Banksy and Street Art in Bristol
Bristol is often called the UK’s street art capital - a city where bold murals, political stencils, and creative installations add colour and character to every corner. It’s also the hometown of Banksy, the world-famous (and famously anonymous) street artist whose witty, provocative works have transformed the city’s walls into a living gallery. For visitors, exploring Bristol’s street art scene is one of the city’s most inspiring and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a casual explorer, or simply curious about the hype, this guide reveals the best places to discover street art in Bristol, along with tips for making the most of your artistic adventure.
Bristol’s Street Art Scene: A Brief History
Bristol’s reputation as a global street art hotspot is built on decades of grassroots creativity. In the 1980s, a wave of graffiti writers and hip-hop culture set the stage for the movement, with local artists using the city’s concrete spaces as their canvas. Over the years, Bristol’s approach to street art has shifted from subculture to celebrated attraction, drawing artists and admirers from around the world.
Banksy emerged from this scene in the 1990s, using stencils, dark humour, and social commentary to challenge conventions. His rise to fame helped put Bristol on the international street art map, but the city’s scene is bigger than any one name. Today, Bristol hosts major street art festivals, legal mural projects, and a thriving community of artists who keep the city’s walls constantly changing.
Where to Find Banksy Street Art in Bristol
While Banksy’s identity may remain a mystery, many of his earliest and most iconic works can be seen in and around Bristol city centre. Here are some must-visit sites:
Well Hung Lover
Probably Banksy’s most famous Bristol piece, this cheeky mural can be seen on the side of a building on Park Street. Look up to spot the suited man, his lover, and a suspicious partner leaning out of a window.
The Mild Mild West
Found in Stokes Croft, this classic Banksy depicts a teddy bear lobbing a Molotov cocktail at riot police. It’s become a symbol of Bristol’s rebellious, creative spirit.
Girl with a Pierced Eardrum
Inspired by Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring,” this mural sits on a wall in Hanover Place, close to the harbourside. Don’t be surprised if it’s occasionally adorned with real accessories!
Other Banksy Pieces
Look out for “Cat & Dog” in Easton, “Rose Trap” in the city centre, and “Paint-Pot Angel” inside the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. Some early pieces have faded or been covered, but many remain - and new surprises pop up from time to time.
Must-Visit Street Art Neighbourhoods
Bristol’s street art isn’t confined to Banksy alone. Exploring different neighbourhoods reveals a kaleidoscope of styles, stories, and surprises.
Stokes Croft & Gloucester Road
Regarded as the heart of Bristol’s urban art scene, Stokes Croft is lined with murals by local and international artists. Wander north towards Gloucester Road, the UK’s longest street of independent shops, where nearly every shopfront is decorated with vibrant art.
Bedminster & Southville
Home to Europe’s largest street art festival, Upfest, Bedminster’s North Street is a living gallery with more than 100 large-scale murals. Each year, new works are added, keeping the area colourful and ever-changing.
Nelson Street
Nelson Street’s “See No Evil” project transformed a dull thoroughfare into a festival of urban art, featuring towering murals from artists worldwide. The area remains a must-see for its scale and creativity.
Harbourside & Old City
Bristol’s harbourside and Old City quarter are dotted with creative interventions, from playful stencils to ambitious murals. It’s a great area for a self-guided street art hunt, blending art with history.
Street Art Tours in Bristol
To really get under the skin of Bristol’s street art, consider joining a guided tour. Local guides offer fascinating insight into the stories, artists, and techniques behind the artworks, with plenty of Banksy trivia along the way.
Popular options include:
Where the Wall: Renowned for their Banksy and Bristol street art walking tours
Bristol Street Art Tours: Led by local artists, these tours cover major hotspots and hidden gems.
Self-Guided Walking Routes: Pick up a map from the Bristol Tourist Information Centre or follow online guides for a flexible DIY approach.
Tours run year-round and suit all ages—ideal for a city break or a creative day out.
Tips for Exploring Bristol’s Street Art
Wear comfortable shoes: Many artworks are best seen on foot—Bristol’s hills and cobbles add to the adventure!
Bring your camera: The art is endlessly photogenic and always changing, so you’ll want to capture your favourites.
Respect the art: Please don’t deface or touch the murals. Many are legally commissioned, and all are part of the city’s creative life.
Explore local cafés and shops: Street art hotspots are often close to Bristol’s best independent coffee shops, bakeries, and vintage stores—perfect for a mid-tour refuel.
Check festival dates: Upfest (usually in summer) brings a wave of new murals and events—time your visit if you want to see live painting in action.
Where to Stay in Bristol
For a boutique base close to the action, Hotel du Vin Bristol City Centre offers stylish rooms, relaxed dining, and an ideal location for exploring the city’s creative neighbourhoods. After a day on your feet, unwind with a cocktail at the bar or a leisurely dinner in the bistro.
Frequently Asked Questions about Banksy & Street Art in Bristol
Where can I see Banksy art in Bristol?
Some of the most famous Banksy murals—such as “Well Hung Lover,” “The Mild Mild West,” and “Girl with a Pierced Eardrum”—can be found around the city centre, Stokes Croft, and the harbourside.
Are there street art tours in Bristol?
Yes! Several local companies offer guided walking tours focused on Banksy and Bristol’s broader street art scene. Options include Where the Wall and Bristol Street Art Tours.
Is Bristol street art legal?
Bristol is known for supporting legal street art, with many walls and murals created by commission or at festivals. However, not all graffiti is sanctioned, so always check before taking photos or sharing locations.
What’s the best area for street art in Bristol?
Stokes Croft and Bedminster (North Street) are two of the best areas for street art, with colourful works lining the main roads and side streets.
When is the best time to visit for street art?
Street art can be seen year-round, but visiting during the Upfest festival (usually summer) means you’ll catch artists at work and see new pieces being created.
Can I take photos of street art in Bristol?
Absolutely! Photography is welcomed, and many tours encourage you to snap away—just remember to be respectful of artists and locals.