Weekend in Bristol

Bristol has a fascinating heritage and a colourful history. It’s a great place for a vacation. Here are a few things you can do on your first day.

Schedule a visit to the world’s oldest zoo and earn some bragging rights. Try the spectacular Bristol Aquarium and enjoy the underwater coast to coast experience! Bristol’s world famous suspension bridge was finished in 1864 and some call it a sight for sore architecture lover eyes. Just like the Stature of Liberty depicts New York City and the Eye London, Bristol’s defining symbol is the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Opening hours are from 10am to 5pm so be sure to schedule wisely. The Berkeley castle was started in 1117 and is still home to the Berkeley family. It is a beautiful historic castle with at least 1000 years of history. It is also home to about 25 beautiful species of butterflies.

The Yurt Restaurant has delicious scones and properly served British tea all open year round, so be sure to stop by. You might be lucky enough to meet some famous faces filming on location at the Castle too. Once again be sure to schedule wisely as the castle is open to visitors on select days between April and October.

Schedule a visit and listen in awe to the ship’s true stories and go back in time to the moments aboard the ship that shaped the world. You can also go below to touch the first big liner to grace the waters of the world!
Spend your second day taking in Bristol’s sights and sounds. Visit Bristol’s Avon Valley Railway and take a six mile ride to and from the old Midland Railway. This would avail you the opportunity to see the beautiful River Avon Valley in all its splendour.

You could also visit the At-Bristol science Museum. Both adults and children can enjoy the exciting hands-on and interacting exhibits they daily showcase. There are also live shows and a planetarium. For some peace, quiet, sober reflection and a whole lot of natural green carpeting, visit Bristol’s historic 45 acre cemetery. The Arnos Vale Cemetery is rich in wildlife, memorials, long walkways and green, leafy tree umbrellas. There is also a gift shop and a café open every single day.

You could also try the Orpheus Cinema for a movie night out. The cinema has a large and loyal audience, most of which are students from the immediate area. There is also the alternative of the Watershed. The Watershed is a great place for food, social networking and movies. It also boasts of nice conference rooms anyone can lease. If you love old buildings, you must see St James Priory. This is the oldest church in Bristol. Built in 1129, it has survived wars and several other major changes. Still, it stands tall and proud in the serene centre of Bristol.

Bristol is a great place for ancient history, food and fun. If you need a place to unwind, take life more slowly and see in a different perspective, Bristol it is!

Rebekah Olayemi

Tags: Weekend in England