Bristol Museum & Art Gallery: A Treasure Trove of Art, History, and Natural Wonders
Explore Bristol’s rich heritage and art treasures in a stunning Edwardian Baroque museum with free entry and diverse exhibits.
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, located in Clifton, Bristol, is a grand Edwardian Baroque building housing free collections of art, archaeology, natural history, and local heritage. Visitors can explore exhibits ranging from ancient fossils and Egyptian mummies to early Banksy artworks and French Impressionist paintings. The museum’s diverse displays span billions of years of earth’s history and celebrate Bristol’s cultural and natural richness.
A brief summary to Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
- Queens Rd, Bristol, Clifton, BS8 1RL, GB
- +441179223571
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3.5 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least 2–3 hours to fully explore the museum’s extensive collections.
- Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy a quieter, more peaceful experience.
- Check for special exhibitions that may require a separate ticket or donation.
- Take a break at the on-site cafe and browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs.
- Look out for early Banksy artworks for a glimpse into the artist’s beginnings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Bus
Several bus routes serve Queens Road in Clifton, with journey times from Bristol city center typically between 15 and 25 minutes. Services run frequently during the day, with single fares costing around £2.50. Note that buses may be less frequent in the evenings and on Sundays.
-
Train and Walk
From Bristol Temple Meads railway station, take a taxi or bus for a 10–15 minute ride to Clifton. Alternatively, a direct taxi takes about 10 minutes, costing approximately £7–£12. Walking from the station is possible but takes around 40 minutes on urban pavements.
-
Car
Driving to the museum is convenient via local roads, but parking in Clifton can be limited and costly. Nearby public car parks charge around £2–£3 per hour. The museum is accessible year-round, but traffic congestion may increase during peak hours.
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Architectural Grandeur and Historical Roots
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery stands as a striking example of Edwardian Baroque architecture, designed by Frederick Wills and opened in 1905. The building features a rectangular open plan with two large halls illuminated by barrel-vaulted glazed roofs, connected by a grand double staircase. Its Grade II* listed status reflects its architectural and historic significance. The museum’s origins trace back to earlier institutions, with a rich history that includes surviving the Bristol Blitz of World War II, during which much of its natural history collection was tragically lost.Eclectic Collections Spanning Time and Cultures
The museum’s collections are vast and varied, encompassing natural history, archaeology, and fine art. Visitors can journey through the last billion years of earth’s history, marveling at fossils and geological specimens. The archaeology section features treasures from Assyrian, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman civilizations, including exquisite Tang and Song dynasty ceramics and Bristol blue glass. The art gallery showcases works from all periods, with highlights including French Impressionist paintings and a notable collection of modern art, including early pieces by the street artist Banksy.A Hub of Cultural Heritage and Local Stories
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery plays a vital role in preserving and presenting the cultural heritage of Bristol and its surroundings. Its displays include English delftware and artifacts reflecting the city’s rich history. The museum also embraces contemporary culture, with exhibitions and projects that bring fresh perspectives, such as those led by the museum’s Young Collective. This blend of the ancient and modern offers a comprehensive narrative of the region’s past and present.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors are encouraged to spend at least two to three hours exploring the museum’s extensive galleries. The museum offers free entry, with donations welcomed to support its collections. On-site amenities include a cafe for refreshments and a gift shop for souvenirs. Knowledgeable staff provide helpful guidance to enhance the visitor experience. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm, closed on Mondays except during school holidays and bank holidays.Engagement and Educational Opportunities
Beyond its permanent collections, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery hosts special exhibitions and events that engage diverse audiences. Educational programs and family fun days are regularly offered, making it a welcoming destination for all ages. The museum’s commitment to accessibility and cultural enrichment ensures it remains a vibrant center for learning and inspiration in Bristol.Significance in the National Museum Landscape
As a designated museum, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery holds collections of national importance, particularly in geology, Eastern art, and local history. Its status underscores its role in safeguarding cultural treasures and making them accessible to the public. The museum’s integration of art, science, and history under one roof creates a unique and enriching environment for visitors seeking to connect with the world’s natural and cultural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.6 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.6 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Cascade Steps
0.7 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.7 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Statue of Cary Grant
0.8 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Old Post Office
0.8 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
The Nails
0.8 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Medieval Vaults
0.9 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.9 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Charles Wesley’s House
1.0 km
Explore the historical significance of Charles Wesley's House, a cornerstone of the Methodist movement and a tribute to one of Britain's greatest hymn writers.
Queen Square
1.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical charm of Queen Square, a stunning green oasis in the heart of Bristol, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Old City Walls
1.0 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Bristol Bridge
1.0 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
Floating Harbour
1.0 km
Experience the beauty and culture of Bristol at the Floating Harbour, a captivating marina filled with history, dining, and artistic treasures.
Bristol Ferry
1.0 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Bristol from the water with Bristol Ferry, a delightful ferry service showcasing the city's stunning waterfront and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wills Memorial Building
0.1 km
A towering neo-Gothic icon of Bristol and the heart of the University of Bristol’s academic and ceremonial life.
St George's Bristol
0.3 km
Historic Georgian church turned world-class concert hall with superb acoustics and a vibrant cultural programme in the heart of Bristol.
Cabot Tower
0.3 km
Discover the historic Cabot Tower in Brandon Hill Park, an iconic landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Bristol's maritime heritage.
