Fully guided Bristol Ghost Tours

If you’re into stories that send a shiver down your spine or just love a good history lesson laced with a healthy dose of the supernatural, this Bristol ghost tour might be right up your alley. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a solid mix of entertainment, history, and a dash of spooky fun.

What really stands out are the passionate, in-character guides who bring the stories of Bristol’s haunted streets to life, often with a theatrical flair. Plus, the tour takes you through some of the city’s most iconic and atmospheric locations—think ancient pubs, historic squares, and the city’s very first bridge—making it a memorable experience whether you’re a history buff or thrill-seeker.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the length. The tour runs for about an hour and 45 minutes, and a couple of reviews have pointed out that it can feel a bit repetitive or long, especially if you’re not deeply interested in every story. It’s probably best suited for those who enjoy a lively storytelling style and are okay with a longer, more detailed walk through Bristol’s shadowy past.

This tour is a great pick for history lovers, ghost fans, or anyone curious about Bristol’s darker side. If you’re visiting in the evening and want to combine sightseeing with some spooky entertainment, this tour could be just the right evening activity.

Key Points

• Engaging guides who stay in character and make the stories lively
• A balanced blend of historical facts and ghostly tales
• Visually interesting stops in Bristol’s most atmospheric locations
• Affordable price point around $23, offering good value for a guided experience
• Longer tour duration means more storytelling but may feel lengthy for some
• Ideal for those who enjoy theatrical storytelling and ghost stories

What to Expect from the Bristol Ghost Tour

This fully guided tour takes you on a walk through Bristol’s streets, highlighting its most haunted and historic sites. It lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes and covers roughly nine locations, each with its own story or legend.

The tour begins at Bristol Cathedral, the site of the first haunting. From there, it weaves through College Green, with its lovely park and easy access to public transport. The next stops feature haunted pubs, like The Hatchet Inn, famous for a particularly gruesome secret, and the White Hart, which has ghost sightings dating back centuries. You’ll also visit Bristol Beacon, a venue with a long history, and the Christmas Steps, a favorite spot for its mix of history and hauntings.

The tour continues across Bristol Bridge, where echoes of past riots still seem to linger, and culminates along King Street, a lively area packed with historic pubs and tales of pirates, actors, and criminals. The final stop is Queen Square, a beautiful Georgian area haunted by the bloody event that took place there.

Each location is chosen for its spooky stories and historical significance, and guides stay in character, often wearing costumes to heighten the theatrical experience. This makes the tour more immersive and fun—something that many reviews highlight as a key strength.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Bristol Cathedral
Kicking things off here is a good way to set the eerie tone. This spot is not only a stunning historic building but also the beginning of the ghost stories. While you’ll need to pay for admission if you want to go inside, the tour itself doesn’t include this fee, so the focus is on the stories outside. One reviewer described it as a “really informative, witty and concise history lesson,” which shows guides manage to combine fun facts with ghostly legends without overwhelming you.

Stop 2: College Green
This park is a peaceful spot during the day but takes on a different vibe at night. It’s also a practical stop, as it’s near a bus stop if you’re traveling by public transit. The stories here often revolve around the supernatural activity reported in and around the green, adding a layer of intrigue as you stroll through.

Stop 3: The Hatchet Inn
Known as one of Bristol’s haunted pubs, The Hatchet Inn is a highlight for many. It’s said to have a “disgusting secret,” which the guide will reveal—although the specifics are part of the fun of the storytelling. Expect a lively atmosphere combined with spooky tales, making it a favorite among those looking for a drink and a scare.

Stop 4: Bristol Beacon
Today a lively concert venue, this spot also has a long history that the tour explores through ghost stories and legends. The guide’s storytelling brings the building’s past alive, making it more than just a concert hall but a place filled with echoes of bygone days.

Stop 5: Christmas Steps
This cobbled, atmospheric alley is often called a highlight. Packed with history and tales of hauntings, it’s a stirring spot to listen to ghost stories. One reviewer called it “one hell of a location,” and that’s no exaggeration—this street’s layered past makes it a compelling part of the tour.

