Bristol is a great city in the South West. It is rich in history and culture. There are many great free things you can do in Bristol and a few that are almost free! Bristol is well known for its colourful street art and some great architecture. There really is a lot to see and do in this wonderful city.
Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
It’s hard to believe that this stunning historic building is free to enter. It has three spacious floors dedicated to such fascinating and diverse topics as local archaeology, Eastern art, and natural history.
The wide open spaces make it an easy and pleasant place to peruse, and the museum consistently combines its permanent exhibits and unique artistic pieces with new special exhibits that appeal to a variety of audiences. Exhibits can run the gamut from one centered on the role of “magic” in different cultures throughout history to another focused on Banksy’s street art. This cultural center will especially keep families busy, because activities and workshops for the little ones happen daily. The kids have designated spaces, and can explore and learn with their imagination following different themes such as dinosaurs and wildlife.
Bristol Waterfront
The waterfront is a truly lovely area. Comprising of cafes, galleries, and picturesque waterfront pathways, Bristol’s Harbourside is among the most energetic part of the city. Wander slowly along the river, as the boats float by, or just appreciate Bristol’s old ships. The waterfront is a hub of activity, particularly on a sunny day. People sitting outside, walking along the pathways. There is plenty to do and see on the waterfront. Including the Mshed.
M Shed and its collection
Brandon Hill and Cabot Tower
The 105-foot-tall historic tower sits within the Brandon Hill public park and nature reserve. Brandon Hill is the city’s oldest park, filled with a variety of trees and shrubs, as well as lovely views and walking paths. Cabot Tower’s stone walls change with the light, and a plain light-gray or cream can become a soft red, a particularly pleasant pairing with the greens of the vegetation surrounding the tower. The steep steps of the spiral staircase go up to the top for a sweeping 360-degree view of the area, and you can ascend them for free.
Clifton Suspension Bridge and Visitor Centre
Learn about the history of Brunel’s iconic bridge at Clifton Suspension Bridge Visitor Centre.
The permanent exhibition and shop are both open with free weekend tours and outdoor family events for the school holidays.
While you’re there, admire the spectacular views across Bristol and Avon Gorge and look down at the tiny cars and people below. Crossing the bridge is free for pedestrians.
And you might just want to take a photo of this most famous of Bristol landmarks.
St. Mary Redcliffe Church
St. Mary Redcliffe Church is elegant and rich in cultural and historic value, considered a shining example of Gothic architecture. The exterior of the 800-year-old church is modest which is in contrast to the interior, that, while unadorned by paintings or frescoes, has a dramatic design. The ceiling alone is made up of impressive geometrical forms while the rest of it is long, narrow, and tall, with rib vaulting that starts from the base of the columns and accentuates the space’s verticality.
Bristol Cathedral
Another free activity to do in Bristol is to visit the Bristol Cathedral. Being one of Bristol’s most famous and recognisable landmarks, be sure to check it out.
Bristol Cathedral stands as a magnificent testament to medieval architecture in the heart of Bristol. The stunning Gothic and Romanesque structure with stunning stained glass windows. The historic cloisters remind me of Harry Potter. Out the back of the cathedral are beautiful gardens where you can sit and relax. There is also an amazing cafe that serves a range of things including very tasty cake.
As you can see there are many free places to visit.