Bristol Shopping Quarter: A Vibrant Retail and Leisure Hub in the Heart of Bristol
Explore over 400 shops, vibrant dining, and historic charm in Bristol’s dynamic city-centre shopping quarter.
Bristol Shopping Quarter is a bustling retail district in central Bristol, encompassing Broadmead, The Galleries, The Arcade, Cabot Circus, and Quakers Friars. It offers over 400 shops, a mix of high street brands and independent boutiques, plus a wide variety of cafes, restaurants, and entertainment options. The quarter combines historic charm with modern retail, featuring pedestrianised streets, Victorian arcades, and contemporary shopping centres, making it a dynamic destination for shopping, dining, and leisure.
A brief summary to Bristol Shopping Quarter
- 69 Broadmead, Bristol, Broadmead, BS1 3DX, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays or early hours to avoid the busiest crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Explore The Arcade for unique independent shops and a charming Victorian atmosphere.
- Check individual store opening times as they may vary, especially for restaurants and entertainment venues.
- Enjoy seasonal events like the Christmas Markets in Broadmead for festive shopping and local treats.
- Use the Love Bristol Gift Card for convenient shopping and dining across multiple retailers and venues.
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
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Public Transport
Take the Bristol bus network to Broadmead or Cabot Circus stops, with frequent services running every 10-15 minutes from central locations. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets typically cost £2-£4 for a single journey. Note that some routes may have reduced service on Sundays and public holidays.
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Car
Drive to one of the multiple car parks serving the shopping quarter, including The Galleries and Cabot Circus car parks, offering over 3,500 spaces combined. Parking fees range from £2 to £5 per hour, with special shopper tariffs available. Expect moderate traffic during peak shopping times and limited disabled parking spaces close to entrances.
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Train
Arrive at Bristol Temple Meads railway station, located about 1.5 km from the shopping quarter. From there, take a 20-30 minute walk through the city centre or catch a local bus or taxi for a 5-10 minute journey. Train services connect Bristol with major UK cities, with ticket prices varying widely by origin.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the quarter is an enjoyable option. The pedestrianised streets and safe crossings make it accessible, with typical walking times from central hotels ranging from 5 to 20 minutes. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Bristol Shopping Quarter location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bristol Shopping Quarter
A Diverse Shopping Destination in Central Bristol
Bristol Shopping Quarter is the city's premier retail area, sprawling across several interconnected districts including Broadmead, The Galleries, The Arcade, Cabot Circus, and Quakers Friars. This extensive shopping zone offers visitors a blend of over 400 stores ranging from popular high street names like TK Maxx, Boots, and Primark to a vibrant selection of independent boutiques. The quarter caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets, ensuring a comprehensive shopping experience for all.Historic and Modern Architectural Blend
The quarter's character is shaped by its architectural diversity. Broadmead features pedestrianised streets with a mix of modern retail outlets and open spaces perfect for relaxing and people-watching. The Arcade stands out as a beautifully preserved Grade II listed Victorian shopping arcade, housing boutique shops and independent cafes that add a quaint charm to the area. Meanwhile, Cabot Circus offers a contemporary shopping centre experience with over 100 stylish stores, including luxury brands and a variety of restaurants, all within a modern architectural setting.Dining and Entertainment Options
Beyond shopping, Bristol Shopping Quarter is a lively destination for food and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy a wide array of cuisines at more than 25 restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the quarter, from quick bites to sit-down meals. Entertainment venues such as cinemas and bars add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a place to spend an entire day or evening. The European-style open-air piazza at Quakers Friars provides a picturesque setting for dining and socialising.Events and Seasonal Attractions
The quarter hosts various events throughout the year, including the popular Christmas Markets in Broadmead, which fill the streets with festive lights, seasonal treats, and gift stalls. Street performers and living statues often entertain shoppers, enhancing the lively and welcoming atmosphere. These events contribute to the quarter's reputation as a cultural as well as a commercial hub.Accessibility and Visitor Convenience
Bristol Shopping Quarter is well connected and accessible, with multiple car parks offering thousands of spaces, including special tariffs for shoppers. Public transport options are plentiful, and the pedestrianised nature of many areas ensures a safe and pleasant shopping environment. Facilities such as family rooms and shopmobility services (though currently closed, with updates advised) support a comfortable visit for all.A Dynamic Urban Experience
Combining retail, dining, entertainment, and cultural events, Bristol Shopping Quarter is a dynamic urban space that reflects the city's historic roots and contemporary vibrancy. Whether exploring the independent shops of The Arcade, enjoying the modern amenities of Cabot Circus, or relaxing in Broadmead's open spaces, visitors find a rich and varied experience that captures the spirit of Bristol.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bristol Castle
0.2 km
Discover the historic heart of Bristol at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet serene urban green space along the scenic Welsh Back waterfront.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.4 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Old City Walls
0.4 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Fermentation Buildings
0.4 km
Grade II-listed former brewery warehouses reborn as a creative office and waterfront dining hub on Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Historic England - Bristol Office
0.4 km
Discover Bristol's rich history and heritage at the Historic England office, a key player in preserving the city's architectural treasures.
