Go to Clifton for its beautiful architecture and iconic Bristol sights, then stay for the incredible food and experiences this area has to offer.
Clifton is filled with amazing indie businesses, with the Clifton Downs to the north and the Clifton Suspension Bridge just a stroll away. Here’s our guide to just some of the exciting things you can do in this area of Bristol…
Experiences for food lovers
Foodies also won’t want to miss the exceptional gastro experiences Clifton has to offer. On the Clifton Triangle, the legendary Lost & Found will take you on a sensory adventure with eating and drinking experiences in total darkness. From sipping mystery cocktails at Cocktails in the Dark to enjoying a blindfolded three course meal, you will certainly not find anything like this anywhere else in Bristol.
Nearby on St Michael's Hill you’ll also find Psychopomp Microdistillery wo host Whisky Tasting Masterclasses. These experiences are perfect for anyone who wants to try to expand their whisky knowledge and try new and unique malt flavours.
Where to eat
Coffee in Clifton
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to indie cafes and restaurants in and around Clifton. If you’re looking for a coffee head just off Whiteladies Road to Burra, Bristol’s newest antipodean cafe, or drop into Bakesmiths at the other end of Whiteladies Road where you’ll find divine cakes, pastries and homemade salads as well as delicious coffees.
Photo credit: East Village Cafe
Clifton food
Over in Clifton Village Fishers Restaurant has the finest fresh fish, and possibly the best fishcakes in town - or if you fancy a top fish and chip takeaway, head down the road to Clifton Village Fish Bar. The independent East Village Cafe has pastel-coloured vegan cakes covered, as well as hot chocolate and even vegan ice cream for a sunny day. The newly opened Sunday General is also filled with fresh bread, specialty chocolates and wines, and lined with deli treats for hungry stomachs. Head to The Mall for a delicious curry at Nutmeg. Back on Whiteladies Road you’ll find Bosco Pizza with a menu packed full of pizza, pasta and small plates like arancini and wild boar ragu.
If you're on the lookout for unique wines, drop into DBM Wines on Princess Victoria Street where you'll find a whole range of great value grapes from owners Richard, Aidan and Susan. Susan is actually one of only 300 Masters of Wine in the world, so we can guarantee you'll be in good hands whatever you're looking for!
Where to visit
Clifton Suspension Bridge
A visit to Clifton wouldn’t be complete without a wander to Bristol’s iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. Enjoy the impressive views from the Clifton Observatory down into the Avon Valley.
The Downs and Clifton Observatory
On the sprawling Clifton Downs you’ll find incredible views from the Clifton Observatory and you might even spot a goat or two on as you walk along the Avon Gorge paths. With a coffee shop sitting centrally on the Downs, it’s the perfect spot for a long wander with dreamy Bristol views.
Giants Cave
From the observatory, you can walk into Giant’s Cave, or Ghyston’s Cave as it’s often called. This natural limestone cave in the cliffs of the Avon Gorge will take you 200 feet down to an opening in the Avon Gorge and the most beautiful Bristol views.
What to do
Self Guided City Walk and Interactive Treasure Hunt
Explore the beautiful streets of Bristol on this self guided scavenger hunt and discover parts of the city you may have never noticed! You pick the time and day, you just need a phone to get started!
Create Your Own Kokedama Moss Ball
Just a short walk from St Michael's Hill, you'll find Spouts of Bristol, an award winning plant shop known for its luch houseplants, handmade terrariums and welcoming botanical workshops. From wreath making to desert terrarium experiences, these experiences are perfect for anyone, greenfingered or not.
Make your own Sauerkraut
Join your host, Romy, and learn about the basics of fermentation. You'll finish with your very own gut-friendly sauerkraut, perfect for salads, or just by itself.
Where are your favourite spots in Bristol? Get to know the city more this summer and discover new experiences available to book now in Clifton, Redland and Cotham and beyond...
