Things to Do & Places to Go

We have lived in Bristol the last 4 years together (5 years for Josh). Here are some of our recommendations on where to stay and what to do. There are also many great restaurants in Bristol; feel free to ask us if you want some more recommendations!

Some of Our Favorite Places

Clifton Observatory: A must-visit tourist spot in Bristol, Clifton Observatory offers breathtaking views of the city, surrounding countryside, and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. The observatory also features a fascinating camera obscura. The panoramic vistas make it an ideal location for capturing the beauty of Bristol.

Wapping Wharf: Our former neighborhood, Wapping Wharf is a vibrant area featuring a plethora of independent bars, cafes, restaurants, and shops. With a special focus on local and artisanal offerings, it's a perfect destination for those seeking a taste of Bristol's diverse culinary scene. Our favorites include Gambas Tapas Bar and Root (reservations recommended). It's also a great place to explore some of Bristol's history as an industrial port.

Clifton Village: Take a leisurely stroll through Clifton Village, surrounded by picturesque Georgian architecture. This charming area is home to numerous up-market independent shops and boutiques offering a variety of items, including jewelry, art, gifts, furniture, fashion, and gourmet foods.

St Nicholas Market: Explore a maze of quirky stalls, indulge in delicious street food, and immerse yourself in the historic architecture of Bristol's St Nicholas Market, a bustling hub in the heart of the old city with a trading history dating back to 1743. This is located near our offices and is also one of our favorite lunch spots!

Ashton Court: Ashton Court is a picturesque area offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. With expansive forests, winding walking paths, and panoramic views overlooking Bristol and the surrounding countryside, it's a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The estate provides a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle and is a popular spot for nature walks and relaxation.

Bristol Street Art Scene (Banksy Murals): Bristol is renowned for its vibrant street art scene, and it's the hometown of the elusive street artist Banksy. Explore the city's streets to discover colorful murals, graffiti art, and perhaps even a piece by Banksy himself. Gloucester Road in Stokes Croft and North Street in Southville are particularly rich in street art.

Pensford: Pensford, a charming village in Somerset, England, is steeped in rural beauty and historical significance. Nestled in the Chew Valley, a 30 minute bus ride from Bristol, the village is dominated by the impressive remains of its railway viaduct, a striking landmark that hints at the area's industrial past. The River Chew meanders through the village, adding to its scenic allure. Pensford is surrounded by picturesque countryside, making it a popular spot for walkers and nature enthusiasts. The village's traditional architecture, with stone-built houses and quaint streets, reflects its heritage and adds to its appeal.

Hotels

Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel: This is a nice, spacious Victorian hotel very centrally located near the venue and on Park Street, a scenic and well-known shopping destination in the heart of Bristol.

There are lots of other nice hotels and Airbnbs around Bristol. We recommend staying near Clifton Village or near the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery if you are looking for a short commute to the wedding.

London is the best big city in the world. With it only an hour and a half from Bristol, and your probable flight destination if coming from the US, we highly recommend you try to spend a few days in London while you are in England. 

Some of Our Favorite Places

Borough Market: Borough Market is a food lover's paradise, located in the heart of London. The market boasts a vibrant atmosphere and is renowned for its diverse array of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and international cuisine. Exploring the market is a sensory delight, with the chance to sample unique flavors, indulge in gourmet treats, and experience the lively hustle and bustle of this historic market.

Covent Garden: Covent Garden is a lively district known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, street performers, and cultural attractions. The area's iconic market, surrounded by charming cobblestone streets, offers a variety of shopping experiences, from boutique stores to well-known brands. Street performers entertain visitors in the central piazza, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere that makes Covent Garden a delightful place to explore.

Harrods: Harrods is one of the world's most famous department stores, offering a luxurious shopping experience in the upscale neighborhood of Knightsbridge. With its opulent architecture and a vast array of high-end products, Harrods is a destination for those seeking luxury goods, designer fashion, exquisite food halls, and unique gifts. The store's rich history and elegant ambiance make it a fascinating and indulgent place to spend time.

Victoria & Albert Museum: The Victoria & Albert Museum, commonly known as the V&A, stands as a testament to human creativity, showcasing an extensive collection of art and design artifacts. Located in the Brompton district of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, it houses over two million objects spanning 5,000 years of human creativity. The museum is renowned for its diverse collections, including sculptures, fashion, textiles, and photography. Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of exhibitions, from historical garments to contemporary design, making the V&A a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts.

Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens: Located in the heart of London, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens represent a serene retreat from the bustling city life. Hyde Park, one of London's eight Royal Parks, offers a plethora of activities, including boating, swimming in the Serpentine, and enjoying concerts at the famous bandstand. The park seamlessly blends into Kensington Gardens, home to the ornate Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, and the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain. These gardens are a haven for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful stroll amidst lush greenery and stunning water features.

