Just moved to the fabulous city of Bristol in UK? And, don’t know what to do in the city in your spare time? Do not worry, just like every other day Uninist is to the rescue. We have brought you a comprehensive guide on how you can explore the history of the city you are residing in. Well, every city is unique in terms of museums, cultural spots and student accommodation in UK. That is why we have curated a list of the top cultural spots and museums for students in Bristol.
So, if you are someone who just moved to the city, there is no doubt that you are still figuring out your way in Bristol. This is why Uninst’s personal mission is to make the students’ life in UK as easy as possible. From finding suitable student accommodation in Bristol to which museums in Bristol you should visit, we got it all covered just for you!
A Small Brief: History of Bristol
Before actually visiting the museums in Bristol, let’s have a short look at the history for better understanding. Bristol had a dark yet bright past as the city yelled stories of its great ports and trade. However, the city also played a key role in the transatlantic slave trade. As the time passed, the city evolved into the hub for industries, art, and activism. The city kept on growing because of its rebellious and creative spirit. Bristol was shaped by its past, but not defined by it.
Which Are the Best Museums for students in Bristol?Â
Bristol has always been a city which is rich in culture and history. Here is the list must-visit museums in Bristol for students:
- M Shed
- Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
- The Georgian House Museum
- Red Lodge Museum
- Blaise Castle House Museum
Uninist has taken a pledge to never leave you hanging. So, keep on reading to explore other details such as the location, entry cost, timings, and nearby colleges.
M Shed
M shed is a museum built on the dockside and crafted with the story of Bristolians. This museum in Bristol consists of artifacts from dinosaur bones to Banksy murals.
- Location: Prince Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol.
- Entry Cost: No entry cost, but they accept donations.
- Timings: Opening time of the museum is 10 AM to 5 PM every day except Monday.
- Nearby Colleges: University of Bristol is 15 mins walk away from M Shed.
Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
This museum and art gallery is one of the finest Bristol’s art galleries in UK. With a grand museum, you can find out about natural history, world culture, and art pieces from European painters.
- Location: Queens Road, West End, Bristol.
- Entry Cost: Just like M Shed, this museum is also one of the free museums in Bristol.
- Timings: They also follow the same timings as M Shed.
- Nearby Colleges: The Museum is right next to the main campus of University of Bristol.
The Georgian House Museum
Georgian House was the home of an 18th-century slave owner. This house was preserved and converted into a museum in 1937. The museum tells a honest story of Britol ties with its dark past of slave trade.
- Location: 7 Great George Street, Bristol.
- Entry Cost: They charge nothing from visitors and students.
- Timings: Museum opens from Sat-Tue, 11 AM to 4 PM and the museum stays closed from Wednesday to Friday.
- Nearby Colleges: 5-10 mins walk away from University of Bristol.
Red Lodge MuseumÂ
Red Lodge is a very beautiful museum in Bristol with richly panelled rooms and Elizabethan furniture. This museum is truly a hidden gem in Bristol city centre.
- Location: Park Row, Bristol.
- Entry Cost: Red Lodge charges nothing but they accept donations.
- Timings: This museum follows the same timings schedule of The Georgian House Museum.
- Nearby Colleges: This museum is very close to the University of Bristol, just 2-3 mins walk from the university.
Blaise Castle House Museum Â
As the name suggests, this museum in Bristol looks like a castle. The museum features Victorian domestic life, toys, costumes, and a glimpse into 19th century country living.
- Location: Henbury Road, Henbury, Bristol.
- Entry Cost: Just like every other Museum in Bristol, this museum is also free of cost for everyone.
- Timings: Museum opens Thursday to Sunday, 11 AM to 4 PM, but only opens from April to December.
- Nearby Colleges: University of the West of England, Frenchay Campus, 15-20 mins drive.
Which Are the Cultural Spots in Bristol for Students?
We can understand the history of the city with its museums, but the culture is also something that keeps a city thriving. Here is the list of best cultural spots in Bristol that students should visit.
- Strokes Croft- Street Art Trail and Independent Creative Quarter
- Arnolfini Contemporary Arts Centre
- Spike Island Artspace
- Playground Coffee House
Strokes Croft- Street Art Trail and Independent Creative Quarter
Galleries in Bristol are something that keeps the city’s cultural vibe alive. This is a living gallery of Banksy and local Graffiti, indie shops, and an alternative venue to Bristol’s vibrant bohemian heart.
- Location: Strokes Croft, Bristol.
- Entry Cost: Absolutely free.
- Timings: Galleries typically open from 10 AM to 6 PM, but you can see the outdoor murals at any time of the day.
