Guide To Bristol

About Bristol

Welcome to Bristol — a vibrant, creative city that blends history, innovation, and modern living. With its thriving business scene, award-winning restaurants, and rich maritime heritage, Bristol is one of the UK’s most exciting cities to visit or work in.

Bristol sits proudly on the River Avon and has long been known for its pioneering spirit — from its maritime past to its reputation as a hub for engineering, technology, and media. Today, it’s one of the UK’s fastest-growing regional economies, with major employers across aerospace, finance, and digital industries.

The city is also celebrated for its distinct character — colourful harbourside, independent shops, and world-class cultural venues make it a place that feels both dynamic and relaxed. With excellent transport links to London, Bath, Cardiff, and the South West, Bristol is an ideal base for business or leisure.

Local Attractions

Whether you are looking for historical attractions, scenic views, lively nightlife or family-friendly activities, Bristol has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Bristol:

Explore the SS Great Britain, a former passenger steamship that was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and is now a museum ship.

Visit the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, which houses a collection of natural history, archaeology, art and world cultures.

Enjoy the street art and graffiti that adorn the walls of Bristol, especially in the Stokes Croft area, where you can find works by Banksy and other local artists.

Experience the thrill of flying at the Aerospace Bristol, a museum that showcases the history of aviation and features a Concorde aircraft.

Discover the wildlife and plants at the Bristol Zoo & Gardens, one of the oldest zoos in the world, or the Bristol Aquarium, which has over 40 displays of marine life.

Relax and have fun at the Bristol Harbour, where you can take a boat tour, watch live music, shop at the markets or dine at the waterfront restaurants.

Learn about science and technology at the We The Curious, an interactive science centre that has exhibits, experiments and a planetarium.

Catch a show at the Bristol Hippodrome, a historic theatre that hosts musicals, ballets, operas and comedy acts.

Admire the architecture and history of the Bristol Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that dates back to the 12th century.

Get adventurous at the Ashton Court Estate, a large park that offers activities such as golf, cycling, horse riding and hot air ballooning.

Clifton Suspension Bridge – An iconic landmark offering stunning views across the Avon Gorge.

Harbourside – A lively waterfront district filled with restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions like the M Shed Museum and We The Curious science centre.

SS Great Britain – Explore Brunel’s famous ship and step back into Bristol’s maritime heritage.

Bristol Cathedral – A striking Gothic building at the heart of the city’s history.

Cabot Circus & Broadmead – Bristol’s premier shopping destinations with a mix of high street and designer brands.

Ashton Court Estate – A beautiful parkland area popular for walks, cycling, and the famous Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.

Where to Eat & Drink

Bristol’s culinary scene is one of the best in the UK — creative, independent, and always evolving. From Michelin-starred restaurants to quirky street food spots, there’s something for every palate.

Local favourites include:

• Paco Tapas – Michelin-starred Spanish small plates with a relaxed, buzzy atmosphere.

• Casamia – Fine dining with innovative tasting menus that showcase seasonal produce.

• The Ox – An underground steakhouse known for its great cuts and cocktails.

• The Canteen – A Stokes Croft institution celebrating local food, music, and art.

• Root – Modern small-plate dining at Wapping Wharf with a focus on sustainability.

• Turtle Bay Bristol - A vibrant Caribbean restaurant with a lively atmosphere.

• Baba Ganoush Kitchen - Jerusalem Falafel - Offers authentic Middle Eastern flavours.

• Coronation Curry House - Known for its delicious Indian cuisine.

• Marmo - Offers delicious, contemporary Italian cuisine.

For a casual bite or after-work drinks, the Harbourside and Gloucester Road areas are packed with stylish bars and eateries.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Bristol’s nightlife is legendary — creative, diverse, and full of energy. Whether you’re after live music, craft cocktails, or a relaxed pub night, there’s no shortage of choice:

• Thekla – A floating nightclub and live music venue on a converted cargo ship.

• Motion – One of the UK’s best-known club venues, hosting top DJs and events.

• King Street – Home to traditional pubs like The Old Duke (jazz) and The Apple (cider barge).

• Bristol Beacon – The city’s major concert venue, hosting everything from classical to contemporary music.

Business & Corporate Connections

Bristol is one of the UK’s key business hubs outside London, home to a wide range of industries including aerospace, engineering, media, and finance. Major business parks such as Aztec West, Bristol Business Park, and Temple Quay make it a magnet for professionals and corporate teams.

With its proximity to Bristol Airport and excellent motorway access via the M4 and M5, the city is perfectly placed for regional and national connections.

Guestz serviced apartments in Bristol provide the ideal accommodation solution for corporate stays, relocations, and contractors, combining comfort, practicality, and central locations close to key business districts.