Private tour in Bristol Mike R

Bristol's Old City and Historic Harbourside

4.9

(7) reviews

-
Hours icon 2 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 2 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Mike R.

4.9

Guide rating

106

Reviews

Tours delivered

4 hrs

Avg. response time

The World Heritage City of BATH, the historic port and city of BRISTOL, ancient STONEHENGE, the picturesque COTSWOLDS, SALISBURY CATHEDRAL and the MAGNA CARTA, WELLS and GLASTONBURY; just some of the local highlights I can share with you. I am a 'top of the range' UK 'Blue Badge Guide', the highest professional qualification for tour guiding in the UK (see Credentials). You have the comfort and security of knowing that I am fully trained, licensed, insured and accredited with all the relevant tourism authorities, with many years experience. I am a genuine 'local'. I grew up and went to school here and I served locally as a police officer for 30 years. I know the region inside out, including many of the hidden corners, local stories and unexpected gems rarely mentioned in guide books. My own travelling has included much of Europe, including some of Eastern Europe 'post-communism', 21 states of the USA, Canada (Vancouver to Nova Scotia), Australia, New Zealand, India, Morocco, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mauritius so I know what it is like to be a visitor in unfamiliar territory! I have published a number of suggested tours which may be booked as read. Alternatively you are welcome to treat them as templates to amend to suit your wishes. Some can be adapted as SHORE EXCURSIONS from cruise ships docked in Bristol. Please note that prices quoted assume pick-up and drop-off is local to Bath/Bristol. All tours are private, exclusive and personal. Tapping into my local knowledge and contacts allows us to cut corners so that you can concentrate on the "must-do's" instead of wasting precious time plodding through brochures, schedules, and websites. You can opt for one of my listed tours, or I welcome the opportunity to work with you to create a customised tour to match your interests, schedule or pace. I am always open to the possibility of doing something special or 'out of the ordinary' - and can even start from scratch. If transport is necessary I can hire a vehicle and driver so that I can concentrate on ensuring you are able to enjoy the tour, without worrying about traffic hold-ups and parking. Feel free to 'message' me - without obligation - for a memorable, stress-free and enjoyable tour. I look forward to hearing from you. *UK "Blue Badge" registered tourist guide. *Member of the Institute of Tourist Guiding *Member of the British Guild of Tourist Guides *Completed Disability Awareness Training Course by VisitEngland/Bath Tourism Plus. Certificate awarded; 'Customer Service to Disabled Visitors'. *Blue Badge Guide endorsement - Wells Cathedral *Certificate from Disclosure & Barring Service - no criminal convictions *Fully vaccinated anti-Covid - booster Oct 2025 I am based Bath/Bristol. Where transport is required I can arrange for private executive class transport appropriate for the number of passengers, and driver.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Mike R.

Overview of your Bristol tour

Bristol played a big part in the development of the colonies, which eventually became an Empire and more latterly a Commonwealth. Some of its citizens profited from the transatlantic slave trade. This guided walk covers this rich maritime history. It also takes in some of the historic harbour and what remains of the medieval city which John Cabot left in 1497 when he sailed westwards across the Atlantic to find Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. Now a vibrant modern city with an attractive cafe culture Bristol still cherishes its rich heritage and links with personalities from the past such as Cabot, John Wesley, William Penn(sylvania), and Cary Grant (known to Bristolians as 'Archibald Leach'). My years as a local 'Bobby' have also given me a unique perspective and knowledge as well as a fund of anecdotes to share. This tour can be adapted as a shore excursion from cruise ships docked at Bristol (Portbury/Avonmouth). Please message me for before booking.

Your Bristol tour itinerary

Meet/start at any mutually convenient location (eg your hotel reception). There are many options but a typical tour will include the historic harbour, the old commercial heart of the city, Corn St and 'The Nails', the site of Bristol Castle and you will hear tales of piracy and slavery. It can of course also be customised to suit your preferences, please ask. There is an option to extend this tour to visit the 19th century Clifton Suspension Bridge, the symbol of the city where there are spectacular views. It is reached by a short bus ride or taxi ride. Please message me to arrange a 'customised' tour for you.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

This is not an energetic hike but it is a guided walk so participants should be able to walk unaided for an hour at a time. Many streets are cobbled with raised footpaths and some steps.

What's included
Other: Price is for guidance only. Final cost may be affected by the agreed itinerary. Suitable for customising as a SHORE EXCURSION from Royal Portbury Dock, Bristol.
Private Guide
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses.
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide:

  • You can request a different meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout process.
Other details
Tour categories
City Highlights
History
Tour reference number
248520
Languages
English
Activity level
Light
4.9

Traveller reviews for this private tour in Bristol

7 reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who is this private tour in Bristol best suited for?

This private tour in Bristol is perfect for travellers interested in exploring the city's rich maritime history and its role in the development of the British Empire. It's also ideal for those who want to connect with a local guide, Mike R., who has a unique perspective as a former local 'Bobby' and can share fascinating anecdotes. The tour is suitable for individuals or small groups up to six people, including cruise ship passengers looking for a shore excursion.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Bristol be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

Is this private tour in Bristol suitable for cruise ship passengers as a shore excursion?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 2 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 2 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Explore more of Bristol