Top Rated Attractions in Bristol

Spanning the Avon Gorge, arching above the waters of the mighty river, the Clifton Suspension Bridge has come to be a spectacular symbol of the city. Designed by John Hawkshaw and William Henry Barlow and completed in 1864, this bridge is set against a backdrop of splendid cliffs, making it a picture-perfect icon of both romanticism and engineering finesse. The Clifton Suspension Bridge is a marvelous feat of engineering indeed, with its structural and strategic layout, as well as the grandiose design of the towers that uphold it. This magnificent bridge not only affords views of the gorge, but also way across Clifton. Nearby, the Suspension Bridge Visitor Centre extensively chronicles the bridge's history and struggles. Open through the day, the bridge is especially striking when it is set alight against the ink-black sky at night.

Bristol is unique among cities in the UK in owning this civic chapel, which has been used as the Corporation's official place of worship since 1722. It was originally the chapel of the hospital of the Gaunts and was known as St Mark's Church. It was founded in 1220 and was granted by King Henry VIII to the Corporation in 1541 (as part of the infamous Dissolution of the Monasteries) for the sum of GBP1000. No other hospital buildings remain. It's particularly noted for its fine, 16th-century stained-glass windows and an intricately fan-vaulted roof, as well as for a wealth of monuments that chronicle the city's history. But best of all, it's a wonderfully peaceful oasis amidst the bustle and hurry of the city center just outside. Its a place to sit quietly and soak up the atmosphere.

Installed as the abbey church of St Augustine in 1140, the Bristol Cathedral was one of the cornerstones of the newly-formed Diocese of Bristol in 1542. With a peak length of 91.44 meters (300 feet), the cathedral's ornate twin towers elegantly soar over the hustle and bustle of Bristol's Park Street. The structure's architectural complexity is further enhanced by its splendid Gothic-Revival nave and an elaborately decorated rose window that sits atop the church's arched entrance. Its Norman chapter house is captivating, to say the least, and is widely touted as the finest surviving specimen of its kind today.

The Bristol Old Vic Theatre is the oldest working theater in the country (it opened in 1766) and remains the home of some of the best theater you're likely to see, ranging from contemporary shows, comedy, dance, experimental and good old classical productions. There are three areas - The Theatre Royal (for big shows and pantomime), The New Vic Studio (contemporary shows, dance routines etc.), and The Basement (small-scale theater). Whatever you're into, your taste is bound to be catered for in one of the three. There is a cafe for pre-theater meals, lunches and coffee and backstage tours can also be arranged - they start in the foyer every Friday and Saturday from noon (except Saturdays in July and August). Watch out for the legendary ghost!

Perched atop the verdant Brandon Hill, the Cabot Tower elegantly soars over the charming cityscape of Bristol. This 32-meter (105-feet) tall landmark was built between 1897 and 1898 to commemorate 400 years since explorer John Cabot's epic voyage to North America. A vision in sandstone and Bath stone elements, this Neo-Gothic tower features a number of interesting architectural aspects that elevate its beauty. From its flying buttresses and a unique staircase that twists its way to the top, to its intricately-designed spire, there is much to appreciate about this towering edifice. While three carved plaques adorn the tower's base in remembrance of various luminaries in history, the top of the tower opens up to two observation platforms that offer sweeping vistas of the city.