Location: Bristol
Top Things to do in Bristol
What to do and see in Bristol, England: The Best Historical & Heritage Tours
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. Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge - Private Day Trip from Bristol
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
This private day trip is a great way to experience some of the must-see attractions near Bristol. Visit Wells, England's smallest city, and see its magnificent cathedral, buy lunch at a traditional pub and sample Cheddar cheese at its origin. Beyond cuisine and culture, your private adventure includes a scenic jaunt through England's largest and most scenic gorge. • Visit England's smallest city, Wells, and see the world's 2nd oldest working clock • See Europe's oldest residential street • Try authentic Cheddar cheese at a cheese factory in the area where Cheddar cheese was originally invented • Enjoy the spectacular scenery of England's largest gorge • Travel comfortably by private transportation with a local guide
Inclusions: Private tour with local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle, Admission into Wells Cathedral and the Cheddar Cheese Factory
Exclusions: Lunch and refreshments, Gratuities
Reviewed By Shirley S
Without doubt one of the most informative tours I’ve had by a tour guide. To give context to the reason we went to Bath was my Mum was one of 5 children who lived in Bath in WW2. She was 6 years of age at the time and all her sisters and brother shared their experience of the Bath Blitz to our family and her grandchildren. As i was visiting my sister who lives down near Bath, and our cousin. This was a huge surprise for my Mam, as My sister had contacted Daniel to tell him of where she used to live. Daniel went to the trouble of taking us to where she lived, and had even contacted a neighbour who lived near my Mum and the gentleman kindly shared some pictures of the property before it was demolished due to the bombings. From beginning to end, the vast knowledge and information he shared with us was not a tour, it was an experience. His friendly approach and engaging manner made this a day for my Mum and myself and Cousin a day to remember. Nothing was too much trouble and his wit and vocal tone were perfect, you will never tire of listening to him and the history of this beautiful city. I was not sure what to expect from the day and as an avid shopper, even I was NOT interested in shopping with exception of The Fudge Kitchen as I had mentioned my colleagues had “hinted” that they love it. Daniel took us, to the shop and we were not disappointed! I am sure my colleagues will be disappointed as the fudge certainly won’t be travelling back to Durham as I will have eaten it before I go back. I’ve learned so much today and to see my Mums face and engagement with Daniel will be a day none of us will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a very special afternoon.
2. Afternoon Bath City Tour - Private tour from Bristol with a local guide
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
The charming UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath is located a short distance from Bristol and is highly recommended as a place to visit. This tour of Bath will give you a great introduction to the city and has the benefits of being a private tour with private transportation to take you to and from Bath. You will have the added benefit of being taken on the tour by a guide who was born and raised in Bath giving you an insider's perspective on the city. • Private walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath • Be shown around Bath by a local guide who was born and grew up in the city • Private round-trip transportation from Bristol to Bath
Inclusions: Private tour with local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By Shirley S
Without doubt one of the most informative tours I’ve had by a tour guide. To give context to the reason we went to Bath was my Mum was one of 5 children who lived in Bath in WW2. She was 6 years of age at the time and all her sisters and brother shared their experience of the Bath Blitz to our family and her grandchildren. As i was visiting my sister who lives down near Bath, and our cousin. This was a huge surprise for my Mam, as My sister had contacted Daniel to tell him of where she used to live. Daniel went to the trouble of taking us to where she lived, and had even contacted a neighbour who lived near my Mum and the gentleman kindly shared some pictures of the property before it was demolished due to the bombings. From beginning to end, the vast knowledge and information he shared with us was not a tour, it was an experience. His friendly approach and engaging manner made this a day for my Mum and myself and Cousin a day to remember. Nothing was too much trouble and his wit and vocal tone were perfect, you will never tire of listening to him and the history of this beautiful city. I was not sure what to expect from the day and as an avid shopper, even I was NOT interested in shopping with exception of The Fudge Kitchen as I had mentioned my colleagues had “hinted” that they love it. Daniel took us, to the shop and we were not disappointed! I am sure my colleagues will be disappointed as the fudge certainly won’t be travelling back to Durham as I will have eaten it before I go back. I’ve learned so much today and to see my Mums face and engagement with Daniel will be a day none of us will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a very special afternoon.
