Bristol

Bristol! The birthplace of Banksy, steeped in maritime history, famed for its hot air ballooning, buzzing Harbour Festival, cycling culture, and its proud title as the UK’s first Green Capital. Lively and innovative, cosmopolitan and full of character, Bristol is a vibrant 21st-century city with something to offer every visitor.

If it’s shopping you’re after, you’re in luck. Bristol boasts two major malls, stylish boutiques in the west of the city, and the last remaining fully independent high street in the UK, making it a truly unique retail destination.

Prefer a cultural experience? Bristol’s many museums let you uncover the story of how this city grew to become one of the most exciting in the UK. Dive into its seafaring past, from Roman times through to John Cabot’s historic voyage to the Americas, and the groundbreaking work of Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Aerospace fans can also enjoy Aerospace Bristol, home to Concorde and celebrate 50 years since its first commercial flight.

Fancy something a bit different? Discover Bristol’s famous street art zones; including works by the legendary Banksy or climb the 108 steps to the top of Cabot Tower for panoramic views. Thanks to excellent road links, you’re less than an hour from The Cotswolds, Bath, Glastonbury, or even Cardiff.

2026 will bring new excursion opportunities to:
• Bristol Zoo Project unveiling the new African Forest experience
• Aardman Animations celebrates 50 years
• Bristol Old Vic turns 260
• Season 2 of Rivals, filmed in Bristol, hits Disney+ in 2026.

Just next door, Bath will be celebrating 20 years of Thermae Bath Spa with a focus on wellbeing and continuing its Georgian Season alongside Bridgerton Season 4, and prepares to unveil the National Trust’s new Georgian experience at the Assembly Rooms in late 2026/early 2027.

Cruise Bristol – Your gateway to the South West and beyond.

We look forward to welcoming you soon.
James Stangroom
Director

Top Five Facts About Bristol

1. Bristol is the largest city in the South West of England.
2. Bristol is known as the ‘Birthplace of America’ and has been a wealthy trading port since Roman times.
3. Famous Bristolians include Hollywood legend Cary Grant, street art legend Banksy, Blackbeard the Pirate and (adopted son) Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
4. Brunel’s world-famous SS Great Britain and Clifton Suspension Bridge are just two of the fantastic visitor attractions in the city.
5. The Sunday Times chose Bristol as the best city to live in Britain for it’s buzzy culture, nightlife and access to fantastic countryside.