Bristol: Guided Ghost Tour

If you’re after an evening that mixes a dash of history with a healthy dose of supernatural stories, the Bristol Ghost Tour might just be what you’re looking for. This guided walk takes you through the city’s medieval heart, revealing its darker side with tales of executions, murders, witch burnings, and other ghostly happenings. While I haven’t personally been on this tour, reviews suggest it’s a well-loved experience for anyone interested in Bristol’s spooky secrets.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its fully guided experience with a costumed, professional guide who stays in character — bringing the stories to life with humor and theatrical flair. Plus, the fact that it visits up to 17 haunted locations makes it a pretty comprehensive way to explore the city’s ghostly history without feeling like you’re rushing. However, it’s worth noting that certain weather conditions can influence the walk, so dress appropriately.

One potential consideration: this tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues or respiratory concerns, and it includes some vivid descriptions of gory or unsettling events. If you’re comfortable with that, and you’re in Bristol for a spooky night, this tour could be a highlight. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy storytelling, history, or a bit of a thrill — and it’s even family-friendly, making it a fun outing for older kids and teens.

This experience is a great pick for curious travelers eager to see Bristol through a different lens — one filled with ghostly tales and atmospheric sights. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what you’ll encounter on this haunting adventure.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: It’s the only dedicated ghost tour in Bristol, making it a one-of-a-kind way to explore the city’s haunted corners.
• Engaging Guides: The guides are professional, in costume, and in-character, which adds an authentic theatrical touch.
• Visiting 17 Landmarks: You’ll walk past a wide variety of historic sites, each with its own story.
• Family Friendly: The tour is suitable for families, though some stories are quite vivid.
• Cost-Effective: At around $20 per person, the tour offers good value for nearly two hours of entertainment.
• Weather Considerations: It takes place outdoors in all weather, so dress comfortably and prepare for rain if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Itself: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Starting Point & Meeting

The tour kicks off outside the main door of Bristol Cathedral, facing College Green. This spot is easy to find thanks to the guide’s costume and theatrical presence. Arriving a few minutes early is always wise because the guide emphasizes punctuality — missing the start might mean missing some of the atmosphere, which is a shame considering how much effort goes into the storytelling.

Route & Landmarks

The route is designed as almost a circular walk, weaving through some of Bristol’s oldest parts. You’ll pass by landmarks like The Hatchet Inn, Bristol Beacon, and the Christmas Steps — known for their steep incline and medieval charm. The tour then moves along Lower Maudlin Rd, Union St, and St Nicholas Markets, wrapping up at Queens Square.

The tour covers a variety of sites, each with a story that’s been passed down through generations — whether it’s about executions, riots, or supernatural sightings. The stories are vivid, sometimes graphic, which helps the tales stick, but it might be unsettling for sensitive listeners.

Experience & Atmosphere

With a guide dressed in period costume, in character, the experience feels immersive. From the lively storytelling to the lantern-lit streets, you’ll get a sense of what it might’ve been like to live through Bristol’s darker times. The guide keeps the tone engaging and often humorous, which balances the spooky tales and prevents the experience from feeling too heavy.

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The Ending

The tour concludes back at Queens Square, which is near bus stops, cafes, pubs, and hotels. It’s a convenient spot to wind down, grab a drink, or continue exploring.

What It’s Like to Walk with the Dead

Based on reviews, guides like Tobias and Mrs Needles bring a lot of personality — blending humor with history, making the stories memorable. Reviewers repeatedly mention how fun and engaging the guides are, with some describing the storytelling as “hilarious,” “mesmerising,” and “animated.” For example, one reviewer said, “Mrs Needles was amazing! Very mesmerizing, hilarious, and informative!” Another called Tobias “lively and full of energy.”

This kind of theatrical style enhances the experience but also means it’s best enjoyed by those who appreciate a bit of drama in their storytelling. The guides’ enthusiasm shines through, and their costumes add to the immersion.

Authenticity & Vividness

The stories often involve murders, executions, and other grisly tales, with some reviewers noting that the descriptions can be quite vivid. One mention from a reviewer was, “some details are quite vivid, including murders, executions, and suicides,” which is worth considering if you prefer gentler ghost stories.

Group Size & Atmosphere

Keeping groups to a maximum of 32 people helps maintain a cozy, interactive experience. You won’t be lost in a sea of travelers, and the guide can respond to questions or reactions along the way. It’s a good size for social interaction but still intimate enough for everyone to feel involved.

Practical Details & Tips for Visitors

Duration & Timing

The walk lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes, starting at 7:30 pm, making it an ideal evening activity. It’s recommended to arrive at least 5 minutes early to settle in and meet your guide.

Weather & Clothing

Since the tour is outdoors and in all weather, dressing appropriately is key. Wear comfortable shoes — the walk includes some cobbled streets and stairs, especially at Christmas Steps. Bring rain gear if rain is forecast, and wear weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes
• Rain gear
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Charged smartphone (for photos or emergencies)

Accessibility

The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or respiratory issues. There’s a section involving steep steps at Christmas Steps, so consider this if you or your group have mobility concerns.

Cost & Value

At around $20.20 per person, this tour offers excellent value for nearly two hours of guided entertainment. The storytelling, the historic route, and the theatrical guides make it a memorable experience, especially when compared with other Bristol attractions that may cost more but offer less immersive storytelling.

Authentic Reviews & Real Experiences

We rely heavily on the glowing reviews from previous participants. Many have praised the guides’ enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to bring stories to life. Comments like “the entire experience was high-quality and entertaining,” or “Jimmy was very friendly and made the tour more interesting,” highlight how much the guides contribute to the tour’s success.

Several reviews also note that the stories are so engaging that they stick with visitors long after the walk ends. One reviewer said, “It made for such a great evening activity, and I’d recommend it to anyone, whether you’re local or just visiting.”

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy stories of the supernatural, history buffs with a taste for the eerie, or families with older children looking for a fun, spooky evening. It’s a casual, atmospheric way to explore Bristol’s darker side without committing to a full-day excursion.

While it’s not appropriate for those with mobility issues or respiratory problems due to some physical aspects of the route, most people in good health will find it accessible and enjoyable. The guide’s theatrical style and the vivid stories make it a memorable experience — perfect for anyone wanting to add a little thrill to their Bristol visit.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s generally family-friendly but includes vivid and sometimes graphic stories about murders and executions, so parental discretion is advised for younger children.

What is the starting point? Outside the main door of Bristol Cathedral, facing College Green. The guide will be in costume and easy to spot.

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

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, rain gear, and a charged smartphone.

Does the tour go in all weather? Yes, it takes place in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users? No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments.

What is the group size? Never more than 32 people.

What makes this tour stand out? It’s the only dedicated ghost tour in Bristol, with guides who stay in character — making the stories come alive.

If you’re after an evening that combines history, storytelling, and a bit of spookiness, the Bristol Ghost Tour offers an engaging way to get a different perspective on the city’s past. Just be prepared for some vivid tales, dress warmly, and enjoy the ghostly glow of Bristol’s dark corners.

You can check availability for your dates here: