Bristol Old City Food & Drink Tour

Key Points

• Duration and Price: The tour lasts 3.5 hours and costs $81 per person.
• Stops and Tastings: Visitors visit 6 to 8 locations, sampling hearty food and drinks such as burgers, bhajis, coffee, juice, and cocktails.
• Highlights: Notable venues include Loaf for artisanal bread, No 1 Harbourside for waterfront dishes, and The Wellhead for craft cocktails.
• Local Business Focus: All stops are independent Bristol businesses with sustainable and ethical practices, offering a chance to learn their stories.
• Tour Format: The tour includes walking, sit-down tastings, and guided commentary on Bristol’s culture and history, limited to small groups of 10.
• Accessibility and Flexibility: The tour is vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free friendly—just specify dietary needs upon booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Bristol’s Old City Food & Drink Scene

The Bristol Old City Food & Drink Tour offers an engaging 3.5-hour journey through the heart of Bristol’s historic Old City. Priced at $81 per person, this guided experience combines culinary tastings with cultural insights, making it ideal for those eager to explore Bristol’s vibrant local food scene and waterfront views.

What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on independent Bristol businesses committed to sustainable and ethical practices. From artisan bread to craft cocktails, each stop provides delicious samples and stories about their unique approach. The tour is suitable for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free guests—just ensure dietary requirements are specified when booking.

Starting Point at Park Street & Park Row

The tour begins at the corner of Park Street & Park Row, BS1 5PJ, where the small group of up to 10 participants gathers with a friendly guide. The initial walk of around 30 minutes covers the historic streets before heading into various venues. The experience balances food tastings, drinks, and walking, offering a comprehensive taste of Bristol’s culinary and cultural scene.

Visiting Bristol Loaf for Artisanal Bread and Pastries

The first stop features Bristol Loaf, renowned for its artisanal bread and pastries. Here, you’ll find carefully crafted baked goods made fresh daily. This spot highlights Bristol’s dedication to quality ingredients and traditional baking techniques. Expect a tasty, hearty introduction that showcases local artisan skills.

Sampling at No 1 Harbourside with Waterfront Views

Next, the tour visits No 1 Harbourside, where locally sourced dishes are served with stunning views of Bristol’s waterfront. The menu emphasizes sustainable ingredients, providing a delicious meal that reflects the city’s maritime heritage. Guests get the chance to sit and enjoy the scenery while sampling signature dishes.

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The Wellhead for Craft Cocktails in a Historic Setting

One of the tour’s highlights is The Wellhead, a hidden gem offering craft cocktails in a historic atmosphere. This venue combines historic architecture with modern mixology, making it a memorable stop. The guide shares insights into the venue’s story and cocktail creation, enriching the tasting experience.

A Mix of Tastes: Burgers, Bhajis, and Cake

Throughout the tour, there are a variety of tastings: hearty burgers, spicy bhajis, and sweet cake slices. Some stops offer passersby bites, while others are dedicated sit-down tastings. The goal is to leave everyone satiated, with a well-rounded experience of Bristol’s diverse food offerings.

Sipping Coffee and Juices at Local Cafés

Along With food, the tour includes sampling coffee and fresh juices, giving a morning-to-afternoon culinary picture of the city. These stops are perfect for refreshing breaks and to experience Bristol’s vibrant café culture.

The Final Stop at The Wellhead for Cocktails

The last part of the tour is a 20-minute cocktail tasting at The Wellhead. Here, guests enjoy expertly mixed drinks while soaking in the historic ambiance. The guide points out local stories and details about the venue’s history, making this a fitting culmination of the experience.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour includes all food and drink tastings and a guided walk through historic Bristol. It’s important to dress weather-appropriate and to bring ID if under 25. The limited group size ensures personalized attention, and catering to dietary needs is straightforward—just specify in advance.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience appeals to food lovers interested in local Bristol flavors and independent businesses. It’s suitable for adults and older teens, but not recommended for children under 16. The tour’s pacing and walking component make it best for visitors who enjoy casual outdoor strolls with tastings.

The Sum Up: A Tasty Way to Discover Bristol’s Old City

The Bristol Old City Food & Drink Tour provides a delicious and informative snapshot of Bristol’s culinary scene. With stops at notable venues like Bristol Loaf, No 1 Harbourside, and The Wellhead, participants enjoy varied tastings in a small-group setting, ensuring a personal experience.

While the tour’s focus on independent, sustainable businesses adds depth, it remains accessible with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The 3.5-hour itinerary balances food, drinks, and sightseeing, making it an excellent choice for those who want to sample Bristol’s local flavors in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

This tour is particularly well-suited for visitors eager to combine culinary delights with cultural insights and a stroll through historic streets. It’s a practical way to taste the city’s best while learning about its storytelling spirit and vibrant community.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the tour suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
  Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free guests upon prior request.

• How long does the tour last?
  The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours.

• What is the price of the tour?
  The tour costs $81 per person.

• How many stops are included?
  Participants visit 6 to 8 different locations, with tastings at each.

• What kinds of food and drinks are sampled?
  Expect hearty burgers, bhajis, cakes, as well as coffee, juice, and cocktails.

• Where does the tour start?
  It begins at the corner of Park Street & Park Row, BS1 5PJ.

• Is there walking involved?
  Yes, the tour involves about 30 minutes of walking spread throughout the experience.

• Are dietary restrictions supported?
  Yes, dietary needs must be specified when booking for proper accommodation.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  No, the experience is not recommended for children under 16.

• Can I cancel in advance?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
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