Cabot Circus: Bristol’s Premier Indoor-Outdoor Shopping Destination
Experience Bristol’s vibrant shopping and leisure hub beneath a stunning glass roof blending indoor comfort with outdoor freshness.
Cabot Circus is a modern, architecturally striking shopping centre in Bristol’s Broadmead district, featuring over 130 shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities under a unique shell-shaped glass roof. Opened in 2008, it blends indoor comfort with outdoor freshness, offering a vibrant retail and dining experience with family-friendly entertainment, seasonal events, and dog-friendly policies in the heart of Bristol.
A brief summary to Cabot Circus
- Bond St S, Bristol, Broadmead, BS1 3BD, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-9 pm
- Friday 10 am-9 pm
- Saturday 10 am-8 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience.
- Explore Quakers Friars for designer boutiques and alfresco dining with views of the historic piazza and water fountains.
- Take advantage of the dog-friendly policy by bringing your well-behaved pet to many stores and public areas.
- Check the centre’s event calendar for seasonal activities like Santa O’Clock and live music performances.
- Use the large multi-storey car park with electric vehicle charging and family-friendly parking bays for convenience.
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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Train
From Bristol Temple Meads railway station, take a 15-20 minute walk or a short taxi ride to Cabot Circus. The station is well connected to regional and national rail services, making it convenient for visitors arriving by train.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the Broadmead area near Cabot Circus, with frequent services from across Bristol city and suburbs. Travel times range from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Bus stops are within a short walking distance of the centre.
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Car
Cabot Circus offers a 2,500-space multi-storey car park with electric vehicle charging points and disabled parking bays. Parking fees apply, typically around £2-£4 per hour. The car park is accessible 24/7, and a smart ‘Drive in. Drive out.’ system streamlines entry and exit.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Bristol city centre, walking to Cabot Circus is an easy option, with well-paved pedestrian routes through Broadmead. Expect a 10-20 minute walk depending on your location, suitable for all mobility levels.
Cabot Circus 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 Cabot Circus
A Landmark of Contemporary Retail and Design
Cabot Circus stands as a flagship shopping centre in Bristol, opened in 2008 after a decade-long planning and development phase. The centre is renowned for its distinctive shell-shaped glass roof that shelters three multi-level pedestrianised streets, creating a light-filled, airy environment that merges indoor and outdoor shopping experiences. Designed by Chapman Taylor architects, the centre won the 2008 BREEAM Retail award for sustainability, incorporating natural ventilation, low-energy lighting, and rainwater harvesting systems. This innovative design not only protects visitors from the often unpredictable English weather but also fosters a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere throughout the year.Diverse Retail and Leisure Offerings
Home to over 130 retail outlets, Cabot Circus caters to a wide range of shopping tastes and budgets. Visitors can find high-street staples like Zara, H&M, and Next alongside luxury brands such as Harvey Nichols and Ted Baker. The centre also includes department stores like Marks & Spencer, which returned to Bristol city centre in 2025. Beyond shopping, Cabot Circus features a variety of dining options—from casual eateries like Nando’s and Five Guys to more upscale restaurants including The Real Greek and Côte Brasserie. Leisure activities abound, with a thirteen-screen cinema (soon to reopen as an Odeon), an 18-hole jungle-themed mini-golf course, and interactive play areas for children, making it a destination for families and individuals alike.Community, Events, and Accessibility
Cabot Circus is not just a shopping centre but a vibrant community hub in Bristol’s city centre. It hosts a year-round programme of events, including festive celebrations like Santa O’Clock during the Christmas season, live music, and surprise performances. The centre is dog-friendly, welcoming well-behaved pets in many stores and public areas under specific guidelines. Accessibility is a priority, with a large 2,500-space multi-storey car park featuring disabled bays and electric vehicle charging points. The centre is well connected by public transport, with Bristol Temple Meads railway station nearby and numerous bus routes serving the area.A Fusion of Historic and Modern Elements
