave. Wookey hole is a series of caves in Somerset, England, that are well known for their numerous chambers and breathtaking rock formations.
The caves were formed over millions of years as rainwater percolated through the porous sedimentary rock of the Mendip Hills. Today, they are a popular tourist destination, with visitors able to explore the different chambers of the caves and even emerge from the Caves into the Enchanted Valley.
Other highlights include the Hyenas Den, King Kong, at the entrance to Dinosaur Grove. The Wookey Hole Caves also house a cave diving museum, which chronicles Britain’s first successful cave dive.
In addition to the caves, Wookey Hole also has an Adventure golf course that is perfect for day trips near Bristol with family or friends.
8. Puxton Park
Distance: 18 miles. 35 min
Puxton Park UK is an excellent adventure area for kids that includes Puxton High Ropes Course, Jurassic Jeeps, and a rideable miniature train. The Puxton High Ropes Course is great for ages 7 and up.
The course includes 12 different elements with heights ranging from 6 to 20 feet off the ground. The Jurassic Jeeps are perfect for those looking for a more adrenaline-pumping experience. These jeeps can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour and are sure to make your heart race.
Lastly, the Puxton Miniature Railway is an excellent activity for all ages. The rideable train takes you around the park and lets you see Puxton from a different perspective. Puxton Park even has a farm and soft play area for the little ones.
9. Long Ashton
Distance: 4 miles / 15 mins
Long Ashton is a village located in the North Somerset district of England. It includes the hamlet of Yanley and is situated on the southern edge of Bristol, England.
Long Ashton is best known for Ashton Court, a large estate that hosts several festivals yearly, including the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. Ashton Court lies at the east end of the village.
The village is also home to Long Ashton Golf Club, founded in 1904. Long Ashton is a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to Bristol and its many amenities.
Long Ashton is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the English countryside. You can enjoy a variety of activities, such as golfing and hiking. There are also several pubs and restaurants in the village, as well as a variety of shops.
10. Weston-Super-Mare
Distances: 92 km / 45 minutes
Weston-Super-Mare is a seaside town in North Somerset, England. It lies on the Bristol Channel coast Weston-Super-Mare has been a seaside resort since 18 Weston-Super-Mare is situated just to the north of the Mendip Hills, Weston-Super-Mare.
Super Mare is Latin for above sea level. Weston comes from the Anglo Saxon for the west tun or farm. Weston owes its success as a seaside resort to its geographical position Weston Super Mare is located at the westernmost point of the Mendip Hills, which protects it from prevailing southwesterly winds.
The Bristol Channel has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world. When Weston Bay is at low tide, an area of more than 1 square mile (2.6 km2) is exposed. Weston’s paddle steamers provided pleasure trips to various destinations, including Cardiff and Ilfracombe. Weston Super Mare’s Grand Pier was constructed in 1904.
The pier was damaged by German bombs during World War II and subsequently closed to the public in 1956; however, it was repaired and reopened in 2010.
The town’s most notable landmarks are Grand Pier and Birnbeck Island, with its pier and disused railway line. The town has two piers: Birnbeck Pier, which was opened in 1867 by noted engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and Grand Pier, which was opened in 1904.
Weston-Super-Mare’s Grand Pier is one of only two surviving grade II listed piers in England. The other is Clevedon’s Grade I listed pier Clevedon, which was also designed by Brunel but never completed due to cost.
The Weston-Super-Mare centre offers children many activities, such as horse riding on the beach. West Beach is a beach near Bristol that is suitable for surfing and can be easily reached by train from Bristol Temple Meads.
11. Wells
Distance: 22 km/ 45 min
Wells is the smallest city in the UK and is a good day trip for families or history lovers. Amongst its main attractions is Well Cathedral. The Gothic building is situated in the city centre and is quite impressive. In its vicinity are Bishops Palace & Gardens.
You should also try exploring Wells’s beautiful streets, particularly Vicar’s Close, one of Europe’s oldest single residential streets.
12. Clevedon
Distance: 13 miles / 30 minutes
Clevedon is an English city north of Bristol. It is a typical Victorian seaside city, with a great high street filled with shops, restaurants and bars and you also have the option to climb cliffs to get more thrills.
Clevedon is a town located in North Somerset, England. Clevedon Pier is one of the town’s main attractions. The pier is Grade 1 listed and is one of the only remaining Grade 1 listed piers in the country, built in 1869.
Clevedon Marine Lake is the world’s largest seawater infinity pool, which opened in March 1929. Salthouse Fields and Clevedon Marine Lake are also famous Clevedon attractions. The Clevedon Coast Path is a 2.5-mile coastal path that starts at Clevedon pier and goes around the coast to Icehouse Point.
The path provides stunning views of the Bristol Channel, Somerset coastline, and the Welsh coast on a clear day. There are many other walks in Clevedon, including woodland walks and valley walks. Clevedon is also surrounded by the Somerset countryside, which makes it the perfect location for a country getaway in the UK.
13. Burnham-on-sea
Distance: 33 miles / 45 minutes
Burnham-in-the-Sea is a small town in the UK that is full of charm. There are plenty of things to do in Burnham-in-the-Sea, from exploring the town’s rich history to enjoying its lively food and drink scene. Here are just a few of the many reasons to visit Burnham-in-the-Sea UK.
Burnham-in-the-Sea has a long and exciting history. The town was first settled by the Romans, who built a fort here to protect their coastal settlements from attack. Later, the Vikings settled in Burnham-in-the-Sea and used it as a base for their raids on England.
Today, visitors can explore the town’s Roman remains and Viking artefacts at the Burnham Heritage Museum.
The food and drink scene in Burnham-in-the-Sea is not to be missed. The town is home to several excellent pubs and restaurants, serving everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine. Burnham’s seafood restaurants are particularly popular with visitors, thanks to the town’s proximity to the sea.
Burnham-in-the-Sea is also an excellent place for shopping. The town’s high street is lined with independent shops selling everything from clothes and accessories to homeware and local produce. There are also several weekly markets where you can find fresh produce, handmade goods, and much more.
Best things to do in Bristol
Bristol has something for everyone. From its vibrant nightlife and historical landmarks to its stunning parks and gardens, there’s always something new to explore in this lively metropolis. Here are some of the best things to do in Bristol.
Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
Bristol Museum and Art Gallery are one of the Bristol attractions that should not be missed when visiting the city. The museum is located in an Edwardian building at the top of Park Street and features 19 galleries over three floors.
You can explore the last billion years of Earth’s history in the Bristol Museum, including the ancient Egyptians and Assyrians. Additionally, the museum houses world-class collections of art, archaeology, geology and natural history.
The highlights of the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery include the ancient Egypt and Assyria galleries, which showcase some of the world’s most iconic artefacts from these civilisations. For those interested in minerals and gemstones, the Bristol Diamond is a must-see.
The museum also has various fossils on display, including some of the best-preserved dinosaurs found in Britain – the Scelidosaurus. And for those who want to see something unique to Bristol, be sure to look up at the Bristol Boxkite flying above your head! Finally, don’t miss Banksy’s Paint Pot Angel on the gallery’s ground floor at the entrance.
Location: Bristol Museum & Art Gallery Queens Road Bristol BS8 1RL
M Shed
M Shed is the history museum of Bristol, located on the historic Harbourside. It’s hard to miss it because giant historic steel cranes are outside the buildings. It is regarded as being England’s oldest crane ever built.
The museum is based in an old transit shed used in the 1950s to store freight. It has since been transformed into a museum showcasing Bristol’s history from prehistoric times to the present day.
The collections of objects, art and archives at M Shed offer a unique insight into the city’s past. The museum works with the people of Bristol to create displays and tell over 2000 years of Bristol’s history.
There are over 150 restored objects on display, including a tram, fire engine and bus, and digitalised films about Bristol’s trading past and role in the transatlantic slave trade. You can also see things made in Bristol today, such as sailing ships.
Entry to M Shed is free – so it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for fun things to do in Bristol, UK.
Location: Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN
Bristol Cathedral
Bristol Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece and one of England’s great medieval churches. The Cathedral originated as an Augustinian Abbey, founded in 1140 and consecrated in 1148. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries, it became a cathedral in 1542.
The Cathedral lasted over 400 years until it reformed. It has been beautifully rebuilt in the decoration of Abbot Knowle’s style between 1298 and 1303. The tower central and transept were completed in the 16th century, and the nave and the curved east façade date to the 19th century.
Another notable feature at the Cathedral is a rectangular chapter building with a late Norman design featuring zigzag patterns of fish scales woven with interlacing. The Cathedral is a Grade I listed building.
The Cathedral offers guided tours in 10 different languages, as well as Visit Bristol’s audio tours and the Bristol Heritage Trail and Bristol Churches Trail, which both feature the Cathedral.
Location: Bristol Cathedral, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TJ
Llandoger Trow
If you’re looking for a historic pub in Bristol, look no further than Llandoger Trow. This pub was built in 1664 and is full of character.
The famed triple-gable half-timbered Llandoger Trow building on King Street was constructed in 1664 and is where Alexander Selkirk allegedly told Daniel Defoe his tale of their wreck.
Llandoger Trow also modelled Admiral Benbow and an inn frequented long John Silver of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island.
The Llandoger Trow is one of Bristol’s most historic pubs, from a row of three houses. This pub has stood the test of time, surviving a bombing in WWII, and is now a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
The pub is named after the trow boats that used to trade on the rivers Severn and Wye – a type of cargo boat.
Today, Llandoger Trow is a popular spot for locals and travellers alike. Whether you’re looking for a meal, a pint, or just a bit of history, this pub is worth a visit.
Location: Llandoger Trow, Bristol, UK
Enjoy city views from Brandon Hill Park & Cabot Tower
Situated a top a hill in the centre of the city, the park offers panoramic views of Bristol and its surroundings. Cabot Tower, a 105 ft tall cylindrical tower, is the park’s central feature and provides visitors with an incredible 360-degree view of the entire city.
The tower is named after Italian explorer Giovanni Caboto (better known as John Cabot) and was built in 1897 to mark his discovery of newfound land.
Today, it is one of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks, and a popular spot for picnics and nature walks. Admission to the park is free, and climbing Cabot Tower is also free of charge. The park also includes a dog-free play area for under 12s, two outdoor exercise stations, and toilets close to Cabot Tower.
So whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax or adventurous activities in Bristol, Brandon Hill Park & Cabot Tower are sure to please. Visiting Brandon Hill Park & Cabot Tower are free things to do in Bristol.
Location: Brandon Hill Park, Park St, Bristol, Avon BS1 5RR
Bristol Old City
Bristol’s Old City is filled with cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and plenty of history. The most photographed landmarks are St. Stephen’s church in St. Stephen’s Street, the parish church of Bristol dating from 1476. This area is perfect for exploring on foot and soaking up the atmosphere of this historic city.
See inside Martin Pring’s tomb and the colourful effigy of George Snogg. The historic Saint John of the Stone is near and is the last church on the city wall.
Bristol’s Old City is brimming with shopping opportunities. Take a wander through St Nicholas Market, the old city’s historic marketplace, which has been trading since 1743. In the Glass Arcade, a Grade I listed building – a beautiful covered shopping area in the historic heart of Bristol.
Where you’ll find small stalls selling everything from clothing, food products and Bristol souvenirs to cards.
If you’re looking for big brands, head to the Bristol Shopping Quarter or Park Street and the Triangle, where you’ll find all the leading high-street stores.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
Clifton Suspension Bridge spans Avon Gorge, inking Clifton in Bristol to Leigh Woods in North Somerset and is one of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks. Constructed in 1864 and designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The suspension bridge is now a Grade I listed building and well worth a visit.
The suspension bridge is built with wrought iron and is 392 metres long and 75 metres high, making it the tallest structure in Bristol.