3. The Boat and the Bridge: An audio tour about the creations and genius of Brunel
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
A look at the life of Bristol's most famous son, master engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, through two of his iconic constructions. This self guided audio tour will take you past the world's first transatlantic steam ship, the SS Great Britain, as well as the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the world's longest bridge at the time it was built. Both take pride of place today in the centre of modern Bristol, which is exactly where we'll start. Stepping over 200 years into the past, we'll learn about the world Brunel lived in and understand the way he changed the world we live in today. We'll wind our way along the river Avon, on a route that's almost entirely pedestrianised, and end at the Clifton's Suspension Bridge's official viewpoint.
Inclusions: Lifetime access to this tour in English, VoiceMap App for Android and iOS, Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Exclusions: Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route, Smartphone and headphones, Transportation, Food/Drink
4. Guided Walking Tour of Suspension Bridge, Clifton Splendour & Old City.
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
A guided walk, between 2 and 2.5 hours long, 12,000 steps circa 3-4 miles long, listening to the guide on Audio devices to interesting facts, colourful characters, history and anecdotes on the way. Clifton, a sleepy village in 1700, developed into the ‘Mayfair’ of Bristol. Walk the suspension bridge, view the dramatic ‘Avon Gorge’, Historic Buildings, Grand Terraces, Crescents & Squares, see the Harbour, Banksy’s, University, Museum, Old City Gates, that statue, ending at the Cathedral and Centre. Join your guide, who having moved to Bristol in 1980, attended Bristol Poly (UWE), I have lived, played rugby, worked off and on in the City for 40 years. I am now semi retired, continually research the city as a Hobby and want to give something back to a place I adore.The style is interactive, flexible, light-hearted and personal.
Inclusions: Listening devices
Exclusions:
Reviewed By cathycoyne78
A fantastic few hours exploring, learning & laughing with Mike. The whole family had a great time. Thank you!
5. Guided Walking Tour of Bristol Old City and Harbour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Walking around a city, whilst listening to a tour guide, is a perfect form of exercise. 1000 years of Trade and Industry made Bristol the UK’s second city. See the Cathedral, Banksy’s, Harbour, Docks, Georgian Square, Old Vic, ‘Bridge’, Castle site, Old City, corn exchange, markets, Guilds, Street Art, and Sugar House. Enjoy a 2-hour guided walk, circa 12,000 steps and 3-4 miles long, listening on to interesting facts, colourful characters, history and anecdotes on the way. Join your guide, who having moved to Bristol in 1980, attended Bristol Poly (UWE), has lived, played rugby, worked off and on in the city for 40 years. He is continually researching the city as a hobby and wants to give something back to the place he adores. The style is interactive, flexible, light-hearted and personal. Nature breaks are limited, so please plan ahead.
Inclusions: Audio Recievers
Exclusions: Coffee and/or Tea
Reviewed By babyhippohannah
Really enjoyed this tour as part of our mini break, great way to see the city and learn about some of the history and street art. Mike was really knowledgeable and entertaining, and gave us some great recommendations for the rest of our trip. Will be recommending to friends and family!
6. Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 229 reviews
A fun, informative and educational tour through 1000 years of history and the city's wealth of street art.
Inclusions: Tour guide
Exclusions:
Reviewed By HB1975
A very informative and enjoyable afternoon taking in the sights of historical Bristol on foot. Our guide, Luke, was punctual, personable and very knowledgeable about the local history and origins of the street art. Our two children aged 13 & 11 really enjoyed it too. It was a great way to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy our time visiting the area.
7. Bristol Self Guided Audio Walking Tour (self distanced)
Overall Ratings
1.0 based on 1 reviews
This is your tour! This tour enables you to walk through the city at your own pace. As you keep an eye on our interactive online map with more than enough interesting facts about this wonderful old city. Login free to the website and follow the map. This is a great way to find out about Bristol, its history, stories, buildings and architecture. We also have added local ghost stories and murders to enjoy on the way.
Inclusions: Ghost stories - Along with the history of Bristol we have added true ghost stories for you to enjoy.
