Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy, Bristol
Explore Bristol’s rich history and iconic Banksy street art on a captivating guided walking tour from College Green.
Explore Bristol’s vibrant history and street art scene on the 'From Blackbeard to Banksy' guided walking tour. Starting near the iconic Bristol Cathedral on College Green, this tour weaves through the city’s rich past and its famous Banksy murals, offering insights into Bristol’s maritime heritage and its world-renowned street art culture. Discover hidden gems, historic landmarks, and the provocative artworks of Banksy on this immersive urban journey.
A brief summary to Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy
- Cathedral, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TJ, GB
- +447811975275
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour covers varied urban terrain including some steep streets.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the vibrant street art and historic architecture.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly; much of the tour is outdoors.
- Consider visiting Bristol Cathedral beforehand to appreciate its unique architectural features.
- Book the tour in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From Bristol Temple Meads station, take a 20 to 30-minute walk on mostly level paths to College Green. Alternatively, buses 8 and 9 run frequently from the station to stops near the Cathedral, with tickets costing around £2-£3.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve College Green from across Bristol, with journey times ranging from 10 to 40 minutes depending on origin. Tickets typically cost between £2 and £4. Check local timetables for frequency and accessibility.
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Car
Public car parks such as College Street (postcode BS1 5UU) and Millennium Square (postcode BS1 5LL) are available within a 5-minute walk. Parking fees vary, usually £2-£4 per hour. Blue Badge holders have designated parking on Deanery Road close to the Cathedral.
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Walking
The tour area is pedestrian-friendly with paved sidewalks and some gentle slopes. Walking from central Bristol locations typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, suitable for most fitness levels.
Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy 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 Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy
Historic Heart of Bristol: College Green and Bristol Cathedral
The tour begins at College Green, a central public space framed by the majestic Bristol Cathedral and the City Hall. Bristol Cathedral, formally the Cathedral Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity, stands as a masterpiece of medieval architecture with a history dating back to 1140. Its unique hall church design, with nave, choir, and aisles of equal height, offers a rare architectural experience in Britain. The Cathedral’s serene gardens and historic Chapter House provide a peaceful contrast to the bustling city around it.From Maritime Legends to Urban Legends
Bristol’s maritime heritage is embodied in tales of the infamous pirate Blackbeard, whose legacy echoes through the city’s docks and streets. This tour connects the historic seafaring past with Bristol’s modern cultural identity, symbolized by Banksy’s street art. The juxtaposition of old and new reflects Bristol’s dynamic character, where centuries-old stories meet contemporary urban expression.Discovering Banksy: Bristol’s Street Art Icon
Banksy, the elusive graffiti artist, began his career in Bristol, and several of his early and iconic works are featured on this route. Highlights include the provocative 'Well Hung Lover' near Park Street, a mural depicting a naked man hanging from a window, and 'Mild Mild West' in Stokes Croft, a commentary on local social unrest. The tour also showcases other Banksy pieces like 'Rose on a Mousetrap' and 'Cat & Dog,' each telling its own story through bold imagery and social critique.Urban Exploration and Cultural Insights
Walking through Bristol’s streets, the tour offers a rich sensory experience of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, blending historic architecture with colorful street art. Participants gain insights into the social and political messages behind Banksy’s work and the broader street art movement in Bristol. The guide’s narratives illuminate the city’s evolving identity, from its pirate past to its status as a hub for contemporary art and activism.Engaging with Bristol’s Living History
Beyond art and architecture, the tour invites reflection on Bristol’s role in British history and culture. It highlights how the city embraces its diverse heritage while fostering creativity and community spirit. The walk encourages visitors to appreciate the layers of history visible in the urban landscape and to engage with Bristol’s ongoing story through its public art and landmarks.A Journey Through Time and Expression
The 'From Blackbeard to Banksy' tour encapsulates the essence of Bristol as a city where history and modernity coexist. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the narratives that shape Bristol’s identity, from medieval abbeys to rebellious street art. This immersive experience leaves visitors with a deeper understanding of the city’s past and present, inspiring curiosity and appreciation for its cultural richness.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.0 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Statue of Cary Grant
0.2 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Cascade Steps
0.3 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.3 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.4 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Prince Street Bridge
0.5 km
A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
The Matthew of Bristol
0.5 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Old Post Office
0.6 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
0.6 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Floating Harbour
0.6 km
Experience the beauty and culture of Bristol at the Floating Harbour, a captivating marina filled with history, dining, and artistic treasures.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.6 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and history of Palestine at the Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre in Bristol, a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
St John's Church
0.6 km
Experience the architectural wonder and serene atmosphere of St John's Church in Bristol, a must-visit tourist attraction rich in history and beauty.