Adjacent to the historic Broadmead shopping district, Cabot Circus integrates seamlessly with its surroundings. The Quakers Friars area, part of the development, preserves the legacy of the friary that once stood there, now surrounded by designer shops and eateries. This blend of heritage and contemporary retail creates a unique atmosphere where history meets modern lifestyle. The piazza, with its water fountains and alfresco dining in warmer months, offers a scenic and relaxing space for visitors to unwind.Sustainability and Innovation at the Core
Cabot Circus’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its design and operations. The centre’s natural ventilation system reduces reliance on mechanical cooling, while rainwater harvesting supports water conservation efforts. Energy-efficient lighting and waste reduction initiatives contribute to its low environmental impact. This focus on eco-friendly practices aligns with Bristol’s broader environmental goals and enhances the shopping experience by promoting a healthy and comfortable environment.A Destination for Every Visitor
Whether visiting for a quick shopping trip, a family day out, or to enjoy dining and entertainment, Cabot Circus offers something for everyone. Its extensive retail mix, combined with leisure and cultural activities, ensures a dynamic and engaging experience. The centre’s central location in Bristol makes it easily accessible, inviting locals and tourists alike to explore its vibrant offerings and enjoy the city’s lively shopping quarter.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bristol Castle
0.3 km
Discover the historic heart of Bristol at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet serene urban green space along the scenic Welsh Back waterfront.
Cheese Lane Shot Tower
0.5 km
Bristol's brutalist shot tower—where gravity shaped ammunition and history shaped preservation.
Fermentation Buildings
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover Bristol's rich history and heritage at the Historic England office, a key player in preserving the city's architectural treasures.
Old City Walls
0.6 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.6 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Medieval Vaults
0.7 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.7 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
Bristol Bridge
0.7 km
A historic Georgian stone bridge spanning Bristol’s floating harbour, blending medieval roots with modern pedestrian charm.
The Nails
0.7 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
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.
Templar Stone
0.8 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Bristol’s 12th-century Temple Church, a landmark steeped in Knights Templar history and medieval mystery.
Statue of Edmund Burke
1.0 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
King George V Memorial Fountain
1.1 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Cascade Steps
1.1 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bex's Hall Of Mirrors
0.0 km
Discover a mesmerizing world of reflections and illusions at Bex's Hall Of Mirrors, a captivating interactive attraction inside Bristol’s Cabot Circus.
BRISTOL
0.2 km
Broadmead: Bristol’s bustling historic shopping quarter blending heritage charm with vibrant retail and cultural experiences.
Bristol Shopping Quarter
0.3 km
Explore Bristol Shopping Quarter, where historic charm meets modern retail in a vibrant city-centre shopping and leisure destination.
John Wesley's New Room
0.3 km
Step into the world’s oldest Methodist chapel, where faith, history and social justice meet in the heart of Bristol.
Castle Park
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s historic heart and peaceful riverside green space at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet vibrant urban life.
The Bearpit
0.4 km
A sunken urban plaza in Bristol blending brutalist design with vibrant community markets and cultural events.
Round Pool
0.4 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
0.5 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.
Castle Wharf
0.5 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
0.5 km
Step into the Georgian home where Charles Wesley crafted timeless hymns and shaped Methodist heritage in Bristol.
St James' Priory
0.5 km
Explore Bristol’s oldest building, a Norman priory with nearly 900 years of history and stunning medieval architecture.
Alcotraz Bristol: Cell Block Two-Two-Six
0.6 km
Discover the immersive cocktail experience at Alcotraz Bristol, where every drink tells a story in a unique prison-themed setting.
The Lanes
0.6 km
Bristol’s ultimate destination for boutique bowling, live music, karaoke, and great pizza in a lively, vibrant setting.
Bristol city centre
0.7 km
The vibrant heart of Bristol, blending rich history, culture, shopping, and scenic waterfront charm in a lively urban setting.
