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 Shape up your visions |
Narrow Quay Bristol BS1 4QA United Kingdom +44 117 922 1540 |
The Architecture Centre is housed in an eighteenth century building, once the workplace of sail-makers, and was opened in September 1996 with the aim of increasing people's enjoyment of the built environment. It also provides a meeting place and resource for members of all professions involved in architecture in some way. You don't need to be an architect or have any particular knowledge of the subject, however, to enjoy a visit. The Centre's programme includes exhibitions on a wide variety of related themes, guided tours, visits to interesting buildings, discussions, workshops, evening classes and lectures, including a range of activities for children. A selection of books relating to architecture and interior design are sold at their small shop, plus jewellery and some wonderfully complex colouring books. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gregory Cowan |
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Innovative arts in the heart of the harbour |
16 Narrow Quay Bristol BS1 4QA United Kingdom +44 117 929 9191 http://www.chicuk.net/bristol/... |
Housed in a large 1830s building, formerly a tea warehouse, the Arnolfini was founded in 1961 and is now an internationally-renowned arts complex. Situated on the harbour, it's made up of a cinema (showing art house and foreign-language films), visual art galleries (the only place in the city large enough to cater for major artists), a cafe-bar and a small bookshop. You can also find performance art, children's art sessions and author events going on every so often. The cafe-bar is particularly popular, attracting an arty crowd who share the communal benches with various trendies and professionals. Snacks and main meals, all with a Mediterranean flavour, are available noon-3pm and 5pm-8pm daily. It's especially wonderful in the summer when Bristolians like nothing better than to buy a pint from here and drink it on the quayside outside, legs dangling over the water. For exclusive offers and privileges, please visit ChicUK at: www.ChicUK.net Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Bristol's three newest attractions |
Anchor Road (Harbourside) Bristol BS1 5DB United Kingdom +44 845 345 1235 http://www.at-bristol.org.uk |
At-Bristol is the collective name for the new, lottery-funded area around the harbourside, which houses the IMAX cinema, and the Wildwalk and Explore science centers. Since opening, these attractions have already won a Best Family Attraction award. Cafes are located inside the complex, with bars and restaurants nearby. The harbourside itself is perfect for a relaxing stroll. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Gibson |
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Watch blue glass being blown |
14 The Arcade Redcliffe Bristol BS1 3JA United Kingdom +44 117 929 8900 http://www.bristol-glass.co.uk |
Glass blowing has been synonymous with the city since the mid 17th century and you can watch it being done, just as it was many years ago, in this combined shop and factory. Bristol Blue (this name first arose in the 1760s when a local dealer decided to use a particular kind of cobalt oxide in the process), Bath Aqua and Exmoor Cranberry glass are created here - vases, jugs, goblets, plates and bowls. They aren't cheap - a small vase costs upward of £20 - but all are hand-crafted and very beautiful, making them ideal souvenirs. The pieces are also sold at Bristol Hand Made Glass in the city centre. Don't leave without visiting the studio, where you can watch the glass creations come to life - hand-blown by craftsmen using the same authentic techniques that were used three century's ago. A slice of living history and definitely worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Hegarty |
 A glimpse of Norman monastic life |
College Green Bristol BS1 5TJ United Kingdom +44 117 926 4879 |
This Anglican cathedral was founded as the abbey church of St Augustine in 1140, becoming the cathedral of the newly created Diocese of Bristol in 1542. The site is traditionally believed to be the meeting place of St Augustine and the Celtic Christians way back in the early 7th century. Although steeped in history, today it stands surrounded by the bustle of nearby Park Street, and a visit inside provides a welcome respite from the hurry of the city centre. If you're looking for a bit of quiet contemplation, sit in the small, peaceful garden. Or, just wander through the imposing interior, which through the centuries has incorporated a range of architectural styles - its Chapter House is one of the finest Norman rooms in England, and adjacent is the Abbey Gateway, a Norman arch surmounted by 16th century additions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Must-see museum with something for everyone |
Queen's Road Bristol BS8 1RL United Kingdom +44 117 922 3571 http://www.bristol-city.gov.uk... |
This is an extremely popular museum and a great place to go to on a rainy day (there are quite a lot of those in Bristol). It houses fine arts, natural and human history, marine wildlife, a freshwater aquarium, archaeology, Oriental art, and temporary exhibitions. In fact, there are over four million objects on display, making this a great place to discover the exciting world of arts and sciences. Particularly popular with kids are the large glass cases containing stuffed animals. The Museum Shop contains Egyptian reproductions, books, cards and Bristol Blue Glass. There's also a cafe serving hot and cold drinks and snacks. Disabled access is through the entrance on University Road, just after Browns bistro. Unfortunately, the second floor is not accessible. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Keith Ramsey |
