You can enjoy Bristol at any time of year, but there are a few sights to see and things to do that are particularly enjoyable during the summer months. Here are our top 5 things to do when you visit Bristol this summer.

1. Take in the Bristol Harbour Festival

If you plan to visit in the summer, you shouldn’t miss the Bristol Harbour Festival. There will be two miles of food markets, craft stalls, live music, and even circus acts, not to mention a whole host of boats. From Underfall Yard to Castle Park, you’ll be able to watch pyronauts, snack on great food, or even try an aerial trapeze yourself.

2. Climb the Rigging on the SS Great Britain

The SS Great Britain is one of Bristol’s top attractions, and rightly so. On weekends, you can safely climb the rigging to a viewing platform 25m above ground level. It’s a little chilly during earlier and later months of the year, but it’s lovely during summer. You’ll take in your surroundings and enjoy the cool breeze as you climb.

3. Visit Leigh Woods

There are plenty of areas around Bristol where you can get out and enjoy the great outdoors, but Leigh Woods is certainly one of the best. A vast woodland of over 490 acres, it offers a wide array of shady walks, mountain bike trails, and play areas. Themed events organised by the National Trust are available throughout the summer, including night-time nature walks.

4. Paddle Around the Harbour

Bristol is a great city to explore by foot, but you can also head to the harbour and take a guided paddle around the key sites in a kayak or Canadian canoe. Along the way, you’ll see the SS Great Britain, Cumberland Basin, Fairbairn Steam Crane, and more.

5. Visit the Lido

Bristol’s Lido offers a luxurious way to enjoy the warm summer days. The refurbished Victorian outdoor pool lets you cool off and get your 20 lengths in. Feel free to finish with a massage, a glass of champagne, and fine dining.