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
With over 400 exotic and amazing species Bristol Zoo Gardens has something for everyone. From lions to love beetles, the smallest tortoise in the world to the largest ape, enjoy a whole day filled with excitement and discovery at Bristol Zoo Gardens, the bus stops right outside the entrance. Save 15% off entry to Bristol Zoo with First! Click here for more information on Zoo Safari ticketing (opens in a new window).
British Empire & Commonwealth Museum
This museum next to Bristol Temple Meads Rail Station tells the story of British exploration, bringing over 500 years of history to life.
www.empiremuseum.co.uk (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
Outstanding collections of art and archaeology, geology and natural history housed in a magnificent Edwardian 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
With action-packed exhibits, live shows and a planetarium, Explore-At-Bristol really is one of the UK’s most exciting interactive science centres! Put your mind and body to the test, run in a giant hamster wheel, get into a spin on a human gyroscope or be the star of your own show in Play TV.
Save 15% off entry to Explore-At-Bristol with First! Click here for more information on the @Bristol joint ticket.
www.at-bristol.org.uk (opens in a new window).
SS Great Britain
Step back in time on board Brunel’s ss Great Britain – the world’s first great ocean liner built in 1843 and designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Explore the beautifully recreated First Class Saloon, steerage quarters and new Engine Room. Hop off at the Centre and catch a ferry.
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
Why not take a trip to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxall, just 6 miles out of Bristol. Home to a wide variety of animals there is plenty to see and do, including a monster maze, adventure playground plus talks about the animals on the farm.
Service X7 from Bristol Bus Station stops right outside the entrance.
www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk (opens in a new window).