 Photo: Keith Ramsey |
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Water views of the city |
Perry Road Welsh Back Bristol BS1 4SP United Kingdom +44 117 927 3416 http://www.bristolferryboat.co... |
The best way of getting around the watery city of Bristol is on the city's blue and yellow ferry boats. You are guaranteed an excellent and unusual view of the city, glimpsing sights you could miss by other means of transport. Departure sites include the city centre (opposite The Watershed, Bristol Bridge, Temple Meads Train Station train station, the SS Great Britain and Hotwells). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ralph Hoyte |
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Exercise in the lap of luxury |
College Green Bristol BS1 5TS United Kingdom +44 117 925 5100 |
This gorgeous facility, in the basement of the luxurious Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel, one of Bristol's most prestigious establishments, is open to non-residents during the week at £17 a day and is well worth a visit. With a 15 metre swimming pool (not over-chlorined and crowded but a beautiful mosaic area), full weights gym, sauna, steam room, sunbed, jacuzzi, plus beauty treatments, massage, hair salon, aerobics, body conditioning and even tea by the pool and the daily papers on sun loungers - this really is a wonderful place for a day of pampering. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For all the information you'll need on your visit |
Park Row Harbourside Bristol BS1 5DB United Kingdom +44 117 926 0767 http://www.visitbristol.co.uk |
This centre, in the middle of the exciting, new At-Bristol complex, on the harbourside, offers a number of services including accommodation booking, theatre tickets, boat trip tickets, and National Express tickets. The staff can also tell you all about the city's attractions (and those further afield) and the themed walks which take place around the city. You can take away a range of tourist leaflets, local guide books and maps. Post cards and a small selection of souvenirs and gifts are on sale. If you can't go in person, they operate a comprehensive automated telephone answering system, designed to answer most routine queries - it gets extremely busy, so to avoid congestion, phone before 11am or after 4pm Mon-Sat, or on Sunday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The Rise and Fall of the British Empire |
Clock Tower Yard, Temple Meads Temple Meads Bristol BS1 6QH United Kingdom +44 117 925 4980 http://www.empiremuseum.co.uk |
Strange to have an Empire museum in these politically correct times? Well, this place neither promotes nor condemns the idea of empire - instead the exhibits are carefully chosen to present just the facts. Starting from the 1497 voyage of John Cabot from Bristol to America, it charts a course through history that takes in a wide range of cultures and also celebrates the diversity that is united in the current Commonwealth. It is located in the world's oldest surviving railway terminus. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ron Miller |
 Photo: Rachel Hugh |
 Panorama from an historic hilltop |
Brandon Steep Bristol BS15QT United Kingdom +44 117 926 0767 |
Rising from the summit of Brandon Hill, this famous landmark was built in 1897 to commemorate the fourth centenary of John Cabot's epic voyage of discovery to North America. The spiral stairs of this 105-foot tower climb to around 350 feet above sea level, offering panoramic views of the city center and surrounding countryside. The hill is also the site of a Nature Park which includes woodland, a butterfly garden, meadow, pond and Wildlife Trust Center. Look out too for the remains of a Civil War hillfort, built to defend the north-west flank of Bristol against the Royalists during the siege of 1643. And don't forget to feed the extremely tame squirrels! There is no disabled access to the tower, but many of the park's paths are wheelchair accessible. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A glimpse of Dickensian Bristol |
College Green Bristol BS1 5BS United Kingdom |
This short but steep thoroughfare in the city centre has a unique Dickensian feel, with its old-fashioned street lamps and uneven cobbles. The steps were actually constructed in September 1669 and were paid for solely by a wealthy wine merchant, Jonathan Blackwell. Today, it makes a lovely place to stroll and shop and there are a number of small but high quality specialist shops as well as a couple of cafes along the Steps (some of which are closed on Mondays) - including onCoffee.net (an internet cafe), a natural shoe store, an old stamp shop and a wonderful fish and chip shop right at the bottom - sit at their tables outside and try our national dish! Wheelchair users and those with pushchairs are advised that whilst there is a great view from either the top or bottom, unfortunately there is no access to the actual steps themselves. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A towering achievement |
Queen's Road Wills Memorial Building Bristol BS8 1RJ United Kingdom +44 117 928 9000 |
