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POINT OF INTEREST

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Queens Rd., Bristol, England

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, housed in a majestic Edwardian baroque building, dazzles with its eclectic treasures. Visitors can explore 19 dynamic galleries brimming with ancient mummies, European and Asian art, and stories of human ingenuity and the natural world. From Egyptian artifacts to dinosaurs, gemstones, and contemporary art—including local legend Banksy—every corner sparks curiosity and wonder for all ages.

Some travelers see Bristol Museum & Art Gallery on an art-themed guided tour that showcases a variety of top art spots in the city, including street-art murals and lesser-known areas. Others choose to come here independently and discover the exhibits at their own pace. Begin with a journey to ancient Egypt on the ground floor, followed by a visit to the first floor dinosaur galleries. On the second floor, see the art galleries with paintings, ceramics, silver, carvings, and glasswork.

  • The museum has an on-site café as well as a gift shop.

  • There are hands-on, family-friendly activities at the museum to keep kids entertained, so check the schedule of events.

  • The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible with an elevator, level access, and double-width doors.

  • Accessible and gender-neutral restrooms are available.

  • Admission is typically free, but donations are appreciated.

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is near the city center. From Bristol Temple Meads Station, you can take the #8 bus to Park Street Top in about 10 minutes, and this stop is close to the museum. As another option, you can walk from the station to the museum in about 35 minutes if you take a leisurely stroll down Victoria Street, across the river, and down Park Row.

The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from mid-morning to late afternoon, and closed on Mondays. It's best to check the opening hours beforehand, and to see what special exhibitions and events are coming up. For a peaceful visit with fewer crowds, aim to visit on a weekday morning.

Bristol is a vibrant hub for street art and creativity, with several notable hot spots. Tourists flock to see Banksy's famous works scattered across the city, including the Girl with a Pierced Eardrum, on Albion Dockyard and Well Hung Lover on Frogmore Street. Other art spots include the contemporary art gallery of Arnolfini, and the intimate exhibition venue of Centrespace.

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