Activities for Bristol, England

Students attending the University of Bristol will have a student experience like no other, delivered by a dedicated Student Experience team. Each semester, the team organizes an exciting series of workshops, social events, informal meet-ups, and day trips. From welcome/farewell parties to academic workshops, from arts and crafts to game nights, the Student Experience team focuses on connecting study abroad students and helping them make the most of every moment in Bristol.

USAC students are also encouraged to participate in the hundreds of clubs and societies affiliated with the University of Bristol's Student Union. There are clubs for virtually everything from academic and civic clubs to the Bristol Baking and Skydiving Societies. The Sports Center and the Department of Sport, Exercise and Health organize a wide range of sporting activities. A sports pass is available for a nominal fee that allows access to the swimming pool, gymnasium/weight room, and other sports facilities. Intervarsity competitions in sports such as volleyball, field hockey, soccer, and American football are also open to USAC students, as well as a wide range of intramural sports such as tennis, soccer, and ultimate frisbee.

Most study abroad students join at least one society or club and many become involved in community projects or volunteering while they are in Bristol. Others interact in less formal ways through taking part in open mic nights at local pubs or making the most of their time through exploring the area.

Studying abroad also builds skills that enhance future career prospects! With the University of Bristol’s free Bristol PLUS Award – an employability award endorsed by leading U.K. employers – students can reflect on and showcase the valuable skills they gain while studying abroad, helping them stand out in a competitive job market.

You are also encouraged to participate in the opportunities listed below.

Cultural Immersion Opportunities

• Participate in events and trips hosted by the University’s Student Experience team
• See the amazing views at the Bristol Balloon Festival
• Attend Bristol’s Harbour Festival
• Comb through the streets during UpFest—Europe’s Largest Street Art and Graffiti Festival
• Explore a maze of unique stalls at the bustling St Nicolas Indoor Market
• Learn about Bristol’s history at the M Shed Museum
• Find the infamous Banksy graffiti dotted around the city
• Discover independent shops along the historic Christmas Steps
• Enjoy a theatre performance at the Bristol Old Vic
• Step aboard the last Concorde to fly at the Aerospace Bristol museum
• Explore mysteries and discoveries at the Old SS Great Britain and Redcliffe Caves
• Take a boat trip on the river Avon and enjoy sightseeing from the water
• Discover the green spaces by Clifton Suspension Bridge, Leigh Woods, and Ashton Court
• Admire the city’s historic architecture at Bristol Cathedral and St Mary Redcliffe
• Experience live music every night of the week at the Old Duke, one of Bristol’s longest running venues
• Enjoy food from around the world at the independent eateries at Wapping Wharf
• Spend an evening dancing on the floating deck of Thekla, an old ship converted into a nightclub
• Cycle the immensely popular Bristol and Bath Railway Path (approximately 13 miles)