day trips from bristol uk

13 Incredible Day Trips from Bristol, England

Are you looking for the best day trips from bristol from tours to stonehenge to hiking cheddar gorge, this is what to do near bristol..

Bristol is a place nestled in a glorious countryside of rolling hills, dramatic gorges and coastal villages. If you can drag yourself away from the city, there is so much natural beauty to enjoy.

From ancient monuments, old-fashioned towns with historic pubs, to grand landscapes, safari parks and underground adventures, you’re sure to find day trips from Bristol that suit all budgets and interests.

What’s even better is Bristol has great public transport connections, and there are plenty of tours from Bristol too. That means you’ll be able to get to many of these places listed here even if you don’t have your own car.

Bristol embodies the beauty of the west country, and there are so many unique activities nearby. From feeding a giraffe at Longleat Safari to exploring Glastonbury, you’re in for an amazing time whatever you choose to do.

So, if you’re headed this way and you’re looking for what to do near Bristol, here is my list of recommendations. Pick one of these things and I guarantee nothing but good times ahead.

We’ve got lots of other tips for trips to Bristol, so don’t miss our guide to the best brunches in Bristol , best walks near Bristol and Chloe’s Bristol day trip itinerary .

Day trips from Bristol

Stonehenge tours from bristol.

Ahhh, the mysterious beauty of Stonehenge. For the last 4000-5000 years, the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge has delighted people from all over the world. As one of the most iconic monuments in the United Kingdom , a trip to Stonehenge is always one of the most popular day trips from Bristol.

Let someone else take over the driving and take advantage of the Stonehenge tours from Bristol. Both private and group tours can be arranged and prices include entry, transport and audio guides. Some tours even include a trip to Lacock and Avebury, or to Salisbury. You can check out these tours either with Greenman Tours or Mad Max Tours .

Alternatively, you can pick up a ticket to Stonehenge that includes a queue jump here. This is great for those of you who are short on time and like planning ahead.

Bristol boat trip with afternoon tea

How does learning about the fascinating maritime history of Bristol while taking in the sights from the water and indulging in a scone and a nice cup of tea sound to you? If you answered “Great!”, then the Bristol boat trip with afternoon tea is for you.

The afternoon tea cruise sails for 2 hours and is known for its humorous and informative commentary.  You’ll understand what we mean by that once you’ve taken the tour.

Tours from Bristol’s Wapping Wharf normally run on Wednesdays, Sundays and bank holidays. Be sure to book in advance to avoid being disappointed.

Longleat Safari and Adventure Park

Koalas, hippos, lions, cheetahs, monkeys, zebras and Anne the rescued circus elephant are all waiting to greet you at the Longleat Safari and Adventure Park .

Just 30 miles away, this safari will provide one of the most unique day trips from Bristol for the whole family. You can purchase a ticket for the on-site bus tour, or feel like you’re on a real adventure and drive your own vehicle through.

Aside from an abundance of animals, the park provides mazes, boat cruises, Longleat house and gardens, and a kid’s adventure playground. You can even hand feed birds and giraffes too. It goes without saying, but this really is one of the best activities for kids around. There are so many learning opportunities for them, so it’s fun and educational.

Loneleat has a very good ethical and ecology record too. They are a very sustainable organisation and their animal welfare is top notch.

Westonbirt Arboretum

Located in the Cotswolds, the Westonbirt Arboretum boasts an amazing collection of trees from all over the world. Spend your day exploring some of the many nature trails, identifying flora and fauna using the Westonbirt Arboretum’s Plant and Flower Spotter’s Guide, or snap drool-worthy photos along the Picture Perfect trail.

While this is an amazing place to cool down in summer, there are also fun activities for all seasons, including a Christmas light show, a tree top walkway and Gruffalo trail for the kids. The site also features an on-site shop, restaurant and outdoor play areas. Basically, there really is something for everyone here which is why we love it!

Cheddar Gorge

Cheese and nature lovers unite and make your way to Cheddar Gorge! At 137m (449ft) deep and 4.8km (2.98 miles) long, Cheddar Gorge is the largest gorge in England. This is also the place where Cheddar Man, the oldest complete human skeleton in Britain was found. Two records in one!

Surrounded by natural beauty, the best way to enjoy this gorge is by taking a circular 4-mile walk. The national trust recommended route takes you past the pinnacles and caves, and provides stunning views.

After some good fresh air, make your way to a cheese making tour and learn the history of the iconic cheese named after the area. Don’t forget to try a few samples too.

Glastonbury Tor Walk

Free day trips from Bristol can provide breathtaking views and a full day’s entertainment without splashing any cash. The Glastonbury Tor Walk, for example, is one of the best hikes in Somerset, and that’s saying something! This popular walk takes you from the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey to the summit of Glastonbury Tor.

The circular walk is around 2 miles and there is a fairly moderate climb to the top of the hill. At the top you’ll find St Michael’s Tower, an old 15th century church tower with some of the best views of England.

One of the best bits about this walk is you’ll end up in Glastonbury itself. That means you can finish off your walk with a pub lunch or afternoon tea.

With its gorgeous 18 th century Georgian architecture, Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage City, in fact the only one in the UK. Located just 13 miles away, Bath is very easy to get to from Bristol. What makes this day trip even better is that there are great public transport connections between the two cities and it is very easy exploring Bath on foot, so you don’t need a car for this one.

The Roman Baths are of course a key place to visit, however Bath offers so much more. While you’re here, take a stroll through Queens Square, enjoy the architecture of the houses in Circus and Royal Crescent areas, visit the Bath Abbey and enjoy the views at Pulteney Weir.

One of the best ways of experience Bath is on a walking tour of the city . On a tour like this you’ll see all the top sites – this tour also includes entry into the Roman Baths afterwards too which is a bonus.

Have you been picturing yourself tiptoeing down cobbled streets, surrounded by quaint stone houses with thatched roofs? Or perhaps taking cream teas by the river? Then the Cotswolds are the villages near Bristol to visit for you.

Located 55 miles north-east of Bristol, the Cotswolds are made up of many villages and towns, each seemingly more gorgeous that the last! But where to start?

With a small river running through the centre, boutique shopping and cream teas a plenty, Burton-On-Water is a great pick. For quintessential cobbled streets, stone houses, thatched roofs, and English pubs, make your way to Castle Comb. Go to Stow-on-the-Wold for tea rooms, manors and museums, or Tetbury for a round of antiquing. You can discover the best villages in the Cotswolds in our blog post here.

Llanddwyn Island, Anglesey

Llanddwyn Island isn’t quite an island – it’s just about attached to the mainland – but it does offer some of the best views of the stunning North Wales coastline.

One of the highlights here is the Tŵr Mawr lighthouse (that’s ‘Great Tower lighthouse’ in English). This is an old lighthouse that dates back to 1845 and it’s become one of the most photogenic spots in Wales.

It’s also the perfect place to spot some wildlife. Seals are often seen relaxing in the sun on the rocks below. Also, if you’re lucky, you can see dolphins and occasionally minke whales in the area too. This is genuinely one of my favourite spots in Wales. If you get here on a hot and sunny day it definitely does not feel like you’re in the UK at all!

Weston-Super-Mare

Just 18 miles south-west of Bristol, and conveniently connected by public transport, sits the Victorian seaside town of Weston-Super-Mare. Providing long stretches of beach, ice cream stands and donkey rides, a day trip here should be on your list of what to do near Bristol. Especially during the summer when it is a real holiday hotspot.

The town itself also offers plenty to keep you entertained. For example, visiting The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens which is complete with moat and drawbridge. Or visiting The Grand Pier, an indoor amusement park set over the water, great for families on rainy days.

Wookey Hole

Looking for fun day trips from Bristol for families? Then come and explore the world from underground at Wookey Hole . Wookey Hole’s main attraction is a system of underground caves. In fact, they are the largest show caves in England!

Now lit up and equipped with walking paths, this system of caves was once home to cavemen thousands of years ago. More than just caves, admission includes access to mini golf, mirror mazes and a fairy garden. You can also walk through the valley of dinosaurs, play on vintage penny arcade machines and enjoy indoor and outdoor play areas. As I said, this is such a great place for families – all you big kids will love it too.

The city of Salisbury, on the south eastern side of Wiltshire is steeped with history. In fact, the Salisbury Cathedral is home to one of the original Magna Cartas! The medieval cathedral itself is the place of pilgrimage for hundreds of thousands each year, and it has the tallest spire in Britain.

Be sure to take some time wandering the streets and admiring the buildings that have stood here for hundreds of years. Including a stroll through the High Street Gate, built in the early 1300s and was once used to lock up convicted criminals. Then head over to 700-year-old The Haunch of Venison for a spot of lunch that will delight your taste buds.

Tintern Abbey

Just over the border in Wales on the banks of the River Wye sits the Tintern Abbey. This majestic ruin was founded in 1131 by Walter de Clare, Lord of Chepstow for Cistercian monks.

In 1537 the abbey was dissolved and has since been left to nature’s forces. Though roofless, the walls are standing and you can still spot many distinctive features of this Early English to Decorated Gothic style structure.

Take a guided history tour, wander through the surrounding countryside and enjoy refreshments at the on-site cafe.

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2 thoughts on “13 Incredible Day Trips from Bristol, England”

Great public transport – what are you on about. Lived in Bristol all of my life and spent about half of it waiting for buses that never came

We’ve always found a lot of the public transport options to the places listed okay. Agree, getting around the city itself can be frustrating at times. Fingers crossed it improves in the future!

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Go South West England

30 incredible day trips from Bristol (2024 local guide)

Are you searching for the best day trips from Bristol? I’ve put together this comprehensive local guide with something for everyone.

Whether you want a trip to the beach or to experience some of the most cultural destinations in South West England, read this guide for travel tips on all the best places to visit near Bristol!

The city of Bristol certainly pulls you in.

I lived there for four years when I was at university, and then moved back for another year as a young professional – it was only the extortionately expensive housing that meant that I didn’t buy my first property there!

While Bristol has so, so many draws – the incredible street art, the diverse culture and food scene, the range of neighbourhoods, the looming Clifton Suspension Bridge and the seafaring history, it’s also an excellent West Country base for some of the best day trips in the region. 

From Bristol, you can drive south to Somerset and Devon, north to Gloucestershire, west to Wales and east to Wiltshire; there’s a plethora of beautiful places to explore in less than a two-hour drive from the southwest’s biggest city. 

So, what are the best day trips from Bristol?

Throughout my five years living in the city, I visited all of the places listed below, some of them numerous times.

Whether you want to explore the best of the British countryside, step back into the nation’s history or just find somewhere to relax on a beach, you can do all of that near Bristol!

Below I’ve listed the best places to visit near Bristol, including information about how to get there, what to see and when to visit.

Table of Contents

What are the best day trips from Bristol? 

As someone who’s spent a lot of time in the city, here’s my list of the best Bristol day trips: 

Cheddar Gorge

North cotswolds, south cotswolds, mendip hills, quantock hills, glastonbury and wells, tyntesfield.

• Weston-super-Mare

Chepstow and the Wye Valley

• Hay on Wye 

Brecon Beacons

Blackdown hills aonb, dartmoor national park, the jurassic coast.

• Teweksbury and the Malvern Hills

Shepton Mallet and Somerton

• Longleat Safari Park 
• North Devon

I’ll go into them all in more detail below! 

The Best Day Trips from Bristol

The best day trips from Bristol include the historic and beautiful city of Bath, the rolling Mendip Hills and especially Cheddar Gorge, seaside towns like nearby Weston-super-Mare or places on the Jurassic Coast in Devon and Dorset and the enigmatic Stonehenge in Wiltshire. 

The looming Bath Abbey , dating back to Medieval times, is just one landmark of the city of Bath.

Walking around the city is like stepping through layers of history, as you explore the Roman era with the baths and delve into Georgian history at The Crescent and The Circus . 

Bath’s the perfect day trip from Bristol, as it sits less than 15 minutes away by train; or you can even hike or cycle here! 

I lived in Bath for a year too – you can read all my top places to visit in Bath here – but the general highlights are:

• The Abbey: This was where the first King of all of England was crowned in 973 AD, and remains an enchanting and fascinating historic building to explore .
• The Roman Baths: The Roman Baths made use of Bath’s natural thermal waters to create a spa complex; here you can see the ruins of them and learn about Roman history. 
• Georgian Architecture: The Circus and the Crescent are the most famous examples – Bath’s Georgian terraces will have you feeling like you’re on the set of Bridgerton! You can even do a Bridgerton tour to see some of the filming locations – click here for more information.
• Bath Skyline Trail: This trail runs above the city, taking in some incredible views of Bath while enjoying its surroudning nature.
• Kennett and Avon Canal: Another excellent place for a walk, the Kennett and Avon Canal consists of colourful boats floating on the water – when I lived here, I used to jog here a lot. 
• Museums: Bath has an abundance of museums, including the newly opened Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein, the Jane Austen Museum and the Fashion Museum. 
• The Thermae Spa: Soak in this naturally-heated spa after a day’s exploring – don’t miss the heated rooftop pool where you can look over the city! 

How to get there

Bath is reachable by train (just 10 minutes from Bristol Parkway and 15 from Bristol Temple Meads), bus (about an hour) or driving (about 40 minutes from Bristol). 

There isn’t much parking in Bath City Centre (and it has a clean air zone) but there are park and ride car parks or free parking available on suburban streets. 

It’s also connected to Bristol on the Bath to Bristol cycle trail. 

One of Britain’s most remarkable natural phenomena, Cheddar Gorge is like nothing you’ll have seen in the country before, which definitely makes it one of the best Somerset attractions !

It’s the largest gorge in England and is home to a dramatic cliff-top walk (definitely one of the best hikes near Bristol ) and enigmatic caves. 

You can also learn about the history of Cheddar Man here. Cheddar Man is the Mesolithic remains of a man dating about 10,000 years that were found in the nearby Gough Cave.

After hiking around, you can drive through the gorge to the town of Cheddar , which is famous for its cheese and cider.

Driving is the only feasible option to reach Cheddar Gorge; it takes about 40 minutes from Bristol. If you want to hire a car, SIXT has an office in Bristol.

Day trip to Glastonbury, Wells and Cheddar

You could also consider a day trip that involves Cheddar!

This tour initially stops in the city of Wells and town of Glastonbury and then visits at a Somerset cider farm – so you can sample the county’s favourite drink!

The tour finishes in the village of Cheddar – while you won’t have the chance to explore it entirely, you’ll see a little of the village along with other Somerset highlights .

Cardiff is Wales’ capital city and it is located not too far from the southern England/ Wales border. 

It’s smaller city than Bristol, but it has some iconic landmarks including the open-air museum of St Fagans, Cardiff Castle and Castell Coch .

There’s plenty of beautiful scenery in the area, and the city has got a completely different atmosphere to Bristol, so it’s worth checking out. 

Plus, a Cardiff day trip is a good chance to say you’ve been to Wales!

Activities and tours in Cardiff

There are lots of things to do in Cardiff that you can book before your day trip!  Click through to any of the below tours, all of which are powered by Get Your Guide .

It’s an hour’s drive on the M4, or 45 minutes on the train. Coaches also connect the two cities, and are cheaper than trains.

The Cotswolds region of England is famous for beautiful, quaint villages that look like they belong in a fairytale and gentle rolling hills.

The area stretches from Cheltenham to Bath and across into Oxfordshire. 

The North Cotswolds are the furthest part from Bristol, but they’re still only just over an hour’s drive. 

For a day trip itinerary to this part of the region, I’d recommend visiting Bourton-on-the-Water which is known as “the Venice of the Cotswolds” .

