Christmas Steps: Bristol’s Historic Artistic Stairway
Discover Bristol’s enchanting Christmas Steps, a historic cobbled lane blending medieval charm with vibrant arts and rich local stories.
Christmas Steps is a charming historic street in Bristol, England, known for its steep, cobbled steps dating back to 1669. This atmospheric lane links Perry Road and Colston Street, surrounded by Grade II-listed buildings, quaint shops, and arts venues. Rich in history from medieval times through the English Civil War, it offers a unique glimpse into Bristol’s past alongside a vibrant contemporary arts quarter.
A brief summary to Christmas Steps
- Bristol, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the stone plaque at the top of the steps commemorating their completion in 1669 for a tangible link to history.
- Look up to spot the hidden mosaic eye on the wall near Ahh Toots, a quirky local art feature.
- Explore the nearby shops and galleries, including I Am Acrylic, which honors abolitionist Carlos Trower.
- Pause to appreciate the Grade II-listed timber-framed buildings that line the steps, showcasing Bristol’s architectural heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take bus routes 8 or 9 from Bristol city centre, which stop within a 10-minute walk of Christmas Steps. Services run frequently every 10-15 minutes, with a single fare around £2.50.
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Walking
From Bristol city centre, walking to Christmas Steps takes approximately 15-20 minutes via cobbled and sloped streets. The terrain is uneven and may be challenging for wheelchair users.
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Taxi
Taxis from central Bristol to Christmas Steps typically take 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £5-£8. Drop-off is possible near the Perry Street entrance.
Christmas Steps 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 Christmas Steps
A Medieval Passage Transformed
Christmas Steps is more than just a street; it is a vertical time capsule in Bristol’s city centre. The steep stone steps, officially completed in September 1669, replaced a treacherous muddy hill that once led down to the River Frome and St Bartholomew’s Hospital. Originally called Queene Street, the thoroughfare was improved by John Blackwell, a former sheriff, who installed paved pathways and flagged steps, creating the form seen today. The street’s name evolved over centuries, with theories linking it to the nativity scene in the Three Kings of Cologne Chapel or to wealthy merchants named Christmas.Historic Layers and Stories
The area surrounding Christmas Steps is steeped in history. During the English Civil War, Colonel Henry Lunsford, a Royalist officer, was fatally shot here in 1643, and the steps were once known as Lunsford’s Stairs in his honor. The stone archway near the bottom marks the entrance to the former St Bartholomew’s Hospital, founded in 1240, which later housed Bristol Grammar School and Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital. The buildings lining the steps are predominantly Grade II-listed timber-framed houses dating from the 17th century, with later additions reflecting Bristol’s architectural evolution.A Hub for Arts and Culture
Today, Christmas Steps is a vibrant arts quarter, home to galleries, artisan shops, and cafes. It maintains its medieval charm while fostering creativity, with venues like I Am Acrylic art shop honoring historical figures such as Carlos Trower, an abolitionist who lived here in the 19th century. The street’s eclectic atmosphere is enhanced by quirky features like a mosaic eye nestled high on a wall and the presence of long-standing establishments such as Ahh Toots, known for its sweet treats.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The steps themselves, along with many adjoining buildings, are protected as Grade II-listed structures, preserving their historical and architectural significance. The ornate metal archway at the Perry Street entrance marks the beginning of this unique lane. The street’s layout, cobblestones, and surrounding heritage buildings offer visitors a tangible connection to Bristol’s past, blending medieval origins with the city’s evolving urban fabric.Legends and Local Lore
The origins of the name “Christmas Steps” remain a subject of debate, with some attributing it to the nearby chapel’s nativity stained glass, while others suggest it evolved from earlier names like Knyfesmyth Street. The area’s rich tapestry of stories includes references to Bristol’s industrial past, such as the former sugar refinery that inspired the name of the nearby pub, and the presence of historic fish and chip shops, brothels, and tram sheds, all contributing to the street’s layered character.Experiencing Christmas Steps Today
Walking up Christmas Steps today is an immersive journey through time, with the cobbles beneath your feet and the historic façades around you telling stories of centuries past. The street’s artistic spirit and historical depth make it a distinctive destination in Bristol, inviting exploration and reflection amid its lively, creative environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.3 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Old Post Office
0.3 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
0.3 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
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.
