Weekend Trip from London to Bristol: Complete 2-Day Itinerary & Travel Tips
Nestled in the southwest of England, Bristol is a vibrant and creative city that offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re planning a quick city break or looking for a weekend trip idea from London to Bristol, this destination never disappoints.
With its rich maritime history, legendary street art (hello, Banksy!), buzzing food scene, and colourful neighbourhoods, Bristol invites you to explore at your own pace. From hidden cafes to riverside walks, every corner offers something unique.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through a carefully planned 2-day Bristol itinerary — ideal for couples, solo travellers, or friends — filled with top sights, local favourites, and a few surprises along the way. Let’s dive in!
Powered by GetYourGuide
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the full disclaimer here. Thank you for your support!
Table of Contents
How to Get to Bristol from London
Our weekend trip from London to Bristol began with a smooth, stress-free train journey, thanks to the reliable service provided by Great Western Railway (GWR). The train ride took just under two hours and treated us to scenic countryside views along the way. With modern coaches offering comfortable seating, charging points, and free Wi-Fi, the experience was both efficient and relaxing.
If you’re planning a quick weekend escape from London, we highly recommend travelling by train. Services run frequently from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads, making it one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to kick off your Bristol adventure.
Where To Stay In Bristol
For a perfect weekend trip from London to Bristol, we stayed at Hotel du Vin Bistro, a charming boutique hotel located right in the heart of the city. Housed in a beautifully converted 18th-century sugar refinery, the hotel offers 40 unique rooms and suites, each designed with its own style and character. Our spacious room featured a king-size bed, flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee facilities, while the bathroom included luxurious toiletries for added comfort.
Dining at the hotel’s bistro was a highlight of our stay. Using locally sourced ingredients, the menu offers delicious dishes expertly prepared and served by attentive staff. The hotel also features a cosy bar, a peaceful courtyard garden, and a well-stocked wine cellar – perfect spots to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
If you want an Instagram-worthy dining experience during your weekend trip from London to Bristol, make sure to visit The Florist. With its trendy décor and stunning floral centrepiece, the restaurant offers beautifully presented food that tastes just as good as it looks.
Day 1 – Explore Street Art, History, and Harbourside Icons
Morning: Street Art Tour with The Wall Group
Start your Bristol adventure with a guided street art tour by The Wall Group. This engaging walk introduces you to the city’s vibrant murals and uncovers the stories behind its creative culture. From Banksy to hidden gems, it’s the perfect way to see Bristol’s edgy, artistic side.
Late Morning: Step Aboard The Matthew
After your street art exploration, visit The Matthew, a stunning replica of John Cabot’s historic ship. It’s docked right at the harbourside and offers a peek into Bristol’s seafaring past. If available, join a short sail or explore the decks and hear tales from 1497.
Lunch: Wapping Wharf
Head to Wapping Wharf, Bristol’s buzzing foodie hub. With plenty of local eateries in converted shipping containers, this is the perfect spot to enjoy casual bites, from street food to artisan coffee. There’s something for everyone.
Afternoon: Discover SS Great Britain
Just a short stroll from the harbour is Brunel’s SS Great Britain, one of the most iconic attractions in the city. Step aboard this restored ocean liner and walk through different decks, the engine room, and even beneath the glass “sea”. Don’t miss the immersive exhibits!
Evening: Retail Therapy at Cabot Circus
Wrap up your day at Cabot Circus, a modern shopping centre featuring high-end stores, eateries, and a cinema. Whether you’re browsing boutiques or enjoying a stylish dinner, it’s a great way to wind down your first day.
Day 2 – Culture, Nature & Stunning Views
Morning: Bristol Aquarium
Start your second day with a relaxing visit to Bristol Aquarium, located in the city centre. Home to colourful marine life, sharks, and coral reefs, it’s both educational and fascinating. Time your visit with the feeding sessions or educational talks for a deeper experience.
Late Morning: Dive into History at M Shed
Next, head to M Shed, a free museum showcasing Bristol’s industrial, cultural, and social history. Interactive exhibits, real-life stories, and fascinating displays bring the past to life. It’s ideal for history lovers of all ages.
Lunch: Bistro at Hotel du Vin
Return to Hotel du Vin Bistro for a cosy and elegant lunch. Known for its locally sourced ingredients and beautifully plated dishes, it’s a culinary highlight of the weekend.
Afternoon: Clifton Suspension Bridge & The Giant’s Cave
No trip to Bristol is complete without a visit to the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Walk across this engineering marvel and take in panoramic views of the Avon Gorge. For something unique, explore The Giant’s Cave at the Clifton Observatory—a short tunnel that opens to a dramatic cliffside view.
Evening: Bristol Cathedral
End your trip with a peaceful visit to Bristol Cathedral. Admire its Gothic architecture, stained-glass windows, and tranquil gardens. It’s a reflective and beautiful way to wrap up your weekend adventure.
Top Picks For You:
Powered by GetYourGuide
Hello
Welcome to Aesthetic Passports, a dedicated platform for travel, adventure and unforgettable stays
Let’s explore the world through our lenses and the words of the storytellers
