Days Out in Bristol - Top 10 Attractions

By Sarah Dawe

Bristol is an excellent destination for a day trip or weekend break. It is a very cosmopolitan city, yet one that is steeped in history. There are many landmarks and local attractions in Bristol. This article is a guide to ten of the best attractions that the city has to offer.

1. The Suspension Bridge
Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the Bristol Suspension Bridge is one of the most iconic attractions that the city has to offer. Rising high above the Avon Gorge, the Suspension Bridge connects Bristol and North Somerset. Take a walk over the bridge and enjoy the stunning views, or pay 50p and drive over into Leigh Woods. However you decide to cross it, this grade 1 listed building is a must-see.

2. Brunel's SS Great Britain
The SS Great Britain is another of Brunel's designs. Situated on the docks, this stunning and imposing ship is one of the best local attractions in Bristol. The ship has been preserved so that tourists can come and enjoy its splendour; it now even features a museum and on-site coffee-shop for those looking to enjoy the shop a little longer. The ship, which was brought back to Bristol in 1970, can even be hired as a wedding venue or events venue.

3. Bristol Zoo
Bristol Zoo is without a doubt one of the best Zoo's in the South West. There are many animal enclosures to enjoy including an artificial island for the zoo's resident Gorillas! Although admission is quite pricey, you definitely get your money's worth and can spend the entire day there. The zoo often puts on animal talks and feeding shows, designed to entertain and educate.

4. At-Bristol
At-Bristol is an interactive science exhibition for children. It allows children to learn about science in a way that is fun and enjoyable without boring them. This hands-on exhibition is open throughout the year and boasts many new installations and programmes for children to enjoy. Situated in Bristol's millennium square, At-Bristol is definitely one of the best days out in Bristol, especially if you have young children.

5. Cheddar Gorge
Named the second greatest attraction is Britain; Cheddar Gorge is a must-see when visiting Bristol. These lime-stone caves are a natural wonder and will excite and inspire both adults and children. Take a bus-tour around Cheddar Gorge and take some great panoramic pictures of the caves as you go. Open all year round whatever the weather.

6. The Lanes
The Lanes is a retro bowling venue right in the heart of Bristol city centre. Play a game or two and enjoy retro milkshakes and burgers at a fraction of the price. The Lanes also puts on regular movie nights and gigs; check out their website for more information.

7. Oasis swimming pool
Oasis is based in Swindon, so it is slightly outside of Bristol, but it's definitely worth travelling to. A large pool with wave machines, slides and chutes, Oasis swimming pool will put a smile on all faces. This swimming pool has large changing rooms, an on-site restaurant and free car-parking.

8. Cabot Circus
Opened in 2008, this large outdoor shopping district is now one of Bristol's top attractions. Shop until your heart's content, or grab a bite to eat in one of Cabot Circus' many bars and restaurants. With an on-site car park and a large Cinema De Lux, this outdoor shopping district is one not to miss. Visit the Cabot Circus website to see list of shops and department stores.

9. Ashton Court
Ashton Court is a large inner-city park, boasting 850 acres of green land. Home to the Ashton court Festival, The Bristol Balloon Festival and the Bristol International Kite Festival, this stunning public park is a haven for all nature-lovers. Golf course, tea-rooms and on-site parking all available.

10. Weston Super Mare
Weston Super Mare is just a short drive or bus-ride from Bristol and is an archetypal seaside resort. Eat fish and chips on the beach, play arcade games and take a donkey ride up and down the fine sand. The beach at Weston Super Mare has been the home to T4's Party on the beach for the past few years which is a large music event drawing huge crowds in summer.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Cadbury House Hotel in Bristol is the ideal place to stay during your weekend break in the city. Visit the Cadbury website for more information on room deals and weekend packages.