Things to Do in Bristol: Street Art, Sundowners & Shiny Shoes

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Bristol is a very artsy city that can be rough around the edges, but that’s part of what I like about it. There’s world-class street art, colourful houses, a lively waterfront and an amazing food scene that’ll leave you drooling for more.

I’ve visited Bristol several times now and every trip has been slightly different. I’ve walked around Clifton admiring the colourful houses and wonky streets, had sundowner drinks overlooking Clifton Suspension Bridge, spotted Banksy’s work around the city and spent an afternoon making shiny shoes with a friend at Sparks Bristol.

Here are the coolest things to do in Bristol, from the big sights to some of the more creative experiences that have made me keep coming back.

1. See Clifton Suspension Bridge

Clifton Suspension Bridge is probably the iconic Bristol landmark everyone recognises and I think it’s worth seeing on your first visit.

Clifton Suspension Bridge stretches across the rocky Avon Gorge in Bristol beneath an overcast sky. Cyclists and other travellers cross the bridge while the suspension cables rise overhead.

The bridge stretches across the Avon Gorge, connecting Clifton with Leigh Woods. You can walk across it, but I’d also make time to see it from one of the surrounding viewpoints.

What I wouldn’t do is drive over, take a photograph and immediately leave. Clifton is one of my favourite parts of Bristol, so allow enough time to explore the area while you’re here.

Clifton Suspension Bridge extends towards its stone tower above the densely wooded Avon Gorge. The pale metal bridge and suspension cables stand out against the green hillside and cloudy sky.

Have sundowner drinks at Clifton Observatory

One of my favourite memories from Bristol is having sundowner drinks at Clifton Observatory.

The Observatory sits above the Avon Gorge and has fantastic views towards Clifton Suspension Bridge. Having a drink here as the day was winding down was much more memorable than simply seeing the bridge and moving on.

If the weather is good, I’d time your visit for later in the day and stay for a drink.

A misty view across Bristols Avon Gorge with houses and greenery covering the steep hillside above the River Avon. A road follows the muddy river below beneath a grey overcast sky.

2. Wander around Clifton

Clifton is somewhere I could happily wander around without much of a plan.

I love the colourful houses, wonky streets, beautiful vistas and pockets of green space. It’s one of those areas where the walk itself is part of the reason to visit rather than simply a way of getting from one attraction to another.

There are also plenty of cafés, independent shops and impressive Georgian buildings around Clifton.

I’d combine this with Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Observatory. Give yourself a few hours for the area rather than treating the bridge as a quick sightseeing stop.

3. Explore Bristol Harbourside

Bristol’s Harbourside is another part of the city I’d make time for.

Boats moored in Bristol harbour with the waterfront venues Coyote Ugly Saloon and Lloyds No. 1 Bar behind them. Evening lights reflect softly across the water.

The old docks are now surrounded by museums, bars, restaurants and cultural attractions, but you don’t necessarily need an itinerary for this part of Bristol. Walking along the waterfront and seeing where you end up is part of the appeal.

I’ve stayed on the Harbourside and loved being based here. After spending the day exploring Bristol, it was lovely coming back to the waterfront.

Boats and narrowboats moored around a Bristol harbour beneath an overcast sky. Waterfront buildings and an old industrial crane line the opposite side.

Several of Bristol’s big attractions are around here too, so you’ll probably find yourself returning to the Harbourside more than once during a weekend.

Bristol harbourside view from a bridge covered in padlocks and stickers. Ritorno Lounge glows with warm lights across the water while people walk along the waterfront.

4. Visit Brunel’s SS Great Britain

If Bristol’s maritime history interests you, Brunel’s SS Great Britain, a famous steamship, is one of the city’s major attractions.

The ship was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and launched in Bristol in 1843. You can now go aboard and explore the ship as part of the museum experience.

I’d put this on your list if you enjoy engineering, ships or history. It’s also on the Harbourside, so it makes sense if you’re already planning to spend a good chunk of your day around this part of Bristol.

If none of those things particularly interest you and you only have one day in Bristol, I’d skip it and spend the time exploring Clifton and the Harbourside instead.

5. Get creative at Sparks Bristol

Sparks Bristol is one of my favourite finds in the city because it’s completely different from the usual sightseeing attractions.

