Explore the Harbour
While you’re here, why not explore everything that the vibrant Bristol Harbor has to offer. From activities that are in, around or on the water to contemporary art and Bristol’s rich maritime history – we've got you covered.
Top 10 things to see and do
While you’re here, why not explore everything that the vibrant Bristol Harbour has to offer. From activities that are in, around or on the water to contemporary art and Bristol’s rich maritime history – we've got you covered.
Banksy
Appearing in Bristol in 2014, the iconic artwork painted by Bristol’s’ own Banksy is tucked away on the wall of a building in Hanover Place, Spike Island. Modelled after the infamous ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ painting, ‘Girl with a Pierced Eardrum’ has a true Banksy twist as the pearl earring has been replaced with an existing security alarm. Swing by this hidden gem to tick this off your Banksy bucket list.
Bristol Packet tours
Discover Bristol from the water with Bristol Packet tours, a family-run business established in 1974. Choose from a range of tours from the fascinating history and contemporary culture behind Bristol’s Floating Harbour to a cruise through the amazing views of the Avon gorge with a traditional cream tea on board.
Underfall Yard
Make a stop at Underfall yard to explore the fascinating story of Bristol’s Floating Harbour through hands-on displays and the help of their amazing volunteers.
Local treats are served at their café including Wogan’s coffee and Bristol Beer Factory ensuring a true taste of Bristol. Plus, every purchase directly supports the work of the Underfall Yard Trust.
Spike Island
An internationally acclaimed contemporary art gallery and maker’s space, Spike Island supports a diverse artistic programme including free exhibitions, events and activities that champion outstanding work from local artists. Free tours can be booked to introduce its vibrant and diverse exhibitions before letting you explore the site yourself.
Don’t forget to stop by their Emmeline café for a coffee, pastry or a Bristol Dockyards staff favourite; their indulgent cheese toastie.
Bristol Ferry
Like taking the scenic route? Traverse the city by boat using Bristol Ferry, a not-for-profit business with a whole fleet of ferries ready to help you explore, or even to just to nip across the harbor in style. Plenty of pick-up points enable easy access from Bristol Temple Meads, the city centre and of course SS Great Britain.
SUP Bristol
Is seeing the harbor from dry land not enough? Suit up and take to the river with Stand-Up Paddle boarding Bristol as you glide around the SS Great Britain in this invigorating and award-winning experience.
It can be as demanding or as relaxing as you’d like as your adventure can be tailored to match your group's time and budget. A great way to see Bristol from a unique angle.
M Shed
Part of the wider Bristol Museums, M -Shed tells the story of Bristol and its unique place in the world from prehistoric times to the present day. Exhibits include the unmissable giant cargo cranes from the city’s trading hay day in the 1950’s. These four cranes are iconic landmarks of Bristol’s harbour and are worth getting up close to as they the last remaining electric cranes in England known to be in working order.
Want to take a deeper dive into the collections? Why not book an exclusive tour with their knowledgeable tour guides to see the further treasures housed within M Shed.
Wapping Wharf
Head to Wapping Wharf to experience a vibrant and well-loved collection of fantastic places to eat, drink, shop and more!
Proudly showcasing independent businesses since day one, make a stop here to support local and experience some of the best of Bristol’s bars, restaurants and shops right on the harborside.
Bristol Aquarium
Go beneath the water and get a glimpse into a huge variety of aquatic life from around the world, right in the heart of Bristol.
Explore over 40 vibrant themed displays, and an underwater tunnel where marine life swims right over you!
