Banksy’s Well Hung Lover: Bristol’s Iconic Street Art Mural
Discover Banksy’s cheeky Well Hung Lover mural, Bristol’s first legal street art and a bold symbol of urban creativity and defiance.
Banksy’s Well Hung Lover is a provocative and cheeky mural painted in 2006 on the side of a former sexual health clinic in Bristol. Featuring a naked man hanging from a windowsill to avoid detection by a suited figure and a lingerie-clad woman, it became the UK’s first legal street art after a public vote. Despite vandalism attempts, it remains a beloved symbol of Bristol’s vibrant urban art scene and cultural identity.
A brief summary to Banksy’s Well Hung Lover
- 1 Unity St, Bristol, BS1 5HH, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best natural lighting to appreciate the mural’s details and colors.
- View the mural from the Park Street bridge opposite Frogmore Street for the clearest perspective.
- Respect the artwork by not touching or attempting to climb near the mural, as it is about five meters above street level.
- Explore nearby street art in Bristol’s city center to experience the wider urban art scene.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Bristol Bus Service routes 1, 2, or 3 to Park Street stop, approximately 10-15 minutes from Bristol city center. Buses run frequently with fares around £2-£3. From the stop, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the mural. Note that parking near Park Street is limited.
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Walking
If you are in central Bristol, walking to 1 Unity Street is easy and takes about 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point. The terrain is urban and accessible, with well-maintained pavements. Ideal for exploring the city’s street art on foot.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Bristol Temple Meads station or city center to the mural takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, costing approximately £5-£10. This option is convenient for quick access but may be limited by traffic during peak hours.
Banksy’s Well Hung Lover location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Banksy’s Well Hung Lover
A Bold Statement in Bristol’s Urban Landscape
Banksy’s Well Hung Lover mural, located at 1 Unity Street in Bristol, is a striking piece of street art painted in 2006. Set on the side wall of what was once a sexual health clinic, the mural depicts a naked man dangling from a window ledge by one arm, his other hand clutching the window frame. Above him, a suited man peers out angrily, while a woman in lingerie stands behind, resting a hand on the suited man’s shoulder. This scene of clandestine infidelity is rendered with Banksy’s signature blend of humor, irony, and social commentary.From Controversy to Civic Treasure
Initially, the mural was unsanctioned, appearing during a citywide crackdown on graffiti. However, the building’s owner, a member of the Massive Attack music group, had commissioned the work. When the Bristol City Council acquired the property, they held a public poll to decide the mural’s fate. An overwhelming 97% of respondents voted to preserve it, making Well Hung Lover the first street art piece in the UK to receive retrospective legal protection. This public endorsement transformed the mural into a cherished symbol of Bristol’s rebellious spirit and artistic identity.The Mural’s Location and Viewing Experience
The artwork is positioned about five meters above street level on Frogmore Street, best viewed from the Park Street bridge across the road. This vantage point offers a clear view of the entire scene and allows visitors to appreciate the detailed stenciling and visual innuendo. The mural’s placement on a former sexual health clinic adds layers of irony and context, enhancing its narrative impact.Challenges and Preservation Efforts
Well Hung Lover has faced its share of challenges. In 2009, vandals fired blue paintballs at the mural, partially defacing it. While some paint splatters were removed, others remain to avoid damaging the artwork. In 2018, it was again targeted with black graffiti tags. Despite these incidents, the mural endures, with protective measures and public support ensuring its survival as a vital piece of street art heritage.Artistic and Cultural Significance
Banksy’s mural is more than just graffiti; it is a cultural landmark that reflects Bristol’s dynamic urban art scene. It embodies themes of secrecy, infidelity, and social satire, inviting viewers to engage with its playful yet provocative imagery. The mural’s survival and official recognition highlight the evolving relationship between street art and public acceptance, marking a pivotal moment in the legitimization of graffiti as a respected art form.Continuing Legacy and Community Engagement
In 2020, the mural was incorporated into Bristol’s Festival of Light, where it was animated alongside other artworks to celebrate the city’s history and diversity. The building housing the mural was auctioned in early 2025 with covenants ensuring the mural’s preservation and public visibility. Well Hung Lover remains a must-see for visitors interested in street art, urban culture, and the unique character of Bristol’s creative landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Cascade Steps
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The Nails
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Prince Street Bridge
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Floating Harbour
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St Mary Le Port Church
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M Shed
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Unmissable attractions to see
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
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The Georgian House Museum
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Statue of Queen Victoria
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Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy
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Explore Bristol’s rich history and iconic Banksy street art on a captivating guided walking tour from College Green.
Bristol Cathedral
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St George's Bristol
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Bristol Beacon
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The Red Lodge Museum
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Harbourside
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Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
The Centre
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Watershed
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A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Bristol Aquarium
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We The Curious
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The Bristol Wheel
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Soar above Bristol’s iconic landmarks on The Bristol Wheel, a dazzling Ferris ride offering stunning panoramic city views day and night.
Essential places to dine
Ciao Amici Restaurant
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Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Hat Bistro
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Bambalan
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No.1 Harbourside
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The Bristol Stable
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Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Pieminister
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Award-winning British pies, piled high with mash, peas and gravy, in a lively harbourside restaurant with views of Bristol’s fountains and waterfront.
Under the Stars
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Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
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Las Iguanas - Bristol - Harbourside
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Four Wise Monkeys
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Steak of the Art
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Botanist Bristol
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The River Grille
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Pasta Ripiena
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A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
Rick's
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Discover Rick's in Bristol - where exceptional cocktails meet delightful brunches in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Uncle Sam's Vintage
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Ganesha
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my a2space
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Zhyper
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Will's doss pit
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Orendo
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Blaze
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Memories
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Quadrant Trading
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Japonicat
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Clockwork Rose
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Hyde & Co
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Lively
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Street Art
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