One of the first works of the renowned British engineer I. K. Brunel was his Clifton Suspension Bridge. The impressive building spans a 280 metre-long Avon Gorge on the western side of the limestone plateau between Clifton Down and Durdham and measures 722 feet between the piers.
The Clifton suspension bridge was completed in 1864, 33 years before Brunel first submitted a winning plan.
More than 4 million people visit the bridge each year, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the UK. If you’re planning a visit, you should know a few things. First, the bridge is free to walk across, but there is a small fee to drive or cycle over it.
Secondly, stop by the visitor centre to learn about the bridges’ construction and participate in the weekend behind-the-scenes visit. This is one of the top things to do near Bristol Temple Meads.
Brunel’s SS Great Britain
The SS Great Britain was England’s first passenger ship built with Iron-Cells. This ship was the first with screw propellers, developed by famed engineer Isambard Brunel.
The SS Great Britain was famously rescued after being dropped off the Falkland Islands. The upper deck of a vessel or the lower deck are available, and visitors can enjoy luxurious seats and deluxe accommodation for First Class passengers as well as a lot smaller accommodation available for other groups.
Mary Redcliffe Church
When Elizabeth I visited Bristol in 1574, she called St Mary Redcliffe one of England’s fairest parishes. Built in the 13th century, extensive renovations took place in the 15th century in a baroque style, and the church was located on the southern side of the floating harbour and has a name from Redcliffs, where the site stands.
The elegantly curved pillars, reticular vaulted roofs, hexagonal porches and richly decorated entranceway show the wealthy merchants of Bristol.
Bristol Harbour & Bristol City Docks
The former Bristol port on the River Avon is gaining renewed and inventive life, with several of his historic wharves and warehouse buildings being renovated or converted for contemporary use.
The coastal harbour covers 70 acres and is easily explored. Bristol harbour today hosts Bristol City Docks and has many museums and cultural attractions.
Blaise Castle House
Blaise Castle House offers a sense of life for a wealthy family as a landowner. The picture rooms are decorated with painted windows with painted ceilings, and this house is well-known for its collection of toys for children, like doll houses and furniture, trains and soldiers.
FAQ
Is Bristol or Bath better to visit?
Is Bristol or Bath better to visit? This is a question that many travellers ask when planning a trip to England. Both cities have a lot to offer, from rich history and culture to lively nightlife and plenty of shopping opportunities. So, which one should you choose?
Bristol is a great option for those who want to experience a truly vibrant city. It has a rich maritime history and is known for its lively music and arts scene. There are plenty of interesting museums and galleries to explore, as well as a busy nightlife.
Bath, on the other hand, is a more relaxed option. It is a small city with a picturesque setting, surrounded by rolling hills and countryside. Its main attraction is the Roman baths, but there are also some excellent museums and art galleries. If you’re looking for a quiet weekend away, Bath may be the better choice.
Ultimately, the best city to visit depends on your individual preferences and interests. Both Bristol and Bath offer something unique and are worth exploring.
How many days are enough for Bristol?
How many days are enough for Bristol? That depends on what you want to see and do while in town. If you’re just looking to get a taste of the city, 2 or 3 days should be sufficient. However, if you want to explore Bristol in more depth, you’ll need at least a week.
Is Bristol worth visiting?
Yes, Bristol was recently deemed one of the top destinations in 2018 by a list of renowned museums and is also recognised worldwide for its magnificent museums, its floating harbour and Banksy street art. Bristol also won in 2017 the Sunday Times’ “Best Cities to Live in the United Kingdom”.
What is Bristol famous for?
Bristol is famous for a lot of things. It’s the birthplace of street art and world-renowned artist Banksy. The city is also home to Brunel’s SS Great Britain, one of the most important ships in maritime history. Bristol is also known for its live music scene – both trip-hop and drum and bass were born here. And, of course, Bristol is famous for its stunning harbourside setting.
Things to do near Bristol
There are plenty of places to see and things to do near Bristol, England. Be sure to add these places to your itinerary when planning your trip to Bristol. So, now you don’t have to wonder what to do near Bristol.