This place is a bit of a curiosity - although it's in the heart of the city, because it's inside a university building, the general public tend to assume they can't go in. Well, they can! You just have to ask the porters inside for permission, expressing an interest in natural history at the same time of course. The collection is available to view any time the building is open, which is usually 9a-5p M-F in university term time. So, what's inside? A notable collection of natural history exhibits, that's what, including a fantastic sabre-toothed tiger skeleton. But, even if stuffed animals don't appeal to you, check out the building itself. The Wills (or University) Tower in which the collection is housed was completed in 1925, having been commissioned by local tobacco magnates GW and HH Wills in memory of their father. Looming above the city at 215 feet high, it contains a 10 ton bell known as Great George and is one of Bristol's most famous landmarks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bringing science to life |
At Harborside Bristol BS1 5DB United Kingdom +44 117 909 2000 http://www.at-bristol.org.uk |
This GBP100 million project, recent winner of a "Family Attraction of the Year" award, is all about discovering how science and the world around us works and is fully hands-on, making it perfect for kids. There are a huge range of exhibits, including displays on the human brain, sound and music, communication technologies and scientific curiosities. Check out the amazing Orange Imaginarium (planetarium)—a stainless steel sphere in which you sit in darkness and watch star shows. There's also the "Move It" feature, which uses a whole host of pumps, levers and pistons, to show how we have harnessed nature through technology. Another star attraction is the display that allows you to experience what it's like to enter the eye of a tornado—a big favourite with children! There are two other attractions in the At-Bristol complex. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tracy |
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Georgian House |
7 Great George Street Bristol BS1 5RR United Kingdom +44 117 921 1362 http://www.bristol.gov.uk/museums |
This Georgian house was built in 1790 for John Pinney, a sugar merchant. Many of the rooms have been restored to the elegance and fashionable splendor of their original condition, including the first floor drawing room, which would have enjoyed extensive views over the city and docks. The basement kitchen, housekeeper's room and laundry contrast sharply with the master's chambers and reveal the world "below stairs." Exhibits detailing the relationship between the original owner merchant and his black servant, Pero are a fascinating insight into Bristol's slave trade past. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Underground cellars containing a fascinating history |
12 Denmark Street Bristol BS1 5DQ United Kingdom +44 (0)117 927 5036 |
If you want to explore these fascinating, underground, 800 year-old cellars, either get together with a group of friends, or try and tag onto an existing group—they are only open to groups of 20 people or more. It's worth the effort though—you'll be shown all around the museum, occupied by Harveys since 1796 when the family started trading as wine merchants. This is followed by a sherry (which Harvey's is famous for), wine or port tasting. The whole experience takes around two and a half hours, costs from £8 each and is available day and evening, seven days a week by prior arrangement. Their wine shop is outstanding and stocks an extensive selection of over 250 wines from around the world. There's also an award-winning restaurant (Harvey's), which in addition to exceptional cuisine, boasts one of the most extensive wine lists in the country—well, what would else you expect! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Not your ordinary film experience |
Anchor Road, Harbourside Bristol BS1 5DB United Kingdom +44 117 915 1000 http://www.at-bristol.org.uk/i... |
What is an IMAX cinema? Well, the name comes from the type of film and projector used, called "Image Maximum". This basically means that everything is 10 times as big as in a normal cinema and when you're seated in the 350 capacity auditorium, you feel as though you're inside the film itself - thanks to the massive screen and digital surround sound system. Truly amazing - a bit on the expensive side but definitely worth a visit. Films shown vary, but there is usually something about dinosaurs (the kids' choice), a natural history type film and probably one about technology of some kind. Whatever film is on, remember you're going for the whole spectacle of the thing - plot and acting are secondary. With everything being so life-like and large, certain films can be scary for youngsters, so check beforehand. Admission: adults £6.50, children £5.50, concs £4.50, family £19. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: www.msmoll.co.uk |
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Step back in time |
36 The Horsefair Bristol BS1 3JE United Kingdom +44 117 926 4740 |
John Wesley would not have approved - as town planning would have it, his chapel surrounded by the temple to Mammon that is Broadmead! But that's even more of a reason to visit - when tramping round all the shops in this consumer paradise gets too much, step inside the calm environs of the old preaching rooms and take a step back into a less worldly atmosphere. It may be incongruously placed, but this is actually the oldest Methodist Chapel in the world, having been built in 1739 and preserved today just as it was in the 18th century. It's existence is thanks to the vision of John Wesley, combined with the skills of architect George Tulley, and its purpose was to provide a space where Wesley could preach to the poor of Bristol. The rooms above are where he stayed, along with other visiting preachers - you can visit these, perfectly preserved in period style, by advance arrangement. There is unfortunately only partial wheelchair access. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ladies-only fitness centre |
