Renowned equally for its long and eventful history and its place at the forefront of modern culture, Bristol is a spectacular city to visit or live in. The spiritual home of both Banksy and Britain’s industrial age icons, there’s a whole host of things to keep you busy in and around the city, whether you’re looking for vast museums, fabulous food and drink or soothing nature trails.
No matter where your interests lie, there’s no denying that a visit to Brizzle (as it’s affectionately known by locals) offers the perfect chance to get outdoors. And as one of the greenest cities in the UK, you’ll have plenty of options. To get you started, here are just some of our favourite things to do outdoors in Bristol.
Where? 20 minutes north from the city centre, off junction 17 of the M5
Enjoy an extra special brush with nature when you visit the city’s Wild Place Project. Spanning 50 acres of woodland, garden and meadow, the Wild Place Project is home to incredible species from across the globe. Lemurs, bears, wolves, cheetahs and zebra are just a handful of the animals to keep your eyes peeled for.
Where? Wraxall, to the west of Bristol
How much? Free! (though tickets may be required)
Set among rolling green countryside on the fringes of the city, Tyntesfield is a spectacular Victorian Gothic Revival house and National Trust estate. Widely considered a masterpiece of its era, the property boasts extensive grounds and landscaped gardens that are perfect for taking a stroll through. With a kids’ play trail and pavilion café, there’s everything you need here for a successful family day out.
Where? Leigh Woods, over the Clifton Suspension Bridge
How much? Free!
Part of the spectacular Ashton Court Estate, Ashton Court Meadow is a wonderful green space that’s treasured by residents and visitors to the city alike. Just a short journey over the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, the meadow is particularly beautiful in Spring and Summer, when it blooms with colourful wildflowers and green-winged orchids.
Where? Clifton, a short distance from the city centre
How much? From £17.84 for adults and £13.10 for children
Take a walk on the wild side at the epic Bristol Zoo Gardens. Home to more than 400 different species of exotic and endangered animals, the gardens span more than 12 acres of specialist habitats. From a 32-stone gorilla to a pack of majestic lions and ever-hilarious penguins, there’s something here to inspire visitors of all ages.
Where? Henbury, on the northern outskirts of the city
How much? Free!
A beautiful 19th century mansion and its 400 acres of grounds, Blaise Castle House Museum and Estate offers a fascinating journey into the past. Home to a quirky collection of artefacts from centuries gone by, including model trains, toys and kitchen equipment, the beautiful parkland that surrounds the grand house is a real draw in its own right. With woodland trails and lush green meadows to explore, there are few better places in and around the city to stretch your legs.
Where? The city centre, close to the Old City
How much? Free!
As the city’s best loved green space, Queen Square is a great spot for a picnic or whiling away an hour or two to people watch. Flanked on all sides by tall trees and ornate architecture, there’s almost always something or other going on across its wide level lawns.
Where? Brislington, in the southeast of the city
How much? Free!
Nestled into a bend on the banks of the River Avon, the tranquil Eastwood Farm and Nature Reserve feels a million miles from the bright lights of the city, despite being just several kilometres from bustling Queen Square. Despite what its name may suggest, Eastwood hasn’t been a working farm for several decades now, but today is a reserve and renowned wildlife haven spanning wetlands, grassland and forest. Keep an eye out for the heron and green woodpeckers that often make an appearance.
Where? The Harbourside
How much? Free!
One of the city’s modern architectural icons, the unusual design of Pero’s Bridge certainly catches the eye. But it’s the story that lies behind the naming of this Harbourside bridge that makes it so poignant. Pero Jones was brought to the city of Bristol as a slave in 1765, at the age of just 12. His experience was not unique for the time, and his eponymous bridge is intended as an acknowledgment of the city’s historic links to slavery and the many victims of it who passed through Bristol’s streets.
Where? The western end of the city centre
How much? Free!
Sitting on a lush green mound that overlooks the city centre, Brandon Hill is easily one of Bristol’s most charming green spaces. Just a stone’s throw from the city’s most bustling quarters, it’s winding paths and pretty seating areas are the perfect place to stop and catch your breath while exploring urban Bristol. Its centerpiece, the spectacular Cabot Tower, boasts a fascinating history and is one of the timeless icons of the Bristolian skyline.
Where? The Harbourside Markey
When? All year round
Say goodbye to soggy sandwiches and support some local independents when you grab lunch or an afternoon snack by the city’s Harbourside Market. On Wednesdays and Thursdays each week, an open-air pop up boasting a raft of independent eateries is the main focus. Expect juicy jerk chicken, tantalizing toasties and scrumptious stir fries galore.
If all these incredible outdoor attractions are enough to draw you to Bristol, you’ll need somewhere comfortable to recharge your batteries after each day of adventuring in and around the city. Our brand new Leonardo Hotel Bristol Glassfields offers everything you need in one place, with super stylish bedrooms, handy city centre location and modern on-site bar and restaurant.
In addition to outdoor activities, Bristol provides a diverse array of other enjoyable experiences and attractions. To explore these options, visit our Bristol City Guide page for detailed information.
