Location: Bristol
Top Things to do in Bristol
Things to do in Bristol, England: The Best Churches & Cathedrals
Bristol is a quirky British city with beautiful hilly vistas and plenty of historic sights to explore. Anyone interested in ships will have a blast aboard Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the world’s first great oceanliner, and the Matthew, a replica of the ship upon which John Cabot sailed to America in the 15th century. The graceful Clifton Suspension Bridge is another must-see.
Restaurants in Bristol
1. St James Priory
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 81 reviews
St James Priory is the oldest church in Bristol dating from 1129.Originally a Benedictine Priory it has survived the ravages of change,the Reformation,wars and time. St James still survives as a jewel in the crown of Bristol. Although hidden away it is a haven of peace and serenity in the middle of the city centre. Between 2009 and 2011the church was completely renovated and restored following a grant of £3.2 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund. A warm, friendly and relaxing cafe adjoins the Church at the east end.
Reviewed By 170carolines - Cheltenham, United Kingdom
This was a real find. Arrived at Bristol Bus Station, after a few days in Glastonbury with half an hour between bus and onward coach, and set off to find a café which would fill my flask. The first place I encountered was St James Priory, which I had never noticed before but which is the oldest building in Bristol (12th century). Seeing they had a café (yippee), I entered through the church door and rustled down the aisle in my waterproof trousers, following the signs to the café. The food looked scrumptious and the cakes very imaginative (gluten and dairy-free Almond and Cardamom!), but I didn’t have time to eat. The lady on duty filled my flask with a single shot milky latte (and gave me a discount for ‘having my own cup’) – and it proved to be one of the most delicious lattes I have had anywhere. I left by another door, only to discover that the café entrance is just a stone’s throw away from the main door of the bus station. What a fabulous discovery after years of braving their ghastly cafes (and now there isn't one at all). I will definitely be back, not just to sample the food, but also to spend time in the lovely peaceful Priory church.
2. Christ Church with St Ewen
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Reviewed By DanielDay906
A lovely church, right in the middle of Bristol's Old City. The vicar and congregants are very friendly, the building is beautiful, the music is superb, and the Prayer Book services are solemn and dignified. Fully recommended – to worshippers and sightseers alike.
3. St John on the Wall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 23 reviews
Step through the city gate and into medieval Bristol with a visit to St John on the Wall. Explore the hidden church built into Bristol's old city wall. Discover the simple elegance of the airy upper church and then descend into the atmospheric crypt below. As you walk through over 600 years of history uncover the stories of those who lived their lives in the medieval city of Bristol. Visit St John on the Wall for a free guided tour of this old city landmark. Discover: - why Walter Frampton - three times mayor of Bristol - paid for the rebuilding of St John on the Wall in the 1300s - what the merchants of Bristol imported and exported in one of the most prosperous times of the city's history - how vital St John's conduit was to the old city and why it sometimes poured wine rather than water - the symbols and stories hidden in the puzzling stained glass - why it was a good idea to build a church into a wall If the doors are closed please call us as the key is available nearby
Reviewed By martyncymro - Coimbra, Portugal
The exterior of this old church, which is no longer functioning as such, is very interesting and well worth including on your tour of Bristol city centre. Sadly the door was locked and there was no access when I called one afternoon. I have since leaned from its web-page the church, which is run by volunteers, is usually open between 11am and 2pm, and that you should (quote) 'Call Ed McGregor Volunteering Officer 07872 502 118 in advance to ensure that the church will be open for your visit.'
4. All Saints Clifton
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
5. Saint Stephen's
6. Clifton Cathedral
7. St Mary on the Quay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By Andrew081 - St. Albans, United Kingdom
Popped into St Mary’s on the Quay on a weekday lunchtime. I am not a Catholic, but I found this large 1840 church welcoming, well lit, colourful and most importantly it felt like a church. So many churches are cold, are museums or are just secular; at St Mary’s there was the feeling of the presence of God: I felt a desire to sit quietly in one of the pews and contemplate my life. I felt at home with no desire to rush back into the rat race of life. Do pop in if you are passing.
8. Christ Church Clifton
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 9 reviews
9. St Nicholas Church
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
10. St Martin's Church
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