It has charming canals leading through the village, which is lined on either side by historic cottages, many occupied by restaurants and cafes with some of the most scenic views in Gloucestershire !

Then, head to Stow on the Wold , home to a unique 15th-century church and one of the UK’s oldest pubs. 

Finish your North Cotswold day trip by visiting Winchcombe , a tiny village that’s home to Sudely Castle , a 1,200 acre privately owned estate that was home to Queen Katherine Parr , Henry VIII’s sixth wife – and she was buried in the grounds.

The castle is open to visitors in the summer season. 

Other Cotswold Tours

If you’re visiting London on the same trip, you might find it easier to do a day tour of the Cotswolds from London. Click through to see the following tours on Get Your Guide .

Cars are the only sensible option for this road trip route!

The South Cotswolds is marginally closer to Bristol, but only just – the drive from the city to Tetbury is about 40 minutes. 

Tetbury is a must-visit – it’s fit for a King, after all!

Charles owns Highgrove House which is close to the town, although since he ascended to the throne he spends less time in the village. 

Westonbirt Arboretum is another nearby must-visit; it encompasses 15,000 plants and 2,500 species of trees, with a whopping 17 miles of walking paths leading through them all. 

Don’t miss Castle Combe , which is possibly the most quintessentially British village in the entire country, home to terraces of cottages leading up a cobbled road ascending a hillside.

Parts of War Horse and Downton Abbey have been filmed here. 

I’m also a huge fan of Bradford-on-Avon .

Sitting on the Kennet and Avon Canal – you could technically cycle from Bristol to Bath and then to Bradford – this town has a ramshackle tearoom (when I visited once, the owner described it as “the building that looks like it’s falling down” – but I mean this in a charming way!), historic features like a “lock-up” (where they used to detain drunks) and plenty of cafes and bars sitting along the river. 

Again, a car is the best way to get around the Cotswolds – but if you’re just exploring Bradford-on-Avon, you could take the train or cycle. 

Tour from Bristol to Cotswolds and Stonehenge

Don’t have a car? No problem!

There’s a fantastic day trip that leaves Bristol and spans to the Cotswold villages of Castle Combe and Lacock, where parts of Harry Potter were filmed.

This tour also visits ancient Stonehenge, which is another of Wiltshire’s best places to visit .

The Mendip Hills AONB is a collection of limestone peaks surrounded by the Chew Valley . 

It’s nowhere near as well-known as the Cotswolds or places like Exmoor and Dartmoor – but it’s one of the loveliest rural areas of Somerset and one of the easiest day trips from Bristol – the northern edge is just a 20 mintue drive away!

The hill stretch from Weston-super-Mare in the west to Frome in the east, and encompass sites like the pretty village of Blagdon, Black Down (the hills’ highest point which is a lovely afternoon hike), the Chew Valley reservoir and Three Priddy Droves , a delightful hike. The pretty English village of Blagdon is only half an hour’s drive from South Bristol and is home to two reservoirs.

Cheddar Gorge is on the edge of the Mendip Hills, but I’ve separated them for this post as there’s quite a lot to do in both locations! 

Car is the best way, but the 41 bus goes to Lower Langford (via Bristol Airport) or the hills can be accessed from Weston-Super-Mare. As the region is so close to Bristol taxi is also an option.

Nestled in South West Somerset , close to the Devon border, you’ll find the mesmerising Quantock Hills , which were made England’s first AONB back in 1956.

Despite them being the oldest AONB in the UK , they’re not very well known – but this means that they’re usually fairly quiet! 

Walking is the best way to enjoy the Quantocks, which gently slope down to the North Somerset coastline . 

My favourite walk is the Staple Plain route which offers incredible views over Somerset’s coastline, and I also love walking along the coastline itself at Kilve Beach .

There are also charming villages to explore, including Crowcombe and its Grade I listed Church of the Holy Ghost and Holford which is on the 51 mile Coleridge Way Walking Route .

Check out my full guide to the Quantocks by clicking here.

It’s best to get to and travel around the Quantocks by car, as it is about a 90 mile trip from Bristol and the towns around the region are quite small, without long-distance buses.

Exmoor National Park

Sitting just the other side of the Quantock Hills (it’s possible to do both on a weekend trip!),  you’ll find the sprawling Exmoor National Park . 

Moor is the main highlight here, but Exmoor is also bordered by the sea , and there are plenty of places to enjoy nature in the moorland, which spans across West Somerset and over the border into Devon.

Minehead is the closest town to Exmoor, but there are plenty of villages dotted over the moor, including the charming village of Lynmouth which is home to the UK’s only water-powered railway.

Minehead’s also the beginning of the South West coastal trail , which extends from Somerset all the way around North Devon and Cornwall and down to Studland Bay in Dorset! 

Of course, you won’t be doing the whole path in a weekend, but you could enjoy a day hike along the Exmoor coastline ; I’ve done the Minehead to Porlock and Porlock to Lynmouth hikes, which are both incredible but very tough! 

For an easier hike, tackle Dunkery Beacon which is the highest peak in the area. 

Again, car is by far the easiest option from Bristol – any other transport would take too long.

The charming town of Glastonbury and Wells, one of the UK’s smallest cities , are doable on a day trip from Bristol; you can visit one first to enjoy all of the attractions and then head to the other! 

Both are located around a 90-minute drive from Bristol, and they are about 10 minutes from each other.

Wells is the smallest city in England , and is home to Vicar’s Close which is thought by some to be the oldest street in the UK, next to its beautiful cathedral. 

It has the buzzing atmosphere of a Somerset town with artisanal markets, food stalls, and plenty of quaint old buildings.

Glastonbury, on the other hand, is a wonderful place to visit for fans of the weird and wonderful .

There are lots of independent shops in the city, where you can buy everything from tarot cards to one-off fashion pieces.

Take a climb up Glastonbury Tor and enjoy the view of the county from the top, and try some of the refreshing Glastonbury water that is said to have healing properties.

Check out my full list of things to do in Glastonbury.

Driving from Bristol takes just under an hour to reach either, and it’s about 15 minutes between towns.

The 376 Mendip Xplorer direct bus goes to both Wells and Glastonbury. To Wells, it takes 1 hour, and to Glastonbury, it takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

Bristol to Glastonbury day trip

Another alternative is taking a day trip from Bristol to Glastonbury and Wells.

This tour includes stops in Wells and Glastonbury and finishes at a Somerset cider farm, where you can try some of the local favourite beverages – which is fantastic as you won’t be driving!

The tour finishes in Cheddar, where you can sample the rich local cheese.

Situated on the side of the A303 on Wiltshire’s Salisbury Plain is Stonehenge , a sight of great Pagan significance. 

Nobody’s exactly sure how the stones got there , as they aren’t native to the area, and their purpose has been hotly debated throughout the centuries.

What we do know is that the circle is from the Neolithic Age and is between 3500-5000 years old . Pretty impressive…

At Stonehenge, you can see the circle and the historic area , as well as learn about the significance of the site at the visitor’s centre. 

It’s not the cheapest Bristol day trip, at £19 for adult tickets and £11.40 for kids, but it’s a bucket list item for many people!

You can visit Stonehenge for free if you have an English Heritage or National Trust membership (the ruins are run by the English Heritage but the land’s owned by the National Trust).

Take a look at my English Heritage vs National Trust blog post by clicking here.

You won’t spend all day seeing Stonehenge, so I’d also recommend a trip into Salisbury , home to the majestic Salisbury Cathedral .

Or, you could visit other, less-touristy neolithic sites in the area, such as Woodhenge or the nearby Avebury Stone Circle . 

Here’s my full guide to Stonehenge.

Driving is by far the best option; it takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes by car along the A36.

There is a public transport option, although it will take a lot longer; trains leave from Bristol to Salisbury and buses from there to Stonehenge Visitors centre. 

The website Connecting Wiltshire has great up to date information about public transport in the county.

Day trip from Bristol to Stonehenge and Cotswolds

From Bristol, you can embark on a day trip to see the ancient wonder of Stonehenge and the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds.

This tour visits the quaint Castle Combe and stunning Lacock, which has Harry Potter connections.

It’s a wonderful way to see the highlights of the county of Wiltshire in an easy Bristol day trip!

Tyntesfield is one of the closest National Trust properties to Bristol. 

It’s a Victorian Gothic Revival manor house with a rich history, that has been repurposed to show an accurate historical representation of life in the era.

There are also beautiful gardens , including woodland and a walled herb and vegetable garden, that are perfect for an afternoon stroll out of the city.

National Trust -owned Tyntesfield is so close that it can be a half-day trip from Bristol, or it can be combined with a drive around the Mendip Hills.

The X6 bus leaves Bristol City for Tyntesfield and takes around 25 minutes. It’s also possible to walk there using an OS map, or cycle via The Festival Way. 

Visitors arriving by bike, on foot or on public transport get a 20% off voucher in the cafe and shop.

Otherwise, it’s an easy drive from Bristol centre – parking costs £3.00 or is free for national trust members.

Weston Super Mare

Weston-super-Mare is a traditional British seaside town and one of the best summer day trips from Bristol. It’s famous for its long pier and vast beach and has lots of family-friendly activities like parks, the biggest climbing wall in the southwest and amusement arcades.

This part of the Bristol Channel has the second-largest tidal difference in the world (second largest to only Canada), which makes it not ideal for swimming.

However, if you’re looking for a coastal town to visit for the day and want to enjoy some classic British seaside culture , Weston-super-Mare is only 30 minutes drive from the city – in fact, it’s one of the easiest beaches to reach from Bristol .

Either take a train, drive or take a bus from Bristol to Weston-super-Mare.

With Roman, Medieval, Georgian and WW2 history, Exeter’s one of the most historically dynamic cities in the UK. 

Its history is relatively unknown; cities like Bath and Oxford often overshadow Exeter, but step into the culture and you’ll be entranced at its tales. 

Exeter was the centre of the woolen cloth trade in the Medieval period, which meant that it grew and prospered as an industrial town . 

This was when the cathedral was created, which remains one of the most impressive in the country and has the longest uninterrupted gothic vaulting in the world. 

Exeter Quay is also a delightful area, with watersports opportunities and restaurants lined along the canal front.

The city was tragically bombed heavily in WW2, so nowadays you’ll see Medieval buildings in between quickly-built houses from the 1960s.

Do a Red Coat Walking Tour to learn about Exeter’s fascinating history, or pop into the RAMM Museum ! 

You can check out the best things to do in Exeter here ; I live close by in Exmouth so I visit the city all the time! 

 It’s an easy train journey from Bristol to Exeter, taking just over an hour. It should take you around an hour and a half to drive. 

With a two-mile-long golden beach stretching from the town to the cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, Exmouth is a watersports hub .

Grab a stand-up paddleboard or kayak from Sideshore, the beachfront watersports rental centre and take to the water – it’s one of the best days out near Bristol in the summertime! 

Once you’ve had your fill of the water, head up to the cliffs.

Exmouth is the start of England’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast .

The cliffs here are actually Triassic, dating back 250 million years. 

On a clear day, you can see much of the South Devon coastline from here, along with the beach and estuary that makes up Exmouth. 

I’ve started doing guided walking tours of Exmouth , where I take small groups of tourists through the beach and town centre, detailing fascinating stories about the town along the way. Click here to read more about these !

There are plenty of other things to do in Exmouth , too – walk along the Exe Estuary (it’s a popular spot for birdwatchers), check out the rolling Woodbury Common ( another fantastic walk in Exmouth !) or visit the many indoor attractions like Exmouth Museum and Excape Escape Rooms . 

I live in Exmouth (I moved here from Bristol a few years ago) and it’s a wonderful place to spend a day – or longer! 

Exmouth is around an hour and a half drive from Bristol to Exmouth, or you can take a train to Exeter St Davids and hop on the branch line to Exmouth – I’ve taken this route reguarly, in the past from Bristol to Exmouth and now from Exmouth to Bristol! 

Head over the Welsh border on this day trip, where you’ll enjoy the charming town of Chepstow (home to a wonderful castle that sits right on the English/ Welsh border) and head to the majestic ruins of Tintern Abbey , dating back to 1131 and looking out over the River Wye . 

There are a few walks that you can do on the Wye Valley , taking in the gorgeous vistas over the river; some of this is part of Offa’s Dyke , a national hiking trail that follows the English/ Welsh border.

This was the setting for the popular Netflix show Sex Education – you can even take trails to see some of the houses! 

Or, head to the town of Monmouth , which is also home to a wonderful castle – there are so many epic castles in Wales!

Symonds Yat Rock is also worth visiting. This was featured in Harry Potter and offers a mesmerising vista over the rural area of the River Wye . 

Chepstow is one of the easiest day trips from Bristol – it’s just a half-hour drive away! Public transport is a little more complicated, as you’ll need to change trains in Newport.

Monmouth sits a half-hour drive from Chepstow (or a one-hour bus ride), and other Wye Valley attractions are in between. If you want to visit Tintern Abbey and other attractions, you’ll probably need a car. 

Hay on Wye 

Another Welsh gem is the book town of Hay on Wye . 

Situated on the Welsh side of the Wye River , this is a tiny village with a big history – it’s brimming with bookstores (it’s one of the best places in the country to pick up novels!) and had an eccentric “king”, Richard Booth , who declared the village to be independent! 

There’s a castle to check out, along with charming cobbled streets and beautiful views over the Brecon Beacons .

You can add this to a Brecon Beacon road trip !

It’s an hour and a half drive from Bristol to Hay on Wye; unfortunately, public transport isn’t feasible. 

A little further into Wales, past the charming town of Swansea, is the Gower Peninsula . 

There are a few coastal trails to explore here, but one of the most charming areas is Port Enyon . 

This is a holiday resort area and small village; there’s a sweeping beach here along with an epic part of the Welsh coastal path . 

I visited this part of Wales for a friend’s birthday and loved relaxing on the beach and hiking to the cliffs – there’s even a smuggler’s hideaway at one part! 

You can easily take a train from Bristol to Swansea, but then public transport becomes a bit more challenging (when I went, I asked a friend to pick me up in Swansea!). Driving is the best way to reach The Gower! 

Around 25 miles north of Cardiff, the Brecon Beacons mountain range , one of Wales’ three national parks, starts to rise before its pinnacle at Pen y Fan , which is the highest mountain in South Wales. 

You can hike Pen y Fan mountain , which takes around 4-6 hours to walk the circular route; definitely doable on a day trip from Bristol in the summer.

Alternatively, hikes like the four waterfalls walk are flatter and less challenging! 

Driving’s the only feasible way; it takes around 1 hour 30 minutes from Bristol. 

Basking in the shadows of an 11th-century cathedral is the pretty city of Gloucester, which sits to the north of Bristol. 

While the cathedral’s the main landmark, there’s also the bustling Gloucester Docks , home to a range of restaurants and shops sitting on the waterfront. It’s also home to the National Waterway Museum , which boasts an impressive array of exhibitions about British waterway history. 

There’s also the enigmatic Blackfriar’s Priory , which dates back to the 13th century and is one of the most intact Dominican black friaries in England.

Tie it all together with a trip to the Gloucester City Museum and Art Gallery , with exhibitions on the city’s past and present. 

Gloucester’s one of the best day trips from Bristol by train; the rail line takes just 50 minutes to connect the cities, or it’s also around a 50 minute drive. 

Straddling the border between Devon and Somerset, the Blackdown Hills AONB is a West Country hidden gem – many visit the much more touristy national parks, but these hills are equally as stunning. 

I always drive through the Blackdown Hills when I travel from Exmouth to London, and they’re so enchanting and alluring – the perfect entry to or exit from Devon! 