Arnolfini Contemporary Arts Centre
Arnolfini Contemporary Arts Centre is a must-visit for being the dynamic centre of visual art, performance, cinema, and cafe-bar overlooking the water. A very great and interactive place for students.
- Location: Harbourside, Bristol.
- Entry Cost: Free.
- Timings: Tue-Sun around 10 AM to 6 PM. Check the timings of the special event beforehand.
Spike Island Artspace
Spike Island Artspace is a converted warehouse gallery full of contemporary exhibitions, studios, and cafes ideal for creative students.
- Location: Casson Building, Bristol.
- Entry Cost: No cost.
- Timings:Â Wed-Sat, 11 AM to 5 PM.
Playground Coffee House
The majority of cafes in Bristol are loved by students because of their student-friendly nature. But Playground Coffee House has been students’ favourite as you can find everything and anything under budget-friendly prices. This cafe serves fabulous coffee with board games, artisan coffee, handmade cakes, and swings instead of chairs.
- Location: 45 St Nicholas Street, Bristol.
- Entry Cost: The price depends on the order but coffee starts from 3 pounds.
- Timings: The cafe opens every day from 10 AM to 6 PM.
What Are the Possible Job Opportunities for Students in Museums of Bristol?
The students can always benefit from some extra money. After all, there are plenty of things to manage like student housing in Bristol, food and other expenses. Here is the list of museums and heritage sites that hire students.
We The Curios
- Job Type: Front-of-house visitor assistant
- Pay Per Hour: £12 per hour and can be increased to £12.5 after reaching some milestones.
- Additional Benefits: training, flexible horse suited to college term, and inclusive practices.
Aerospace Bristol
- Job Type: Admission desk, retail till work, visitor engagement, basic admin and shop support.
- Pay Per Hour: approx £11.
- Additional Benefits: Free parking, discounts in cafe and gift shops, free family ticket to aerospace Bristol.
Bristol Museum and Archives
- Job Type: School workshop delivery and learning programme support across Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, M Shed, etc.
- Pay Per Hour: approx £14.
- Additional Benefits: experience in providing education, valuable for CV, exposure to multiple museum sites.
Conclusion
Life is too small to spend on boring things. And, when you have a knack for knowing the history, museums in Bristol are a place to go. Whether it is about exploring new things or getting a part-time job in the museum itself, Bristol has everything for students. From museums in Bristol to job opportunities, you can experience this city on your own.
So, why wait? Head out of your student accommodation in Bristol and explore what city holds for you!
FAQ
Are There any Free Museums in Bristol?
Yes, almost all the museums in Bristol are absolutely free and charge £0 from anyone. Here is the list of museums you can visit which are absolutely free.
1. M Shed
2. Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
3. The Georgian House Museum
4. Red Lodge Museum
5. Blaise Castle House Museum
Is Playground Coffee House a Good Cafe?
Yes, Playground Coffee House is a great cafe. Delicious coffee, aesthetic environment, student-friendly nature, and budget-friendly prices makes this cafe a great choice to visit for students.
Are There any Part-Time Job Opportunities in Bristol?
Yes, just like every other city of the UK, Bristol offers many job opportunities for students. Places you can work part-time are:
1. Cafes
2. Movie theaters
3. Museums and heritage sites
4. Small companies and sales
What makes M Shed unique among Bristol’s museums?
M Shed is located on the city’s historic dockside and showcases Bristol’s evolution through exhibits on people, protests, art, and local icons like Banksy.
Which museum in Bristol highlights the city’s involvement in the slave trade?
The Georgian House Museum explores Bristol’s link with the transatlantic slave trade, offering a raw and honest perspective of the 18th century.
Where can students find creative inspiration in Bristol?
Cultural venues like Arnolfini, Spike Island Artspace, and Stokes Croft offer visual arts, performances, and graffiti that fuel creative thinking.
What’s the best nature-infused museum experience in Bristol?
Blaise Castle House Museum, surrounded by parklands and showcasing country life, blends history with scenic green spaces for a peaceful visit.
Are there any cultural trails or outdoor galleries in Bristol?
Yes, Stokes Croft is a street-art hub and cultural trail featuring Banksy murals and indie shops, showcasing Bristol’s bohemian and rebellious spirit.
What’s special about Playground Coffee House for students?
With swings instead of chairs, board games, and artisan coffee, Playground Coffee House is a quirky, affordable space for students to unwind and study.
Which museums are closest to the University of Bristol?
Museums like Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Red Lodge, Georgian House Museum, and M Shed are all within walking distance of the main university campus.
