This Monday (17 May) saw the UK take its next big step in the move away from lockdown restrictions. Groups of up to 30 people are now allowed to meet outdoors, and the Rule of 6 is back in effect for indoor gatherings. More businesses were given the go-ahead to reopen, including the hospitality sector, entertainment venues, hotels and hostels and indoor exercise classes. With so many beloved places finally allowed to reopen, we have compiled a list of our favourite destinations and activities to make the most of beautiful Bristol under the new Covid guidelines.
Experience a show live and in person
It’s been a tough year for cultural venues but the newest wave of Covid rules means that theatres, cinemas and other indoor entertainment spaces are finally allowed to reopen. Immerse your family back into the experience of live entertainment with crowd pleasers like Julia Donaldson’s Zog at Bristol Old Vic (24 – 31 Jul) or Beauty and the Beast at the Hippodrome (25 Aug – 18 Sep 2021). Next door, the Theatre Royal in Bath is hosting Ralph Fiennes as the director and star of the world premiere adaptation of T.S. Eliot’s Four Quartets (25 May – 5 June).
If you’re more of a film buff, both the uber-cozy Everyman in Clifton as well as the centrally located Watershed have reopened to screen the hottest films right now, from Oscar-winner Nomadland to hotly anticipated Judas and the Black Messiah.
Read more: The best drive-in events in and around Bristol
Enjoy an indoor feast, finally
We’re desperately waiting for the sun to come out again, but fear not, the days of freezing in pub gardens are finally over. With indoor hospitality reopening, you can now book tables for up to 6 at some of Bristol’s very best cafes, pubs and restaurants. Enjoy a delicious brunch surrounded by plants at Clifton Village’s Foliage Cafe or take in the iconic harbour-side view at Left Handed Giant’s Brewpub. Fine diners will be pleased to hear that Michelin-starred Chew Magna restaurant The Pony and Trap has relocated to the heart of Bristol on North Street – with the old restaurant transforming into a community interest company, with baking, foraging and fermentation courses on site. If you’re still feeling a bit weary about restrictions easing, the socially distanced pop-up Breaking Bread might be the one for you. With some of Bristol’s favourite independent eateries like Pasta Loco and The Love Inn coming together to serve up homegrown meals in lofty tipis, you’ll get the best of outdoor dining but with a roof over your head.
Blow off some steam with indoor activities
Release that pent up lockdown-energy with some cracking indoor activities, from axe-throwing Whistle Punks to go-karting at Absolutely Karting to boozy bowling at The Lanes. Family-favourite trampoline park AirHop is also back in business, as is Laser Fusion for a round of laser tag to get your adrenaline pumping. If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, settle in for an evening of board games at Chance and Counters or Playground at St Nick’s Market.
Treat yourself to a spa day
After the year we’ve just had, it’s definitely time for an indulgent spa weekend (or day trip!) to one of the many nearby spas which are finally allowed to reopen. From the much-loved Lido in Clifton, offering mini spa breaks complete with a massage, swim and tasting menu to a trip further slightly afield at Britain's only natural thermal spa, the Thermae Bath Spa. If you’re after a full-scale escape, check out the award-winning Gaia Spa at Boringdon House in Plymouth or the beautiful C-Side Spa at Cowley Manor in the heart of the Cotswolds (pool with a view, anyone?).
Read more: What to do in Manchester under the new Covid rules
Travel around Bristol in your own time by renting a car from your community instead of heading to a far-away collection point or garage. With Karshare, you can get instant access to vehicles in your area – available for collection with a few taps. Select a nearby car, unlock it with your phone and drive off to enjoy your next adventure. Bristol is waiting for you – click here to start renting a car today.
