Self-Guided Walking Tour of Bristol's Harbourside History

Bristol , United Kingdom

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Bristol's Harbourside History

Active

(4 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Bristol's harbourside at your own pace on this self-guided walking tour. Hidden treasures and quirky tales lie around every corner, and whether you're a first-time visitor or a curious local, this tour offers a delightful journey through the city's humorous history and lesser-known attractions.

Bristol is a city brimming with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. This walking tour takes you off the beaten tourist track to reveal some of the city's best-kept secrets, from lesser-known alleyways to hidden underground vaults. Join Amanda, who has lived in Bristol for over 23 years, on the cobblestone streets of Bristol's harbourside and be transported through centuries of quirky history and architectural marvels.

You'll discover some of Bristol's iconic landmarks, starting with the awe-inspiring St. Mary Redcliffe Church and the Tramway Rail Monument. As you meander, you'll pass hidden medieval alleyways and hear about ancient burial grounds.

Available options

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Bristol's Harbourside History

What's included

Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it

Get unlimited, lifetime use of the the virtual tour option

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Pass by the awe-inspiring St. Mary Redcliffe Church, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture that has stood as a landmark in Bristol for centuries. Note that time spent at optional stops is not included.

As you meander through the city, pass by the Quaker Burial Ground, a serene spot steeped in history and tranquility. Note that time spent at optional stops is not included.

Stroll through Queen Square and hear stories about its past, including the amusing tale of how a small rodent brought down a king. Note that time spent at optional stops is not included.

Pass by the Bristol Old Vic Theatre, a cultural gem with a rich history of performances and artistic expression. Note that time spent at optional stops, and admission tickets, are not included.

Walk across Redcliffe Bridge, a bascule bridge over the floating harbour in Bristol. Note that time spent at optional stops is not included.

Catch a glimpse of The Corn Exchange, a historic site where grains were once traded and Bristol's vibrant commercial history comes to life. Note that time spent at optional stops is not included.

Pass by St John's Church and notice the amusing discrepancy with the statues outside, adding a touch of whimsy to Bristol's architectural landscape. Note that time spent at optional stops is not included.

As you reach your final stop, St Stephen's Church, take in its architectural beauty and reflect on the centuries of history that have shaped Bristol. Note that time spent at optional stops is not included.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Transportation

Food and drink

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour begins outside the North Porch of St. Mary Redcliffe Church, Redcliffe Way, Bristol BS1.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Bristol

Bristol is a vibrant and historic city in South West England, known for its maritime heritage, creative culture, and iconic street art. The city offers a unique blend of modern attractions and historic charm, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Bristol Harbour

Bristol Harbour is a historic harbor and a vibrant cultural hub, offering a mix of attractions, restaurants, and bars. The harbor is a great place to explore the city's maritime heritage and enjoy the waterfront.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Clifton Suspension Bridge

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic landmark in Bristol, offering stunning views of the Avon Gorge and the surrounding countryside. The bridge is a popular spot for walks, photography, and picnics.

Architectural/Nature 1-2 hours Free

Bristol Zoo Gardens

Bristol Zoo Gardens is a popular attraction for families, offering a wide range of animals, beautiful gardens, and interactive exhibits. The zoo is home to over 400 species and is a great place to spend a day with the family.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day £20-£25 per adult, £12-£15 per child

Street Art Tour

Bristol is famous for its street art, and a street art tour is a great way to explore the city's creative side. The tour takes you to some of the city's most famous murals, including works by Banksy and other local artists.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free or guided tours available for a fee

We The Curious

We The Curious is a science and discovery center in Bristol, offering a range of interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. The center is a great place to learn about science, technology, and the natural world.

Museum/Educational 2-3 hours £15-£20 per adult, £10-£15 per child

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bristol Cider

Bristol is famous for its cider, made from locally grown apples. The city has a rich cider-making tradition, and there are several cider bars and pubs where you can sample the local brews.

Drink Contains alcohol

Bristol Fish and Chips

Fish and chips is a classic British dish, and Bristol is known for its excellent seafood. The city has several fish and chip shops, serving up fresh, crispy fish with a variety of sides.

Main Course Contains gluten and seafood

Bristol Cheese Toastie

A Bristol Cheese Toastie is a grilled cheese sandwich, made with local cheddar cheese and served on sourdough bread. It's a popular snack in the city, often served with a side of chutney or pickles.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy

Bristol Cream Tea

Cream tea is a traditional British treat, consisting of scones, clotted cream, jam, and a pot of tea. Bristol has several cafes and tea rooms where you can enjoy this classic dish.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Avon Gorge Cycling along the Bristol to Bath Railway Path Kayaking on the River Avon Picnicking in Brandon Hill Park Visiting the Bristol Botanical Garden Enjoying a spa day at the Bristol Harbour Hotel Visiting the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery Exploring the street art scene

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Bristol, with pleasant weather and a variety of outdoor festivals and events. The city is bustling with tourists during this period.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (GMT+0) or BST (GMT+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bristol is generally a safe city for visitors, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Bristol Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Bristol Temple Meads, Bristol Parkway

By bus

Bristol Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network in Bristol is comprehensive, with frequent services covering the city and surrounding areas. The First Bus network is the main provider, with a variety of routes and ticket options.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bristol Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Clifton Harbourside Stokes Croft Cribbs Causeway

Day trips

Bath

20 km (12 miles) • Full day

Bath is a historic city in Somerset, known for its Roman-built baths and Georgian architecture. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to several museums, galleries, and attractions.

Cotswolds

60 km (37 miles) • Full day to overnight

The Cotswolds is a region of England known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and historic attractions. The region is a popular destination for walking, cycling, and exploring the countryside.

Cardiff

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Cardiff is the capital of Wales, known for its castle, museums, and shopping. The city is a vibrant and cultural destination, offering a range of attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.

Festivals

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta • August (specific dates vary) Bristol Harbour Festival • July (specific dates vary) Bristol Pride • July (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery for a fascinating look at the city's history and culture.
Explore the street art scene in Stokes Croft and the city center.
Take a boat tour of Bristol Harbour to see the city from a different perspective.
Visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge for stunning views of the Avon Gorge and the surrounding countryside.
Sample the local cider at one of Bristol's many cider bars and pubs.