Medieval Vaults
0.4 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
The Nails
0.4 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Bristol Bridge
0.5 km
A historic Georgian stone bridge spanning Bristol’s floating harbour, blending medieval roots with modern pedestrian charm.
Cheese Lane Shot Tower
0.5 km
Bristol's brutalist shot tower—where gravity shaped ammunition and history shaped preservation.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.5 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
Old Post Office
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.7 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Templar Stone
0.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Bristol’s 12th-century Temple Church, a landmark steeped in Knights Templar history and medieval mystery.
Cascade Steps
0.8 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.8 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Unmissable attractions to see
BRISTOL
0.1 km
Broadmead: Bristol’s bustling historic shopping quarter blending heritage charm with vibrant retail and cultural experiences.
John Wesley's New Room
0.1 km
Step into the world’s oldest Methodist chapel, where faith, history and social justice meet in the heart of Bristol.
Castle Park
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s historic heart and peaceful riverside green space at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet vibrant urban life.
Round Pool
0.2 km
Discover Castle Park’s blend of medieval ruins, peaceful gardens, and vibrant community spirit in the heart of Bristol city centre.
St Peter's Church
0.2 km
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of St Peter's Church, a beloved landmark in Castle Park, Bristol, steeped in centuries of heritage.
The Bearpit
0.2 km
A sunken urban plaza in Bristol blending brutalist design with vibrant community markets and cultural events.
Cabot Circus
0.3 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure destination in Bristol with over 130 stores beneath a stunning glass roof, blending modern design and historic charm.
Alcotraz Bristol: Cell Block Two-Two-Six
0.3 km
Discover the immersive cocktail experience at Alcotraz Bristol, where every drink tells a story in a unique prison-themed setting.
St James' Priory
0.3 km
Explore Bristol’s oldest building, a Norman priory with nearly 900 years of history and stunning medieval architecture.
Bex's Hall Of Mirrors
0.3 km
Discover a mesmerizing world of reflections and illusions at Bex's Hall Of Mirrors, a captivating interactive attraction inside Bristol’s Cabot Circus.
The Lanes
0.3 km
Bristol’s ultimate destination for boutique bowling, live music, karaoke, and great pizza in a lively, vibrant setting.
Castle Wharf
0.3 km
Modern waterside living in Bristol’s Redcliffe district, with views across the Floating Harbour to Castle Park and the city centre.
Charles Wesley’s House
0.4 km
Step into the Georgian home where Charles Wesley crafted timeless hymns and shaped Methodist heritage in Bristol.
St Nicholas Market
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market, a lively hub of independent shops, artisan crafts, and global street food in a charming Georgian arcade.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.4 km
Explore Palestinian heritage and culture at Bristol’s vibrant Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre, a hub for history, art, and community events.
