8 unmissable things to do in Bristol in 2019

Booked your coach tickets to Bristol with megabus? Then you’re in for an absolute treat. This trend-setting city is packed with things to see and do – loads of which are free or budget-friendly. We’ve picked out eight of the best activities to get you started!

1. Check out tattoos at Bristol Museum

On a budget? There’s no entry fee for Bristol Museum, so you can get your fill of Egyptian mummies and ancient dinosaurs for free. There’s a very cool exhibition called British Tattoo Art Revealed running from March to June 2019, too, which sounds like it’ll be one to see.

2. Sip cider at the Coronation Tap

Order a round of Exhibition cider at the Coronation Tap and you’ll probably get it in half-pints – that’s how strong it is. A tipple or two at this tiny pub that’s hidden away down an alley near the Suspension Bridge is an absolute must if you’re visiting the city – as any Bristol Uni student will tell you.

3. Take a dip at Clifton Lido

In summer, Clifton’s gorgeous lido is a must for an al fresco swim. It’s as swanky as the surrounding area of Clifton itself, and clocks up a spa, restaurant, outdoor heated pool, sauna, hot tub and steam room. Non-members can spend three hours winding down in the pool, sauna, steam room and hot tub for £20.

4. Eat your way around Glass Arcade

While you’re in Bristol, make sure you tick off St Nicholas Market. The Exchange Hall is full of stalls selling everything from quirky fashions to dusty vinyl, and the adjoining Glass Arcade is stuffed to the rafters with street food stalls. Eat your way around the world – from authentic Szechuan street food to good old-fashioned British grub at Pieminster – without blowing the budget.

5. Join the Bristol Pride parade in July

2019 marks the 10^th anniversary of Bristol Pride, so it’s set to be a blinder. Make your way to the city from 1-14 July, or for the main parade on 13 July, and get involved in the celebrations. Not your thing? Try the Bristol Harbour Festival the week after, or Love Saves The Day in May.

6. Get spooked on a ghost walk

Fancy a Friday night with a difference? Bristol's Haunted and Hidden Ghost walk sets off from Bristol Cathedral on College Green every Friday evening at 8pm and promises a creepy introduction to the city’s grizzly bits. Plus, it’s wallet-friendly – it’ll only set you back £5, or £4 if you’ve got an NUS card.

7. Go star-spotting on Bristol Downs

If you fancy yourself as a bit of an astronomer, you’re in luck. Did you know Bristol Downs is one of the best places in the country to view the night sky? Head there at dusk and watch the sun set, then see what formations you can spot.

8. Book a boozy cruise

What better way to see the best of Bristol than from the water that surrounds it? And what better mode of transport than an open-top boat with a fully-stocked bar? Bristol Ferry Boats run all sorts of special cruises in spring and summer, from a cute vintage tea cruise to a classy strawberries and fizz cruise. It’d be rude not to, right?

Tempted? We've got loads more ideas in our Bristol city guide. Book your coach tickets to Bristol with megabus today using the journey planner at the top of the page!

Published on 31st January 2019