Places To Explore In And Around Hotels In Bristol

By Author: Bonny Kominek
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Bristol is a city that it famed for the creative arts and a long maritime history. Hotels in Bristol are generally inexpensive when compared to the accommodation in more established tourist destinations such as nearby Bath. There are plenty of things to see and do in Bristol. Here are a few of the options.

The Old City of Bristol is not far from the modern city centre shopping area of Broadmead, and features some quaint old buildings, cobbled streets and alleyways that are well worth exploring. Highlights include the old world charm of the Christmas steps, an ancient and steep winding street that will stretch your legs properly while you tour.

The purpose built Cabot Circus is in the city centre for those that require some more modern retail therapy. 120 shops are included in the purpose built Cabot Circus, including flagship stores such as Harvey Nicols. The nearby Broadmead area also features the Mall Bristol, with yet more shops and plenty of places to eat.

For some of the aforementioned culture, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery in the West End of the city has an eclectic collection ranging from art ...
... to ancient history and dinosaurs. Travelling exhibitions are hosted, frequently bringing something new to see for all ages. A family favourite.

The harbourside of the city, which has played such an important role in the maritime history of Bristol, can be explored through the guided tours known as the Pirate Walks. These tours take in the legacy of exploration, piracy and slavery that that was the trade of so many boats leaving from Bristol harbour.

The world''s first iron hulled, steam powered passenger liner to be driven by a screw propeller is dry docked alongside the famous floating harbour of Bristol. This ship, the SS Great Britain, was designed by the 19th Century civil engineer and all round polymath Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Another of Brunel''s famous achievements is something of an icon of Bristol, the Clifton Suspension Bridge. While Brunel was not alive to see his design realised physically, the Clifton Suspension Bridge had the accolade of being the longest span bridge of any in the world at the time construction was completed in 1864.

There are several ways to view the Clifton Suspension Bridge which links Clifton in Bristol to Leigh Woods in North Somerset. For an up close look, tours over the bridge itself are regular. You can also explore the wider area of The Downs, where you''ll find great views of the Avon Gorge and Bridge. There is also an Observatory to discover on Clifton Down near the Bridge. Bonny Kominek is a retired travel agent now living in Bristol.Pen Name# recommends checking out Octopus travel when looking for Bristol hotels.