unit 15, Silver Street Bristol BS1 2DL United Kingdom +44 117 929 9229 |
You don't have to be super slim or super fit—their members range from 18 year olds to pensioners and you can choose to go all the way and get toned, tanned and physically perfect, or you can trail along in your old T-shirt and just try to lose a few pounds. They boast state-of-the-art gym equipment, aerobic classes, toning tables, sauna and showers and personal exercise and diet plans if required. Join and you'll be allocated a "guardian angel" who will create programs for you and give constant encouragement—yes, you'll probably hate her after 20 press-ups! How to become a member? The best bet for visitors not staying too long, are the no commitment monthly membership packages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Good for fitness and a spot of pampering |
Cotham Gardens 80 Redland Road Bristol BS6 6AG United Kingdom +44 117 942 5805 |
This is a superb health club for toning, pampering, fitness and fun. Not only is there a well-equipped gym and swimming pool, there's also an aerobics studio offering a huge range of classes, including more unusual disciplines such as pilates and yoga. There's also a beauty treatment room, offering aromatherapy, stress therapy, waxing, and facial treatments. Aquarobics is another class on offer and for relaxation try the spa bath, sauna and steam room. A creche is open all week and costs £2 per hour. A great mixture of hard work and spoil-yourself-rotten treatments. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Replica of 15th century ship |
Gasferry Road Hotwells Bristol BS1 6TY United Kingdom +44 117 922 5737 http://www.matthew.co.uk/ |
This impressive wooden ship is a replica of the vessel in which John Cabot sailed across the Atlantic to discover Newfoundland in 1497 - the event that cemented Bristol's association with all things nautical. Standing on board this version of the ship, which re-enacted the crossing in 1997, really gives you a sense of the past, and the attention to period detail on the boat is second to none. In the summertime you can even take a short trip around the floating harbour on the boat, which is a great way to view the city from a different and rather wonderful perspective. Book early as these two-hour trips are very popular. A visit here also includes entry to the adjacent SS Great Britain and Maritime Heritage Centre, where you can find out even more about Bristol's sea faring past. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fitness centre, housing hi-tech audio visual equipment |
Portland Street Portland Street, Kingsdown Bristol BS2 8HL United Kingdom +44 117 915 2000 |
Situated inside Kingsdown Sports Centre, this fitness suite contains some serious keep fit equipment - over 68 stations of the latest techno-gym fitness equipment, in fact. Hi-tech audio-visual entertainment systems operate alongside the exercise equipment, allowing the user to work out with music or viewing channels as required. It's fully air conditioned and also has both a sauna and team suite in which to wind down after your work-out, plus a juice bar for refreshment and a creche for babies and young children. If you fancy visiting you will have to become a member—there are 15 different membership options, so call them for details of which would suit you best. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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At home in Elizabethan Bristol |
Park Row Bristol BS1 5LJ United Kingdom +44 117 921 1360 http://www.bristol-city.gov.uk... |
The entrance to this lodge appears uninviting because it is at the rear of the building, with the true façade facing downhill. Within, however, it offers a fascinating glimpse into life in Elizabethan Bristol. Built around 1590, it contains the last surviving suite of 16th century rooms in Bristol, particularly notable for the carved oak paneling, stone chimney-piece, and plasterwork ceiling. Other rooms feature 17th and 18th century portraits, and exquisite walnut and gilt furniture. Once the home of Lady Byron, the poet's widow, it is now owned by the City Council, and the Tudor gardens have recently enjoyed a programme of restoration. Look out for their "living history days" when actors dress up in period costume and really bring the house to life. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gillian Jack |
 Photo: Alastair Smith |
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World's first iron and steam ocean liner |
Great Western Dockyard (Great Western Dock) Bristol BS1 6TY United Kingdom +44 117 926 0680 http://www.ss-great-britain.com |
Built by Brunel and launched from this Great Western Dock site in 1843, this was the largest ship to be built of iron and powered by steam; it is known as "the liner that shrank the world." Almost returned to her former glory as a luxury liner, you can tour the meticulously restored ship and visit the two adjacent attractions with one admission ticket: The Maritime Heritage Centre and The Matthew (replica of 15th century ship). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The small but beautiful Lord Mayor's Chapel |
Lewins Road Bristol BS1 5BT United Kingdom |
