11 hidden gems to find in Bristol - including a century-old drinking den
Many of these tucked away delights you will pass by without knowing!
You'll likely find a slice of history and culture down every corner and alley you turn in Bristol - and a Greggs.
The city is home to so much heritage that you can forgive most of its residents for not knowing every hidden gem tucked away just out of plain sight. It’s true, whether you are new to the area or have spent your whole life in Bristol, you will never get tired of exploring.
BristolWorld has jotted down a list of 11 of our favourite hidden gems that we’re ready to share. From the old to the new, away from the usual sites and shopping centres, this list should lead you down rabbit holes and interesting turns with fascinating stories.
From a medieval church which withstood heavy German bombing to one of the city’s last remaining ‘proper’ pubs - here are 11 hidden gems to be found in Bristol:
BristolWorld has jotted down a list of 11 of our favourite hidden gems that we’re ready to share. From the old to the new, away from the usual sites and shopping centres, this list should lead you down rabbit holes and interesting turns with fascinating stories.
9. University of Bristol’s Botanic Gardens
One of the city’s best kept secrets. These gardens offer a idyllic oasis of calm in Bristol. Tucked away in Stoke Bishop, the garden was established in 1882 and offers a lovely day out to its guests with the chance to learn more about the hundreds of plants on the site.
10. Abandoned Redcliffe Railroad
The Redcliffe Tunnel is a 282 yard long stretch with its entrance off Lower Guinea Street. It was used as part of the Harbourside Railway, which opened in 1872 before it was closed in 1964. Its construction involved the demolition of a nearby vicarage and the removal and re-internment of a graveyard at Arnos Vale cemetery.
11. Clifton Suspension Bridge vaults
Twenty years ago, contractors made the incredible and accidental discovery of secret vaults hidden beneath the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Today, people are able to take tours of the 12 chambers, built to provide a platformer for a bridge tower never needed.
12. Knowle Constitutional Club
You can find this drinking den buried under a Victorian villa in south Bristol. Access is through an inconspicuous black door and inside you’ll find a snug bar area decked out with restored benches that have been here since the club opened its doors as a business men’s club back in 1904.