There are a variety of excellent walks that you can enjoy in the Blackdown Hills; head to Chard , one of the main towns in the area, and enjoy a variety of these circular walks from the town .

It’s a one hour 10 minute drive from Bristol to Chard. Unfortunately, there are no feasible public transport links.

Sitting in the middle of Devon, Dartmoor National Park is England’s largest and one of the UK’s most impressive. 

This rolling moorland is famous for its tors , which are large rock outcrops with stones on top – many with historic spiritual significance. 

Dartmoor also has plenty of reservoirs and even some temperate rainforests – I love Wistman’s Wood , although at the moment it’s closed due to the moss and fern needing to regrow. 

You could also check out Lydford Gorge .

Dartmoor’s also home to a few indoor attractions, including the Dartmoor Prison Museum in Princetown, Castle Drogo which was the last castle to be built in England and The Highwayman Inn , which is known as Britain’s quirkiest pub ! 

How to get there 

Driving’s the best way to see all of Dartmoor’s attractions (as they’re quite spread out).

However, if you don’t have a vehicle, there’s a new train that runs from Exeter to Okehampton, which sits on the edge of Dartmoor.

You’ll need to take a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Exeter St David’s first, and then you can connect! 

Spanning 95 miles along the East Devon and Dorset coastlines, the epic Jurassic Coastline starts in Exmouth and ends in Studland Bay . 

It’s England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site , awarded so because it’s the only place where you can walk through the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods; these eras make up the Mesozoic era , and it’s the world’s complete collection of this period. 

You’ll see the red sandstone cliffs of East Devon first, then the Cretaceous sandstone and chalk cliff near Studland Bay ! 

Highlights include Durdle Door, the Isle of Purbeck, Corfe Castle (which is just north of the coastline) and east Devon villages like Beer and Branscombe . 

To do a Jurassic Coast road trip, you’ll need a car (obviously!).

I’d recommend driving to Exmouth and seeing how far you can get from there, or you can drive down to Weymouth (just a two-hour drive south of Bristol) and explore around there – or take a train to Weymouth and explore the coastline here! 

Tewkesbury and the Malvern Hills

The gorgeous town of Tewkesbury sits about an hour’s north of Bristol. 

On the edge of the Cotswolds, this Medieval market town is brimming with historic architecture and is notably home to Tewkesbury Abbey . 

This religious building has an enchanting history spanning back 900 years ; the buildings were nearly lost after the dissolution of the monasteries, but they were ultimately saved by the townspeople rallying together! 

From Tewkesbury, you can pop to the nearby Malvern Hills , a selection of gently sloping hills that cross the border from Worcestershire to Herefordshire .

It’s a rural area, known for its wonderful walks and charming towns. 

If you don’t have a car, you can take a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Ashchurch for Tewkesbury; from here, it’s a 50 minute walk to the town or an 8 minute taxi ride.

If you want to explore the Malvern Hills, you’ll need your own set of wheels! 

A day trip I cobbled together when I was living in Bristol was Somerton and Shepton Mallet for the Shepton Mallet prison . 

Somerton is a lesser-visited town in rural Somerset; while it’s quite small and not touristy at all, it’s a remarkably historic place . 

The town gave Somerset its name ; it was here where a meeting took place in 949 of the Witan , who was an Anglo-Saxon parliament. 

It grew as an industrial town , but during the industrial revolution when many other spots around the country’s industry grew, Somerton’s faded away. 

You can learn all about its extensive history with a self-guided walking tour of the town (click here for instructions). I did this when I visited and it was fascinating! 

After soaking in the history of Somerton, head to Shepton Mallet.

This market town is most famous for its prison, and it’s here that you’ll be visiting! 

Dating back to 1610, the prison was the oldest one in the country when it closed its doors in 2009. 

Tours offer a look into prison culture in the UK from 17th century onwards, with a focus on the Victorian age when some prisons began to get more humane (I also learned about this in Bodmin Jail in Cornwall). 

You’ll also walk through some more recent cells and learn about some of the prison’s most notorious inmates such as the Krank Twins . 

Taking a car is the only real possibility for this day trip, as there’s not much public transport around Somerton. 

Hereford’s often overlooked as a UK city break destination, but it boasts one of the country’s best cathedrals and is part of the wider Welsh Marches region , which is full of fascinating history. 

The cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is home to the Mappa Mundi, which is a famous Medieval map of the world. 

For more history, visit Old House , which is a 17th century building with rooms restored to how they looked during this era. 

There’s also the Hereford Museum and Gallery , which is located in a Victorian building. 

The city is lined along the River Wye and there are some beautiful strolls to enjoy that are walkable from the city centre.

The Welsh Marches region boasts lots of delicious products, including cider (I know it may be void saying this to Bristol day trippers, but it’s worth trying to see the difference!) and lots of local cheese. 

Train is possible, but you’ll need to change at Newport and it takes around 1 hour 40 minutes. Otherwise, it’s an hour and a half by car – we easily found car parking just outside of the city centre. 

Longleat House and Safari Park 

One of the best family day trips from Bristol, Longleat Safari Park was the first safari park outside of Africa when it opened in 1966, and offers children and adults alike the chance to see animals like lions and zebras up close. 

I’m always in two minds about safari parks, but I do like that they give people the chance to get an education about these creatures – and they certainly give animals a lot more space than zoos. 

Once you’ve driven around the safari park, enjoy the stately homes and gardens , which span over 900 acres.

The house dates back to the 16th century – a priory originally stood there but it was demolished during the dissolution of the monasteries – and it was the first stately home in Britain to be opened to tourists! 

It’s about an hour and 10 minutes to reach Longleat, which is located in Wiltshire, close to the Somerset border.

Public transport is possible, but you’ll need to take a train to Westbury, then Frome, and from here take a bus (total journey time is around two hours). 

North Devon 

Head to North Devon , some two hours 20 minutes from Bristol, to enjoy some of the UK’s best beaches, a laid-back surf culture and a real holiday atmosphere. 

The best places to visit on a North Devon road trip include Croyde, Woolacombe , Westward Ho! , Clovelly and of course, Exmoor National Park (although most visit this as a standalone day trip). 

Croyde and Woolacombe are two of the best beach destinations in Devon (in fact, Woolacombe was voted the best in the country and one of the best in Europe!).

Westward Ho! Is great for surfing and Clovelly is a charming fishing village . There are a few things to do in Barnstaple too, and I love the village of Appledore near Westward Ho! 

Driving is the only real feasible way; you could technically take a train to Exeter St David’s, connect to Barnstaple and then take some regional buses, but this would take quite a long time and wouldn’t really be feasible for a day trip. 

Around a two-hour drive from Bristol, you’ll find Torbay .

This is one of the oldest seaside resorts in the UK – and while nowadays it feels a little dated (I’m biased, but I think that Exmouth Beach is much nicer!), the area shines when it comes to family-friendly attractions and a diverse array of things to do. 

For starters, visit Splashdown Quaywest Water Park , which sits in Paignton and is the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark (do bear in mind that it’s really not that big – it gets the title because the UK doesn’t have that many outdoor waterparks!).

I visited last summer and had a few thoughts on it – you can read my full review here – but for a family who wants to find somewhere to cool off in the summer heat, it’s a worthwhile attraction. 

Other places to visit in Torbay include the fascinating Kents Cavern Caves , the 900-year-old Torre Abbey , the heritage family attraction Bygones , the fun-packed Paignton Pier , the Babbacombe Cliff Railway which descends down to Oddicombe Beach and the Babbacombe Model Village . 

Of course, there are some beautiful beaches on the English Riviera ; if you want to avoid the crowds, I’d steer clear of Paignton and Torquay beaches, but Oddicombe and Meadfoot are beautiful and usually quieter.

If you fancy a hike, the South West Coast Path spans all of Torbay . 

Pick your favourite attractions and have a fun family day out in Torbay! 

Check out the best things to do in Torquay by clicking here.

Driving’s the easiest way – it takes around two hours to reach Torbay from Bristol. Alternatively, take a train to Exeter or Newton Abbot and change lines. 

Largely considered to be one of the prettiest villages in Wiltshire , Lacock is a must for Harry Potter fans , as some Hogwarts scenes were filmed in the Abbey and other scenes were filmed around the town. 

The Abbey dates back to the 13th century and has a chequered history of being used for a monastery, school and home. There’s also the sprawling Lacock Estate and a 14th-century Tithe Barn in town. 

It’s a 40 minute drive from Bristol to Lacock; you can also take a train from Bristol to Chippenham and then hop on the X34 bus.

If you’re seeking the easiest day trips from Bristol, I bring you Portishead , which sits just 10 miles from the town.

Looking out over the Severn Estuary , Portishead is technically a beach town, although the tidal difference stops many from swimming in the sea here. 

However, there is an outdoor swimming pool and beautiful marine, perfect for an afternoon stroll.

You’ll also find a Victorian Pier here, although, unlike its counterpart in Weston-super-Mare, it’s not open for visitors and is merely used by fishermen for angling.

There have been campaigns to reopen it in recent years, however!

Driving takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, or you can take the X1 excel bus. 

One of the UK’s most popular and historically significant cities, Oxford sits on the other side of the Cotswolds – but it’s still feasible to visit on a day trip. 

Most famous for Oxford University which dates back to 1096, the city’s grown as an educational and literacy hub over the years. 

Tours are available around various campuses or kick back in some of its historic pubs.

The Bear Inn has a history back to the 13th century (although today’s building dates back to the 17th century) and the Eagle and Child was a popular spot for meetings between JR Tolkien and CS Lewis!

The train is a possibility, although there’s no direct line; you’ll need to change at Reading. Otherwise, it’s an hour and a half drive. 

Can I visit Cornwall on a day trip from Bristol? 

I make no secret of the fact that I absolutely love Cornwall – you can see all my Cornwall travel guides here. However, I wouldn’t recommend visiting on a day trip from Bristol. 

You could technically drive there – the east of Cornwall is about 2.5 hours away from Bristol and west Cornwall is 4.5 hours – but it’s a long drive and there’s so much to see and do in Cornwall – it’s probably best to visit on a day trip! 

Can I visit London on a day trip from Bristol? 

It’s possible to visit London on a day trip from Bristol – the train is less than two hours (check out my GWR first-class review if you’re interested in travelling in style!).

This means that it’s easy to enjoy London attractions like Westminster Abbey, St Pauls Cathedral and the London Eye – you can even head north to the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio tour (advance booking for this is essential – one of my best tips for Harry Potter World London is to book as early as possible!).

However, I try to keep my recommendations local to the west of England and Wales, presuming that most people looking for day trips have already visited London! 

Other Bristol blog posts

As I lived in Bristol for years, I’ve covered the city extensively on this blog. 

You can check out my list of the best things to do in Bristol (featuring street art, food, the Clifton Suspension Bridge , the SS Great Britain and much more!), my local’s guide to where to stay in Bristol , tips for how to get to Bristol and my full Bristol travel guide.

Amazing Bristol Day Trips…

With jaw-droppingly beautiful nature at every turn, it’s well worth getting out of Bristol and exploring its neighbouring counties: Somerset, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, and Devon.

One of the beauties of Bristol is that you really don’t need to go far to find some nature , as you can see in most of these Bristol day trips.

However, there are plenty of villages, breweries, farms, and even a few small cities to check out too!

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Cities in South West England to Visit

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23 Best Day Trips From Bristol (Suggestions From A Local)

One of the many things we love about living in Bristol is how you only need to drive for 45 minutes and technically be in a new country , or drive for just 90 minutes and be in stunning Devon.

What this means is that there are so many epic day trips from Bristol you can take ensuring every weekend is unique. Here are our favourite days out near Bristol…

Best Day Trips From Bristol

Berkeley castle.

– Approx 20 miles (45 minutes away from Bristol by car)

We’ve recently discovered Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire and it was such a fun day out!

Berkeley Castle is roughly 45 minutes north of Bristol. Here, you’ll find a historic 12th-century castle, which many kings, queens and famous people have frequented over the years.

Like King Edward II who was imprisoned and tortured here. Or Sir Francis Drake who was a friend of the Berkeleys.

The current Berkeley family still live in the castle, so some of the rooms aren’t open to the public and the castle is only open on certain days of the year.

However, there’s still plenty to explore inside and throughout the grounds. It’s even been used as a filming location for various period dramas like Poldark and Wolf Hall.

When we visited, there was even a medieval sword fighting re-enactment happening, which was included in the price of our ticket and very entertaining to watch!

– Approx 13 miles (45 minutes away from Bristol by car, 10 minutes by train)

Just 10 minutes away by train, the city of Bath is the very essence of English idyll.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Bath offers lots for culture and history lovers. There are the Ancient Roman baths, a stunning abbey, Jane Austen-inspired attractions and stunning botanical gardens.

And as Bath is a very walkable city, it’s easy to see the highlights of Bath in just one day (without rushing).

On your next visit, why not consider walking part of the Cotswold Way ? This infamous 102-mile-long route starts/ends outside Bath Abbey. And you can look forward to such stunning views along this stretch, such as this one from the Prospect Stile Viewpoint.

READ NEXT: Cotswold Way Circular Walk Featuring Bath & Prospect Stile Viewpoint

Bowood House and Gardens

– Approx 32.5 miles (55 minutes away from Bristol by car)

If you feel like escaping the hustle and bustle of the city for the day, then why not visit Bowood House and Gardens in Wiltshire?

This historic 100-acre estate is privately owned by the current Marquis and Marchioness of Lansdowne and is less than an hour’s drive away from Bristol.

Here, you’ll find a stunning Grade I listed Georgian property nestled within a picturesque estate that features grottoes, temples, a waterfall and even an arboretum (or pinetum).

No wonder Bowood House and Gardens has graced our silver screens time and time again, such as within ITV’s period drama, Sanditon and the infamous Poldark TV series .

Please note that the Bowood estate is closed to the public through winter, but you can visit daily between April and November.

Slimbridge Wetland Centre

– Approx 26 miles (45 minutes away from Bristol by car)

Slimbridge is just 30 minutes up the M5 from Bristol and offers a great day out for all involved.

It’s brimming full of birds, ducks, swans and geese — you can even feed some of them from the palm of your hand!

There are always various special events happening to keep children entertained such as giant Lego trails and specialist talks, and if you’re not visiting with kids, it promises a relaxing walk through trees and by the water’s edge… lovely!

– Approx 23.5 miles (1 hour away from Bristol by car)

Frome in Somerset is a beautiful and historic town, which is roughly 25 miles away from the centre of Bristol.

In less than an hour’s drive, you could be perusing knick-knacks in various independent stores and wandering along cobblestoned streets that time forgot.

This is the perfect town to while away a few hours. You can even combine it with a trip to Farleigh Hungerford Castle , which is just 10 miles north of Frome and makes for an interesting visit.

RELATED: 11 Unmissable Things To Do in Frome, Somerset

Cheddar Gorge

– Approx 20 miles (50 minutes away from Bristol by car)

Cheddar Gorge in Somerset offers a lot in the way of a great day trip from Bristol.

You can visit the giant caves and learn how cheese is made, you can walk the gorge itself and view stunning landscapes from above, or munch on tasty treats such as cheese, ice cream and fudge from the quaint shops lining the winding rivers.

RELATED: 16 Beautiful Places To Visit in Somerset, UK

Painswick Rococo Garden

– Approx 37 miles (1 hour away from Bristol by car)

Roughly an hour’s drive north of Bristol, you’ll find the charming Cotswold town of Painswick. And one of Painswick’s most loved attractions is the Painswick Rococo Garden .

Here, you’ll find stunning pieces of 17th-century architecture (influenced by a European art movement) nestled among carefully landscaped gardens.

