Why go to Bristol (Avonmouth)?
A vibrant city with its own distinct vibe and culture, good restaurants, long history and a revitalized waterfront
Some areas are run down; architecturally blighted city center
Worth exploring the waterfront, Clifton Downs and taking a day trip to historic Bath
Bristol (Avonmouth) Cruise Port Facilities?
As Avonmouth is an industrial port area there's not much to see in the immediate vicinity, and walking inside the dock estate is not permitted -- you need to have a car or arrange transport. There is a taxi rank to the right as you exit the cruise terminal, or you can arrange a pick up or organised excursion in advance. There are limited facilities including a seated waiting area, cafe and toilets.
Good to Know?
Banksy's street art is a massive boost to Bristol's cool, cultured credentials, and you shouldn't miss the chance to see his graffiti art up close if you're in what is widely thought to be his home city. There's information on the Visit Bristol website so you can easily do a self-guided walking tour.
Getting Around?
By Taxi: There's a taxi rank to the right as you exit the cruise terminal. Alternatively, you can pre-book a taxi in advance. North Bristol Cars is open 24/7 (32 High Street; 0117 966 6888.). Note: There is a very limited taxi service from Avonmouth train station.
By Rail: Avonmouth train station is two miles from the Bristol Cruise Terminal. There are one or two trains per hour connecting to Bristol Temple Meads Station, taking around 28 minutes. Because you need transport to get to Avonmouth Station, as there's no walking within the port area, it may be easier to use taxis between the cruise terminal and Bristol city centre instead. There are two train stations in Bristol -- Bristol Parkway and Bristol Temple Meads. Both provide good connections to London, Swansea, Cardiff, Birmingham and elsewhere in the U.K.
By Air: Bristol Cruise Terminal is 13 miles from Bristol Airport by road, and the airport provides direct flights to destinations within the U.K. and across Europe.
By Car: The cruise terminal is handily located for the M5 and M4, with access from the West Town Police Gate (no entry on foot). There are secure car parking facilities on site, which must be booked and paid for in advance, through a cruise line or travel agent. Baggage handlers collect bags from cars on arrival, before you park. There's also a drop-off area.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The currency is pound sterling. Visit www.xe.com for current rates. There is no ATM in the terminal. The nearest ATM is outside a Premier shop at 186b Avonmouth Road. There's also a small branch of Barclays bank on Gloucester Road, just down from Avonmouth railway station.
Where You're Docked?
The Bristol Cruise Terminal sits within Avonmouth Docks at the Port of Bristol.
Baggage handlers (identifiable by high-vis waistcoats) greet arriving passengers and collect their cases from their cars. The port has secure car parking, which must be booked through a cruise line or travel agent and a drop-off point. These are a short walk from the terminal entrance.
Bristol Cruise Terminal also has a team of 'Guest Experience Crew' who are on hand to guide passengers through the terminal. They can also offer advice on tourist attractions in the area.
