Bristol may not be the important port it once was but makes good use of a spectacular setting right on the River Avon.
The Floating Harbour includes impressive ships like SS Great Britain, the UK's first iron steam ship and the Harbourside is filled with bars and restaurants in a refurbished warehouse.
The imaginative Explore at-Bristol, Wildwalk at-Bristol and IMAX Theatre are all part of a major plan which has transformed the harbourside in recent years.
Nearby the Clifton Suspension Bridge stands 75 metres above sea level, linking Bristol to Clifton across the Avon Gorge. A visitor centre tells the story of how the bridge was built in 1864.
Among the many events held in Bristol during the year is the International Balloon Fiesta, when 150 balloons of all shapes and sizes go on show at Ashton Court Estate.