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.
Bristol Bridge
0.7 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
Redcliffe Caves
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting Redcliffe Caves in Bristol, a breathtaking tourist attraction filled with stunning rock formations and vibrant art installations.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bristol Cathedral
0.0 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.
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
0.1 km
Discover Bristol’s spooky secrets and cinematic history on this award-winning haunted walking tour led by a charismatic local guide.
Statue of Queen Victoria
0.1 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.
Harbourside
0.1 km
Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
We The Curious
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s vibrant science centre with interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium in a playful, inclusive space.
Banksy’s Well Hung Lover
0.2 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 Aquarium
0.2 km
Explore captivating marine life and conservation stories at Bristol Aquarium, a vibrant underwater world in the heart of Bristol.
The Bristol Wheel
0.2 km
Soar above Bristol’s iconic landmarks on The Bristol Wheel, a dazzling Ferris ride offering stunning panoramic city views day and night.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.2 km
Bristol’s intimate boutique magic theatre pub blending comedy, live music, and classic ales in a cozy, theatrical setting.
Watershed
0.2 km
A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Millennium Square
0.2 km
A lively modern city park in Bristol’s harbourside, known for public art, water features, and festive events like the Vintage Winter Wonderland.
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.
Pero's Bridge
0.3 km
Discover Pero's Bridge in Bristol, a blend of modern architecture and historic charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views of the harbor.
The Centre
0.3 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
Narrow Quay
0.3 km
Historic Narrow Quay in Bristol blends maritime heritage with vibrant arts and waterside charm in the heart of the Floating Harbour.
Essential places to dine
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Hat Bistro
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
Las Iguanas - Bristol - Harbourside
0.2 km
Lively Latin American dining and cocktails with vibrant vibes by Bristol’s picturesque Harbourside waterfront.
The Bristol Stable
0.2 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
No.1 Harbourside
0.2 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Under the Stars
0.3 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
Steak of the Art
0.3 km
A bold Bristol steakhouse where art, design and expertly cooked meat come together in a vibrant Harbourside setting.
The River Grille
0.3 km
Elegant Harbourside fine dining with West Country steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic waterfront views.
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.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Rick's
0.3 km
Discover Rick's in Bristol - where exceptional cocktails meet delightful brunches in a vibrant waterfront setting.
MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
0.4 km
Discover the exquisite blend of French and Indian flavors at MUSE Brasserie, Bristol’s premier fusion dining destination in an elegant bistro setting.
Bambalan
0.4 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
New MoOn On The Quay
0.4 km
Eclectic tapas and global flavors served in a quirky riverside setting with garden charm and inclusive menus in Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.5 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Zhyper
0.3 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
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.
Orendo
0.3 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
my a2space
0.3 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
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.
Will's doss pit
0.4 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Something Elsie
0.5 km
Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
Fig1
0.6 km
Discover Scandinavian-inspired homewares and unique gifts at this independent Bristol gem, where clean lines meet creative curation in the heart of Wapping Wharf.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.6 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
This Feeling
0.6 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Memories
0.6 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.6 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.6 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
Over Here
0.6 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
0.2 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
0.2 km
Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.2 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
The Architect
0.3 km
Art deco café-bar on Bristol's Floating Harbour: coffees by day, cocktails by night, with terrace views of ferries and quayside life.
Shakespeare Tavern
0.4 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
Small Bar
0.4 km
Bristol's compact craft beer gem: sample microbrew masterpieces in rustic intimacy amid King Street's historic buzz.
Bag of Nails
0.5 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
The Clockwork Rose
0.5 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Kongs of King Street
0.5 km
A lively Bristol bar blending arcade games, craft beers, and vibrant music for unforgettable nights on King Street.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
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.
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.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
OMG
0.2 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Basement 45
0.2 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
0.2 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
PRYZM
0.2 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
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.
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.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.4 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Popworld - Bristol
0.4 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
0.4 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Thekla
0.6 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.
La Rocca
0.6 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
0.6 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Bristol Lola Lo
0.7 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
0.7 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
The Loco Klub
1.3 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
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
- 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