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.
Cascade Steps
0.4 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Old City Walls
0.5 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Bristol Bridge
0.5 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
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.
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.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.6 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
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.
Bristol Aquarium
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting underwater world at Bristol Aquarium, where marine life thrives in captivating exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages.
Bristol Castle
0.6 km
Discover the historic heart of Bristol at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet serene urban green space along the scenic Welsh Back waterfront.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Christmas Steps
0.1 km
Step back in time on Bristol’s historic Christmas Steps, a charming medieval street rich in culture, history, and cozy local character.
St John's Church
0.2 km
A medieval church built into Bristol’s city walls, St John on the Wall is the last of five gate churches, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s fortified past and spiritual life.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.2 km
Explore Palestinian heritage and culture at Bristol’s vibrant Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre, a hub for history, art, and community events.
The Red Lodge Museum
0.2 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.
Bristol Beacon
0.2 km
Bristol Beacon: Where historic charm meets vibrant live music and cultural celebration in the heart of Bristol.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Historic elegance meets vibrant British dining in a stunning former banking hall at the heart of Bristol’s Old City.
The Lanes
0.3 km
Bristol’s ultimate destination for boutique bowling, live music, karaoke, and great pizza in a lively, vibrant setting.
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.
The Centre
0.3 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
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.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.4 km
Bristol’s intimate boutique magic theatre pub blending comedy, live music, and classic ales in a cozy, theatrical setting.
St James' Priory
0.4 km
Explore Bristol’s oldest building, a Norman priory with nearly 900 years of history and stunning medieval architecture.
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.
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s spooky secrets and cinematic history on this award-winning haunted walking tour led by a charismatic local guide.
Bristol city centre
0.5 km
The vibrant heart of Bristol, blending rich history, culture, shopping, and scenic waterfront charm in a lively urban setting.
Essential places to dine
Bambalan
0.2 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
The Ox
0.3 km
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.3 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Harbour Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Stylish seafood dining with British seaside soul in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Corn Street.
San Carlo - Bristol
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining in Bristol with sumptuous seafood, grand interiors, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
Pasta Ripiena
0.3 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.3 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Pieminister
0.3 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.
Mugshot Restaurants Bristol
0.4 km
Experience 1920s vintage glamour and interactive hot stone steak dining in the heart of Bristol’s historic old town.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.4 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Hat Bistro
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
No.1 Harbourside
0.4 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Under the Stars
0.5 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
The Bristol Stable
0.5 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blaze
0.1 km
Unique gifts and artisanal treasures in Bristol's creative heart—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs on Colston Street.
Memories
0.3 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.3 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
Urban Fox
0.3 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
0.3 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
0.4 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
This Feeling
0.4 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.4 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Over Here
0.4 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.4 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Ganesha
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
The Ethical Gift Shop
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s charming boutique for sustainable, fair-trade gifts and eco-friendly treasures in the heart of Broadmead.
my a2space
0.5 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Will's doss pit
0.5 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
The Milk Thistle
0.2 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
Blame Gloria - Bristol
0.2 km
Dive into Bristol’s wildest retro cocktail bar with themed brunches, dazzling performances, and a party atmosphere like no other.
Flight Club Bristol
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Dirty Martini - Bristol
0.3 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 Gold Bar
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s ultimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar with opulent décor, masterful mixology, and vibrant weekend entertainment.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
The Clockwork Rose
0.3 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.3 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 Rummer
0.3 km
A cozy, spirit-focused pub in the medieval heart of Bristol—fireside rooms, hundreds of gins and a distilled approach to cocktails.
The Boardroom
0.4 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
Revolution Bristol
0.4 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
The Mothers' Ruin
0.4 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Quirky
- Artistic
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
