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Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery
Things To Do In Bristol UK
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is a must-visit attraction combining art, history and natural wonders under one roof. Discover everything from Egyptian mummies and dinosaur fossils to fine art, local history and the famous Alfred the Gorilla, with free entry making it a great day out for all ages.
Stay close to the museum by booking your stay at Future Inn Bristol. Perfect for families, couples, and groups, the hotel offers spacious bedrooms with large Canadian-style beds, free Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee facilities. Kids stay free, making it an ideal choice for family city breaks.
Guests also benefit from free parking in Bristol city centre, making it easy to explore Bristol Museum & Art Gallery and other nearby attractions. With the shops and restaurants of Cabot Circus just a short walk away - plus the on-site Chophouse Restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner - Future Inns is the perfect base for discovering Bristol. Book direct for our best available rates. Join Future Club Rewards, for up to 12% off your stay - join free today!
Book a RoomFree Museum Bristol
Learn about Bristol's history
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is one of the most popular museums in Bristol, offering a fascinating journey through art, nature and history across three floors of collections and exhibitions. Located in a beautiful historic building, it is home to everything from ancient artefacts and dinosaur fossils to world-famous artwork, minerals, gemstones and treasures from across the globe.
Hotel near Bristol Museum
Future Inn Bristol is a modern and comfortable hotel in Bristol city centre. It offers easy access to key attractions and vibrant areas. Alongside its excellent location, the hotel boasts spacious and airy bedrooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a desk and workspace, and a laptop safe. Guests can also enjoy added comforts such as complimentary tea and coffee-making facilities, enhancing the overall experience. The biggest perk of staying at our Bristol hotel is the free parking at Cabot Circus, directly across the road from Future Inns.
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Future Club Rewards
For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program.
Alongside a member's discount rate, for every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point.
You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine. Plus, you get double points when you eat in the restaurant.
Points collected can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. It's also completely free to join!
Bristol Restaurant
Chophouse Restaurant offers a modern twist on classic dishes showcasing the best of the region's produce.
From hearty breakfasts to indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike.
Whether you enjoy a succulent steak, a hearty burger, or a fresh fish dish, every meal delivers bold flavours and satisfying portions.
Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink.
A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands Buttcombe, Bristol Harvey Cream and Bristol Rum.
Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.
If you are staying in the hotel, room service is available 24/7.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What to see in Bristol Museum?
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is home to a wide variety of collections covering art, history and the natural world. Highlights include dinosaur fossils, Egyptian mummies, minerals and gemstones, wildlife displays, ancient artefacts, ceramics, glass, paintings and changing exhibitions.
Does Bristol Museum have dinosaurs?
Yes. Bristol Museum & Art Gallery has an impressive natural history collection featuring dinosaur fossils and skeletons. Visitors can discover more about prehistoric life and the creatures that once roamed the planet.
Is Bristol Museum and Art Gallery free?
Yes, general admission to Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is free, making it one of the best free attractions in Bristol. Some temporary exhibitions and special events may charge an entry fee.
When did Bristol Museum open?
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery first opened in 1823 as the Bristol Institution. The current building on Queens Road opened in 1905.
How old is Bristol Museum?
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is over 200 years old, having first opened in 1823. The Edwardian building visitors see today has been welcoming guests since 1905.
What time does Bristol Museum open?
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is usually open from 10am to 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Opening hours can vary for bank holidays, events and exhibitions, so it is best to check before visiting.
What time does Bristol Museum close?
The museum usually closes at 5pm. Last admission times may vary depending on exhibitions and events.
What was Bristol Museum before?
Before becoming Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, it began as the Bristol Institution, founded to promote science, literature and the arts. The current building was later developed as a museum and art gallery.
How long does a visit to Bristol Museum take?
Most visitors spend around 2–3 hours exploring Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, although you could easily spend longer if you want to see the collections in detail or visit a special exhibition.
What was stolen from Bristol Museum?
In 2008, several valuable items were stolen from Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, including a collection of rare gemstones and precious objects. Some items were later recovered, while others remain missing.
Does Bristol Museum have air conditioning?
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery does not advertise full air conditioning throughout the building. Some galleries may have climate control to protect collections, but visitors should be prepared for temperatures to vary.
Does Bristol Museum have a cafe?
Yes, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery has a café where visitors can enjoy drinks, snacks and light refreshments during their visit.
Is Bristol Museum dog-friendly?
Assistance dogs are welcome at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. However, pet dogs are not generally allowed inside the museum, so visitors with dogs will need to make alternative arrangements.
Does Bristol Museum have lockers?
Yes, lockers are available at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery where visitors can store smaller bags and belongings during their visit (subject to availability).
Is Bristol Museum in the Clean Air Zone?
Yes, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is within Bristol’s Clean Air Zone. Most private cars that meet the required emissions standards will not need to pay a charge, but it is worth checking your vehicle before travelling.
How to get to Bristol Museum?
From Future Inn Bristol, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is around a 20-minute walk or a short bus or taxi journey away. Located at the top of Park Street, the museum is easy to reach from the hotel and can be combined with a visit to nearby attractions including Cabot Tower, Brandon Hill and Bristol Cathedral. Future Inn Bristol’s central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the best of Bristol by foot, public transport or car.
Where is Bristol Museum?
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is located on Queens Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1RL, overlooking College Green and close to Bristol Cathedral and the university area.
Does Bristol have a museum?
Yes, Bristol has several museums and galleries, including Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, M Shed, We The Curious and The Georgian House Museum, offering everything from local history and science to art and culture.
What is Bristol famous for?
Bristol is famous for its maritime history, vibrant street art scene, iconic landmarks such as the Clifton Suspension Bridge, its creative industries, music heritage, independent food scene and attractions like Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. It is also known as the birthplace of legendary artist Banksy and for its strong links to engineering, aviation and innovation.
Planning a city break? Future Inn Bristol is a convenient base for exploring Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, with spacious rooms, on-site dining at Chophouse Restaurant and easy access to Cabot Circus and other city attractions. Book direct for the best available rates, and join Future Club Rewards for up to 12% off your stay.
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