I spent the day in Bristol recently and discovered a huge variety of things to do. There are activities to suit all tastes and budgets, including historic sights, shopping, shows and gardens. Many museums offer free admission and cover a variety of subjects, and science centres such as @Bristol are very entertaining for children. Here are a few highlights of my time in the city:
1. SS Great Britain, Bristol Harbourside
This ‘living museum’ recreates life on the ship as it transported passengers to Australia in the nineteenth century. The ship is placed in a dry dock, allowing visitors to see the underside of the hull and the measures in place to protect the iron from corrosion. Before boarding the ship, visitors travel back in time through a maritime museum, documenting the ships journey from the present back to when it was first launched. Visitors start on the top deck of the SS Great Britain where an individual audio guide allows you to listen to the diary accounts of first class or third class passengers as you travel through the living quarters, kitchens and engine room.
2. Turtle Bay Caribbean restaurant, Broad Quays
This small restaurant chain has recently opened a branch in Bristol, and is very popular for lunch, dinner and nights out. The Caribbean inspired food is really good and ideal if you are looking for something slightly different; it has a varied menu and an extensive cocktail list, making the bar area very popular in the evenings.
3. Jongleurs comedy club, Baldwin Street
Situated above the Eton bar, this club runs comedy evenings on Friday and Saturday nights. The comedians are usually unknown and looking to launch their careers, but they are of a very high standard and make for a very entertaining night. Around three comedians perform each night introduced by a compere who warms up the crowd; the venue is popular with stag and hen parties making them the subject of a lot of the (hilarious!) jokes. The bar is open all night and food is available before the show starts – it’s advisable to book tickets in advance.
Further information
A Dingo Ate My Jandal 