What’s On in Bristol? 25 Fun Activities and Events You’ll Love
Did you know that Bristol is home to the world's first ever bungee jump? This summer, before you begin island hopping in Europe, consider discovering the happening city of Bristol. From music fests to days out at the museums, a short break here will make you want to come back for more.
If you’re looking for exciting things to do in Bristol in 2025, you’re in the right place. This vibrant South West city is one of the UK’s top destinations for weekend breaks, days out and unique experiences. Known for its buzzing harbourside, street art scene, independent food markets and historic landmarks, Bristol offers something for every kind of tourist.
Whether you’re planning a couples’ getaway or a family adventure, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Bristol. From bungee jumping over the city to gin tasting, river cruises, art exhibitions and live music events, this city offers a plethora of activities.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked 25 of the best things to do in Bristol this year. You’ll find a mix of current local events, unique activities available through Red Letter Days, and year-round attractions perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. With so much to see and do, our Bristol experiences cover a wide range of interests, budgets and group sizes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local searching for inspiration, this curated list will help you make the most of your time in one of the UK’s most exciting cities.
Ready to explore Bristol like never before? Let’s dive in!
1. Lost Track of Time Open Air at Motion Bristol
Dance the day away at one of Bristol’s top open-air electronic events. With DJs like Anish Kumar lighting up the decks, it’s the perfect spot for music lovers and festival fans.
2. Two-Night Stay with Dinner at Thornbury Castle for Two
Enjoy a luxury city break with a two-night escape at a stylish Bristol hotel, complete with dinner and breakfast. A top choice for romantic getaways or anniversary treats.
3. Translated By Festival – A Celebration of World Literature
Celebrate translated fiction and global storytelling at this cultural gem, with talks from Booker Prize-nominated translators and interactive workshops.
4. Gunsborne Afternoon Tea at The Thornbury Castle Hotel
Indulge in a quintessentially British afternoon tea in elegant surroundings, ideal for birthdays, baby showers, or a relaxing weekend treat.
5. Decolonising Jamaican Flora Exhibition at Bristol Museum
Explore botanical heritage through a new lens with this important and eye-opening exhibition, perfect for curious minds and history lovers.
6. Beer Tasting and Distillery Tour for Two
Savour small-batch beers and learn the secrets of distillation with an expert-led beer tasting session – a must for lager enthusiasts.
7. Ride the Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults Tour
Uncover the hidden secrets beneath one of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks on a guided vaults tour. Ideal for history buffs and curious explorers.
8. Stand up Paddleboarding Experience
Learn all about paddleboarding with this hands-on two hour introduction featuring all the essentials from a qualified instructor. After the briefing, hit the River Avon for some stand up paddleboarding action.
9. Ezra Furman Live at Rough Trade
Catch the acclaimed indie artist live in Bristol’s legendary Rough Trade venue. One of the top live music gigs in May 2025.
10. Street Art Walking Tour of Bristol
Follow in the footsteps of Banksy and uncover murals and graffiti from the city’s vibrant art scene on a guided street art tour.
11. Skyline Sightseeing Cruise in Bristol Harbour
Soak up Bristol’s historic harbourside on a tranquil boat cruise, offering stunning views and fascinating commentary.
12. Target Archery Experience for Two
Learn a new skill with this target archery experience designed to teach you safe shooting techniques. From how to hold the bow and arrow correctly to the basic fundamentals of shooting at the targets, you're sure to have a fun time with the guidance of an expert tutor.
13. Helicopter Ride Over Bristol
See Bristol from above with a magical sunrise or sunset ride. An unforgettable experience for birthdays, proposals or bucket lists.
14. Bungee Jumping
Experience the incredible rush of freefall and plummet towards the ground before the bungee rope reaches its return point and safely pings backwards. After all, there's no better place to bungee jump than the city where the first known jump took place.
15. Immersive Theatre Experience – Bristol Hippodrome
Catch a matinee mingle or full-scale production at this iconic theatre, offering top shows and cultural performances throughout the year.
16. Photography Tour of Bristol’s Landmarks
Perfect your camera skills and snap iconic sights from the best angles, guided by a local professional photographer.
17. Relaxing Spa Day at The Club and Spa Bristol
Unwind with a full spa day including massages, facials and use of thermal facilities. A serene retreat from city bustle.
18. Battle Axe Experience
Enjoy a thrilling axe throwing experience with your friends and family with this 90-minute lesson by an expert who will teach you all about the art of throwing an axe. Channel that Viking ferocity with this uniquely intoxicating pastime.
19. Bristol Aquarium Entry for Two
Get up close with marine life from across the globe at this popular city centre attraction. Family-friendly and educational.
20. Comedy Night at The Comedy Box
Laugh the night away with local and international acts performing stand-up and improv in one of Bristol’s best comedy clubs.
21. Harbourside Dining Experience for Two
Tuck into delicious dishes at one of Bristol’s trendy harbourside restaurants with a scenic waterside view.
22. Climbing and Abseiling Adventure
Scale Bristol’s outdoor climbing walls or abseil down cliffs on an action-packed adventure – a favourite for thrill seekers.
23. Bristol Film Festival with Wine Tasting
Perfect for a film and wine enthusiast, Bristol's popular film festival paired with a wine tasting at the Averys Wine Cellar. Enjoy this perfect combination of watching a cult classic on the big screen and a little tipple to enjoy.
24. Pottery Class and Studio Tour
Create your own ceramic masterpiece in a local pottery studio. A mindful, artistic experience that makes for a unique gift.
25. Sustainable Shopping and Eco Market Tour
Discover Bristol’s ethical and independent shops on a guided walk through its best eco-conscious markets and zero-waste hubs.
Wrap-Up Your Perfect Bristol Day Out
From live gigs and foodie adventures to heritage sites and sustainable experiences, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Bristol. So why not treat yourself or someone special to a Bristol day out filled with discovery, laughter and joy?
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Suhani Lotlikar
Content Writer
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