6 Banksy Originals to See in Bristol

Six Banksy original art works that can be viewed for free in the wild around Bristol, with added detailed location information.

He’s one of the most famous artists in the world, yet you wouldn’t be able to pick him out of a line-up. Banksy’s work was officially recognised in the early 1990s on the streets of Bristol, known to be Banksy’s home city. Since then, Banksy’s work and style have only increased in recognition, value, and imitations.

For fans of Banksy, who are heading to Bristol and wish to see some true original artworks in the wild, we’ve put together this handy little guide; 5 Banksy Originals in Bristol.

‘Take the Money and Run’ – Early 1990s

St. Andrew’s Road and Bath Buildings, BS6 5EH (Opposite The Old England pub)
One of the earliest mural works of the artist recognised, Take the Money and Run was created in collaboration with icons in their own right in the Bristol underground scene, Nick Walker, Inkie, & Mode2.
Image: blocal-travel.com

‘Mild Mild West’ – 1999

76 Stokes Croft, St Paul's, Bristol, BS1 3QY (above Shop, on the sidewall)
This rebellious piece of art from the turn of the Millennium is a favourite amongst local Bristolians, who are no strangers to a protest or two. According to banksyexplained.com, this piece was drawn in response to various illegal parties and raves around Bristol in the '90s, which drew great attraction from the police. 

‘Well Hung Lover’ – 2006

1-3 Frogmore St, Bristol, BS1 5NA (Opposite restaurant on the side of the high wall. Can also be seen next to Pizzarova restaurant; 2, 4 Park St, Bristol BS1 5HS)
It's quite fitting this evocative depiction is on the side of what used to be a sexual health clinic in Bristol. It was commissioned by a member of the band, Massive Attack, a reported close friend of Banksy. The original was vandalised by a chancer with a paintball gun. A move we're sure Banksy has no problem with. 

‘Planning Permissions’ – 2011

41 Lower Lamb Street, BS1 5QR (At the end of Lower Lamb Street)
This tucked-away gem reading "You don't need planning permission to build castles in the sky" spans 2.5 meters across two air vents, creating the quirky optical illusion of a smiling face. It's very easy to miss but definitely should be sought out.
Image: blocal-travel.com

‘The Girl with The Pierced Eardrum’ – 2014

Studio Upstairs, Albion Dockside Estate, Hanover Pl, Bristol, BS1 6UT (In-between buildings, opposite food vendor)
A modern adaptation of Johannes Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring', this depiction substitutes the pearl with an 'ADT' security alarm. The original did not have the black paint splatter, which was added via a vandalism act. 2020 also saw another addition, with a blue 'mask' added across the model's mouth, in light of the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic.

‘Valentine’s Day’ – 2020

1 Marsh Lane, Redfield, Bristol, BS5 9SB (Opposite Gold Star Chinese Takeaway)
This depiction of a young girl firing a slingshot with an explosion of rose petals appeared around Valentine's Day 2020. However, within 48 hours it was reported as vandalised, something about which Banksy himself says he's glad. As of writing, the stencil painting is covered from view. However, the roses are still visible.