While the flora and fauna are a joy to see, the architectural pieces and water features elevate this garden above most others.

Cotswolds Water Park

– Approx 39 miles (1 hour away from Bristol by car)

If you’re into watersports such as paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking, (or just want to give them a go), then a day trip from Bristol to the Cotswolds Water Park is a must!

You can do all of these sports and more here, and being just 50 minutes from Bristol, you won’t have to travel far.

The Cotswolds

– Varied mileage and distances; see individual timings below

The Cotswolds stretch out over 787 square miles and there’s lots to see here. Up first on anyone’s wish list should be some of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds .

Here are a few ideas of which to visit first and their approximate distances from Bristol:

• Lacock (40 minutes from Bristol) : Lacock Abbey is home to a few Harry Potter movie locations , while the village is your typical Cotswold affair.
• Castle Combe (30 minutes from Bristol) : Also home to period dramas and filming locations, Castle Combe is another quintessential Cotswolds village, complete with walking trails, picture-perfect cottages and traditional English pubs.
• Bourton-on-the-Water (1 hour from Bristol) : Often nicknamed “Venice of the Cotswolds”, Bourton-on-the-Water is built around a winding river and offers plenty of opportunities for eating cream teas and shopping in little boutiques.
• Chipping Campden (1 hour 15 minutes from Bristol) : Chipping Campden is a small market town but has a delightful selection of restaurants and shops. The popular walking trail: The Cotswold Way also starts here.
• Stow-on-the-World (1 hour 10 minutes from Bristol) : Stow-on-the-Wold is a very picturesque village to explore and if you’re visiting during the summer months, you’ll find quite a few festivals and events happening here.

READ NEXT: 14 of the Prettiest Cotswolds Villages & Towns

The Brecon Beacons

The Brecon Beacons are an iconic image when thinking about the UK and with the centre of the Brecon Beacons being just over 2 hours away from Bristol, you can see a lot during a day trip.

Our recommendation would be to embark on one of the many walking trails — three of our favourites are:

• The Four Waterfalls Walk near Ystradfellte (2 hours from Bristol by car) : Interesting woodland walk that lets you follow the trail of four waterfalls (one of which you can walk behind for free!)
• Pontsticill Reservoir (90 minutes from Bristol by car) : Relaxing walk around the edges of a stunning blue reservoir, complete with picture-perfect picnic spots!
• Pen y Fan Hike (90 minutes from Bristol by car) : Challenging hike to the top of the highest peak in South Wales to see some of the best views in the Brecon Beacons!

– Approx 36 miles (1 hour and 20 minutes away from Bristol by car)

Stourhead in Dorset offers you the chance to visit the house and learn about the history behind who lived here, but what most people will come to see is the world-famous landscape garden.

Surrounding a large glistening lake is a woodland walk with the chance to explore classical temples and a magical grotto with the most unique view across the lake. And The Temple of Apollo was even used as a Pride & Prejudice filming location !

It truly is stunning (especially in the autumn months when the trees all display reds, oranges and golds).

READ NEXT: 35 Best National Trust Places To Visit

Wookey Hole

– Approx 19 miles (55 minutes away from Bristol by car)

Similarly to Cheddar Gorge, Wookey Hole is also your chance to see spectacular underground caves.

But Wookey Hole also offers a large miniature golf course, various museums, mirror mazes and pier games all as part of the ticket price. Plus it only takes about an hour to drive there from Bristol!

Gloucester Cathedral

– Approx 36 miles (55 minutes away from Bristol by car)

Gloucester isn’t usually going to be at the top of a list of day trips from Bristol, but it should be for Harry Potter fans !

Several scenes from the movies were filmed in the cathedral, such as the troll smashing up the toilets in the first film, or where the words ‘The chamber of secrets has been opened’ in the second movie were displayed. Have we convinced you enough to visit yet?

READ NEXT: Gloucester Cathedral Harry Potter Filming Location

Malvern Hills

– Approx 64 miles (90 minutes away from Bristol by car)

The Malvern Hills is one of the best walking trails in the UK as the views are superb and the trails are often very quiet.

It takes about 90 minutes to drive there from Bristol, which means you can easily spend a few hours walking in the countryside and stopping for a picnic as a day out.

Just watch out for sheep that often roam the roads during the spring and summer months!

– Approx 46 miles (1 hour away from Bristol by car)

If you don’t quite have time to make it all the way to Stonehenge from Bristol then a very close second best would be the stone circle at Avebury , which is about 50 minutes from Bristol by car.

There’s lots to see at Avebury — from the traditional manor, to an archaeological museum, quaint English village and the aforementioned stone circle, which is over 4,000 years old!

Anyone can see the circle for free, but if you want to explore the manor house as well, then there is a fee to pay ( unless you’re a National Trust member ).

You can also see lots more historic sites dotted around Avebury as part of the Avebury World Heritage Site . To find out more, check out our Avebury walking guide .

READ NEXT: Epic Avebury Walk – 6 Incredible Historic Sites Await!

– Approx 55 miles (90 minutes away from Bristol by car)

Bristol to Stonehenge is one of those bucket list day trips to take as Stonehenge in Wiltshire is such an iconic image in England.

It’s about 90 minutes in the car from Bristol (without heavy traffic), or you can easily embark on one of many day tours that run from Bristol to Stonehenge.

However, entrance to the henge is quite pricey and something that very few know is that you can easily walk through some of the countryside surrounding Stonehenge and see it for free!

READ NEXT: Must-See English Heritage Sites in Wiltshire, UK

Longleat Safari Park

– Approx 32 miles (1 hour and 15 minutes away from Bristol by car)

Who doesn’t love heading out on a safari? And when you can do it as a day trip from Bristol, why wouldn’t you?

It takes just over an hour to drive to Longleat from Bristol and offers so much for the whole family to do.

You can drive your own car through the safari park (although you should avoid the monkey enclosure if you don’t want A LOT of damage done to your car), or you can hop on a bus that drives through the full safari.

There is also Longleat House to admire from the inside, as well as mazes, boat cruises, and various fun attractions on its grounds — all as part of one ticket price.

If you’re looking for a winter day out as well, then look out for special events that happen at Longleat such as ‘The Festival of Light’ .

– Approx 85 miles (1 hour and 40 minutes away from Bristol by car)

Oxford is such a charming city to visit. It’s just as beautiful and historic as places like Bath and Cheltenham , and is simply one of those bucket list destinations that you just can’t ignore.

Travelling from Bristol to Oxford takes about 90 minutes by car, or you can easily hop on a couple of trains, which takes about 2 and a half hours total.

When in Oxford, make sure you carve out some time to see the University buildings, Oxford Castle and Prison, have a delicious cream tea, as well as wander through the meadows on the outskirts of town. These are all must-dos when in Oxford.

BONUS: Check out Blenheim Palace near Oxford – it’s incredible at Christmas !

READ NEXT: Christmas at Blenheim Palace Review (+ Tips For Visiting!)

Newark Park

– Approx 23 miles (50 minutes away from Bristol by car)

Newark Park is a beautiful  National Trust property in sleepy Gloucestershire.

There’s an old Tudor manor house here, which you can explore inside for a fee. Or you can explore the stunning countryside for free.

There are three waymarked walking trails you can follow, each of different lengths and for different levels of fitness. They even take you through sheep fields, through forests, past garlic flowers as well as bluebells.

And if you follow the trails up near the house, you’ll have some of the best views of the Cotswolds, especially if you come during the spring or summer months.

Lydford Gorge

– Approx 113 miles (2 hours away from Bristol by car)

If you’re a regular reader of our blog, you’ll know we’ve visited a myriad of National Trust places . But Lydford Gorge is by far our most favourite of them all.

Following the twisting and turning of the River Lyd, you’ll embark on a woodland walk that provides the opportunity to see a 30-metre high waterfall called ‘Whitelady’ and bubbling water potholes called ‘Devil’s Cauldron’.

And despite being in Devon, it actually only takes about 2 hours to drive to Lydford Gorge from Bristol!

– Approx 52 miles (1 hour and 50 minutes away from Bristol by car)

If you love history, then you’ll love Salisbury . You can see one of the original Magna Cartas in the Salisbury Cathedral, you can wander through the city itself and spot buildings that are hundreds of years old.

You can even eat lunch in a pub that dates back as far as 700 years ago — The Haunch of Venison is not only a historic place to see, but it serves absolutely delicious food!

Similarly to a lot of suggestions on this day trips list, Salisbury is about 90 minutes from Bristol by car.

READ NEXT: One Day in Salisbury Itinerary For A Fabulous Day Trip

– Approx 42 miles (1 hour away from Bristol by car)

Most famed for its stunning Regency architecture , action-packed festivals and horse racing, there are so many fun things to do in Cheltenham .

It was once the place to be in the 18th century after its spa waters were discovered and commercialised; wealthy Londoners in particular saw it as the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle (and smog!) of the capital.

Nowadays, the stunning stucco facades and ripe history are blended with the modern including a newly established street art scene. And at just an hour’s drive from Bristol, you don’t have to go far for a fantastic day out!

READ NEXT: 7 Fun Things To Do in Cheltenham

Fleet Air Arm Museum

Found about 1.5 hours from Bristol is the Fleet Air Arm Museum in Yeovilton. Here, you’ll get the chance to step back in time and wander among historic planes and aircraft memorabilia…

And even step on board the FIRST British-made Concorde. How awesome is that?

We recently went with my Dad who is ex-army and he was totally in his element… and to be fair, so were we!

We hope this list of the best day trips from Bristol serves as some great inspiration! Where would you like to see first? And have we missed out on any other top day trip ideas? Let us know in the comments below…

Did you like this? Pin ‘Best Day Trips from Bristol’ for later!

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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Your pictures are absolutely gorgeous! I hope I can visit Bristol someday!

Oh, thank you! You have no idea how nice it is to hear you say that (or is it read?) I hope you do get to visit Bristol and all the wonderful places near here too!

This is simply GRAND! Appreciate the kind & generous tip sheet. We like to be soft on the budgie and prefer cooking. Then, we can extend your generosity, and pay it forward adding kindness. We’re staying in Bristol and hoping for good weather, with no Polar Vortexes:{

For an affordable way to see another land from Bristol, take a train to the Welsh town of Abergavenny, changing at Newport. In just over an hour you ll find yourself in one of the best towns for exploring the Brecon Beacons mountain range. The best thing about the train trip from Bristol to Abergavenny is the rugged scenery that dramatically passes before you, giving you a taste of what s to come when you arrive. Adrenaline junkies should have a go at paragliding and hang-gliding on the Blorenge mountain. For those who like to keep their feet firmly on the ground, there’s the Skirrid peak to hike, or several castles to explore.

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21 best day trips from bristol (for locals and visitors).

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Whether you are visiting for the first time or a local looking for the best day trips from Bristol, UK, you’ll be in for a treat here!

Bristol is a beautiful and lively city but it’s also an excellent base to explore South West England and South Wales.

There are many day trips you can take from Bristol. They include small villages, English Heritage sites , seaside towns and plenty more!

As the city is also conveniently located near Wales, you get a huge variety of landscapes and can choose to spend your day out in England as much as in Wales.

🔎 Table of Contents

Best Places to visit within 1 hour of Bristol

Let’s start by the easy days out. You will find here the best places to visit outside Bristol. They are all located within 1-hour of the city and will be perfect if you want to stay local.

🚙 Distance: 13 miles / 30 minutes

Bath is one of the largest cities in the county of Somerset and one of the best day trips from Bristol for history buffs and Bridgerton fans.

It sits in the valley of the River Avon and was named after the Roman baths. It’s also filled with quaint street and little local boutiques.

HOW TO GET TO BATH FROM BRISTOL: The best way is to take the train.

It’s only 20 minutes, quite cheap and you will arrive in the centre. See prices here.

Although you can drive there, it will take you a bit more time and you will have to pay for car park. All in all, if you have to choose between the car and the train, take the train!

Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Bristol which includes a guided tour with a local guide .

🚙 Distance: 19 miles / 40 minutes

Tthe village of Cheddar is an excellent destination for a day out from Bristol if you love the outdoors.

It’s home to the stunning Cheddar Gorge, a limestone gorge in the Mendip Hills with a rugged terrain and beautiful scenery.

You’ll also find the oldest complete skeleton, known as cheddar man, which is believed to be 9000 years old. It was found in Gough’s Cave in 1903.

Strolling around the village is also a pleasant thing to do. Make sure to stop in one of the cheese shops and get some cheddar. It’s absolutely delicious!

HOW TO GET TO CHEDDAR GORGE FROM BRISTOL: The best way to get there is by car. Not only is it the easiest way but it’s also a very scenic drive.

Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Bristol which also includes Wells.

Click here to see the latest prices.

🚙 Distance: 22 miles / 45 minutes

Located only 45 minutes from Bristol, Wells is one of the smallest cities in the UK and an excellent day trip for families and history lovers.

The main attraction is Wells Cathedral. Located in the centre of the town, this gothic edifice is rather impressive.

Just next to it, you’ll find the Bishop’s Palace and Gardens. This is a great place to visit with children. Not only is it beautiful but it’s also a very quiet and relaxing place.

You should also make sure to wander around and discover the beautiful streets of Wells especially Vicar’s Close which is the oldest purely residential street in Europe.

If you love British movie, you will also be happy to know that Wells is home to some Hot Fuzz filming locations!

HOW TO GET TO WELLS FROM BRISTOL: You can easily get to Wells by car. It’s a rather nice drive as you will go through the countryside. You can easily park your car in Wells although you may have to pay for that.

If you don’t want to drive, you can also take the bus 376. It goes to Glastonbury but stops in Wells before that. It takes a bit over 1 hour.

Finally, you can also opt for a guided day tour from Bristol which includes both Wells and Cheddar Gorge.

See prices here.

4. Long Ashton

🚙 Distance: 4 miles / 15 minutes

If you want to visit a cute village near Bristol, opt for Long Ashton.

It’s a very pretty place to visit and you’ll find local cafes and pubs where you can get a meal.

It’s also home to a fantastic property, Ashton Court Mansion.

Finally, it’s a great place to go on a hot balloon ride. If you’ve always dreamt of doing that and want to discover Bristol under a new angle, that will be perfect for you!

HOW TO GET THERE: You can either drive to Long Ashton or take the bus X9 from the Centre. Either way, it’s very quick, only 15 minutes.

5. The Cotswolds

🚙 Distance: 17 miles / 25 minutes

Suitable for couples, families, solo travellers and adventure seekers, the Cotswolds are one of the most unique places in the UK .

You will find farms, quintessential villages, lively towns, and plenty of castles and country houses to explore.

The most popular villages to visit in the Cotswolds are Bourton-on-the-Water, Castle Combe and Burton (the last two are closer to Bristol).

Castle Combe is a prime example of fairytale village in England and was also used as a filming location for many movies.

If you are a fan of Jeremy Clarkson, you can go to Diddly Squat Farm which is the one featured in the Amazon Prime show.

You will also find quite a few National Trust properties here including the Snowshill Manor.

READ MORE: National Trust Membership Review: is it worth it?

HOW TO GET TO THE COTSWOLDS: Although there are train stations all around the Cotswolds, this is definitely an area you should explore by car.

It’s a quick drive from Bristol and you will be able to visit several villages in the same day.

🚙 Distance: 44 miles / 55 minutes

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales. It’s very close, making it an ideal option when it comes to day trips from Bristol city centre.

Cardiff is everything you would expect from a capital city while still having a “small town feel” to it.

It is filled with high street shops, busy streets filled with boutiques, bars, and restaurants, as well as Cardiff Castle to explore.