The Georgian House Museum
0.3 km
Step back into 18th-century Bristol at The Georgian House Museum, a restored merchant’s townhouse rich with history and stories of life above and below stairs.
The Red Lodge Museum
0.4 km
Step behind a red door into a 16th-century Tudor lodge and discover 400 years of Bristol’s history, from merchant grandeur to Victorian reform, in a free, atmospheric city-centre museum.
Brandon Hill
0.4 km
Bristol’s oldest park with panoramic city views, a nature reserve, and family-friendly spaces just minutes from the city centre.
Banksy’s Well Hung Lover
0.4 km
Discover Banksy’s cheeky and iconic Well Hung Lover mural, Bristol’s first legal street art and a symbol of urban culture and defiance.
Bristol Beacon
0.5 km
Bristol Beacon: Where historic charm meets vibrant live music and cultural celebration in the heart of Bristol.
Christmas Steps
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s enchanting Christmas Steps, a historic cobbled lane blending medieval charm with vibrant arts and rich local stories.
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
0.6 km
Discover Bristol’s spooky secrets and cinematic history on this award-winning haunted walking tour led by a charismatic local guide.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.6 km
Bristol’s intimate boutique magic theatre pub blending comedy, live music, and classic ales in a cozy, theatrical setting.
Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy
0.6 km
Explore Bristol’s rich history and iconic Banksy street art on a captivating guided walking tour from College Green.
The Christmas Steps
0.6 km
Step back in time on Bristol’s historic Christmas Steps, a charming medieval street rich in culture, history, and cozy local character.
Statue of Queen Victoria
0.6 km
Explore the grandeur of the Statue of Queen Victoria in Bristol, a stunning historical landmark that embodies the city's royal heritage and charm.
Bristol Cathedral
0.6 km
Explore Bristol Cathedral’s majestic medieval hall church with soaring vaults, Gothic Revival nave, and centuries of rich history in the city’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Botanist Bristol
0.1 km
Plant-filled gastropub celebrating seasonal British cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in Bristol's City Centre.
The Coconut Tree Bristol, Clifton Triangle
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan tapas and tropical cocktails in Bristol’s lively Clifton Triangle, where bold flavours meet colourful charm.
Lost & Found Bristol
0.2 km
Theatrical cocktails and creative cuisine in Clifton's most Instagram-worthy venue.
Racks Bar & Kitchen
0.5 km
A vibrant Clifton hotspot blending historic cellar charm with gourmet British and Mediterranean cuisine in a lively, stylish setting.
Chris and Jo's Kitchen
0.5 km
A Bristol gem serving hearty, seasonal British food in a warm, unpretentious setting where every meal feels like a home-cooked feast.
Bambalan
0.6 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Hat Bistro
0.6 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
1 York Place
0.6 km
An intimate European bistro in Clifton offering seasonal dishes and a warm, stylish atmosphere for a refined dining experience.
Pieminister
0.7 km
Award-winning British pies, piled high with mash, peas and gravy, in a lively harbourside restaurant with views of Bristol’s fountains and waterfront.
No.1 Harbourside
0.7 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.7 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
The Bristol Stable
0.7 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Under the Stars
0.7 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.7 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ganesha
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.3 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.3 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Blaze
0.6 km
Unique gifts and artisanal treasures in Bristol's creative heart—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs on Colston Street.
Zhyper
0.7 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Orendo
0.8 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
my a2space
0.8 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Soukous
0.8 km
Eclectic gift shop on Bristol's vibrant Cotham Hill, offering curated homeware and artisan treasures.
Memories
0.8 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.8 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.8 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
uchi clothing co
0.9 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Urban Fox
0.9 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.9 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
Will's doss pit
0.9 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Bristol
0.1 km
Energetic cocktail bar in Clifton, Bristol, serving over 100 expertly crafted drinks with vibrant vibes and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Hyde & Co
0.1 km
Discover Bristol’s secretive speakeasy with expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy vintage ambiance in the heart of Clifton.
The Cocktail Club - Triangle Bristol
0.2 km
Step into Bristol’s Neverland-inspired Cocktail Club for expertly crafted drinks, quirky décor, and nights that never want to end.
The Brass Pig
0.2 km
Clifton's two-floor nightlife gem: cocktails from £3.50, DJ weekends, terrace vibes, and student deals in Bristol's Triangle hub.
The Eldon House
0.4 km
Historic Victorian pub in Clifton, Bristol, known for craft beers, live music, and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
Barrelhouse
0.6 km
Clifton's hybrid pub where Detroit pizzas, rooftop views, live tunes, and dive-bar cocktails create unrestrained fun in a historic setting.
Bag of Nails
0.6 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
The Milk Thistle
0.7 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
Flight Club Bristol
0.8 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
0.8 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.8 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
The Clockwork Rose
0.8 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Blame Gloria - Bristol
0.8 km
Dive into Bristol’s wildest retro cocktail bar with themed brunches, dazzling performances, and a party atmosphere like no other.
Alterego
0.8 km
A lively cocktail and sports bar in Bristol’s Redland, perfect for creative drinks, karaoke nights, and memorable social gatherings.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.8 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bristol Lola Lo
0.1 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
The Pearl NightClub
0.2 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
La Rocca
0.2 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
Lizard Lounge
0.2 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.2 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Silk Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Antix
0.3 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
OMG
0.4 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.4 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Basement 45
0.4 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Popworld - Bristol
0.7 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
0.7 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
PRYZM
0.8 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Thekla
1.1 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Lakota
1.2 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