London Transport Museum: The London Transport Museum provides a fascinating journey through the history of London's public transportation system. From vintage buses and trams to iconic red double-decker buses, the museum showcases the evolution of urban mobility. Interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and immersive displays offer a hands-on experience, making it an engaging destination for both transport enthusiasts and those interested in the city's development.

West End Theatre Show: The West End is London's renowned theater district, hosting world-class productions and musicals. Attending a show in the West End promises a night of entertainment, drama, and musical talent. With a diverse range of performances, from classic plays to contemporary musicals, the West End caters to varied tastes, ensuring a memorable and enchanting experience for theater enthusiasts and casual spectators alike. The historic theaters themselves add to the charm, making a night at the West End a quintessential London experience.

Hotels

We have stayed at a lot of hotels in London (especially Tara due to work travel). Here are some we would recommend.

Tara's Favorites

Kimpton Fitzroy: Beautiful old hotel in a good location. Tara and her mom have lots of fun memories here at this hotel.

NoMad: This hotel is located in the heart of Covent Garden.  This hotel used to be an old prison. It has been renovated to be a beautiful art deco style hotel. 

Other Nice Options

Radisson Blu: There are lots of nice Radissons in London, Tara's favorite would be the Radisson Blu Edwardian Kenilworth Hotel, which is in a great location.

Premier Inns: For a more affordable option that has everything you need, Premier Inns are a nice option.

The Cotswolds is one of our favorite places to visit and is close to Bristol. It is quintessential beautiful, picturesque British countryside, full of historic landmarks and villages.

Traveling to the Cotswolds:

The Cotswolds is easiest to get to by car. As an American, you can rent a car, but it might be an adjustment driving on the other side of the road and on small country roads. If you are thinking about going there and don't want to rent a car, there is a train from Paddington or Bristol to Moreton-in-Marsh which is a beautiful little town and wouldn't require you to rent a car. Booking a car to take you to a village is also a reasonable option.

Some of Our Favorite Places:

Chipping Campden: Chipping Campden, nestled in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, is a quintessential English village famed for its charming honey-colored limestone buildings and rich history. The village's High Street, lined with quaint shops and ancient houses, leads to the iconic Market Hall, a testament to Campden's medieval wool trade. This is Josh's favorite village to stay in in the Cotswolds.

Westonbirt Arboretum: Westonbirt Arboretum, located in Gloucestershire, is a spectacular collection of trees and shrubs from around the globe. This arboretum is home to over 2,500 different species of trees, creating a rich tapestry of foliage and color throughout the seasons. Westonbirt provides a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and nature study. Its famous Treetop Walkway offers an elevated view of the canopy, allowing visitors to experience the arboretum from a unique perspective. Ideal for nature lovers, Westonbirt Arboretum promises a peaceful and educational day out in the heart of the countryside.

Rambling: Rambling, a popular pastime in the UK, is the leisurely exploration of the countryside on foot. It's more than just walking; it's about immersing oneself in the natural beauty, tranquility, and heritage of rural landscapes. Ramblers enjoy diverse terrains such as rolling hills, woodlands, and pastures. This activity is a great way to appreciate nature, observe wildlife, and discover historical landmarks along the way. You can pass by ancient churches, castles, Victorian canals, and more, and you can always find a cozy pub to stop at along the way.

Broadway: The picturesque village of Broadway is nestled at the foot of the Cotswold escarpment. Broadway Tower, perched on a nearby hill, provides panoramic views of the region. The village itself is home to charming boutiques, galleries, and traditional pubs.

Stow-on-the-Wold: Stow-on-the-Wold is a historic market town with a central square, ancient market cross, and a mix of antique shops and cozy pubs. The town's elevated location provides beautiful vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Bibury: The postcard-perfect village of Bibury is known for Arlington Row, a row of 17th-century weavers' cottages alongside the River Coln, which is featured in the UK passport. The village is often considered one of the most picturesque in the Cotswolds.

Castle Combe: You can immerse yourself in the quintessential English beauty of Castle Combe, often named the "prettiest village in England." Walk along cobbled streets, admire honey-colored cottages, and take in the medieval charm of this enchanting village.

Hidcote Manor Garden: Hidcote Manor Gardens, located in the Cotswolds near Chipping Campden, is one of England's most celebrated gardens, known for its exquisite design and horticultural artistry. Created by the talented American gardener, Major Lawrence Johnston, the gardens are a masterpiece of the Arts and Crafts movement, showcasing a series of outdoor 'rooms' each with its own unique character and theme. Visitors can wander through these intricately designed spaces, admiring the diverse array of plants, vibrant flower borders, and meticulously manicured hedges.