Colourful, creative and full of character, Bristol is the perfect weekend escape!
The city that put Banksy on the map is alive with street art, independent record shops, vintage boutiques, cafés and galleries.
Regularly named one of the UK’s happiest and most liveable cities, it pairs laid-back harbourside charm with an effortlessly cool, arty vibe. Culture, creativity… and seriously good food — from Michelin-recognised restaurants to buzzing street-food markets — and everything in between which will keep your tastebuds and Instagram shots on high alert throughout the weekend.
As House of Coco’s Music Editor, there was never any doubt that I was going to be appraising Bristol’s live music scene — and it is certainly impressive and keeps the city humming with live music being performed every night of the week.
Where to stay in Bristol
You can ‘bank’ on a stylish yet comfortable stay at the Harbour Hotel Bristol. As you may have guessed, dear reader – this elegant hotel, which is located right in the heart of the city centre, is housed across two nineteenth-century banks – vaults and all!
If you are looking for a place to stay in Bristol that is right in the thick of things, then the Harbour Hotel Bristol is ideal. Situated on Corn Street – one of the most vibrant areas of the city centre you are conveniently within a few steps of some of the city’s top restaurants and bars.
Originating in the 1840s, the building’s architectural concept drew inspiration from the 16th-century Library of St Mark’s in Venice. Its most remarkable space is the Sansovino Hall, once the grand banking chamber.
Today, this spectacular room has been transformed into an event venue, crowned by a skylight and an exquisitely restored painted ceiling. Visitors can catch a glimpse of this magnificent hall upon entering the hotel, before making their way through to the reception area.
The juxtaposition of the old bank features and the trademark Harbour Hotels contemporary vibes are evident in the hotel’s subterranean spa which is an absolute highlight.
Ingeniously housed within the building’s original bank vaults, where the formidable steel safe doors still frame the entrance. Guests can wander down the steps to a bright and airy reception to use the facilities of the HarSpa which includes a hydrotherapy jacuzzi, a bijou swimming pool which can be accessed under one of the vaults arches and a sauna and steam room.
There’s also a fully equipped gym stocked with a wide range of machines and, for those wanting to indulge as opposed to work out, can enjoy one of the spas relaxing treatments with products from Temple Spa.
The hotel throughout is decorated in soothing, neutral tones, and the room was of a good size with lovely Bramley products in the bathroom and Sleepeezee mattresses which made for a very comfortable night’s sleep!
It’s well worth reserving a table at the hotel’s relaxed Harbour Kitchen, a feast for the eyes with its turquoise sofas and striking Bristol Blue Glass windows.
The kitchen emphasises locally sourced ingredients, offering an à la carte menu alongside a seasonal three-course option, featuring delights like steamed mussels, fish pie, leek, hot honey and taleggio ravioli, all of which were absolutely delicious.
If you are wanting to have a pre (or even post!) dinner drink, the hotel’s Gold Bar is an instagrammers delight! Quirky decor, inventive cocktails – it’s THE place to be when visiting Bristol. Whether you’re starting the evening or unwinding afterward – it’s a stylish and seductive setting for a drink or two.
What are the best things to do in Bristol?
Bristol Street Art Walking Tour
As Bristol is the city that launched the career of the internationally-acclaimed artist Banksy, it would be remiss not to explore the artsy side of the city. The street art is best explored via the brilliant ‘Bristol Street Art Walking Tours’ and is without a doubt – a must-do when visiting Bristol.
Our tour guide John is THE man to speak to about all things Street Art. Not only did he help nurture Banksy’s emerging art talents back in the 80’s, he has also been called upon as the city’s street art expert to provide guidance and commentary to various books and documentaries.
Whilst you can still spot some vintage Banksy’s, there’s also an impressive array of art to admire. John took us on a fantastic tour of the art that is on display throughout the city centre and explained a few of the surprising ‘street art’ rules. The city is home to over 200 artists, and John’s tour provided a fantastic insight into the different art and the stories behind them
Walk across Bristol Suspension Bridge and visit the Observatory
It’s worth venturing out of the city to Clifton, one of Bristol’s most charming suburbs, where Georgian terraces, independent shops, boutiques and cosy cafés make every street a delight to explore. Of course, Clifton is synonymous with its famous bridge – you can cross it on foot or by car for stunning views, or see it from a different perspective on the lush green banks outside the city’s famous Clifton Observatory.
