Once an important centre of the Industrial Revolution, today a 'happening' city and gateway to Wales, Bristol has more to offer than meets the eye. Situated on the Avon, this university town boasts lovely ancient architecture, modern museums, a vibrant film industry, endless entertainment and good shopping.

Also within easy access are the popular tourist attractions of Bath, the Costwolds, Western English coast and the lovely rolling downs of Somerset.

Bristol's town centre can easily be explored on foot, particluarly along the Avon river.

Foremost, the buildings of Bristol are a constant reminder of the creative brilliance of people from this magnificent city, such as the Bristol Byzantine decoration on the dockside buildings and the sweeping Georgian crescents and squares of Clifton, John Wesley's New Rooms (the world's oldest Methodist chapel), the magnificent Bristol Cathedral (dating from 1140) and St Mary Redcliffe Church - one of Englands best examples of medieval architecture.

Bristol's chief icon is the awe-inspiring Clifton suspension bridge. It exemplifies the engineering spirit of both the city an also its designer, the great I.K. Brunel. The visitor centre describes the fascinating story of Brunel and the bridge. Other creations of his found in the city are the SS Great Britain - the world' first great ocean liner, and Temple Meads rail station. The former is also home of the National Maritime centre.

To truly appreciate Bristol's contibutions to engineering over the centuries, visit the excellent At-Bristol exhibition -one of the world's finest hands-on, minds-on, science centres. Alternatively step straight from the past into today's high tech aerospace industry in Bristol's Industrial Museum where you can discover that the concorde was designed in Bristol.

Back

Add to your Save For Later