You can go on a boat tour of Cardiff Bay and discover all the famous landmarks. It’s a fun thing to do as well as a pretty cheap activity. See prices here.

If you love discovering filming locations, you’ll also be in for a treat! Some very famous movies and series were filmed in Cardiff.

If you want to discover them, you can go on a Gavin and Stacey tour from Barry Island or a Doctor Who walking tour in Cardiff city centre.

Finally, if you are a foodie, you can also opt for a food tasting tour in Cardiff. You’ll get to discover the famous sights and taste 6 different food and drinks. See prices here.

HOW TO GET TO CARDIFF FROM BRISTOL: The best way is to take the train. It’s very quick (50 minutes) and also pretty cheap. See the latest fares here.

7. Weston-Super-Mare

Weston-Super-Mare is a cute seaside town in the county of Somerset. It’s a popular day out from Bristol, especially for families.

You’ll find a long beach where you can go for a walk or, in summer, for a swim.

The Pier is one of the best places to visit. You’ll get to enjoy the views over the beach and play with the arcade games.

You’ll also find many fish and chips along the promenade. Make sure to grab one for lunch as they are incredibly delicious!

You can also visit one of the two museums in the town, The Helicopter Museum and Weston Museum.

HOW TO GET TO WESTON-SUPER-MARE FROM BRISTOL: The best way to get there is by car. It only takes 45 minutes and it’s very easy. Also, if you are planning to go to the beach, it will come in handy to have a car to carry your stuff.

Weston-Super-Mare is also an option if you are looking for day trips from Bristol by public transport since you can take the train from Temple Meads. It’s direct but takes 90 minutes (that’s the only downside). See fares here.

8. Wookey Hole

🚙 Distance: 19 miles / 45 minutes

Wookey Hole is a small village in Somerset with small shops and cute eateries. It’s particularly known for its caves and caverns. The most popular attraction is the Wookey Hole Caves.

Wookey Hall is also a great place to visit for families, especially with younger children.

It is only a short distance away from Bristol city centre and will give you the peace and tranquillity you expect from village life without you running out of things to do.

As it’s very close to Wells you can also combine these 2 locations into the same day trip.

HOW TO GET THERE: You need to drive to get to Wookey Hole. It only takes 45 minutes from Bristol.

9. Glastonbury

🚙 Distance: 27 miles / 55 minutes

Glastonbury is famous in the entire world for its music festival. As much as it is a great festival to attend, the town of Glastonbury itself is also one of the best places to visit near Bristol.

It’s a quiet and quaint town with colourful houses, cute little cafes and a friendly atmosphere.

Whether you are a couple looking for a romantic day trip from Bristol or a family with young children, Glastonbury will be an excellent destination.

You can walk around the town and discover the colourful murals before heading to Glastonbury Tor and Abbey.

The Somerset Rural Life Museum is also an interesting place to visit and quite good fun, especially with kids.

Finally, you can also hit two birds with one stone by visiting South Cadbury Castle on the same day. It’s located about 30 minutes from Glastonbury and is a great thing to do if you like to discover ancient ruins. You can also book a tour from Glastonbury for this part.

HOW TO GET TO GLASTONBURY FROM BRISTOL: You can easily get there by car. Parking is easy and often free.

If you don’t want to drive, you can also take bus 376 from Bristol city centre.

10. Puxton Park

🚙 Distance: 17 miles / 33 minutes

Puxton Park is a great location for families as there are facilities such as soft play, aerial climbing and slides and approximately 40 acres of open countryside.

It’s the perfect place to run off some energy and have some fun and is only a short distance from Bristol city centre.

Tickets can be bought online and are pretty affordable. They also offer annual memberships.

HOW TO GET THERE: It’s an easy 30 minutes drive from Bristol. There is a carpark there.

11. Chew Valley Lake

🚙 Distance: 12 miles / 30 minutes

The Chew Valley Lake is one of the largest artificial lakes in the UK with an area of 1200 acres and a great location for families to walk around and for couples.

It’s also a great spot for wildlife so if you are an avid bird watcher then this should be added to the list of day trips from Bristol.

With a picnic area and also plenty of walking trails, it could also suit people who enjoy hiking.

HOW TO GET TO CHEW VALLEY LAKE FROM BRISTOL: The best way is to drive there. It’s very easy, it only takes 30 minutes and will be the most convenient way.

12. Clevedon

Clevedon is a cute English town west of Bristol. It is a traditional Victorian seaside town that offers an excellent high street filled with shops, great bars, and restaurants but also the option of cliff-top walks.

If you love the tradition of an English seaside day out then eating some fish and chips and enjoying an ice cream on the beach is also a great option.

HOW TO GET THERE: Driving is the quickest and cheapest way to get there. It only takes 30 minutes and you can easily park there.

13. Gloucester

🚙 Distance: 40 miles / 45 minutes

Gloucester is a city near the Cotswolds. It’s known for 11th-century cathedral which has Romanesque and Gothic architecture as well as the tomb of King Edward II.

Not only are there quaint streets but you’ll also find docks with restored Victorian warehouses.

The National Waterways Museum is also worth a visit. You’ll learn plenty about the industrial past.

14. Burnham-on-sea

🚙 Distance: 31 miles / 45 minutes

If you are looking for another quintessential English seaside town then Burnham-on-sea will be a great option.

Make sure to stroll along the promenade with the family, enjoy some classic fish and chips and embrace the beautiful sandy beaches.

You can also visit the St Andrew’s Church and go golfing.

Best places to visit within 2 hours of Bristol

Now if you are willing to drive a little more, here are the best places to visit around Bristol.

15. Salisbury & Stonehenge

🚙 Distance: 51 miles / 1 h 35 minutes

Salisbury is a medieval city that makes for a fantastic day trip from Bristol by train. It is a bit further out, but it is so worth it.

Aside from the town being full of history and stunning architecture, there is one main attraction that brings the tourists in year after year, Stonehenge.

It is believed that the stones were brought there across from Wales thousands of years ago and are a religious element where the sun rises and sets.

It is a fantastic location, perfect for anyone who takes an interest in the stone-age period or for families who have children learning about it in school.

HOW TO GET THERE: If you only want to visit Salisbury, the best way is to take the train from Temple Meads. It’s only 1 hour and will save you time. See fares.

If you also want to visit Stonehenge, it will be better to drive so you can easily access both locations.

Finally, you can also opt for a guided day tour from Bristol.

Click here to see the prices.

16. Brecon Beacons National Park

🚙 Distance: 75 miles / 1 h 50 minutes

Located a bit less than 2 hours from Bristol, the Brecon Beacons are one of the 3 national parks in Wales.

If you love outdoor activities and cute little villages, you will be in for a treat here!

You will find some of the best hikes in the UK! Make sure to go on the horseshoe ridge walk up to Pen-y-fan. This is the highest peak in the Beacons and the views are absolutely stunning!

Admittedly, the hike is a bit challenging but it’s well worth it.

If you are into history, you can visit one of the numerous castles in the area such as Abergavenny, Brecon or Crickhowell Castles.

Finally, get lunch in one of the local pubs in the cute towns of Brecon, Crickhowell or Hay on Wye.

HOW TO GET THERE: You will need to drive to get the Beacons. Although there are a couple of train stations, it’s not worth taking the train. You will need a car to go to Pen-Y-Fan anyway and you’ll have more flexibility if you are driving.

17. Exmoor National Park

🚙 Distance: 63 miles / 1 h 30 minutes

Exmoor National Park is an excellent day trip from Bristol for outdoor lovers.

If you love hiking, you will be for a treat! There are many walking trails in the area. Climbing up to Dunkery Beacon is a popular thing to do. You can also walk the South West Coast Path if you’d rather some sea views.

You can also go horse riding there. The Burrowhayes Farm Riding Stables offer some horse trekking options.

If you are into history, make sure to visit Dunster Working Watermill, Cleeve Abbey or Dunster Castle

HOW TO GET THERE: As for any national park, the best way to get there is by car. It will be easier and will give you more flexibility.

18. Malvern

🚙 Distance: 62 miles / 1 h 10 minutes

Malvern consists of 3 towns: Great Malvern, Barnards Green, and Malvern Link.

They all have their own centres offering something different for shoppers and tourists, so you are bound to find something that interests you.

One of the highlights is the Great Malvern Priory which is a stunning monastery. You can also go for a walk in Priory Park.

HOW TO GET THERE: Driving is the quickest way to get there. It takes 1h10.

Alternatively, you can take the train from Bristol but it will take 2 hours. See fares here.

19. Stourhead

🚙 Distance: 35 miles / 1 h 10 minutes

Stourhead is a 1072 hectare estate by the River Stour. It is a National Trust property so you can expect all of the usual things that go along with that including trails, events and beautiful surroundings.

You can see the Palladian house and go for a walk around the estate and gardens.

You will need to book your tickets in advance on the National Trust website . If you are a member, the entrance will be free but it’s still recommended to book.

HOW TO GET THERE: The best way to get to Stourhead is by car. You will find a National Trust car park near the entrance.

20. Longleat Safari and Adventure Park

🚙 Distance: 30 miles / 1 h 05 minutes

If you are an animal lover and want to get up close and personal to some of the more rare animals you wouldn’t find in a park then Longleat Safari and Aventure Park is for you.

This is the perfect family day trip from Bristol, but don’t be fooled as many couples love the chance to go on safari and experience the animals up close and personal.

It was actually the first drive-thru safari park outside of Africa and was opened back in 1966.

They care for the animals and while there is enough to occupy any child or adult here, they will likely hold events throughout the year.

You can book tickets online, directly on their website . They also offer annual passes.

HOW TO GET THERE: The best way is to drive there. You’ll find a car park at the entrance.

21. Quantock Hills

🚙 Distance: 48 miles / 1 h 15 minutes

Quantock Hills are located west of Bridgewater and an hour south of Bristol, meaning it is the ideal day trip with a car.

The Quantock hills consist of heathland, oak woodlands, ancient parklands, and agricultural land. They were England’s first area of outstanding natural beauty and are well worth a visit.

There are walking trails, and hiking options, perfect if you have a sense of adventure and love to be around nature and in the open countryside.

HOW TO GET THERE: The best way to get from Bristol to the Quantock Hills is by car. It’s a natural place and taking public transport would be more hassle than it’s worth.

You may also be interested in:

• 18 Best UK Staycation Ideas for the perfect British Holiday
• 11 Beautiful Seaside Towns in Devon That Are Perfect for the Summer Holidays
• The Best UK Picture Quiz: 90 Questions and Answers about the UK for your next British Quiz!
• Ultimate Bristol Quiz: 40 Questions and Answers about Bristol, England

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

Microadventures in Bristol and beyond

36 must-do day trips from Bristol

With so many excellent family attractions, iconic landmarks and glorious countryside within easy reach of the city, Bristol makes a brilliant base for exploring the West Country. There are tons of options for family days out near Bristol so I’ve rounded up my best day trips from Bristol, under two hours from the city.

Table of Contents

Bristol days out – animal attractions

Bristol zoo project.

This Wildlife conservation park is one of the easiest , fun day trips near Bristol. Wild Place recently returned four extinct British species – European brown bears, lynx, wolves and wolverine – to UK woodland for the first time in hundreds of years. A raised walkway through the trees and 180-degree glass viewing areas let you watch the animals in the forest, in what feels like an open, natural enclosure.

The rest of the park is made up of animal habitat-themed zones, for example, giraffes, red river hogs, cheetahs and zebras roam in recreated wilds of Cameroon, Africa and you can get within an arm’s length of the lemurs in a ‘Madagascan village’. The Barefoot Trail is where my kids would probably spend the entire visit if they could, scampering over different natural textures that have been laid out (worth bringing a towel if it’s muddy!)

There are also a number of play areas, including an indoor Fun Fort, a vast green meadow containing a clock tower made by the same dude (Dent) that created Big Ben (!) and an outdoor climbing adventure, ‘Leap of Faith’, with a giant 25ft swing.

Old Down Country Park

After ideas for a day out near Bristol in beautiful countryside? Old Down is home to farm animals, wandering peacocks, an excellent adventure playground, trampolines, an assault course, fairy garden, yurt (we saw Elsa in there once!) and a really nice restaurant.

WWT Slimbridge

For family days out near Bristol, WWT Slimbridge ticks lots of boxes. The attraction is most famous for its birds, but aside from feathered friends, there are also otters, field mice, water voles and other local wildlife to spot.

Grab a bag of bird feed (£1.50) to motivate little legs and get up close to the birds, some of which are in enclosures, others waddle freely.

Make sure you take a swimming costume or waterproofs for little ones, Slimbridge’s Welly Boot Land is one of the best splash parks I’ve been to, with a winding stream, obstacle course, slide, roundabout and picnic tables. 

Older kids will love to rent a canoe (for an extra charge) and head off on a water safari in search of more creatures.

>> More splash pads and outdoor water parks in Bristol <<

Puxton Park

Set within 40 acres of rolling Somerset countryside, this family-run adventure park is jam-packed with fun stuff for kids. Outside there are tractor rides, a bouncing pillow, trampolines, a miniature train, crazy golf, playgrounds, bumper boats, a pedal kart track, diggers, a boating lake and water activities, dodgems-style cars, a high ropes course and all kinds of animals to meet.

If the weather turns, there’s an indoor soft play, animals to pet in the discovery barn, a couple of restaurants and a farm shop. Your biggest problem is trying to fit it all into one day!

Cattle Country Adventure Park

If you’re in search of farm animal-themed Bristol day trips , head 25-minutes north of the city, to Cattle Country – a family park with all kinds of animals and play areas. Visitors can get up close to calves, pigs, chickens, rabbits and guinea pigs, and animal activities like calf/lamb feeding and small animal handling take place throughout the year.

There are also assault courses, jumping pillows, indoor play barns, trampolines, boating lake with canoes for hire, a water play area, a splash pool and a playground named after it’s close neighbour, Berkeley Castle. 

Avon Valley Wildlife and Adventure Park

30-minutes drive from Bristol, this Avon Valley Wildlife and Adventure Park is mostly about the animals, a lot about the rides (tractor, train, jeeps, boats) and a good chunk about the boinging (think jumpy pillows, bouncy castly) and a good smidge about the playgrounds and indoor soft play.

During school holidays, they put on enchanted trails (we’ve stroked an actual unicorn before…well…a pony with a dyed rainbow mane, but still!), lambing events, meet and greets with characters and a Christmas extravaganza plus lots more.

Longleat Safari Park

The UK’s no.1 safari park is 30 miles from Bristol (so just sneaking its way into days out within 1 hour – via the A36), and well worth the trip if you’ve got animal lovers in your brood. There is tons of wildlife to see and plenty of exotic creature experiences to be had – our favourites were giving the lorikeets a drink and feeding sea lions from a boat in a hippo-filled lake!

There are also fairground rides, a giant maze, a gigantic playground (with splash park), farm animals, a butterfly house (where we ALL had a butterfly land on our head) and the only koalas you can see in England.

You can’t visit without doing the world-famous safari drive-through (if you don’t want to self-drive you can take the bus for £5 each, although this gets VERY hot in summer). Don’t be put off by tales of monkey-car-destruction, you have the option to by-pass this while en route and still see the other animals. 

Chew Valley Animal Park

In the heart of Mendip countryside, this family-run ‘zoo’ (as they call themselves) is one of the most joyous places to visit outside Bristol with young animal lovers, especially in spring when little lambies and tiny piglets have just been born.

