Day Trip To Bristol
Oh, what a nice surprise to discover Bristol on a day trip! I’m talking about the beautiful Bristol in England.
As it was a warm and sunny Saturday, a day trip to this scenic city seemed to be a good idea. So, here we were on our way, driving through the green fields once again! With no specific plans, just a piece of paper with a few points of interest and a couple of pins on our map.
What we found in Bristol was not only breathtaking, but also made us fall for this city of half a million people. Despite the impressive figure, it never felt crowded.
So, here’s what we did on our day trip to Bristol, comprising an itinerary, landmarks, restaurants and a lot more.
Day trip to Bristol – overview
Did you know there were thirty-five places in the world named Bristol?
How to get to Bristol
Plenty of options here, whether you drive, take a train or fly to the beautiful city of Bristol.
Bristol is situated in between Somerset and Gloucestershire (pronounce that, I dare you!) and it is the largest in South-West England. Hopefully, it is now clear I am talking about Bristol in the UK, not Bristol USA. No worries, I will insist on location along the article.
For car park, check The Galleries for a convenient location.
What to do in Bristol in 1 day
We parked at The Galleries in the center of the city.
Did you know that The Galleries are the biggest shopping mall in Bristol? Although it officially closes at 7 pm on a Saturday, most doors are already shut by 6 pm. Bummer.
From the corner of the shopping center (Union with Newgate), right across the beautiful St Peter’s Church, follow Wine St. down to Corn St., just to discover a really cute spot in Bristol. It comprises an antiques street market, lots of cool restaurants and bars, all so crowded and lively that you’ll consider coming back later, for a meal and some drinks. One restaurant in particular will touch the gourmand hearts: Pho – Vietnamese cuisine – see my review below.
Soon you’ll found yourself at the Cascade Steps.Don’t try to resist the street food feta and spinach pastry disappear within seconds after being purchased – it’s a kind of magic!
A few minutes later, with a full and bright sunshine above our heads, we reached the Millennium Square which we exited through the Millennium Promenade. Here, The Cuban Bar and Restaurant caught our attention with some bright colors, the Cuban flag and nice and loud Cuban music coming from inside. We did not stop, but it’s definitely on our list for a next visit.
The Promenade will lead you straight to the water, at Hannover Quay, where you can opt for either admiring the view, taking photos, enjoy a drink or a snack, or cross the river by ferry etc. If you go to the other side of the river, the Cliftonwood colorful houses will offer the best view. We decided not to waste time, but went straight to the narrow streets of this neighborhood, to see the gingerbread-looking-like homes up close. Do yourself a favor and make this effort. And I really mean effort, as there are stairs and then another stairs, then stairs again and, at the end, more stairs, almost stairway to Heaven (I am pretty musical today).
Did you know that the Clifton Suspension Bridge was first opened in 1864?
Clifton Suspension Bridge
Now, if you are this far already, why going back? Keep walking to Clifton Observatory, then you’ll see the breathtaking Clifton Suspension Bridge over a muddy but fascinating River Avon. Another option and fun experience is crossing the bridge before heading to the observation point.
Either way, make sure you won’t miss the chance for your perfect photo!
Done all these? OK. Now take a nice walk all the way back. Thanks to Google Maps, we chose a straight route instead of following the river bank, so we could see more of the Old City.
Did you know that in Bristol you can get cheaper price at the Petrol Station than other areas in England?
On Queens Rd, next to the majestic Wills Memorial Building Tower, don’t resist the temptation to see the Art Museum. Entrance is free, yey! Make it a nice break from the street wandering, it’s worth your time.
Shortly after, you will reach the Little Chinatown Food Hall. Bear in mind that the restaurant upstairs accepts cash only (sadly, we had only cards and no ATM around).
If you want to stick to your first plan and return to Pho – excellent choice! Some delicious broken rice and wok fried noodles, accompanied by a couple of drinks will successfully complete the Bristol Adventure. I must say that the complimentary Thanh Ha Premium Fish Sauce is the best I’ve ever had!
Fun facts: where are Portishead from? they are from Bristol.
For better results, get to Bristol in the morning hours -more places, more activities. Due to heavy traffic, er… and a lazy morning, we arrived around 1 pm and that was a big minus for us. But, hey! can’t wait to go back to Bristol and discover more!
Don’t miss the chance to visit the most amazing beaches in Varadero, Cuba!
Check the jewel of Cuba – Cayo Largo. Not many have been here. Yet.