Colourful interior of Marcie K Designs with whimsical displays, a zebra print chair and hand painted floral decor. Signs read "Marcie K Designs" and "Welcome To Wasteland" with a chalkboard listing Shiny Shoe Workshop dates.

It’s a sustainable department store and creative hub inside the former Marks & Spencer building in the city centre. The space is used for shopping, events, workshops and community projects with a focus on creativity and sustainability.

Hand painted cowboy boot with a metallic multicoloured foot and purple upper decorated with clouds, stars and a rainbow. A card beside it reads "Shiny Shoe Workshop".

On my last visit, I booked myself onto a shiny shoe workshop here with a friend.

We had the best time.

The workshop was hosted by Bristol-based artist Marcie K, whose distinctive work is inspired by Wonderland imagery and has a wonderfully playful, imaginative style.

Three smiling women pose together in front of a colourful painted flower wall while holding oversized glittery pink, green and turquoise boots. The mural behind them reads "Welcome" above a meadow of flowers.

We upcycled some old boots we had brought with us using metallic foils. For only £50 for a two-hour workshop, it was money well spent and one of the most fun experiences of our Bristol trip.

I loved actually doing something creative rather than spending the whole day walking around looking at things. It also made that particular Bristol trip stand out from my previous visits, as it was centred around the workshop.

Two pairs of colourful customised boots reflected in an ornate floor mirror. One pair is metallic pink and gold while the other is metallic green and blue beneath the hem of a red tulle skirt.

I’d check what’s happening at Sparks before you go. If there’s a workshop or event you like the sound of, book it. You could end up doing something you’d never normally associate with a city break.

There are a number of vendors selling quirky items, from plus-sized pre-loved clothing to greetings cards and stationery. There is even part of an old bus inside that you can pretend to drive, adding to the eccentricity of the entire place.

If you’re a fellow creative soul, you’ll likely spend an hour or two here.

6. Look for Banksy’s street art

You don’t have to go inside a gallery to see some of Bristol’s most famous art.

Street art of a girl sitting on a swing suspended from two red heart shaped balloons on a wall in Bristol. The artwork appears above a shop sign reading "BRISTOL FINE ART".

Banksy is closely associated with the city, and I remember seeing his work dotted around Bristol while walking around. I love that you can turn a corner and unexpectedly come across a piece of street art.

And it’s not just Banksy. Bristol has a huge street art scene, which is one of the things that gives the city so much personality.

Street art painted on a weathered wall in Bristol shows figures leaning from a painted window while another figure reaches upwards from below. Splashes of blue and pink paint cover the faces of the figures.

If there are particular Banksy works you want to see, check where they are before you visit. Street art can change, so I wouldn’t rely on an old list of locations.

If you specifically want to see as much of Bristol’s street art as possible, you could also book a Banksy guided walking tour. The advantage is having someone who knows the current locations, rather than spending your time trying to track everything down yourself.

Otherwise, keep looking around as you walk. The art you spot along the way is part of exploring Bristol.

7. Spend some time at College Green and Bristol Cathedral

I went to College Green, opposite Bristol Cathedral, and it’s an easy place to include while you’re exploring the centre.

Bristol Cathedral with its twin Gothic towers and ornate stone entrance beneath a bright blue sky. People walk through College Green while a red post box and statue stand in front of the cathedral.

The green gives you a bit of breathing space in the middle of the city, with the Cathedral right beside it. It was a lovely place to hang out on a warm day with a drink.

Bristol Cathedral itself is worth taking a closer look at while you’re here. Even if churches aren’t normally high on your sightseeing list, you’re already in the area so there’s little reason to walk straight past it.

I liked seeing this calmer side of Bristol before heading back into the busier streets.

8. Visit M Shed

If you want to understand Bristol rather than just see its landmarks, M Shed is one to look at.

The museum focuses on Bristol itself, including the people, places and events that have shaped the city.

I’d choose M Shed if you’re curious about the city you’re visiting and want some context behind what you’re seeing. It’s also on the Harbourside, so it’s easy to work into your day while you’re already in the area.

If museums aren’t really your thing or you’d rather spend a sunny day exploring Bristol on foot, this would be an easy one to skip.

9. Visit Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery covers art, archaeology, natural history and different cultures, so it’s a much broader museum than M Shed.