Bristol is unique among cities in the UK in owning this civic chapel, which has been used as the Corporation's official place of worship since 1722. It was originally the chapel of the hospital of the Gaunts, founded in 1220 and was granted by King Henry VIII to the Corporation in 1541 (as part of the infamous Dissolution of the Monasteries) for the sum of £1,000. No other hospital buildings remain. It's particularly noted for its fine, 16th century stained-glass windows and an intricately fan-vaulted roof, as well as for a wealth of monuments that chronicle the city's history. But best of all, it's a wonderfully peaceful oasis amidst the bustle and hurry of the city centre just outside. Its a place to sit quietly and soak up the atmosphere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ian.goods |
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Bristol's own leaning tower! |
Temple Street Bristol BS1 6HT United Kingdom |
Like Pisa's famous leaning tower, the instability of the soil is to blame for the lean of this tower. Local legend says that the tower was built with foundations made of bales of wool and there's a grain of truth in this - the wealthy wool and weaving industry donated funds towards the building of the church. Most of the ruin is 15th century although the chancel is 14th, but in the ground are markers showing the location of an even earlier church. The church was reduced to its present ruinous condition on November 24th, 1940 due to a German bombing raid. When the local soldiers/engineers inspected the building they mistook the lean as being caused by the bombs and nearly demolished it to make it safe! You can't go inside, so visit for a look anytime of day or night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Celebrating the world of make-believe |
Cantocks Close Woodland Road Cantocks Close Bristol BS8 1UP United Kingdom +44 117 928 7832 http://www.bristol.ac.uk/theat... |
This important, but little-known collection looks at everything theatrical - perfect for a city which has such a strong thespian tradition. Inside the rather unprepossessing building there's a wealth of archive publications including theatre programmes and reviews, plus a wide variety of original costumes and exhibitions that illustrate the art of theatrical design, ranging from sets to posters. The personalities who played their part in bringing their roles alive are deservedly also commemorated here - they have a particularly good archive on the late Joyce Grenfell - and the history of the theatre is also portrayed and put into social context. You've probably worked out by now that this place is really for adult theatre-goers, kids would probably be bored out of their minds in here as it's ever so slightly esoteric. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Aerobics, gyms, saunas and toning tables |
Cannon Street Bristol BS1 2LZ United Kingdom +44 117 929 7311 http://www.topnotchhealthclubs... |
Work out on treadmills or bikes in this fitness centre, which has a ladies-only area. The centre also offers weight reduction regimes combined with figure and fitness improvement. A free week's trial is offered and a full year's membership costs around £400. This includes unlimited free aerobics and use of toning tables, free use of the three gyms, sauna and showers along with other benefits such as a medical health screen and use of sun tanning facilities. You can also get dietary and nutritional advice. If you're only in Bristol for a short while, you can still take advantage of all the above by buying a day pass for £7.50 each time you visit. If you're staying a while longer, buy these in bulk - 10 will cost you £55. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historical and elegant concert/conference venue |
Queens Road Clifton Bristol BS8 1SA United Kingdom +44 117 954 5032 |
Designed by Bristol architect Charles Dyer (noted for his classical and Gothic designs), the Victoria Rooms were built in the first half of the 19th century in the Greek Revival style - one of its most notable features is its octostyle (eight columned) Corinthian portico. The building has belonged to the University of Bristol since the 1920s and now houses the Music Department. As such, there is no entry, except during the concerts and in any case, the building is much more imposing from the outside. Lunchtime concerts are held throughout the year and there are classical concerts also. Tickets are available from the building itself (ask at the Porter's Lodge) or from the university bookshop on nearby Tyndall's Avenue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neil Hobbs |
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A journey through the natural world |
Harbourside Bristol BS1 5DB United Kingdom +44 117 915 5000 / +44 845 345 1235 http://www.at-bristol.org.uk |
Bristol is very proud of this place and rightly so. It's a state-of-the-art centre which takes you on an amazing journey through the natural world. Kids love it and it's the perfect place to keep them amused on a rainy day - it won a "Family Attraction of Britain" award last year, just four months after it opened. Inside, you can find out all about the diversity of species, look at the microscopic life in a drop of water, explore the living tropical rainforest (complete with free-flying birds and butterflies), experience what it's like below the sea and find the answer to questions such as "how many mites live in an average bed"! Make sure you take a look at the "ARKive" library - the world's first ever digital library of photos, sound and film of endangered species. Admission: adults £6.50, kids £4.50, family £19. Or, you can also visit all three of the attractions of At-Bristol for £15.50 each. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: www.msmoll.co.uk |
 Photo: Sarah Clarke |
 Photo: sleepychinchilla |
 Photo: khaosproductions |
 Photo: theyactasflippers |