Bristol, Bath and the West
Places of Interest - Days Out in and around Bristol
Whilst in Bristol...
Bristol is an exciting city, overflowing with intriguing, traditional and innovative things to do and see. What makes this city really special? The fantastic energy combined with an eclectic mix of old and new.
Many of Bristol’s top attractions listed below, can be reached by Services 8 and 9. The buses travel between Bristol Temple Meads Rail Station and Clifton up to every 10 minutes (during main part of the day).
Bristol Cathedral
Step inside Bristol's stunning cathedral on College Green, which dates back to the 12th Century. Bristol Cathedral boasts the tallest choir arches in England, which tower at 50ft high.
www.bristol-cathedral.co.uk (opens in a new window).
Bristol Zoo Gardens
Meet more than 450 exotic and endangered species on a fun packed trip to Bristol Zoo! Fantastic all-weather exhibits include Monkey Jungle, Butterfly Forest, Twilight World and the Reptile House. New for 2009 - become a jungle adventurer at the Explorers' Creek exhibit, home to Splash, a water-play area, Forest of Birds and Feed the Lorikeets - a truly unique experience! Save 15% off entry to Bristol Zoo with First! Click here for more information on Zoo Safari ticketing (opens in a new window).
Camera Obscura
The only camera obscura open to the public in England, visitors can also view the Clifton Suspension Bridge from a natural cave under the Downs.
City Museum
Bristol's most infamous artist, Banksy is exhibiting his take on classical art at the museum from 13 June - 31 August. The Banksy versus Bristol Museum exhibition is showcased alongside the vast collections of art and archeology, geology and natural history housed in this magnificent 20th Century building.
www.bristol.gov.uk/museums (opens in a new window).
Clifton Suspension Bridge
Clifton Suspension Bridge was designed by the great Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Get off at Clifton Down Road - it’s a short walk away.
www.clifton-suspension-bridge.org.uk (opens in a new window).
Explore-At-Bristol
A true 21st Century science centre combining the best of hands-on activities with the very latest multi-media techniques. From July, a host of Aardman Animation favourites will be on show at the new Animate It! exhibition that takes you on a journey of animation giving you the chance to create your own show reel and style your own personal characters.
www.at-bristol.org.uk (opens in a new window).
SS Great Britain
Descend under the glass 'sea', step back in time in the Dockyard Museum, and discover the lives of Victorian passengers and crew. Highlights include the beautifully recreated First Class Dining Saloon and the full-scale moving engine. This multi award-winning attraction is a definite mustsee! Tickets allow for FREE return visits.
www.ssgreatbritain.org (opens in a new window).
For many other things to do and see, check out www.visitbristol.co.uk. If you feel like escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, here’s a few suggestions.
Avon Valley Country Park
The park covers 50 acres of beautiful country side adjoining the River Avon between Keynsham and Saltford. Climb aboard the 'Strawberry Line' - the longest five-inch miniature gauge railway in the West Country - stroll along the winding river (with challenging obstacles for the children), have fun in a boat, course and lake fish, and enjoy games in the extensive grounds.
Catch Service X39 from Bristol Bus Station.
www.avonvalleycountrypark.com (opens in a new window).
Avon Valley Railway
The Avon Valley Railway offers a great experience and fantastic day out with trains running to the edge of the scenic Avon Valley. There are also many themed trips from Thomas the Tank Engine day to Murder Mystery parties.
Take Service 332 from Bristol Bus Station.
www.avonvalleyrailway.org (opens in a new window).
Blaise Castle Estate
Blaise Castle Estate has much to offer the visitor throughout its 650 acres of parkland. With a deep wooded limestone gorge, dramatic scenery, and ancient monuments steeped in folklore, Blaise Castle Estate is one of the most magical and romantic areas in the Forest of Avon with plenty to do for children as well as adults.
Catch Service 40 or Service 1 (5 minute walk) from the City Centre.
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm
Experience a truly hands on day out getting up close to over 100 fascinating and exciting wild animals from every continent. From rhinos to rabbits, giraffes to gibbons as well as huge play areas, tractor rides, cafe, animal shows and hawk flying displays. Feed and stroke llamas, camels, reptiles, horses, lambs, deer and many more!
Service X7 from Bristol Bus Station stops right outside the entrance.
www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk (opens in a new window).