Exclusions: You will need a device to connect to the internet
8. Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Trip from Bristol
Get a great introduction to the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath on this private tour with a local guide who was born and grew up in Bath. In the afternoon visit a small falconry to have the unique experience of flying a hawk in the countryside. Bath is located 14 miles from Bristol, the tour includes private transportation to and from Bristol.
Inclusions: Private tour with local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle, Private walking tour, Private hawk flying experience
Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities
Reviewed By Shirley S
Without doubt one of the most informative tours I’ve had by a tour guide. To give context to the reason we went to Bath was my Mum was one of 5 children who lived in Bath in WW2. She was 6 years of age at the time and all her sisters and brother shared their experience of the Bath Blitz to our family and her grandchildren. As i was visiting my sister who lives down near Bath, and our cousin. This was a huge surprise for my Mam, as My sister had contacted Daniel to tell him of where she used to live. Daniel went to the trouble of taking us to where she lived, and had even contacted a neighbour who lived near my Mum and the gentleman kindly shared some pictures of the property before it was demolished due to the bombings. From beginning to end, the vast knowledge and information he shared with us was not a tour, it was an experience. His friendly approach and engaging manner made this a day for my Mum and myself and Cousin a day to remember. Nothing was too much trouble and his wit and vocal tone were perfect, you will never tire of listening to him and the history of this beautiful city. I was not sure what to expect from the day and as an avid shopper, even I was NOT interested in shopping with exception of The Fudge Kitchen as I had mentioned my colleagues had “hinted” that they love it. Daniel took us, to the shop and we were not disappointed! I am sure my colleagues will be disappointed as the fudge certainly won’t be travelling back to Durham as I will have eaten it before I go back. I’ve learned so much today and to see my Mums face and engagement with Daniel will be a day none of us will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a very special afternoon.
9. The best of Bristol walking tour
Bristol is a diverse, innovative and vibrant multi-cultural city. It is a also very environmentally friendly, green and very artistic. Do you know that Bristol is a UNESCO City of Film? Bristol is known as the UK's most productive tech cluster. This city is full of mysteries. Do you know that Bristol is the world's biggest manufacturer of hot air balloons? The hot air balloon is a classic symbol of Bristol. Bristol has it's own leaning tower, the hidden alley ways within the Old City area, the legendary pirate Blackbeard and his birth house that still stands. With a local charismatic guide you will see the most beautiful parts of the city. Learn a lot of interesting facts about Bristol.
Inclusions: Local Charismatic guide
Exclusions:
Reviewed By antonialanzadajeta
I had a fantastic tour of the city in early September with a Blue Badge guide called Andrew. He had a wonderful depth of knowledge and a delightful sense of humour. What lovely way to see this city which I have visited quite a few times but always on my own. Thank you Andrew for a really interesting morning!
10. Private Bristol City Must-See Attractions Walking Tour with a Local Guide
Bristol is one of the most innovative, colourful and multi-cultural cities of England. If this is your first time into town, this tour is exactly what you are looking for! Meet your friendly guide outside the Hippodrome – the main theatre – and follow them at the discovery of the local habits and lifestyle. Pass by harbour side and give a look at the magnificent M-Shed, continue towards the Bristol Gothic Cathedral in College Green and head up on Park Street to reach the beautiful Clifton neighbourhood. Have a walk into the Brandon Hill park and enjoy the view from the Bristolian leaning tower – the Cabot Tower. Also, did you know that the famous pirate Blackbeard was a Bristolian? And did you also know that Bristol is listed among the UNESCO Cities of Film? From History movies to the most popular teenage-drama series Skins, Bristol has been the perfect set for many movies. Take advantage of your live guide and ask tips and useful info that will make your stay in town even better.
Inclusions: Local Tour Guide, Historical Insights, Live-like-a-local atmosphere
Exclusions: Lunch, Food and drinks, Gratuities
Reviewed By BeatriceH561
Ok so we have done walking tours in lots of places but our walk with Phil was excellent and up with the best. We were nicely greeted by the Abbey and treated to an enjoyable and informative tour with lots of humour and expert knowledge, bit of a great combination. Phil loves his job and it glows. Sincere thanks.
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