Stop 6: The White Hart
Sitting atop an early medieval church cellar, the White Hart boasts centuries of ghost sightings. It’s a pub that truly lives up to its haunted reputation, with stories dating back hundreds of years. Many find this stop particularly atmospheric, especially when guided by a lively, knowledgeable storyteller.

Stop 7: Bristol Bridge
A deep part of Bristol’s origins, this old bridge is haunted by echoes of a bloody riot. It’s a reminder of how history and ghost stories often intertwine, and it’s a spot that many find evocative and poignant.

Stop 8: King Street
Arguably Bristol’s most lively street, King Street is steeped in history. Once home to pirates and criminals, it’s now vibrant with pubs, theaters, and tales of the dead. The lively atmosphere here contrasts well with the darker stories, giving the tour a bit of a balanced vibe.

Stop 9: Queen Square
The final stop, Queen Square, is a beautiful Georgian area but also haunted by a bloody past. One reviewer mentioned it as the site of “one of the most bloody events that ever took place on English soil,” adding weight to the ghost stories shared here.

The Value of the Tour

At just $23.46 per person, this tour offers solid value. It’s a guided experience led by a professional, costumed guide who stays in character, making each location come alive in a theatrical way. The reviews praise guides like Jim Ripper and Ms. Needles for their entertaining and knowledgeable storytelling, which adds a lot to the experience.

The tour’s length allows enough time to explore multiple sites in detail, with enough stories to satisfy ghost enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Several reviews mention how many stops are included, and the mix of humor, history, and spooky tales keeps it engaging throughout.

One reviewer pointed out the “good mix of info and humour,” which is a good sign that the tour strikes a balance between educational content and entertainment. The fact that guides are described as friendly and enthusiastic enhances the overall value, making it more than just a walk with stories—it’s an immersive experience.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour starts at 7:30 pm at Bristol Cathedral and ends at Queen Square. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be covering several locations. The group size is limited to 32 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

It’s accessible for most travelers, with service animals allowed and near public transportation options. If weather isn’t great, the tour could be canceled and rescheduled or fully refunded, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Tipping isn’t included, so if you enjoy the guide’s performance, a tip is a kind gesture but not obligatory.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This?

This ghost tour is best suited for adventure-loving history buffs, those who enjoy theatrical storytelling, and anyone looking for a fun, atmospheric way to explore Bristol after dark. It’s perfect if you want to learn about the city’s dark past while being entertained by lively guides. The price point makes it accessible, especially given the amount of storytelling and site visits involved.

It’s probably less suited for travelers who prefer a quick overview or aren’t interested in long, detailed walks. If you’re not a fan of longer tours or repetitive stories, be prepared for the possibility of it feeling a bit lengthy.

Overall, if you enjoy lively guides, historic locations, and ghostly tales, this tour could be a highlight of your Bristol visit. It combines theatricality with genuine storytelling, making for a memorable night out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, this tour is primarily geared toward adults interested in ghost stories and history. It’s likely more suitable for older teens and adults who enjoy a theatrical, spooky experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a fully guided ghost walk of Bristol led by a professional, costumed guide. Entrance fees to sites like Bristol Cathedral are not included unless specified.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are tips expected?
Tips are not included in the price. If you enjoyed the guide’s performance, tipping is appreciated but optional.

What is the meeting point and start time?
The tour begins at Bristol Cathedral at 7:30 pm. It ends at Queen Square.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s a walking tour through historic sites, so mobility considerations will vary depending on individual circumstances.

What kind of stories will I hear?
You’ll hear stories about Bristol’s haunted sites, including pubs, streets, and historic buildings, with many tales related to ghosts, legends, and historical tragedies.

If you’re after a lively, theatrical way to explore Bristol’s ghostly tales and historic streets, this tour offers a memorable, reasonably priced experience. Just be prepared for a bit of a walk and a good dose of spooky fun.