The Best of Bristol: A Guide to the Old City and its Brilliant Pubs

Bristol doesn't just preserve its history – it reinvents it. From medieval streets to vibrant street art, this resilient city has repeatedly transformed itself while maintaining its fiercely independent spirit. On this walking tour, you'll discover how Bristol evolved from an Anglo-Saxon settlement named Brigstowe (meaning place of bridge) to a thriving maritime hub, while exploring its remarkable collection of historic pubs and modern craft breweries.

The tour starts at Bristol Bridge, the city's original crossing point where boats once delivered goods directly into merchants' cellars. You'll weave through Castle Park, site of one of England's largest Norman castles, and along the old city walls. As you explore the ancient city center, you'll learn how Bristol's waters have sustained everything from medieval ale-wives brewing for thirsty citizens to the modern craft beer renaissance that's made Bristol the UK city with the most breweries per capita.

Along the way, you'll discover the fascinating story of how the Bristol Blitz reshaped the cityscape in a single devastating day, see famous Banksy artworks including the Well Hung Lover, and hear tales of pirates and protests that have defined Bristol's rebellious character. You'll explore remarkable buildings that have transformed from sugar refineries and printing works to luxury hotels and trendy bars. There are three parks, each one steeped in history, that you can choose to relax in. The tour ends at the historic Welsh Back, where you can choose between three boat-based venues serving local ciders, craft beers, and artisanal gins.

During this 120-minute tour, you'll have a chance to:

• Visit St. Peter's Church, preserved as a memorial to Bristolians who died in WWII bombings
• Explore the historic Corn Exchange and St. Nicholas Market with its independent retailers
• Walk through the only remaining city gate where Queen Elizabeth I once passed
• Marvel at the vibrant murals created during the See No Evil street art festival
• Peek inside the 16th-century Hatchet Inn, Bristol's oldest pub with a door rumored to be made partly of human skin
• Stroll down historic King Street, now a paradise for craft beer enthusiasts
• See the Bristol Old Vic, Britain's oldest continuously operating theater
• Learn about the city's complex relationship with its maritime and trading past, including its role in the slave trade

Whether you're a history buff, craft beer enthusiast, or simply curious about this captivating city, this tour offers a perfect introduction to Bristol's Old City and its brilliant pubs.