Bristol’s St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the city’s rich history. Led by a local expert in World War II costume, this captivating journey takes visitors through the vibrant St. Nicholas Market, Bristol’s oldest market, before descending into the atmospheric WWII air raid shelter. With immersive storytelling and exclusive access to hidden gems, the tour offers a memorable glimpse into the city’s resilient past. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Bristol’s hidden gems, this tour promises to leave you intrigued and eager to discover more.
Good To Know
- This tour offers a unique underground experience, providing access to Bristol’s only covered market and a WWII air raid shelter.
- Participants can explore the historical significance of Bristol’s wartime resilience and gain insights into 1960s music history.
- The guided tour is led by a local expert in WWII costume, featuring engaging storytelling and access to typically off-limits areas.
- With a duration of 75 minutes to 2 hours and priced from $16.72 per person, the tour has limited availability and advance reservations are recommended.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or claustrophobia, and there are age and weight restrictions.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview and Duration
The Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour is a 75-minute to 2-hour experience that takes visitors on a captivating journey through Bristol’s history.
Priced from $16.72 per person, this tour is a must-do for those seeking to uncover the city’s hidden gems.
With limited availability, it’s advisable to check for openings and reserve your spot in advance.
The tour also offers a free cancellation option up to 24 hours prior, and a convenient "reserve now, pay later" feature, making it a flexible and accessible choice for travelers.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Bristol’s past, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Starting Location and Main Stops
Starting from the Main entrance of the Corn Exchange in Bristol’s Old City, the Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour takes visitors on an engaging journey through the city’s rich history.
The first stop is the bustling St. Nicholas Market, Bristol’s only covered market and a hub of local commerce and culture.
Participants then descend into the subterranean world of a World War II air raid shelter, where they’ll learn about the city’s resilience during the wartime era.
This unique access to areas usually off-limits to the public provides a truly immersive and educational experience for tour-goers.
Highlights of the Tour
Visitors on the Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour will have the chance to explore Bristol’s only subterranean tour and access the nation’s No.1 covered market. They’ll experience the WW2 air raid shelter and learn about the 1960s music history hidden within. Throughout the tour, participants can sample the diverse food and souvenirs available at the vibrant St. Nicholas Market.
| Highlight | Description |
|---|---|
| Subterranean Tour | Explore Bristol’s only underground tour |
| No.1 Covered Market | Access the nation’s premier covered market |
| WW2 Air Raid Shelter | Experience the historical air raid shelter |
| 1960s Music History | Uncover the hidden musical past |
Engaging storytelling and historical insights from the knowledgeable, costumed guide will bring Bristol’s rich heritage to life during this unique and immersive tour experience.
Guided Tour Features
Guided by a local expert in WW2 costume, the tour covers Bristol’s ancient origins and trading history with informative storytelling and historical insights.
Participants are granted unique access to areas usually unavailable to the public, providing an engaging and immersive experience.
The tour highlights three key features:
- Entertaining and engaging narration, bringing the city’s past to life.
- Insider knowledge and anecdotes that shed light on Bristol’s hidden gems.
- A chance to explore the nation’s No.1 covered market and the subterranean WW2 air raid shelter.
This comprehensive tour offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and unique access, making it a must-do activity for anyone visiting Bristol.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
The Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 144 reviews.
Participants consistently praise the knowledgeable, friendly, and entertaining tour guides who provide engaging storytelling and historical insights.
Reviewers highlight the unique access to areas usually unavailable to the public, allowing them to learn about hidden aspects of Bristol’s history.
Families and solo travelers alike have shared positive experiences, describing the tour as a great way to explore Bristol’s ancient origins and trading history.
Important Information for Participants
Although the tour is generally accessible, there are a few important considerations for participants.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or claustrophobia, as it involves navigating narrow underground spaces.
Plus, the tour may not be appropriate for individuals over 300 lbs (136 kg) or over 95 years old.
Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes for the walking tour.
Key things to keep in mind are:
- Mobility and claustrophobia restrictions
- Weight and age limitations
- Comfortable footwear recommended
Exploring Bristol’s Trading History
For centuries, Bristol has been a hub of trade and commerce, with the historic St. Nicholas Market at its heart.
This vibrant market, dating back to the 16th century, is the city’s oldest and most renowned. Over the years, it’s evolved into a bustling hub, offering a diverse array of local produce, artisanal goods, and international cuisine.
On the tour, visitors can enjoy the market’s rich history, exploring its maze of stalls and discovering the stories behind the wares on display.
From handcrafted pottery to locally sourced delicacies, the market offers a glimpse into Bristol’s enduring legacy as a thriving center of trade and exchange.
Discovering World War II History
Beneath the bustling streets of Bristol lies a hidden relic of the city’s wartime past – the WW2 air raid shelter.
As part of the guided tour, visitors gain exclusive access to this subterranean sanctuary, where they can:
- Imagine the tensions and fears experienced by Bristolians during the Blitz.
- Explore the shelter’s maintenance facilities, including an authentic ventilation system.
- Discover how this hidden space played a vital role in protecting the local community.
The air raid shelter tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Bristol’s World War II history, offering a tangible connection to the past that few travelers have the chance to experience.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- The House Magicians Comedy Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors in Bristol (Sat 7pm)
- West Country Games – the Most Popular Group Activity in the South West!
- Guided Walking Tour Suspension Bridge Clifton Splendour & City.
- Bristol’s Darkest Secrets Tour
- Bristol: Blackbeard to Banksy Guided Walking Tour
- The House Magicians Comedy & Magic Show at Smoke & Mirrors Friday 8pm
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour likely does not allow bringing food or drinks, as it could disturb the experience or damage the historical sites visited. Participants should plan to enjoy any food and drinks at the market before or after the tour.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is suitable for children, though it’s recommended for those 12 and older. The guides provide engaging storytelling, and the market and air raid shelter offer interactive experiences that kids can enjoy.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for Disabled Visitors?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it involves accessing underground areas. However, the tour operator may be able to provide alternative arrangements for disabled visitors upon request.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour, though they may be asked to avoid flash photography in certain areas. Guides typically encourage capturing the unique sights and historical atmosphere of the sites visited.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. Participants can join the tour as solo travelers or in groups of any size. The tour operates with a flexible schedule to accommodate different group sizes.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Bristol: Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults Experiences
- Bristol: Dog Life Drawing Led by Local Artist Cai Burton
- Bristol: Fun Puzzle Treasure Hunt to a Pub! + Team Racing!
- Bristol: Bristol Zoo Project Entry Ticket
- Bristol: Express Bus Services Between Airport and City
- Luggage Storage in Bristol
- Bristol : Sightseeing Custom Tour With a Local Guide
- Bristol: Blackbeard to Banksy Guided Walking Tour
- Bristol: 6 Oclock Gin Cocktail Masterclass at The Glassboat
- Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to Bristol City
- Bristol: Uk/Europe Esim Roaming Mobile Data Plan
- Bristol Airport (Brs): Private Transfer to London City
- Experience Bristol – Private Family Walking Tour
- Bristol Airport (Brs): Transfer to Southampton City Hotels
- Inspiring Bristol – Private Walking Tour for Couples
Sum Up
The St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Bristol’s rich history. From the vibrant market to the atmospheric WWII shelter, the guided experience provides an engaging and informative journey through the city’s resilient past. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Bristol’s captivating heritage.