Essential places to dine
Caribbean Croft
0.4 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant culture in the heart of Bristol’s creative Stokes Croft neighborhood.
Harbour Kitchen & Bar
0.4 km
Stylish seafood dining with British seaside soul in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Corn Street.
San Carlo - Bristol
0.5 km
Elegant Italian dining in Bristol with sumptuous seafood, grand interiors, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
Mugshot Restaurants Bristol
0.5 km
Experience 1920s vintage glamour and interactive hot stone steak dining in the heart of Bristol’s historic old town.
The Ox
0.5 km
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.6 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.6 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Pasta Ripiena
0.6 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
The Canteen
0.6 km
A vibrant vegetarian restaurant and live music venue in Bristol, blending ethical dining with a lively community spirit.
Aqua Welshback
0.6 km
Stylish Italian-inspired dining with seasonal British flair on Bristol’s scenic Welsh Back harbourside.
Nadu
0.6 km
Bold Tamil and Sri Lankan flavours in Bristol’s cultural heart, with fiery curries, giant dosas and creative rum cocktails in a vibrant Stokes Croft setting.
Three Brothers Burgers
0.6 km
Waterfront burgers of genuine quality in Bristol's vibrant harbourside district.
Bambalan
0.7 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
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.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Everything one pound shop
0.0 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a vibrant shopping experience at Everything One Pound Shop in Bristol’s The Galleries.
Garmden of Eden
0.0 km
A Bristol vintage clothing gem where retro style meets sustainable fashion in a welcoming, independent shop on Union Street.
Prior Shop - Cabot Circus (Independent Superstore)
0.1 km
Bristol's award-winning ethical design hub showcasing 150+ independent makers in a gallery, workshop, and community space.
The Ethical Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover Bristol’s charming boutique for sustainable, fair-trade gifts and eco-friendly treasures in the heart of Broadmead.
Beyond Retro - Bristol
0.1 km
Discover unique, hand-picked vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Bristol’s bustling Broadmead shopping district.
Fig1
0.1 km
Discover stylish Scandinavian-inspired homewares and gifts in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Broadmead shopping district.
Menkind
0.2 km
Bristol's premier destination for unique gifts, gadgets, and toys that delight all ages.
Wild Thing
0.2 km
An independent Bristol boutique for alternative, festival and dopamine fashion with an ethical heart.
& Other Stories
0.2 km
Discover contemporary women’s fashion and accessories blending Scandinavian design with urban style in Bristol’s Cabot Circus.
Urban Fox
0.4 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
Memories
0.5 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.5 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.5 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
uchi clothing co
0.5 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.5 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rummer
0.4 km
A cozy, spirit-focused pub in the medieval heart of Bristol—fireside rooms, hundreds of gins and a distilled approach to cocktails.
The Library Bristol
0.4 km
Bristol's enchanting chameleon: vintage tea parlour by day, exclusive cocktail lounge by night—where elegance meets mixology in a hidden urban gem.
The Gold Bar
0.5 km
Experience Bristol’s ultimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar with opulent décor, masterful mixology, and vibrant weekend entertainment.
Blame Gloria - Bristol
0.5 km
Dive into Bristol’s wildest retro cocktail bar with themed brunches, dazzling performances, and a party atmosphere like no other.
Dirty Martini - Bristol
0.5 km
Bristol's dazzling cocktail bar on Corn Street, blending royal elegance, masterful martinis, bottomless brunches, and electric nights in the heart of Old City.
The Mothers' Ruin
0.5 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
The Boardroom
0.5 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
Flight Club Bristol
0.5 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.5 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Revolution Bristol
0.5 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
The Milk Thistle
0.5 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.6 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.6 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
The Clockwork Rose
0.6 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lakota
0.5 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
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.
Basement 45
0.9 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.9 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Silk Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Antix
1.0 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
1.0 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
1.0 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Thekla
1.0 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.
The Loco Klub
1.0 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
PRYZM
1.1 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Dare to Club
1.1 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
Bristol Lola Lo
1.3 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
1.3 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
