BRISTOL

The largest of all the West Country's cities, once second only to London in size and wealth. Today just some of the many attractions of the city include Explore At Bristol's world of science and technology with intriguing exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages, Bristol Zoo Gardens with over 450 species of animals, SS Great Britain, Brunel's great propeller-driven ship; the City Museum and Art Gallery with its impressive collection of ancient artefacts and precious works of art and the magnificent Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Cabot Circus, Bristol's newest city centre shopping development, features over 120 new shops, including 15 major flagship stores. Right next door to Cabot Circus you will find over 300 high street shops and department stores in the Broadmead area, including The Mall Bristol offering a great selection of high street stores, independent shops, cafes and restaurants all under one roof. For specialist shops visit Clifton Village, the wonderful St Nicholas Market and individual shops and galleries at Christmas Steps.

For much more information about every aspect of Bristol see www.visitbristol.co.uk which also includes an excellent down-loadable city map (in Visitor Information) showing bus stops and walking routes as well as the major attractions.

CONNECTIONS & GETTING AROUND
The gateway to Bristol is the magnificent Temple Meads station. If this is your first visit you may find the attached map of Bristol Temple Meads handy.

There is a frequent bus service from the station forecourt that will take you just about anywhere you want to go. Ask for a PlusBus ticket when you buy your rail ticket, and you can hop on and off as often as you like throughout the day.

The more leisurely Bristol Ferry Boats (www.bristolferry.com) will take you along the historic floating harbour to the city centre, close to Explore At Bristol, and you can hop onto another ferry from there to take you to SS Great Britain. If you are heading to Bristol Zoo Gardens, you can change onto the Severn Beach Line service (leaves at 35 mins past each hour during the day). From Bristol Temple Meads this takes 14 minutes to reach Clifton Down station, from which it is a ten-minute walk to the zoo.