Deals on vacations and trips to Bristol

Bristol Vacations

Bristol, England, is located about 13 miles northwest of Bath. Bristol, which sits along the Avon River just miles from the Bristol Channel, has been a major port city throughout its history. Bristol vacations should include a trip to Bristol's historic waterfront, now the site of museums such as the M Shed, as well as restaurants and shops.

Major Attractions

Bristol's harbor is also the permanent home of the S.S. Great Britain, built by famous engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The S.S. Great Britain was the world's largest steam-powered, iron-helmed ocean liner in 1843, and now houses a museum. Brunel also designed Bristol's Temple Meads train station and, perhaps Bristol's most iconic symbol, the Clifton Suspension Bridge. A bit of Bristol's centuries-old history is still visible in the Christmas Steps, as well as the shops alongside them, in city center, and in Bristol Cathedral, with parts dating back to the 1100s.

Bristol rental cars are recommended for you to drive out to Ashton Court Mansion, a gorgeous manor home set on 860 acres. It's only open for private affairs, but a look outside is all you really need. Drive five miles north of the city to Blaise Castle Estate, home to a National Trust hamlet of nine unique cottages, playground, picnic greens, caves, Blaise Castle House Museum, and a Gothic faux castle built in 1766 as a summer home. Vacations in Bristol can be hard to plan because there's so much to see in this large city and its surroundings.

Recurring Festivals and Events

Hotels in Bristol get especially busy in August during Bristol's famous International Balloon Fiesta, which has been held annually for nearly 40 years. The Fiesta—the largest in Europe—includes mass balloon launches, model aircraft flying exhibitions, model balloon parades, music, rides, and more. Bristol is also home to the Short Films and Animation Festival, held annually in September.

As long as you don't mind Bristol's frequently wet weather, you should book Bristol vacation packages today. Don't forget Travelocity's Price Guarantee: We'll match any lower price you find and refund the difference.