If you love traditional museums and want a mixture of collections under one roof, I’d choose this one. It’s also handy to have on your list if Bristol gives you a day of pouring rain.

I wouldn’t automatically visit both this and M Shed on a short trip. If you want to learn specifically about Bristol, I’d choose M Shed. If you’re more interested in art, archaeology and natural history, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery makes more sense.

If you’ve only got one day and the weather is good, I’d personally spend more of that time outside exploring the city.

10. Browse St Nicholas Market

If you like markets and independent businesses, add St Nicholas Market to your list.

It’s in the Old City and has a mixture of independent traders and food stalls inside its historic buildings.

I’d choose this over Cabot Circus if you’d rather browse independent traders and find something that feels more specific to Bristol.

You don’t need to give it half a day, though. I’d work it into your route while you’re exploring central Bristol and see what catches your eye. If you don’t particularly enjoy markets or shopping, this is an easy one to skip.

11. Go shopping at Cabot Circus

If you do want high-street shopping, I’ve been to Cabot Circus several times.

People walk along a pedestrianised shopping street in central Bristol as low evening sunlight shines through large trees. Long shadows stretch across the pavement and outdoor tables beneath the golden light.

There are loads of shops here, so it’s handy if you want to dedicate part of your trip to shopping or the weather has ruined your outdoor plans.

Personally, I wouldn’t sacrifice time in Clifton or around the Harbourside just to spend hours shopping. The shops here are pretty much what you can expect from most town centres or high-streets in the UK.

Bristol’s independent, arty side is far more interesting to me.

But if shopping is one of the things you enjoy doing on a city break, you’ll have enough to keep you occupied here.

12. Walk up Brandon Hill and see Cabot Tower

For another view across Bristol, head to Brandon Hill.

Cabot Tower rises above the lawns and gardens of Brandon Hill in Bristol. The tall red stone tower stands among trees and shrubs beneath an overcast sky.

It’s a large green space close to the city centre and home to Cabot Tower, which sits at the top of the hill. You can climb the tower when it’s open for views across the city.

I’d add this to your plans if you love viewpoints or want some green space without heading far from central Bristol.

If you’re short on time and you’re already planning to see the views around Clifton Suspension Bridge, I wouldn’t worry about squeezing this in as well. Choose the viewpoint that works best with the rest of your plans rather than racing across Bristol just to tick off both.

13. Take a boat trip around Bristol Harbour

You’ve walked around the Harbourside, so you could also see it from the water.

Quiet Bristol waterside path shaded by leafy trees with a bicycle leaning against black railings. Boats and city buildings are visible across the calm harbour.

Boat trips and ferries operate around Bristol Harbour, with different routes and services depending on when you’re visiting.

If I had a full weekend in Bristol and wanted a break from walking, this is one I’d book. I think it makes more sense on a slower two-day trip when you have time to enjoy the harbour rather than rush around it.

If you only have one day in Bristol, I’d probably explore the Harbourside on foot instead and use the extra time for Clifton or another attraction.

Check what’s running during your visit before planning your day around it, particularly outside the busier months.

Boats moored along Bristols Floating Harbour beside red brick and modern waterfront buildings. Leafy branches frame the calm water on an overcast day.

14. Visit Aerospace Bristol

Aerospace Bristol is the one I’d pick if you’re really interested in planes.

Its biggest attraction is Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the last Concorde ever built and the last one to fly.

Unlike most of the places in this guide, Aerospace Bristol isn’t in the city centre. That means I wouldn’t casually add it to a day when you’re also trying to explore Clifton and the Harbourside.

I’d make the journey because you genuinely want to see Concorde and give the museum a decent amount of time.

If aviation doesn’t particularly interest you, I’d spend that time exploring more of central Bristol instead.

15. Enjoy Bristol after dark

Don’t use up all your energy sightseeing during the day.

Bristol has plenty of bars, live music venues, theatres and places to go out in the evening.

Two women lean across a cow print pool table to take a shot together. Bright red, orange and black balls are racked in the foreground beneath colourful neon lights.

I’ve been to Coyote Ugly, where we had great drinks and played pool. It was exactly what we fancied after a day out in the city, and a great place to show off our shiny shoe creations!

I’m not going to tell you there’s one essential Bristol night out because that depends entirely on what you enjoy. I’d have a look at what’s happening while you’re there and choose somewhere that suits you.

If you’re anything like me, a drink and a game of pool can be just as welcome as another attraction by the end of a long sightseeing day.

A straight tree lined path runs through a quiet green space in Bristol at dusk. Historic stone church buildings are partially visible between the mature trees.

Where to stay in Bristol

On our last visit, we stayed at The Bristol Hotel on the Harbourside and loved it.

Large hotel bed beside a bright window with sheer curtains and a pale upholstered armchair. White bedding, a beige textured bedspread and neutral furnishings create a light comfortable room.

The rooms were luxurious, but the location was the biggest selling point for me. You’re right on Bristol’s lively waterfront, which makes it a really convenient base for exploring the city.

Hotel room workspace with a large wall mounted television above a dark desk and wheeled chair. A tall window with sheer curtains brings natural light into the neutral room.

We didn’t have breakfast at the hotel, so I can’t tell you what that’s like, but the bar snacks were decent, if a tad overpriced.

Toasted sandwich served with thick chips and dipping sauces on wooden boards in a softly lit hotel lounge with pink sofas.

If you’re visiting Bristol for the first time, I’d happily consider staying around the Harbourside. You’re close to several major attractions and there are plenty of places around you for the evening.

Neutral hotel bedroom with a large bed dressed in crisp white bedding, a textured beige bedspread and striped cushion. Matching bedside lamps and soft patterned walls give the room a calm understated look.

What to do in Bristol on your first visit

If this is your first time in Bristol, don’t try to do all 15 things.

A sweeping view along the Avon Gorge with the River Avon winding between wooded cliffs. A road curves around the base of the rocky gorge beneath a cloudy grey sky.

I’d start with Clifton. See Clifton Suspension Bridge, wander around the neighbourhood and, if you can, finish with drinks overlooking the gorge.

I’d also spend some time around the Harbourside and choose one or two attractions based on what you actually enjoy.

If you’re interested in Bristol’s history, that might be SS Great Britain or M Shed. If its creative side appeals to you more, look for Banksy’s street art and see what’s happening at Sparks.

And leave yourself some time with nothing planned.

Some of the things I like most about Bristol aren’t attractions. They’re the colourful houses, wonky streets, unexpected street art and little things you notice while you’re walking somewhere else.

How many days do you need in Bristol?

You can see a lot of Bristol in one day, but I’d choose a weekend if you have the time.

Colourful houses sit high above the River Avon on a densely wooded hillside in Bristol. Mist softens the distant view along the gorge and river below.

With one day, I’d concentrate on Clifton and the Harbourside rather than spend half your visit travelling backwards and forwards across the city.

Two days gives you more room for museums, shopping, creative spaces and a night out without having to rush everything.

If you’re planning to visit somewhere further out, such as Aerospace Bristol, factor the journey into your plans rather than assuming everything in Bristol is within walking distance.

If Bristol is part of a longer South West England road trip, you could combine it with some time in the Cotswolds. I’ve shared my favourite places to visit in the Cotswolds, including the villages I’d prioritise if you don’t have time to see them all.

I’ve been back to Bristol several times and still haven’t done everything.

That’s probably part of why I keep enjoying it.

Is Bristol worth visiting?

I think Bristol is absolutely worth visiting, particularly if you like cities with a bit of an edge.

Colourful pastel houses overlook boats moored along Bristols Floating Harbour in warm evening light. Reflections shimmer across the water beneath a dramatic cloudy sky.

It’s not perfectly polished and I wouldn’t want it to be. Bristol is colourful, creative and full of personality, with world-famous landmarks sitting alongside street art, independent businesses and spaces where people are actually making things.

Clifton is still one of my favourite parts of the city. I love wandering around the colourful houses and wonky streets, and having sundowner drinks overlooking Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of my favourite Bristol memories.

If you’re spending longer in South West England, Bath is another city I’d add to your trip. My guide on what to do in Bath covers the places I’d prioritise on a first visit.

But my shiny shoe workshop at Sparks sums up why I’ve enjoyed going back to Bristol.

I wasn’t just looking at another attraction. I was sitting with my friend, making something ridiculous and shiny and having the best time.

That’s the Bristol I remember.