Best things to do on a Weekend in Bristol

Heading to Bristol for the weekend and not sure what to do or where to stay? Is a weekend long enough in Bristol, find out how we would spend it!

Located in the south west of England Bristol is a historical city filled with street art and eclectic music scene. From London you can reach Bristol in under 2 hours making it the perfect weekend escape from the city.

How to get to Bristol?

Located 2.5 hours drive from London, Bristol is a great escape for the weekend. There are lots of options when it comes too heading to Bristol.

Driving can be one of the most convenient ways to get to Bristol as it allows you the freedom to be able to visit places and explore outside the city centre. We used Turo to hire a car – click here to use our referral link for 20% off your first booking!

From London you can also catch the train or bus to Bristol. The train from Paddington station takes around 1.5 hours and the bus which departs from London Victoria takes around 3 hours. The bus is the cheapest option however the extra travel time will take away from some of your exploring time. All your bus and train tickets can be booked through Trainline.

Bristol also has its own airport, however it wouldn’t be cost effective or be much of a time difference from the above options.

Things to do in Bristol?

Bristol has its very own unique style, think of it as the ‘Camden’ of England. The city is always vibrant with its bright and colourful art lining the streets. There is always something happening in Bristol, whether it is a big concert, local band or even a gorilla park rave.

One of the biggest art attractions to the area is off course Banksy. Banksy, the street artist, is believed to have lived around the Bristol area in the 1990’s, most of his public artwork still remains and is now well maintained.

Bristol is also host to Englands very own wave pool called, The Wave. Open 7 days a week The Wave is only 20 minutes out of Bristol City Center by car. There is also places on the grounds for food and drink as well as to stay over night. The Wave caters to those of all ages and abilities who are looking for a surf experience.

Friday

Once you have arrived in Bristol, after your commute in, head straight to the pub to kick back and relax with a few pints at the Left Handed Giant. Bristol has a massive live music scene make sure to check out any gigs happening around the area before you arrive.

Check out Best of Bristols Guide 8 Places to See Free Live Music in Bristol!

Dinner: Left Handed Giant Brewpub

Saturday

Make sure to start off your morning with a big breakfast from one of Bristol’s many independent cafes, there are so many to choose from!

We would then recommend to take in the city and get your bearings by joining a Banksy and Bristol city walking tour. If joining a group tour isn’t for you then you can find all the locations here or download the Banksy Bristol Trail App to help you get around.

After your walking tour you can continue on your art browsing at Arnolfini Arts, Bristols Center for Contemporary Arts. If you still haven’t seen enough of Banksy you can also head Bristol Museum and Gallery to see his Angel with Paintpot.

Once you’re finished looking at all the art Bristol has to offer maybe opt for a walk along Wapping Warf and its containers. There are several places here to grab a drink or something to eat including Root and Little Victories.

If you’re interested in boating then make sure to stop past Brunel’s SS Great Britain to explore the worlds first great luxury liner dating back to 1843.

Breakfast: The Crafty Egg

Lunch: Ednas Falafel Kitchen

Dinner: Rock Salt

Drinks: Her Majesty’s Secret Service followed by a show at Smoke & Mirrors

Sunday

If you’re in Bristol and you love to surf you would have already heard about its wave pool. If not and surfing’s something you’ve always wanted to try this could be the perfect addition to your weekend in Bristol. The Wave pool is located 20 minutes from the city centre and we would recommend driving to get there (You can also looking into a bus although this will add quite a walk. Alternatively an Uber will cost you approximately £20 from Bristol city centre). Sessions range from beginner to Advanced plus and they have something for people of any level. Check out their sessions and lessons here!

If surfing is not for you then you can spend your Sunday exploring Clifton. Start your morning with a beautiful walk around Clifton Downs. Make sure to check out the iconic suspension bridge and the Clifton Observatory. If you’re looking for a place to settle into with a beautiful view of the suspension bridge head to the White Lion for a drink.

After why not head to Clifton Arcade for a wander through its independent stores and restaurants.

Breakfast: Fed or Foliage

Lunch: Lido

Where to Stay?

There are so many options when it comes to where to stay in Bristol however it will depend which mode of transport you are using and where is more convenient for you to stay.

Central Bristol:

Leonardo Bristol City

Artists Residence Bristol

YHA Bristol – Hostel

For The Wave:

Mollies Motel

The Camp @ The Wave

Looking for other weekends away? Make sure to check out Our Best Romantic Weekend Breaks from London: UK Getaways by Car or Train

*Disclosure: We only recommend products we would use ourselves and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links, that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.