Bristol 650 marks 650 years since King Edward III granted important rights and privileges to Bristol by royal charter in 1373.To mark the 650th year of Bristol’s city status, we joined forces with Europe’s largest live urban street art and graffiti festival, UPFEST, to curate two major art pieces in the city centre – Paint Jam’s 10 beautiful renaissance murals made by local artists, and a giant, 650-square hopscotch in one of Bristol’s most-loved green spaces.
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Summer holiday inspiration – Bristol 650 style!
Use our guide below to help plan a summer's day out that’s perfect for all the family.
15/08/2023
Make the most of the summer by heading out in the city to see these amazing projects for yourself, and while you’re there, why not check out some of the brilliant local food, drink and entertainment venues nearby.
Use our guide below to help plan a summer’s day out that’s perfect for all the family.
Hopscotch at College Green
This colossal artwork will take Bristolians back to their childhood, delighting those both young and young at heart, and can be found at College Green with the glorious backdrop of Bristol Cathedral. Once you’ve hopped your way around the 650 squares, cross the road for some delicious ice cream at Swoon on Park Street. Explore some of Bristol’s best vintage shops, including Thrift, Loot and Sobey’s for some afternoon retail therapy.
Then, head with the family to Bristol Aquarium to marvel at marine life from across the world, including no less than six breeds of sharks! And if all that’s got you ready for some delicious food, treat yourself to an amazing lunch at nearby Italian restaurant, Prezzo.
Wanting to keep the fun going into the evening? Why not head to Bristol’s iconic harbourside for sundowner drinks with views over the water at Arnolfini or Revolucion de Cuba.
Paint Jam murals on Queen’s Road
The Paint Jam outdoor art exhibition demonstrates techniques and styles from the renaissance period, updated on a huge scale by 10 street artists. Adorning empty shop fronts on Queen’s Road are the incredible murals painted by Willl Cross, TOZER, Georgie Webster, Andrew Burns Colwill, Rose Popay, Martin D’Arcy, Cheba, Aspire Artwork, and Jody.
Once you’ve admired the beautiful Renaissance-inspired pieces, head to Sandwich Sandwich, Bristol’s favourite sandwich shop for a tasty treat, or head to Little Bagel Co for New York style bagels on the go! You can also treat the family to fresh and healthy pizza at Pizza on the Park.
Wanting to indulge in fine dining and cocktails? The Lost & Found have got you covered. Then check out Allstars Sports Bar with friends, where you can try your hand at pool, table football, darts and more, or catch the game on the big screen.
Paint Jam mural on Broad Quay
To see the remaining Paint Jam mural, head to Broad Quay to see Inkie’s awe-inspiring contribution on the Radisson Blu. Then, make your way to Pieminister for some hearty, award-winning pies, or enjoy a taste of the Caribbean with dinner and drinks at Turtle Bay.
Later, mosey across the road and catch a show at The Hippodrome. Round the day off perfectly with a drink or two at Aluna, where you can enjoy hand-crafted, theatrical cocktails, and if you’re still hungry, some delectable pan-asian cuisine, or head around the corner to King Street to enjoy some of Bristol’s finest pubs, from King Street Brewhouse, The Llandoger Trow, Kongs and Small Bar, there’s a spot for everyone to enjoy food and a drink or two!