You can get up close to pygmy goats, pigs, chickens and book special animal interactions! It’s also great for kiddos who are a bit nervous around furry creatures as it can massively build their confidence around animals (as witnessed with our creature-fearful 6 yr old).⁣

There’s also an outdoor play area, lots of other animals to see and beautiful views over Chew Valley lake.

Best days out around Bristol: Castles and heritage

Berkeley castle.

Princess-enthusiasts and knight-lovers will be in their element visiting this enchanting 12th century castle. Surrounded by picturesque Gloucestershire countryside, a pretty walled garden and spectacular lily pond, it’s hard to believe the grizzly history this immaculate (and still lived-in) fortress has witnessed. A quick glance into the dismal dungeon, where King Edward was imprisoned and murdered however, lends something to the imagination and is guaranteed to send chills down your spine! 

The castle hosts regular medieval-themed days such as falconry, archery and meet-and-greets with famous Tudors. There’s also dressing-up onsite, a delightful Yurt Tea Room and Butterfly House to explore. 

Sudeley Castle

Once upon a time, four Queens of England (Anne Boleyn, Katherine Parr, Lady Jane Grey and Elizabeth I) wandered the gardens of Sudeley Castle, admiring the roses as they did so.

Nowadays, one of them – Katharine Parr (the last of Henry VIII’s six wives) – lies entombed here, making Sudeley the only private castle in England to have a queen buried within its grounds. The gardens are still quite delightful, and include an exquisite knot garden, ancient ruins and beautiful views over the Cotswolds.

For kids, there’s a ginormous childrens’ playground and really lovely events during the school holidays – check out my review of their fairy-tale inspired Enchanted Halloween and festive Spectacle of Light .

Chepstow Castle

For historic places to go near bristol, Chepstow Castle is a snip of a drive at only 25-minutes away from the city, Chepstow Castle in Monmouthshire is a magnificent ruined fortress, located on the cliffs of the River Wye. One of the earliest stone castles in Britain (with the oldest castle doors in Europe), for centuries it was home to some of the most powerful men of medieval and Tudor times.

A fascinating, historic site, it’s an incredible place to explore with kids, imagining people here in days of yore. After exploring the ramparts and gift shop, there’s a lovely pub next door.

Cyfarthfa Castle, Wales

Are you like me and keen to make more good family day trips to Wales? Just over an hour away, in the Welsh Valleys, is Grade 1* listed Cyfarthfa Castle – the best example of a 19th century Ironmasters’ residence to have survived in South Wales). Perched high on a hill, it overlooks emerald green hillsides, the town of Merthyr Tydfil and the historic site of the Cyfarthfa Ironworks.

The grounds – flower gardens, green fields, woodland and lakes – stretch out over 65 hectares, with an animal trail available from reception to entice children to explore. There’s also a splash pad, mini train (seasonal opening times apply), museum, adventure playground and cafes onsite.

Not only is World Heritage Site, Avebury one of the wonders of primeval Britain, it is the largest megalithic stone circle in the world. Built some 4500 years ago, it is actually OLDER than Stonehenge and closer to Bristol at around 55 minutes drive.

Days out from Bristol : attractions

Cheddar gorge and caves.

You’ve seen the Avon Gorge (pretty good isn’t it?), but did you know England’s longest gorge (Cheddar) is just a 45-minute drive from Bristol? The Cheddar Gorge and Caves are located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so it goes without saying there are breathtaking views above ground to be had, as well as spectacular rock formations, ancient caverns and mysterious chambers below.

Adrenaline junkies can book ahead for the opportunity to go caving or rock climbing, or for something a bit less physical, the Museum of Prehistory tells the tale of how our ancestors survived the Ice Age.

Hiking, Cheddar cheese tasting, strawberry shopping – there’s plenty of things to do outside Bristol in Cheddar above ground too.

Wookey Hole Caves

I was amazed how much my kids (aged four and two when we visited) enjoyed the guided tour of Wookey Hole’s underground caverns. Or perhaps they were on their best behaviour – 100% convinced of the Witch of Wookey’s existence…

A 45-minute drive from Bristol, Wookey Hole Caves are a series of limestone caverns, on the southern edge of the Mendip Hills. You’re free to explore above ground, where you’ll find animatronic dinosaurs, 4D dinosaurs, circus shows, a soft play, Victorian-style arcade and a fairy garden. While the caves are spectacular, some of the other stuff seems a tad dated, but it’s a fun and fascinating day trip for kids either way.

Clearwell Caves

Another one to add to your ‘cave day trips around Bristol’ list! Clearwell Caves underneath the Forest of Dean, is a natural cave system which has been extensively mined for iron ore for more than 4500 years. There are n ine atmospheric caverns for visitors to explore, descending 100ft underground.

As well as exploring the mysterious subterranean world, visitors can go delve further into the caverns with group adventure caving sessions (book in advance). Atmospheric events are also held in the caves, including film screenings, theatre, parties and their sought-after Christmas Fantasy spectacular.

Crealy Resort

Crealy Resort in Devon is the South West’s largest theme park with over 60 rides, a splash park, farm animals and adventure playgrounds that will appeal for kids aged from tots to teens. Crealy has recently transformed one area of the park into a brand new Sooty Land! This unique attraction, dedicated to the world’s longest-running TV show features daily performances of The Sooty Show, four new rides (geared towards younger kids), 10 new indoor attractions, Sooty’s Hall of Fame exhibition, Sooty’s Magic and Souvenir Shop, new Sooty-themed restaurants, a new outdoor play park and wheelchair and accessible play equipment.

If you wondering where to go for a day out, it’s a thrilling, jam-packed Bristol day out – make sure you arrive early to make the most of the park! Crealy is around an hour and a half from Bristol.

Techniquest, Cardiff 

If you’re a local, you might wonder why one would bypass Bristol’s We The Curious and head to Cardiff to experience their Science Discovery Centre, Techniquest instead. Well, on the occasion we visited, it was Bristol half term (but not Wales’ – so the attraction was much quieter) and we fancied trying somewhere new!

We opted to travel via train to Cardiff from Bristol Parkway, although this was a bit more convoluted than I’d hoped, as you have to change at Cardiff Central and take the smaller train out to Cardiff Bay.

Techniquest overlooks Cardiff Bay and has two floors of hands-on interactive exhibits – our favourites were the giant piano and augmented reality screen, placing dinosaurs and the like, supposedly right next to you. There’s also a science theatre, planetarium and lab, and it’s great for a change of scene, but we are spoiled with our own brilliant We The Curious in Bristol and it doesn’t beat it.

Avon Valley Railway

This exciting locomotive adventure choo-choos you along three miles of track through beautiful South Gloucestershire countryside. Open mainly at weekends and during school holidays, there are themed events throughout the year such as Teddy Bear’s Picnics Wizard Adventure Weekends, Chocolate Sundays and the super popular Santa Specials.

American Museum and Gardens

The American Museum, based at Claverton Manor near Bath, is a 40-minute jaunt from Bristol and a several-hundred-year journey back through the history of America, from its early settlers to the twentieth century. Discover a manor-full of incredible artefacts used by cowboys, gold miners and pioneers, paintings and hand-made quilts, and find out the stories of the Founding Fathers, Native Americans, and the Civil War.

Outside, you can walk in a replica of George Washington’s garden at Mount Vernon and marvel at far-reaching views across the Limpley Stoke Valley.

Day trips from Bristol : getting outdoors

Westonbirt arboretum.

If you’re craving countryside places to go around Bristol with a little something extra to keep the kids entertained, Westonbirt Arboretum in the Cotswolds is one of my favourite day trips from Bristol by car (30 minutes drive). As well as acres of spaces to stroll in, there are Gruffalo sculptures to hunt, natural wood playgrounds, nature activities for kids and a treetop walkway that lets you wander through the tree canopy.

The arboretum’s thousands of trees and shrubs mean it’s breathtakingly beautiful, particularly in spring with the bluebells and blossom, and autumn, when the fiery red Japanese maples appear. Come December, the woods are transformed into a magical illuminated trail for their Enchanted Christmas event – my favourite of the festive light festivals near Bristol .

National Trust Tyntesfield

We’ve done so many day trips with kids from Bristol to lovely National Trust property, Tyntesfield ! For a good dollop of rolling countryside, child-friendly activities and an adventure playground all within easy reach of Bristol, Tyntesfield ticks all the boxes. 

As well as acres of space to explore, there’s a handsome Victorian mansion, a couple of cafes and seasonally-themed events all year-round. My favourite times to visit are spring for the colourful blooms, Autumn for the pumpkin display and Christmas, to see the house festooned in charming Victorian Christmas glory. So pretty much any time of the year then.

National Trust Dyrham Park

For nice places near Bristol, National Trust-owned Dyrham Park is an easy day trip away. And lucky us, because not only is it phenomenally beautiful – with its 17th century mansion nestled deep in the valley, a backdrop of Cotswold hills and elegant gardens – but it’s also brilliantly equipped for family trips near Bristol. 

I recommend heading to the Old Lodge natural play area with young children first. Here you’ll find ancient tractors, a bug hotel, old farm buildings, ride-on diggers to play on and a kiosk. Then head downhill, to the gardens behind the house.

If you’re peckish and picnic-less, the Courtyard Tea Room offers kid’s meals, cream teas, babyccinos, and a baby station complete with microwave. It’s a steep walk back to the car park, or you can hop on the free shuttle bus (always a fave with little ones) which ferries people from the house to the car park every 15 minutes.

Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean

Only a one hour drive from Bristol, Puzzlewood woodland walk in the Forest of Dean feels like journeying far away to a magical fairytale world.

It’s said J. R. R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth was inspired by these woods and it’s easy to imagine goblins and mythical creatures in these parts, which is exactly what our two girls did for the entire duration of the walk. Many a fantasy film production has had the same idea and productions from Star Wars to Tree Fu Tom have filmed here.

There’s also an outdoor playground, farm animals and Perrygrove miniature steam railway across the road.

Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

If it’s enchanting woodland walks you’re into, the Forest of Dean has plenty. A mere 8-minutes drive from Puzzlewood is a 4.5 mile-long Sculpture Trail, which starts and ends at the Forestry England Beechenhurst picnic site . Amazing what a few sculptures dotted about the woods and a spot of chestnut foraging (in autumn) can do for the walking capabilities of a reluctant 3 year old. ⁣⁣Our favourite was a glorious stained glass window hanging mystically in the trees, like the centrepiece of some invisible church.

The trail can also be explored in a series of shorter distances, if little legs can’t manage the whole route – follow the purple ringed posts and direction arrows.

National Trust Westbury Court

Westbury Court Garden is one of the only surviving 17th-century Dutch water gardens in the UK. Originally designed to be productive as well as pretty, the gardens were planted with beautiful flowers alongside veggies and fruit trees back in the da. A canal was stocked with fish and a warren provided rabbit meat – which still exists today.

Glorious countryside surrounds the immaculate restored gardens, which are great for kids to have a run around in. If you time your visit right you can wander down to the river and watch the Severn Bore pass through.

Click to discover more National Trust days trips from Bristol and Bath

Bath Soft Cheese Company, Kelston

Nestled in idyllic countryside, Park Farm – the home of The Bath Soft Cheese Company , is one of the tastiest and scenic day trips from Bristol. If you’ve ever tasted their award-winning artisan cheese, I’m sure you’ll agree, it’s jolly delicious! The farm’s bucolic location, well-looked after Holstein Friesian cows and entirely organic methods have a lot to do with that.

But a cheese farm is a strange place to recommend for a day trip from Bristol isn’t it? Well, firstly there’s more to this place than a just a milk and cheese factory – although it’s fascinating to watch the process in action through the windows of the cafe. You can sample some of that scrumptious cheese, washed down with a cider, say, in the onsite restaurant, which has an upstairs indoor play area and outdoor playground for kids.

Make sure at least one person tries their milkshakes and take an empty bottle to fill with their super creamy milk (or purchase one in the cafe). Be sure to check out some of the  fantastic country walks to do in the area – I recommend the short circular, riverside walk with young kids, before refuelling back at the cafe.

The Strawberry line

For fun day trips for kids, cycling enthusiasts and walkers should seek out the The Strawberry Line which runs between Yatton and Cheddar. The 11-mile bike route winds and wends its way through dramatically-changing landscape, from the pancake-flat Somerset levels to the soaring cliffs of the Cheddar Gorge. Look out for the Thatchers orchard and treat your pedalling legs to an authentic Somerset cider sampling…

Bowood House and Gardens

Bowood Estate is about an hour east of Bristol and is known amongst the kid-looking-after community for its mega adventure playground. The gardens, designed by ‘Capability’ Brown, are great for family walks, and feature a lake, arboretum, pinetum and cascade. Finally, there’s Bowood House to explore, which hides unique trinkets like Queen Victoria’s wedding chair, Napoleon’s death mask as well as an extensive art collection.

Lydiard House and Park

This was one of those places near Bristol I discovered after many years of living in the city. A beautiful historic estate on the western edge of Swindon, Lydiard Park makes quite a handy kid friendly day trip and half-way meeting point for seeing London-dwelling friends. With 260 acres of parkland to run around in, there’s masses of open green space, criss-crossed by flat cycle paths that would be perfect for a family bike-riding escapade.

There’s also a large playground, lake, walled garden, Palladian House and an snack kiosk (although not all of these were open due to pandemic restrictions when we visited, so check ahead to avoid disappointment).

Days out Bristol: beside the seaside

One of the peachiest plus points about living in Bristol is that the coast is within easy reach of the city and you can escape to the seaside often in under 90 minutes! You’ll find more beaches that make fun days out near Bristol in this blog post .

Portishead Open Air Pool

Portishead is a coastal town on the Severn Estuary, about 25 minutes from Bristol. The Portishead Open Air Pool there has become one of our favourite days out with kids near Bristol in the summer, thanks to its scenic perch overlooking the Bristol Channel. The large swimming pool is heated by green energy and there’s a shallow toddler pool for young kids. Amphitheatre-style steps are perfect for post-paddle bathing and there’s a cafe and tuck shop too.

If you’re keen for a bit of a runaround, you can walk out of the swimming pool and turn right towards Portishead Point and lighthouse. From here you can see for miles in all directions along the murky-brown estuary.

Clevedon Marine Lake and Pier

One of my favourite family friendly day trips from Bristol is the seaside town of Clevedon -there’s loads of outdoorsy stuff for kids to do there. The way Clevedon marine lake has been built, makes it look from certain angles like a giant infinity pool merging with the Bristol Channel. The 15,000m² lake is a picturesque spot for water sports – swimming, paddleboarding, canoeing or boating.

The marine lake lures locals for a toe-curlingly cold dip on New Year’s Day, but if you’d rather not freeze your nadgers off completely, I suggest going at warmer times of the year! Afterwards, soak up Victorian seaside vibes with a stroll along the seafront to the Grade 1* listed pier , hop on the miniature train (if it’s running it skirts Salthouse fields, near the bouncy castle), hunt for seaglass, play in the park or play on the arcades.

Weston-super-Mare

The North Somerset coastal town of Weston sometimes gets a bad wrap (it always makes me think of that Bottom sketch with Rik Mayall and Ade Edmonson), but if you’re looking for an expansive beach to run around on, with a few classic English seaside-y shenanigans thrown in, it’s one of the best places to visit around Bristol on a sunny day.

Although you can’t swim here, there’s some great sand-castling to be done on the patch of beach just along from the Grand Pier (just watch for the sinking mud signs). You’ll also find a range of outdoor beach activities to keep the kiddos amused, if they ever tire of digging (is that possible?) – bouncy castles, swing boats, ice cream, donkey rides, a splash park, Gand low Golf await!

In bad weather, the Grand Pier, although a little on the tacky side, is quite fun for mini roller coasters, kiddy rides and arcade games.

