Welcome to the start of your Erasmus or Study Abroad Programme, here's a list of a few helpful links and tips to getting started in the artiest city in the South West!

Our student union link : http://www.bristolsu.org.uk/groups/esn-bristol

Our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/esn.bristol/?fref=ts

And here is the SU's bucket list of 10 must-do things in Bristol!

1. Clifton Suspension Bridge:

Without a doubt Clifton Suspension Bridge is the city’s most recognisable landmark. Brunel’s engineering wonder towers impressively over the cliffs of Clifton and Somerset. Watching the sunset or sunrise here is pretty spectacular. We also recommend visiting at night as you can see the bridge lit up against the twinkling Bristol skyline. This famous local landmark must be at the top of every student’s Bristol bucket list!

 

2. Climb Cabot Tower:

When you’re late for a lecture, puffing your way up Park Street, it’s easy to feel like Bristol’s hills are a nuisance. Yet Bristol’s hilly landscape gives it its unique character and these hills can definitely be used to your advantage if you’re looking for the best instagram shot. This Victorian tower, situated at the top of Brandon Hill, offers some of the best views in the city. Although climbing to the top may have you feeling slightly out of breath, the view is totally worth it. From here you can see the city stretch out far into the distance. Definitely a must visit.

 

3. SS Great Britain:

Ahoy matey! Did you know that Bristol was once home to a sea of sailors, pirates and explorers? Yes, Bristol first made a name for itself as a successful port city. Visiting the SS Great Britain allows to you to learn a little about the city’s nautical heritage whilst enjoying the beauty of Bristol’s harbourside. The SS Great Britain is Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s legendary boat that used to sail across the Atlantic from Bristol to New York. The formidable iron ship now hosts a fascinating museum that allows you explore the famous passenger ship. All aboard for a bit of nautical culture.  

 

4. Explore the Downs:

Sick of the hustle and bustle of city life? Escape to the city’s lushest green paradise: the Downs.The Downs is Bristol’s largest green space with over 440 acres of peaceful, picturesque downland. On the rare occasions the British sun is out, make sure you head here for some serious relaxing. Grab a picnic and some friends, and enjoy some of the greenery that makes Bristol so special. The Downs will also be the venue for our Welcome Fair on 23 September, so come along to learn about everything on offer to you as a Bristol student.

 

5. Play eye spy the Banksy:

Despite what Clifton would have you believe, Bristol isn’t all pretty Georgian houses and lovely limestone buildings. The city has a thriving alternative scene and is home to many works by Britain’s most famous street artist, Banksy. No visit to the city would be complete without spotting one of his famous graffiti works.

 

6. St Nick’s Market:

If you love to shop ‘til you drop, look no further than St. Nick’s Market. This quirky little market is set in a charming Georgian arcade and boasts a wide range of unique gifts, from handmade silver jewellery to homemade hot sauce. Perfect for if you’re looking for eclectic pieces you won’t find on the high street. Embrace Bristol’s independent spirit and tick this shopping destination off your bucket list!

 

7. Sip on a Cider:

The West Country is famed for its love of cider! No student experience would be complete without taking a few sips of the local’s favourite apple brew. There are delicious non-alcoholic ciders on offer too. We’d recommend getting a pint at Bristol’s best ciderhouse, The Coronation Tap, if you want a real education in cider.

 

8. Say hey to the gorillas at Bristol Zoo:

Yes, there are zoos all over the country but what makes Bristol zoo so unique is the grip its animals have over the local imagination. The gorillas have an almost iconic role in Bristol culture and inspired the Wow!Gorillas project, the fibreglass gorillas you can still see scattered around the city. So head down to the zoo and say hello to Bristol’s favourite mascots.

 

9. See a show at Bristol Old Vic:

To visit or not to have fun - that is the question. Well you should be in no doubt that Bristol Old Vic is a must see. Fun fact: it’s the oldest continually-operating theatre in the English speaking world. Thespian or not, this is the perfect place to soak up a bit of culture and see some of acting’s biggest names.

 

10. Rock out at the Anson Rooms:

The Anson Rooms have played a massive part in Bristol’s arts and music programme since the 1960s, hosting internationally renowned acts including David Bowie, Radiohead and Amy Winehouse. It’s almost a student rite of passage to dance in the crowd here. However, there’s far more on offer than just music in this venue.

 

Check out our Welcome Week schedule and keep an eye out for all our ESN Bristol events here.