Bridges, balloons, Brunel and Banksy

Bristol is famous for its Clifton Suspension Bridge, Hot Air Balloons and Isambard Kingdom Brunel, but now something else has hit the city by storm – Banksy.

Bristol born Banksy, the world famous urban graffiti artist has returned to his home town to hold an exclusive exhibition. Banksy Vs Bristol Museum is a groundbreaking display of new and previously unseen work by the internationally acclaimed but somewhat elusive graffiti artist.

Located at the Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery, Banksy Vs Bristol Museum is free to enter and features over 100 works of art including animatronics, installations, stencil art, sculptures and sensory displays, with nearly 80 new works being on show to the public for the first time ever. The exhibition will run every day from 10am to 5pm until Monday, August 31.

The exhibition is set to be one of the most popular attractions in the city this summer and if predictions are right, an estimated 100,000 visitors from around the world are expected to visit Bristol and see the show.

As the trend for holidaying closer to home this summer continues, Destination Bristol, the city’s tourism and marketing organisation is delighted to welcome this free exhibition to Bristol.

Feisal Khalif, Marketing Manager, Destination Bristol said:

“We are delighted at Banksy’s decision to host his exhibition back in his home town. Banksy’s home city has already been voted one of the ‘top ten cities in the world to visit’ in 2009 by DK Eyewitness travel guides and the Banksy exhibition is a fantastic additional incentive.”

“Banksy fans are in for a treat this summer. As well as discovering original Banksy street art at locations across the city, there is so much more to explore in Bristol. From free summer events such as Bristol’s lively Harbour Festival and the spectacular Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, to world class attractions such as Brunel’s ss Great Britain, Bristol Zoo Gardens and Explore-at-Bristol there is something for everyone. For creative enthusiasts Bristol also offers a wealth of art and cultural venues too. It makes sense to combine a visit to the museum with an overnight stay or a full day out”

For further information on what to see and do in Bristol whilst visiting the Banksy exhibition, Destination Bristol has created special ‘Banksy’ pages on the city’s official tourism website. You will find Banksy imagery, video content and Banksy trails and there are also some helpful tips on how to make the most of your stay in Bristol. Go to visitbristol.co.uk to find out more.