Places to visit near Bristol: towns and cities

Before visiting Cheltenham, all I knew about this spa town was that it hosts an upmarket horse-racing event and has a lot of Regency buildings (the town is the most complete Regency town in the UK – it has more than Bath!)

And don’t get me wrong, that’s reason enough to visit, but I was surprised to learn of its street art, festivals and family-friendly vibes. From a boating lake to playgrounds and kid-friendly cycle trail, make the most of your Cheltenham day trips from Bristol with my 24-hour family itinerary for Cheltenham .

We are so lucky to have some fantastic cities near Bristol to visit and I definitely don’t visit Bristol’s neighbour often enough, considering it’s only 13 minutes by train! It’s not that much further by car, and you can even cycle all the way there on the Bristol to Bath Railway Path (although this might be a bit much for little legs).

There’s a lot to fit in once you’re there, so you might have to plan multiple day trips from Bristol to see the sights . I’ve put together a separate guide to the best things to do in Bath with kids here .

Liked this post on days out near Bristol for families? Read more:

Just off the motorway: family-friendly M5 stop offs near Bristol

For days out in Bristol, check out my post on 25 Fantastic family attractions to see in Bristol with kids

28+ Things to do in North Somerset

Angharad Paull

Posts by Angharad Paull

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27 Day Trips from Bristol: The Best of the South West

Looking for a list of quick day trips from Bristol? Luckily, there are plenty of destinations within a two-hour drive from the city that are perfect for day trips . Whether you’re looking for a peaceful countryside retreat, a day at the beach, or a dose of history and culture, there’s something for everyone.

With 27 day-trip options to choose from, you’ll never run out of ideas for your next adventure. Explore the stunning landscapes of the Cotswolds, visit the mysterious Stonehenge, or take a trip to the charming seaside town of Weston-Super-Mare.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, head over to Wales to discover its beautiful countryside and coastline. No matter what your interests are, there’s a day trip from Bristol that’s perfect for you.

Why Bristol?

Bristol is a vibrant city located in the southwest of England, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural scenery. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a range of attractions and activities to suit all interests.

One of the main draws of Bristol is its proximity to some of the most beautiful and historic locations in the UK. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the rugged coastline of Wales, there are countless day trips that can be taken from Bristol area.

Another reason to visit Bristol is its thriving arts and music scene. The city is home to a number of galleries, museums, and music venues, showcasing both local and international talent. Whether you’re interested in contemporary art, classical music, or underground dance parties, Bristol has something to offer.

• Beaches near Winchester: Your Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Beach Getaway

In addition to its cultural offerings, Bristol is also a great place to explore the outdoors. The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Mendip Hills, the Quantock Hills, and the Brecon Beacons. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, or simply take a leisurely stroll, there are plenty of options for outdoor activities in and around Bristol.

Overall, Bristol is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, there are plenty of reasons to visit and explore this vibrant and exciting destination.

Day Trips From Bristol: An Overview

If you’re living in Bristol or just visiting, there are plenty of day trips that you can take to explore the surrounding areas. From historic castles and picturesque villages to stunning natural scenery and adventure parks, there is something for everyone.

Here are some of the top day trips from Bristol that you can consider:

• Bath: A beautiful city famous for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture.
• Cheddar Gorge: A limestone gorge in the Mendip Hills with rugged terrain and beautiful scenery.
• North Cotswolds: A picturesque region with rolling hills, quaint villages, and historic market towns.
• South Cotswolds: Another stunning region of the Cotswolds with charming villages, scenic walks, and historic landmarks.
• Mendip Hills: A range of limestone hills with plenty of walking trails and stunning views.
• Quantock Hills: A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with plenty of walking and cycling trails.
• Exmoor: A national park with stunning scenery, wildlife, and plenty of outdoor activities.
• Glastonbury and Wells: Two historic towns with plenty of cultural and historic attractions.
• Stonehenge: A prehistoric monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Tyntesfield: A beautiful Victorian Gothic house with stunning gardens and parkland.
• Weston-super-Mare: A seaside town with a long sandy beach and plenty of attractions.
• Exeter: A historic city with a beautiful cathedral and plenty of cultural attractions.
• Exmouth: A seaside town with a long sandy beach and plenty of water sports.
• Chepstow and the Wye Valley: A historic town with a beautiful castle and stunning natural scenery.
• Hay on Wye: A charming town famous for its bookshops and literary festival.
• Port Enyon: A beautiful coastal village with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities.
• Brecon Beacons: A national park with stunning scenery, wildlife, and plenty of outdoor activities.
• Gloucester: A historic city with a beautiful cathedral and plenty of cultural attractions.
• Berkeley Castle: A historic castle with plenty of cultural and historic attractions.
• Wookey Hole Caves: A network of limestone caves with underground rivers and stunning rock formations.
• Clearwell Caves: Another network of limestone caves with a rich mining history.
• Crealy Resort: A family-friendly adventure park with plenty of rides and attractions.
• Techniquest, Cardiff: A science discovery centre with plenty of interactive exhibits.
• Avon Valley Railway: A heritage railway with steam trains and plenty of historic stations.
• American Museum and Gardens: A museum dedicated to American history and culture with stunning gardens.
• Westonbirt Arboretum: A beautiful arboretum with plenty of trees and walking trails.
• Dyrham Park: A beautiful historic house with stunning gardens and parkland.

These are just some of the top day trips from Bristol that you can take. There are plenty of other options depending on your interests and preferences.

Historical Destinations

If you’re a history buff, Bristol and the surrounding areas have plenty of historical destinations to explore. Here are a few day trips you won’t want to miss:

Just a short 15-minute train ride from Bristol, Bath is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history and one of the best day trips. The city is famous for its Roman Baths, which were built nearly 2,000 years ago. You can explore the ancient baths, see the original Roman plumbing, and even taste the mineral-rich water that made Bath a popular spa destination in the 18th century. In addition to the Roman Baths, Bath is also home to stunning Georgian architecture, including the Royal Crescent and the Circus.

A bit further afield, but still within easy driving distance of Bristol, is the mysterious Stonehenge. This prehistoric monument is thought to have been built around 5,000 years ago, and its purpose is still a matter of debate among archaeologists and historians. Nevertheless, the iconic stone circle is an impressive sight to behold, and a day trip to Stonehenge is a must-do for anyone interested in ancient history.

Tintern Abbey

Tintern Abbey is a ruined Cistercian monastery located in the Wye Valley, just across the border in Wales. The abbey was founded in the 12th century and was once a thriving center of monastic life. Today, the ruins are a popular destination for visitors who come to admire the Gothic architecture and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. The abbey is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a great place to go for a walk or a picnic.

Whether you’re interested in Roman history, prehistoric monuments, or Gothic architecture, these historical day trips from Bristol are sure to satisfy your curiosity.

Nature Escapes

If you’re looking for a break from city life, Bristol has plenty of nature escapes to offer. Here are some great day trips from Bristol for nature lovers:

The Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. With rolling hills, picturesque villages, and plenty of walking trails, the Cotswold villages is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and a great day trip. Some of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds include Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold.

Forest of Dean

The Forest of Dean is a beautiful ancient woodland that covers over 42 square miles. It’s a great place to go for a walk, cycle, or horse ride, and there are plenty of trails to choose from. You can also go kayaking or canoeing on the River Wye, which runs through the forest. Other activities include visiting the Clearwell Caves, Puzzlewood, and the Dean Heritage Centre.

Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar Gorge is a spectacular natural landmark that’s perfect for a day trip. The gorge is over 400 feet deep and is home to some of the UK’s most impressive limestone cliffs. You can take a guided tour of Gough’s Cave, which is filled with stalactites and stalagmites, or go rock climbing on the cliffs. Other attractions in the area include the Cheddar Reservoir and the Mendip Hills.

Avon Valley Railway

Avon Valley Railway is a must-visit for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This heritage railway offers visitors the chance to ride on a steam train and experience the golden age of railways. The Avon Valley Railway also boasts a number of historic stations along the route, each with its own unique charm and character. Visitors can step back in time and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a bygone era.

American Museum and Gardens

The American Museum and Gardens is a fascinating attraction that celebrates American history and culture. The museum’s collections include a wide range of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history, art, and culture of America. The stunning gardens that surround the museum are also a highlight, with beautifully landscaped grounds that offer visitors a tranquil oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Westonbirt Arboretum

Westonbirt Arboretum is a beautiful arboretum that is home to a wide variety of trees and walking trails. Visitors can explore the arboretum’s many paths and trails, which wind through a stunning landscape of trees, flowers, and other plants. The arboretum is also home to a number of rare and unique species of trees, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

National Trust Tyntesfield

The National Trust Tyntesfield is a stunning Victorian Gothic house that is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. The house itself is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture, with ornate detailing and beautiful interiors that are sure to impress visitors. The gardens and parkland that surround the house are also a highlight, with beautifully landscaped grounds that offer visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Dyrham Park

Dyrham Park is another beautiful historic house that is surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland. The house itself is a fine example of 17th-century architecture, with beautiful interiors and period furnishings that transport visitors back in time. The gardens and parkland that surround the house are also a highlight, with beautifully landscaped grounds that offer visitors a peaceful retreat from the stresses of modern life.

Seaside Getaways

Looking for a day trip to the beach or want to explore charming seaside towns? Lucky for you, Bristol is surrounded by some fantastic seaside destinations that are perfect for a day out. Here are three of the best:

Weston-Super-Mare

Weston-Super-Mare is a classic British seaside town that’s perfect for a day trip from Bristol. The town has a long sandy beach, a pier with plenty of amusements, and a promenade lined with shops and cafes. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at some water sports like windsurfing or paddleboarding.

If you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed seaside getaway, Clevedon is the perfect choice. This charming town is home to a pebble beach, a historic pier, and some lovely coastal walks. Make sure to check out the Victorian seafront buildings, including the striking Clevedon Hall.

Barry Island

Located just across the border in Wales, Barry Island is a popular seaside destination that’s well worth the trip from Bristol. The town has a long sandy beach, a funfair with plenty of rides and attractions, and some great fish and chip shops. Make sure to take a walk along the promenade for some stunning views of the Bristol Channel.

City Breaks: Day Trips from Bristol

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, Bristol is a great starting point for a city break. Here are three nearby destinations that are worth considering:

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is just a short train ride away from Bristol. This vibrant city has plenty to offer, from historic castles to modern shopping centers. You can visit Cardiff Castle, stroll through Bute Park, or explore the National Museum Cardiff. For sports fans, Cardiff is home to the Principality Stadium, where you can catch a rugby or football match.

Exeter is a charming city in Devon, known for its historic cathedral and picturesque quayside. You can take a guided tour of the cathedral, walk along the River Exe, or visit the Royal Albert Memorial Museum. Exeter is also a great base for exploring the nearby Dartmoor National Park, where you can go hiking, cycling, or horse riding.

Gloucester is a historic city in the Cotswolds, famous for its stunning cathedral and picturesque docks. You can take a guided tour of the cathedral, visit the Gloucester Waterways Museum, or explore the Gloucester Quays shopping center. Gloucester is also home to the Gloucester Rugby Club, where you can catch a match at Kingsholm Stadium.

No matter which city you choose, you’re sure to have a great time on your city break from Bristol.

Family Friendly Trips

If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, Bristol and its surrounding areas have plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. Here are three family-friendly day trips you won’t want to miss:

Longleat Safari Park

Longleat Safari Park is a great day out for animal lovers of all ages. Located about an hour’s drive from Bristol, this safari park is home to over 500 animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and monkeys. You can drive through the park in your own car and get up close and personal with the animals, or take a guided tour on a bus. There are also plenty of other attractions at Longleat, including a maze, a boat ride, and a jungle cruise.

Bristol Zoo

Bristol Zoo is a must-visit for families with young children. Located in the heart of Bristol, this zoo is home to over 400 species of animals, including gorillas, penguins, and lemurs. There are plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids, including a play area and a bug exhibit. The zoo also hosts regular events and activities, so be sure to check their website before you go.

SS Great Britain

The SS Great Britain is a fascinating piece of maritime history that the whole family can enjoy. This steamship was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and launched in 1843. Today, it’s been fully restored and is open to the public as a museum. Visitors can explore the ship’s decks, cabins, and engine room, and learn about life on board during the Victorian era. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids, including a chance to dress up in Victorian clothing.

Cultural Experiences: Day Trips from Bristol

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s rich in culture and history, Bristol has plenty of options. Here are three destinations that are worth checking out:

Stratford-Upon-Avon

The birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-Upon-Avon is a charming town that’s steeped in history. You can visit the house where the famous playwright was born and raised, as well as other sites that are associated with his life and work. The Royal Shakespeare Company also performs here, so you might be able to catch a play while you’re in town.

Home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities, Oxford is a city that’s packed with cultural treasures. You can take a tour of the university and its many colleges, which have produced countless famous scholars and thinkers over the centuries. The city is also full of museums, galleries, and historic buildings, so there’s plenty to see and do.

Located in the heart of Somerset, Wells is a small city that’s packed with character. Its most famous landmark is the stunning Wells Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century and boasts some of the finest Gothic architecture in the country. The city also has a number of other historic buildings, including the Bishop’s Palace and the Vicars’ Close, which is said to be the oldest continuously inhabited street in Europe.

No matter which of these destinations you choose, you’re sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Adventure Day Trips From Bristol

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of adventure day trips from Bristol that will get your heart racing. Here are three destinations to consider:

Brecon Beacons

The Brecon Beacons offer some of the best hiking and climbing in the UK. With its rugged terrain and stunning views, this national park is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast. You can take a guided hike to the summit of Pen Y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, or go caving in the underground caverns. If you’re feeling brave, try your hand at white water rafting on the River Usk.

Mendip Hills

The Mendip Hills are a great destination for rock climbing and caving. With its limestone cliffs and underground caves, this area is a popular spot for adventure seekers. You can also go mountain biking on the trails or take a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective of the landscape.

Quantock Hills

The Quantock Hills offer a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to horse riding and fishing. This area is known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife, including red deer and buzzards. You can take a guided hike to the summit of Wills Neck or explore the ancient oak woodlands.

No matter which adventure trip you choose, make sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. Always follow safety guidelines and respect the natural environment.

Tips for Day Tripping

When planning Bristol day trip, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your time and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your day trip:

1. Plan ahead

Research your destination and plan your itinerary in advance. Make sure to check opening times, admission fees, and any other important details. This will help you make the most of your time and avoid disappointment.

2. Consider transportation

Think about how you will get to your destination. Will you drive, take public transportation, or book a tour? Consider the distance, travel time, and cost when making your decision.

3. Pack essentials

Make sure to pack everything you will need for the day, including snacks, water, sunscreen, and any necessary equipment or clothing. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

4. Be flexible

Allow for some flexibility in your itinerary in case of unexpected delays or changes. Don’t try to pack too much into one day, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.

5. Respect the environment

When visiting natural or historic sites, be respectful of the environment and follow any rules or guidelines. Leave no trace and take only memories and photographs.

By following these tips, you can have a fun and stress-free day trip from Bristol and make the most of your time exploring the beautiful surrounding areas.

Getting Around

Getting around South West England and its surrounding areas is easy and convenient. You can choose from a variety of transportation options, including:

• We recommend RentalCars if you need one.
• Train:  Bristol has two main train stations: Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway. Both stations offer regular services and direct trains to destinations around the UK, including London, Bath, Cardiff, and Birmingham and surrounding countryside. Train travel is a great option for day trips from Bristol, as it allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenery.
• Bus:  Bristol has an extensive bus network, with services running to destinations across the city and beyond. Local bus companies, such as First Bus and Stagecoach, offer day tickets and group tickets that can save you money if you’re traveling with others.
• Bike:  Bristol is a bike-friendly city, with many dedicated cycle paths and bike rental options. You can easily rent a bike from one of the city’s many bike rental companies and explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
• Walking:  Bristol is a compact city, and many of its attractions can be easily reached on foot. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s historic streets, parks, and waterfront areas.