St Nicholas Market
0.7 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.
Essential places to dine
Caribbean Croft
0.5 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant culture in the heart of Bristol’s creative Stokes Croft neighborhood.
The Canteen
0.6 km
A vibrant vegetarian restaurant and live music venue in Bristol, blending ethical dining with a lively community spirit.
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.
Caper and Cure
0.7 km
Savor expertly crafted British cuisine in a historic Stokes Croft setting, where heritage meets vibrant, flavourful dining.
Harbour Kitchen & Bar
0.7 km
Stylish seafood dining with British seaside soul in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Corn Street.
San Carlo - Bristol
0.8 km
Elegant Italian dining in Bristol with sumptuous seafood, grand interiors, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
Mugshot Restaurants Bristol
0.8 km
Experience 1920s vintage glamour and interactive hot stone steak dining in the heart of Bristol’s historic old town.
The Ox
0.8 km
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.8 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Pasta Ripiena
0.8 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
Aqua Welshback
0.8 km
Stylish Italian-inspired dining with seasonal British flair on Bristol’s scenic Welsh Back harbourside.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.8 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Three Brothers Burgers
0.9 km
Waterfront burgers of genuine quality in Bristol's vibrant harbourside district.
Bianchis
0.9 km
Neighbourhood Italian trattoria serving refined Northern Italian cuisine and handmade pasta in Montpelier, Bristol.
Bambalan
1.0 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
& Other Stories
0.1 km
Discover contemporary women’s fashion and accessories blending Scandinavian design with urban style in Bristol’s Cabot Circus.
Menkind
0.1 km
Bristol's premier destination for unique gifts, gadgets, and toys that delight all ages.
Beyond Retro - Bristol
0.2 km
Discover unique, hand-picked vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Bristol’s bustling Broadmead shopping district.
Fig1
0.2 km
Discover stylish Scandinavian-inspired homewares and gifts in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Broadmead shopping district.
Prior Shop - Cabot Circus (Independent Superstore)
0.2 km
Bristol's award-winning ethical design hub showcasing 150+ independent makers in a gallery, workshop, and community space.
Everything one pound shop
0.3 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a vibrant shopping experience at Everything One Pound Shop in Bristol’s The Galleries.
Wild Thing
0.3 km
An independent Bristol boutique for alternative, festival and dopamine fashion with an ethical heart.
Garmden of Eden
0.3 km
A Bristol vintage clothing gem where retro style meets sustainable fashion in a welcoming, independent shop on Union Street.
Good Store Studio
0.3 km
A vibrant independent shop and creative hub in Bristol’s Old Market, showcasing eco-friendly products and supporting local artists.
The Ethical Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s charming boutique for sustainable, fair-trade gifts and eco-friendly treasures in the heart of Broadmead.
That Thing
0.5 km
Discover unique festival fashion and original designs at That Thing, Bristol’s vibrant independent boutique in the heart of Stokes Croft.
Urban Fox
0.7 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
uchi clothing co
0.7 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Memories
0.7 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.7 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
To The Moon
0.5 km
A bohemian bar in Bristol’s Old Market, blending creative cocktails, live music, and artsy vibes for unforgettable nights.
The Rummer
0.7 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
0.7 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
0.7 km
Experience Bristol’s ultimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar with opulent décor, masterful mixology, and vibrant weekend entertainment.
The Pipe & Slippers
0.7 km
A charming Bristol pub blending vintage style, excellent food, and lively local culture on Cheltenham Road.
Blame Gloria - Bristol
0.7 km
Dive into Bristol’s wildest retro cocktail bar with themed brunches, dazzling performances, and a party atmosphere like no other.
The Mothers' Ruin
0.7 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
Dirty Martini - Bristol
0.8 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 Boardroom
0.8 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
Revolution Bristol
0.8 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.8 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
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.
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 Milk Thistle
0.8 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
0.8 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