From both spots, the Avon Gorge, the bridge, and the Clifton Downs create a perfect photo-ready panorama. Whilst you have climbed the path to the viewing point, it’s definitely worth paying a visit to the Observatory where you climb up for amazing views or venture below to an atmospheric underground passage, adding a touch of history and adventure to the visit.
Perched atop the Avon Gorge, the Clifton Observatory is full of surprises. Step inside the 19th-century camera obscura for a quirky, spinning view of the city, then explore St Vincent’s Cave, which winds down to the gorge below. From up here, the Suspension Bridge, the Avon Gorge, and the Downs unfold in picture-perfect panoramas – adventure and views in one spot!
Say Ahoy to Brunel’s SS Great Britain
Climb aboard the SS Great Britain and explore Brunel’s 1843 engineering marvel. Walk the decks, peek into recreated cabins, and see the engine room while discovering the stories of passengers who sailed across the Atlantic and to Australia. A must-visit for history buffs, photographers, and adventurers alike.
It’s an immersive journey where engineering brilliance, global history, and human stories come alive, captivating visitors of all ages and making it one of Bristol’s unmissable attractions.
Discover the splendour of Bristol Cathedral
Step into nearly 900 years of history at Bristol Cathedral. Marvel at soaring Gothic arches, peaceful cloisters, and intricate stonework, or catch a concert or exhibition in this living landmark. Open daily and welcoming to all, it’s a serene escape and a must-see stop in the city.
Learn about the history of Bristol on the waterfront at M Shed
Discover Bristol’s history at M Shed, where the city’s people, industries, and maritime past come to life. From historic vehicles and photographs to hands-on exhibits, it’s a fab, free and family-friendly way to explore the stories that shaped the city. You will also find a picture of Bristol’s most famous tour guide John in there too!
Where to eat in Bristol
Bristol’s food scene is as vibrant as the city itself. From cosy cafés and artisan bakeries to buzzing street food markets and award-winning restaurants, there’s something for every taste.
My favourite restaurant was Mowgli which serves up the most incredible bold flavours of Indian food via an imaginative, shareable dining experience – you can share small and large plates – obviously I did both!
High ceilings, twinkling fairy lights, lush greenery, and even swing-style seating give the historic venue a playful, relaxed vibe from the moment you step inside.
Continuing on from the olde bank vibes of the Bristol Harbour Hotel, similarly The Cosy Club in the city centre was also previously a bank. This is one of the best Cosy Clubs I have eaten in, and it’s located in a Grade II listed neo-Palladian building featuring marble floors, intricate stonework, and a breathtaking domed roof — simply stunning!
If you’re after something more casual, head to the Harbourside Street Food Market, where Bristol’s best street eats meet one of the city’s most scenic spots, every Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. From dumplings to doughnuts, the choices are endless!
Where to shop in Bristol
Bristol’s indie shopping scene is as eclectic as the city itself. Hunt for quirky reads at bookhaus, Gloucester Road Books, Second Page, Beware of the Leopard Books, or East Bristol Books.
Vinyl lovers can dig through gems at Rough Trade, Friendly Records, and Wanted Records, while retro fashion hunters will love Flamingo, Rhubarb Jumble, Fox & Feather, Boxxed & Co, Pinky Rose, and Soapbox Vintage. From rare finds to local designer pieces, Bristol rewards curious shoppers with style, character, and endless discoveries around every corner.
How to explore Bristol After Dark
When the sun goes down, Bristol comes alive. Catch live gigs at riverside favourites like The Louisiana or the iconic floating venue Thekla, or laugh the night away at comedy hotspots The Gaffe and Smoke & Mirrors.
For cocktails, craft beers, and buzzing bars, the city centre and harbourside are full of lively spots to keep the night going. For something a little secretive, Bristol has a handful of speakeasy-style bars. The Milk Thistle offers expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, historic setting, while The Library hides behind a bookcase on St Nicholas Street, serving inventive drinks in an intimate, low-lit space.
For theatrical fun, check out Alcotraz or the James Bond-inspired Her Majesty’s Secret Service, and you’ll find plenty of cosy spots to linger over drinks before heading to live music or comedy venues.
Bristol is a city full of surprises, where history, creativity, and culture collide on every street. Lively, playful, and endlessly fascinating, it leaves you planning your next visit before you’ve even left. Head on over to Visit Bristol — https://visitbristol.co.uk/ to plan your trip to the UK’s coolest city!
Photo Credits: Visit Bristol, Harbour Hotel Bristol, Aspire for Upfest, Dave Pratt, Visit England
