Wapping Wharf is the proud home to some of Bristol's best independent businesses and is the perfect spot for eating, drinking, shopping and exploring.
This bustling hub offers a perfect mix of history, culture and great foodie hotspots, making it ideal for a full day of fun.
Here’s your guide to making the most of a day at Wapping Wharf!
Start with a coffee kick
Begin your day at East Bristol Bakery, a charming coffee shop known for its expertly brewed coffee and delectable pastries. Whether you’re a flat white fanatic or a lover of luxurious lattes, this spot provides the perfect caffeine kick to get you going.
Explore Bristol's history
After your coffee fix, take a leisurely stroll to the M Shed, a free museum dedicated to Bristol’s rich history. Delve into the city’s past with exhibits covering everything from its maritime heritage to its role in the global trade network. The M Shed offers a fascinating glimpse into the stories that have shaped Bristol, making it a must-visit.
Visit Space Shanty
The M Shed is also where you’ll find the Space Shanty. This pop-up, intergalactic experience is an unmissable part of your day while you're exploring Wapping Wharf.
Take off on an immersive voyage through time, exploring Bristol's involvement with science and space travel. Taking the humble child’s cardboard space rocket as inspiration for the installation, enter a theatrical maze-like space combined with video, lighting effects and clever digital installations.
If you’re feeling peckish, stop by M Shed Cafe for tasty, freshly-made dishes and refreshing drinks on the terrace. Relax and enjoy lunch or a light snack while taking in the views of the harbourside.
Check out the Cargo Units
The Cargo Units is a collection of shipping containers turned into stylish shops and eateries. Here, you'll find a variety of unique boutiques offering everything from handmade jewellery to locally crafted homeware. It’s the perfect place to pick up a one-of-a-kind gift. We love Something Elsie’s retro vintage clothing and accessories and Fig1’s unique homeware.
Biblos
For lunch, make your way to Biblos, which boasts family recipes that have been handed down and refined. Expect big flavours from the 24hr low and slow cooked curry goat, Jerk belly pork, bbq ribs, tasty fish dishes, and not forgetting a great range of vegan delights.
Squeezed
We're also big fans of Squeezed, which has long stood as one of Bristol's most innovative casual dining kitchens. It's this creativity that led it to winning the National Burger Award in 2019 and it's been thriving ever since.
Food tours of Bristol
Can't decide on just one spot? Join Miguel on a guided Bristol food tour through Wapping Wharf, sampling curated tastings at some of his favourite independent food spots while learning about the area's heritage.
Book your Wapping Wharf food tour.
Evening: drinks and dinner
As the afternoon fades into evening, head to Wild Beer Co., where you can sample a great array of craft beers. With an extensive selection of innovative brews, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and chat about the day’s adventures.We couldn't pick just one option for dinner, so we'll talk you through some of our favourites!
BOX-E
BOX-E is a tiny restaurant showcasing seasonal, local and sustainable produce. Housed in two shipping containers with a spacious terrace, on the top deck of Cargo 1, it offers both an a la carte and unwritten tasting menu.
Herbivore
Herbivore is an independent, family-run vegan deli specialising in artisanal produce, in-house-made preserves and home-cooked offerings. With a focus on seasonality, sustainability and impact on animals and people around the world, Herbivore tries to stock products from small, like-minded producers who share a passion for food and eliminating animal suffering.
ANNA Cake Couture
It would be rude to finish dinner without something sweet and for that you've got to visit the one and only ANNA Cake Couture: an independent Bristol-based bakery offering the finest hand-crafted sweet treats that Bristol and the South-West has to offer.
Whether as a treat for yourself, as a gift to a loved-one or a cake for a special celebration, you’re sure to find what you want from their selection of beautifully crafted cakes, macarons and cookies.
Time for a nightcap?
End your day with a leisurely evening stroll along the waterfront, taking in the twinkling lights and the gentle sounds of the harbour. If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, head back to M Shed Cafe to experience their new bar serving Cornish brewed beers and local rums and gins.
Wapping Wharf truly offers something for everyone. From history buffs and art enthusiasts to food lovers and shopaholics, it’s a vibrant quarter that captures the essence of Bristol’s eclectic charm.
So, gather your friends or family and make a day of it at Bristol’s Wapping Wharf - you won’t be disappointed!
