Bristol Attractions

Gorilla Island, Bristol Zoo

Bristol Zoo Gardens

The Bristol Zoo Gardens was founded in 1835 and is one of the oldest zoos in the world. Spread over 12 acres, the zoo has been an immensely popular Bristol attraction since its inception and is a fun-filled experience for young and old alike. The zoo focuses on conservation and scientific research, as well as entertainment, and some of the fascinating exhibits include Gorilla Island, the Zona Brazil, Bug World, and the Monkey Jungle. The zoo plays host to various exciting events and programmes throughout the year and visitors can also enjoy a picnic in the covered picnic area, or a snack at the Pelican Restaurant. The Terrace Theatre offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with some of the zoo's smaller inhabitants in Animal Encounters, running every day on the hour from 12pm to 4pm in peak season and 12pm to 3pm off-peak.

Address: Clifton; Telephone: (0)117 974 7399; E-mail: information@bristolzoo.org.uk; Website: www.bristolzoo.org.uk; Opening time: Daily 9am to 5.30pm (peak season); 9am to 5pm (off-peak). Last admission is an hour before closing. Closed Christmas Day; Admission: £11.50 (adults); £7.25 (Children 3-14 years); prices include £1 donation. Concessions available

Bristol Cathedral

Bristol Cathedral

In roughly 1140, the Abbey of St Augustine was founded by Robert Fitzhardinge. Over the years, the Abbey was altered, eventually becoming the model of the Hall Church style in England. When the Abbey was finally dissolved in 1539, the Nave was demolished and rebuilt, and became what is now the landmark Bristol Cathedral. The original Abbey Gatehouse and the Chapter House, which dates back to 1165, remain and visitors can enjoy the beauty and peace of this ancient holy site and its surrounds. The Cathedral also hosts free music recitals at certain times of year. Public guided tours of the Cathedral are available every Saturday at 11am.

Address: College Green; Telephone: (0)117 926 4879; Website: www.bristol-cathedral.co.uk; Transport: Accessible by car, train or ferry; Opening time: Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm; Saturdays 8am to 5.30pm; Sundays 7.30am to 5pm; Admission: Free

Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery

Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery

The Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery is an impressive collection of exhibits, objects and artwork, housed in a beautiful Edwardian Baroque building. As well as the permanent exhibits of regional, national and international artefacts, the museum hosts a range of temporary exhibitions and has a variety of different periods of artworks on display in its galleries. From natural history to the World Wildlife Gallery, decorative arts collections and archaeological displays, the Bristol City Museum and Gallery has something for everyone. The museum and gallery also plays host to various special events, workshops and children's activities throughout the year.

Address: Queens Road; Telephone: (0)117 922 3571; E-mail: general.museum@bristol.gov.uk; Opening time: Daily 10am to 5pm; Admission: Free