Only Fools and Horses Tour of Bristol

The Only Fools and Horses Tour of Bristol offers a fun and engaging way to see the city’s sights from the beloved British TV series. Priced at $48.20 per person, this 3-hour 30-minute guided bus tour takes you through more than 10 filming locations in Bristol, many of which are instantly recognizable from the comedy series. With a rating of 5.0 based on 201 reviews, it’s praised by fans and newcomers alike, and 97% recommend this experience. The tour departs from Temple Meads at 1:00 pm, making it an ideal half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other adventures in Bristol.

A standout feature of this tour is the live commentary and professional guide, who shares behind-the-scenes stories and background details about the series. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its booking window of around 129 days in advance, indicating a strong demand among TV fans and city explorers. While the tour is generally well-organized and fun, some reviews mention minor issues with directions and the need for moderate physical fitness, especially as you’ll be visiting outdoor locations.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $48.20 per person and lasts approximately 3.5 hours.
• Location Focus: It explores over 10 filming locations in Bristol, including iconic spots like Boycie and Marlene’s home, Sid’s Cafe, and Nelson Mandela House.
• Interactive Elements: Visitors can dress up in Batman and Robin outfits to reenact scenes, adding a playful touch.
• Transport and Guide: The tour uses an air-conditioned bus with live commentary from a professional guide.
• Booking Popularity: Most bookings are made about 4 months in advance, reflecting strong interest.
• Suitable for Fans: It’s especially ideal for fans of Only Fools and Horses, though casual viewers may also enjoy the city sights.

Starting Point at Bristol Temple Meads Station

The tour begins at Bristol Temple Meads Station, a central and accessible location. The initial 20-minute stop allows for easy meeting arrangements, and the tour concludes back at the same station after visiting multiple key locations. The pick-up point is near public transportation, making it convenient for visitors staying in or arriving at Bristol.

The coach used for the tour is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort throughout the trip. The small group size — with a maximum of 36 travelers — helps maintain an intimate and engaging atmosphere, allowing plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos.

Visiting the Filming Locations in Bristol

The core of the tour involves exploring more than 10 locations from the series, including the exterior of the bar where Del visits and the famous scene of Del Boy and Rodney scaring off mugging muggers. While interior scenes are filmed in London studios, the outdoor spots in Bristol provide authentic backdrops that fans will recognize instantly.

Notable stops include Boycie and Marlene’s home, which is a quick photo opportunity, and the Nelson Mandela House, which has become synonymous with the series. The tour also visits Sid’s Cafe, a location frequently seen in the show, along with the garages featured in the series.

One of the most memorable moments involves dressing up as Batman and Robin to reenact the scene where Del and Rodney run through the street to scare off muggers, exactly where the original filming took place. This playful element adds extra fun for those wanting a hands-on experience.

The Experience of Recreating Classic Scenes

A highlight for fans is the chance to recreate scenes on location. Donning Batman and Robin costumes and running through the street where the famous mugging scene occurred brings a unique, humorous element to the tour. These fun moments are often praised in reviews, making a memorable photo-op and a chance to connect with the series on a deeper level.

While some locations, such as the interior of the bar, are filmed in studios, the outdoor scenes in Bristol give an authentic feel. The guide explains the context behind each location, enhancing the experience with behind-the-scenes stories and TV trivia.

Exploring Bristol’s Iconic Filming Spots

Along With the TV series locations, the tour offers a chance to see other Bristol sights like Sid’s Cafe and Nelson Mandela House, both featured prominently in the series. The visit to Boycie and Marlene’s house provides a sense of the series’ character lives, along with a quick photo stop.

The casino from Fatal Attraction and the boarded-up Yuppie Love bar are also visible, adding to the urban charm of the city. Some reviews note that certain sites, like the casino, are no longer operational, but they still contribute to the nostalgic atmosphere.

Guides and Commentary: Informative and Entertaining

The tour guide receives high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience. Many reviewers mention that the live commentary adds a lot to the experience, as the guide shares interesting facts and behind-the-scenes stories about the series and Bristol’s locations.

The driver’s friendliness also stands out, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable. Multiple reviews describe the guides as informative, enthusiastic, and approachable, which enhances the overall value.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Most travelers find the moderate physical fitness level required, as some stops are outdoors and involve walking or standing. Directions for the meeting point are generally clear, but a few reviews suggest that those unfamiliar with Bristol might benefit from more detailed instructions ahead of time.

The tour is well-organized, but it’s worth noting that some participants felt the duration could be trimmed slightly, as the coach sometimes loops around the same locations. Also, there is no opportunity to buy food or drinks during the tour, so visitors might want to bring water or a snack, especially on hot days.

customer sentiment and overall ratings

The overall rating of 5.0 from 201 reviews reflects the high satisfaction level. Common praises include great fun, well-organized tours, and excellent guides. The friendly atmosphere and interactive elements make it a popular choice, especially for dedicated fans.

A small number of negative reviews mention issues with directions to the meeting point or waiting times. However, these are exceptions rather than the rule, and most users agree that the tour offers good value and lots of fun.

The Sum Up: A Delightful Tour for Fans and City Explorers

The Only Fools and Horses Tour of Bristol provides a lively and engaging way to explore Bristol through the lens of the classic TV series. Priced reasonably at $48.20, it combines filming location visits, humorous reenactments, and insightful commentary to create a memorable experience.

This tour suits dedicated fans of Only Fools and Horses and those interested in the city’s TV history. Its well-paced itinerary, friendly guides, and interactive elements make it a great half-day activity. While some may find the duration slightly longer than necessary, the overall experience delivers value and entertainment, especially on a nice day.

If you’re looking for a fun, informative, and nostalgic way to see Bristol, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to book in advance, arrive a little early for the meeting point, and bring some water for a comfortable trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially those who enjoy Only Fools and Horses and outdoor activities, but check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring water, comfortable shoes, and a camera for photos. No food or drinks are sold during the tour.

Can I join the tour without booking in advance?
Booking is recommended as the tour is popular and often booked 4 months ahead.

Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves outdoor stops and walking, so moderate physical fitness is advised.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where exactly does the tour start?
It starts at Temple Meads, Redcliffe, Bristol, UK, near public transport options.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, live commentary, and a professional guide.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price covers the tour; gratuities are optional.

Is this tour good for non-fans?
While most enjoy the series locations, non-fans may find it less engaging unless interested in Bristol’s filming sites.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and commentary.