Bristol: St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour

Discover the rich tapestry of Bristol’s past through the St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour. This guided exploration offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s vibrant history, from the bustling market stalls to the hidden depths of a WWII shelter. Led by a knowledgeable guide in period costume, the tour promises exclusive insights and an unforgettable experience that will leave you intrigued to uncover more about Bristol’s cultural heritage.

Key Points

• This guided tour in Bristol explores the historic St. Nicholas Market and provides exclusive access to a World War II air raid shelter.
• The tour lasts between 75 minutes to 2 hours and is conducted in English.
• Highlights include commentary from a guide in WW2 costume and access to exclusive areas of the Corn Exchange building.
• The tour is recommended to book in advance due to potential sell-out, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues, claustrophobia, or those over 300 lbs (136 kg) or 95 years old.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The activity offered is a 75-minute to 2-hour guided tour of Bristol’s St. Nicholas Market and WW2 air raid shelter.

The tour is conducted in English and is likely to sell out, so visitors are advised to reserve their spot in advance. A free cancellation option up to 24 hours prior is available for a full refund.

The tour encompasses the historical trading hub of St. Nicholas Market, the exclusive areas of the Corn Exchange, and a unique subterranean exploration of a WW2 air raid shelter, all led by a guide in WW2 costume.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at the Corn Exchange in the Old City of Bristol, the guided tour takes visitors on a journey through the historic St. Nicholas Market.

Along the way, the tour explores the WW2 air raid shelter and provides historical insights into Bristol’s trading history.

Guests gain exclusive access to areas of the Corn Exchange, including rooms that hosted famous 1960s bands.

The tour is unique, as it’s Bristol’s only subterranean excursion, and the guide dresses in WW2 costume to enhance the experience.

The tour concludes at the St. Nicholas Market, where visitors can sample local street food and browse for souvenirs.

Customer Experience and Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants showcase the exceptional customer experience of this Bristol tour.

According to the review data:

1. The tour guide, Owen, received exceptional praise for his "phenomenal" knowledge and "brilliant commentary".

2. Reviewers described the tour as "fantastic" and "highly recommended", highlighting the guide’s ability to provide informative and engaging insights.

3. Participants praised the tour’s unique features, such as the access to exclusive areas of the Corn Exchange and the guide’s WW2 costume, which enhanced the overall experience.

The consistently high ratings and enthusiastic reviews suggest this tour offers a truly memorable and enriching experience for visitors to Bristol.

Tour Inclusions and Restrictions

According to the information provided, this tour includes a guided experience through the historic St. Nicholas Market and the WW2 Air Raid Shelter.

Guests will also have exclusive access to areas of the Corn Exchange. Food and drink are available for purchase at the market.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or those over 300 lbs (136 kg) or 95 years old.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes. Itineraries are subject to change, so it’s important to check availability and starting times before booking.

More Great Tours Nearby

Meeting Point and Recommendations

The meeting point for this tour is the main entrance of the Corn Exchange in Bristol’s Old City.

Participants are recommended to:

1. Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking around the market and exploring the air raid shelter.

2. Sample the diverse street food offerings and grab unique souvenirs at the vibrant St. Nicholas Market.

3. Keep in mind that itineraries are subject to change, so it’s important to check for any updates on starting times or changes to the tour.

Exploring St. Nicholas Market

As visitors step into the bustling St. Nicholas Market, they’re immediately immersed in the lively atmosphere.

The historic covered market is a hub of activity, with dozens of stalls offering a tantalizing array of local produce, artisanal goods, and street food. Guests can wander through the vibrant maze of stalls, sampling delicious treats and browsing unique handmade items.

From fresh fruits and vegetables to handcrafted jewelry and pottery, the market showcases the best of Bristol’s local talent and entrepreneurial spirit.

This is a must-visit stop on the tour, providing a true taste of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Delving Into the WW2 Air Raid Shelter

After exploring the vibrant St. Nicholas Market, the tour takes visitors deep underground to uncover the secrets of Bristol’s past.

The guided tour leads guests through the city’s only subterranean attraction – a WW2 air raid shelter.

The guided tour leads guests through the city’s only subterranean attraction – a WW2 air raid shelter.

Visitors can:

1. Witness the eerie atmosphere of the shelter, with its dimly lit corridors and claustrophobic rooms.

2. Learn about the shelter’s history, including how it provided essential protection for Bristol’s residents during the Blitz.

3. Imagine the experiences of those who sought refuge here, as the guide shares personal accounts and historical details.

This unique experience offers a glimpse into Bristol’s wartime history, adding depth and intrigue to the market tour.

Uncovering the Corn Exchange’s History

Exiting the WW2 air raid shelter, the tour shifts focus to the iconic Corn Exchange building. Guests gain exclusive access to areas normally off-limits, uncovering the structure’s rich history.

The guide details how this grand Victorian building once hosted famous 1960s bands, captivating visitors with tales of its past. Ornate architectural features and hidden rooms showcase the exchange’s evolution, from a bustling marketplace to a cultural hub.

Guests marvel at the building’s transformation, gaining a deeper appreciation for Bristol’s trading heritage. The tour culminates with an opportunity to explore the vibrant St. Nicholas Market, leaving participants with a well-rounded understanding of the city’s past and present.

The Sum Up

The St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour in Bristol offers an immersive historical experience, transporting visitors through the city’s vibrant past. From the bustling market to the underground wartime shelter, the tour’s knowledgeable guide in period costume provides exclusive insights, making it a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover Bristol’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: