Discover Bristol with megabus
Given the diversity of the city, and the surrounding countryside - from well-heeled Clifton with its Georgian townhouses and iconic suspension bridge, through to the vibrant Banksy-strewn streets of Stokes Croft - it’s hardly surprising Bristol’s a hotspot for TV and film location scouts.
Popular shows that have been shot and set in Bristol include, long-running hospital drama Casualty, the timelord himself Dr Who, comedy classic Only Fools and Horses, world-wide smash teen-drama Skins, and most recently Bristol’s own Stephen Merchant’s hilarious Outlaws. Making it the perfect trip for TV and film enthusiasts to soak up the best of British telly.
If you’re in Bristol for the weekend, you’ll probably need somewhere to stay… So why not check into the Bristol Marriot Royal Hotel.
The 150-year-old Bath stone building is not only a piece of architectural beauty, but also the backdrop for TV fan fave Outlaws. The crime comedy drama follows seven strangers from different walks of life, who are forced together to complete a Community Payback sentence, in Bristol.
The hotel’s city centre location sits a short walk from the Bristol Hippodrome Theatre and shopping hotspot Cabbot Circus, and adjacent to Bristol Cathedral.
Makers of the show were keen to show the diversity of Bristol’s landscape, so ventured beyond the city hotspots and into the surrounding countryside. The George Inn pub in the quaint village of Shirehampton, serves as a backdrop for a scene with leading stars Stephen Merchant and Christopher Walken. If you fancy a fun retro flashback - this carpet-floored classic boozer, complete with dartboard and fruities, can be reached from the city centre in approx.30 minutes on the C7/9 bus. On the other side of town, the ‘Oldbury Court Inn’ in Fishponds, which features in Outlaws season 2, is easily reached via B5 bus, journey time 40 mins.
Next up is College Green, for our second iconic Bristol Showstopper, Skins. College Green has long been the hang-out point for wayward teens. And this was no different for Skins superstars Cook, Freddie and JJ, who first met at this location, back in series one (2007), and then again in the first episode of series two.
Five minutes up Park Street from College Green, swing a left and you’ll reach Brandon Hill. The park is the setting for many moments in the rocky romance of Sid and Cassie. Make sure you go at sunset to recreate the closing shot of Season One, on the bench now known locally as ‘Carrie’s bench’.
And to finish your time in Bristol? Be sure to hit up legendary local venue, The Thekla. Everyone’s favourite nautical nightclub (it’s on a boat you see) was home to Season Three, episode two and the infamous engagement party. Another fun fact to impress your party pals is that Banksy adorned the water side of the Thekla with early work, ‘The Grim Reaper’. The ghoulish rowboat is not there anymore, it was removed to preserve it from water damage. It’s now on long term loan at the nearby M Shed – a colourful exhibition detailing the history of the city and its people, and well worth a visit.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this whirlwind guide to Bristol, and it stands you in good stead for your own show stopping adventure. Share your favourite silver screen locations with us on social using #megabusshowstoppers.
To book your trip to Bristol, head to our journey planner at the top of the page to get started.
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