No matter what mode of transportation you choose, be sure to plan your journey in advance and check for any disruptions or delays. With so many day trips to choose from, you’ll want to make the most of your time and ensure a smooth journey.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your day trip from Bristol, there are a few things to consider to make the most out of your experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

1. Decide on your destination

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose where to go. Consider your interests and preferences. Do you want to explore a small village, historic sites, natural wonders, national parks, or quaint towns? Do you prefer outdoor activities or cultural experiences? Once you have a clear idea of what you want to do, it will be easier to narrow down your options.

2. Check the weather

The weather can greatly impact your day trip experience. Make sure to check the forecast before you head out and pack accordingly. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sunny days, and raincoats or umbrellas for rainy days.

3. Plan your transportation

Depending on your destination, you may need to take a car, train, or bus. Check the schedules and routes ahead of time and plan accordingly. If you’re driving, make sure to check for any road closures or construction that may impact your journey.

4. Pack snacks and water

You don’t want to be caught hungry or thirsty during your day trip. Bring along some snacks and water to keep you fueled throughout the day. Consider packing a picnic lunch if you’re heading to a scenic spot.

5. Consider guided tours

If you’re interested in learning more about your destination, consider booking a guided tour. Many day trip destinations offer guided tours that can provide you with a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the area.

By following these tips, you can ensure a fun and memorable day trip from Bristol.

Bristol is a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding areas, with plenty of day trip options available to suit all interests. From the natural beauty of the Cotswolds and Mendip Hills to the historic cities of Bath and Wells, there are endless possibilities for adventure and discovery. Whether you’re a local looking to explore more of your own backyard or a visitor looking to make the most of your time in the area, these day trips from Bristol are sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for this beautiful corner of England.

Marissa is a scientist, sports lover, traveler, tech executive, and baked goods enthusiast. Currently based between Toronto, NYC, and LA, she calls all three places home throughout the year. She has lived in seven countries and explored countless more as a long-term visitor. You can find her work on Darling Escapes and around the web.

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Tours from Bristol

Tours from bristol - explore the west country and wales.

The West Country and the South of Wales are home to many treasures, incredible history, and more than enough photo opportunities. And touring from Bristol can be your starting destination. But so many people never make it past London when touring England , and that's a real shame.

While the unique, vibrant flare of the city has much to offer its guests, once you step outside of its walls you begin to see the United Kingdom in all its glory. Combining a tour to Bath and Somerset , a mere 30-minute drive away, marvel in Georgian architecture wonder, and tread over the neatly laid cobbled walkways.

Whether you like the arts and museums, or walking in the stunning countryside, our tours from Bristol have something for you to capture and take home to cherish. Experience the culture, lesser-known marvels, and the classic highlights for yourself when you join a small-group tour of England and Wales from Bristol.

Things to Do On A Tour from Bristol

On a trip from Bristol, learn about King Arthur and his links to the cliff top ruins of Tintagel Castle. Gaze upon the best nature has to offer in Dartmoor National Park. Tuck yourself away in one of the many bookstores in the world’s first book town, Hay-on-Wye in Wales. With so much to visit in Bristol and its surrounding, jump on one of our mini-coaches and see the south starting in Bristol.

Travel Responsibly from Bristol

In 2015, Bristol was the first British city to be named as a European Green Capital for all the sustainable work they continue to achieve. As an award-winning tour operator providing trips from Bristol, we want to help towards this, which is why we make it our mission to travel responsibly on our small mini-coaches.

Did You Know?

- The very first bungee jump took place from the Suspension Bridge in Bristol. - Bristol is home to the world’s largest hot air balloon manufacturer. - Easter eggs were invented here. Who do we send our thanks to?

Don’t Miss Out

- Visit the historic King Street; a hub of vibrant bars, delicious restaurants, and the heart of the theatrical district. - You can’t go wrong with an iconic shot of the Clifton Suspension Bridge . - Cabot Tower was built in the 1890s to celebrate Italian explorer John Cabot’s voyages from Bristol.

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Stonehenge & Cotswold Villages - 1 day tour

A day out exploring myths, history, and the quintessential villages of the Cotswolds.

Prices from £50.00

DEPARTING FROM: Bristol

Beyond the Spires: Untold Oxford & the Cotswolds - 1 day tour

It's time to explore the history of Oxford and the time-worn streets of the Cotswold villages.

Prices from £55.00

Cornwall, Devon & Stonehenge - 4 day tour

From Minack Theatre to Durdle Door, Stonehenge to St Ives, this is the beauty of Cornwall and Devon.

Prices from £305.00

The Mountains & Coasts of South Wales - 3 day tour

Discover fascinating medieval history tucked among beautiful landscapes in South Wales.

Prices from £195.00

Coasts & Castles of Wales & England - 4 day tour

From a coastal drive in the south of Wales to a book-lovers paradise, don't miss this adventure.

Prices from £324.00

Enchanting England & Wales: Stratford & Oxford - 2 day tour

Discover history exploring world-famous Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare.

Prices from £129.00

Step into the Storybook: Enchanting England & Wales - 2 day tour

Top 7 epic day trips from Bristol

The capital of South West England, the city of Bristol offers stunning day trips to other iconic cities as well as the beautiful British countryside, and is the ideal base to explore the region further. From the striking city of Bath to the picturesque hills of the Cotswolds, the dramatic cliffs of Cheddar Gorge and the wild landscape of the Brecon Beacons, day trips starting from Bristol offer an escape for everyone.

While the destinations are proposed as day trips, you can also make individual trips and stay longer at each, or turn them into a South West tour. Most suggested Bristol day trips are to the heart of the British countryside and are not easily accessible by public transport. Travelling by car is sometimes the easiest option.

Contents: 1. Striking Bath 2. The picturesque Cotswolds 3. Dramatic Cheddar Gorge 4. The breathtaking Mendip Hills 5. Arresting Wells 6. The lush Wye Valley 7. The wild Brecon Beacons

1. Striking Bath

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and is located close to Bristol, 15 minutes away by train or 30 minutes by car. Given their close proximity, you can’t visit Bristol without exploring Bath also. The two cities enjoy different ambiences, yet both boast splendid Georgian architecture.

The striking city of Bath was first built by the Romans and then by the Georgians. As a result, you can enjoy stunning examples of Roman, medieval and Georgian architecture throughout the city. From the Roman Baths to Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, the Circus, Pulteney Bridge and Royal Victoria Park, Bath is filled with wonders waiting to be explored.

Bath is also known for the setting of two Jane Austen novels. From Milsom Street to the Assembly Rooms, Camden Crescent, Great Pulteney Street and Sydney Gardens, you can travel back in time to Jane Austen’s Bath and walk through the pages of her novels. Find out more with the Bath travel guides .

2. The picturesque Cotswolds

Exploring the Cotswolds is one of the best day trips you can make starting from Bristol. Located north of the city, the Cotswolds feature picturesque villages, rolling hills and enchanting valleys. You’ll soon find yourself enthralled by the Cotswolds’ charming British quintessence and beautiful English countryside.

One of the top attractions to visit in the Cotswolds is the chocolate-box villages. Featuring quaint honey-coloured cottages and picture-perfect cobbled streets, the Cotswold villages are a sight for sore eyes. Among many others, the top villages to visit include Castle Combe , Malmesbury , Uley, Painswick , Lower Slaughter, Stanton and Chipping Campden. Find out more with the Cotswolds travel guides .

Travelling from village to village, you’ll get a glimpse of the bountiful Cotswold hills and enchanting valleys. However, the best way to explore the Cotswold countryside is to walk along the stunning country paths and discover the breathtaking scenery. The Cotswolds offer many walks along ridges, over hills, across valleys and through woodland, all offering striking views. Find out more with the Cotswold walk guides .

3. Dramatic Cheddar Gorge

Located in the Mendip Hills in the heart of Somerset, Cheddar Gorge is another top day trip from Bristol. A 40-minute drive away, Cheddar Gorge is the largest gorge in England and offers dramatic limestone cliffs and spectacular views.

The best way to explore Cheddar Gorge is to walk along the cliff edge. The Cheddar Gorge Cliff Top walk starts from the village of Cheddar and leads you along the cliff top on both sides of the gorge. From the heights of Cheddar Gorge, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the spectacular rugged cliffs, as well as the Somerset hills, the town of Cheddar, Glastonbury Tor and the Bristol Channel.

Another way to explore the dramatic gorge is to drive (or walk) along the bottom of the valley and marvel at the arresting cliffs. Cheddar Gorge offers a feast for the eyes from both the top and the bottom of cliffs. Find out more with the Cheddar Gorge walk guide .

4. The breathtaking Mendip Hills

Located to the south of Bristol, the Mendip Hills boast rocky peaks, breathtaking scenery and stunning walks. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Mendips are another top day trip from Bristol, perfect for nature lovers and walk enthusiasts.

The Mendip Hills offer many walks through quaint villages and lush woods, and along country lanes and grassy ridges. Throughout the walks, and especially from the peaks, you can admire the Mendip Hills, the Somerset Levels, the Bristol Channel and even North Devon and South Wales. From Crook Peak to Ebbor Gorge and Black Down , check out the Somerset walk guides .

The Mendip Hills can also be explored by car, from the winding valley of Cheddar Gorge to the shimmering lake of Blagdon. Driving along the delightful country roads, you can discover quaint Somerset villages and beautiful rolling countryside.

5. Arresting Wells

The arresting city of Wells offers a serene escape to striking architecture, charming British quintessence and rolling hills, and is one of the best Bristol day trips. Located in the heart of Somerset and a 50-minute drive from Bristol, Wells is a medieval town with stunning landmarks.

The key attraction in Wells is its majestic cathedral. The Gothic cathedral features an arresting facade, scissor arches, a honeycomb ceiling and Gothic cloisters, and is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture. Next to the cathedral, Vicars’ Close is the most enchanting lane in England and a key place to visit in Wells. The medieval lane boasts a double row of gorgeous cottages.

The Bishop’s Palace is another top attraction in Wells. This medieval palace offers enchanting gardens, a delightful moat and ramparts. In addition, a city tour of Wells wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through the town’s medieval streets to admire the typical market square and the quaint cottages. Find out more with the Best of Wells city guide .

6. The lush Wye Valley

Caught between England and Wales, the Wye Valley features an enchanting vale, the serene River Wye, lush rolling hills and luscious forests. The perfect day trip from Bristol, the Wye Valley is crowned an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and offers striking scenery.

From Bristol, Chepstow is the gateway to the Wye Valley. The market town features an imposing Norman castle, charming medieval streets and an intriguing town wall and gate, and is worth a visit. From there, the best way to discover the Wye Valley is to drive across the enchanting vale, walk along the River Wye and over the rolling hills, and explore the delightful market towns.

Nested in the heart of the Wye Valley, Tintern Abbey boasts striking archways and magnificent Gothic windows, and is a key landmark. For the best views of the arresting Cistercian abbey and the stunning valley, you can walk up to the Devil’s Pulpit, a viewpoint on the hill overlooking Tintern Abbey. Find out more with the Wye Valley travel guide .

7. The wild Brecon Beacons

One of my favourite day trips from Bristol is to the Brecon Beacons. Located in South Wales, 1 ½ hours away from Bristol, the Brecon Beacons National Park features wild moorlands, rocky peaks and magnificent scenery that make your heart melt and your soul sing.

By simply driving through the national park, you’ll discover the wilderness and majesty that characterises the Brecon Beacons. But to truly explore the soul of the Brecon Beacons, you need to walk along the captivating country paths and up the breathtaking mountains.

From the well-known Pen y Fan (the highest peak in southern Britain) to the Waterfall County and Llyn y Fan Fach , the Brecon Beacons offer some of the best walks in the UK. As you stroll along wild moorland and up rocky mountains, you can enjoy splendid views stretching over the Brecon Beacons, South Wales and even South West England. Find out more with the Brecon Beacons walk guides .

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18 Wonderful Day Trips From Bristol, UK

The United Kingdom has so much to offer. Much more than just its most popular destinations among tourists. I asked 18 bloggers to share their favourite day trip destinations from Bristol, which are not further than 2,5-3 hours away. Be sure to take a notebook out, because some of these places are true gems!

I honestly wish I had this list during my stay in Bristol a couple of years ago, because it would have made choosing a day getaway so much easier. There is so much to see around here, so pack your bags and get ready for an adventure.

Table of Contents

City Day Trips from Bristol:

Distance from Bristol: 13.5 miles/ 21 km

Bath is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Bristol. Thanks to its proximity (less than an hour away) and its ancient remains, Bath attracts visitors from all over the world.

One of the most interesting places here are the Roman baths, which have been turned into the modern Thermae Bath Spa – the only natural thermal hot springs in all of the UK you can bathe in.

The gorgeous Georgian architecture impresses with its honey-coloured buildings and interesting details. If you are a Jane Austen fan, you must know that she spent some years of her life living in Bath. Strolling along the streets of the city, you might actually feel like you are re-living Jane Austen’s books.

In 1987, Bath was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its compact city centre can be explored in a matter of just a few hours and is definitely a must-see. Overall, spending a day in Bath is a great decision if you are nearby.

Check out my weekend guide to Bath right here .

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2. Castle Combe

Contributed by John from Carpe Diemeire

Distance from Bristol: 20 miles/ 33 km

Frequently described as Britain’s prettiest village, Castle Combe is an ideal road trip destination from Bristol. Only 20 miles (30 minutes) east of Bristol, it is the crown jewel in the Area of Outstanding National Beauty that is the Cotswolds.

The entire village is constructed from Cotswolds limestone, a golden coloured stone mined from the local hills. All the buildings date back centuries, with some having been built as far back as the 13th century. The chocolate box houses, butter cross and St Andrew’s Church are the attractions you’ll most want to see on your visit. Castle Combe found fame as a set on movies Stardust and Warhorse, and show Downton Abbey. Just outside the village is the Grade II listed Manor House, now a luxury 5 star hotel in glorious surroundings. Perfect should you decide to make your stay more permanent.

Castle Combes has a nearby race track, the Castle Combe circuit. What was once a World War II airfield, is now the scene of more speed and loud engines. Annually a series of events take place, bringing thousands to the sleepy village.

Find the best places to stay in the Cotswalds here.

Contributed by Rose from Where goes Rose?

Distance from Bristol: 73 miles/ 117 km

A fantastic day trip from Bristol is to the historic city of Oxford, a 1.5-hour drive away, or slightly longer by train or coach. A day trip to Oxford is perfect because the city is small enough that you can leisurely explore it during just one day.

There are many things to do in Oxford but you should begin with a historic walking tour of the main attractions. Start at the famous Radcliffe Camera (an Oxford University library that has become an icon for the city) and stroll under the Bridge of Sighs, before popping inside the Divinity School where a few scenes of Harry Potter were filmed.

Another Oxford essential is to go inside one of the colleges. There are 38 to choose from, with Christ Church being the most famous. Many of the smaller colleges are preferable because of their lower entrance fees and quieter nature.

For lunch, visit the Covered Market to sample world cuisine (Sasi’s Thai is particularly authentic) and finish with dessert at the original Ben’s Cookies. There are plenty of Oxford cafes where you can spend an afternoon sipping afternoon tea, or for a more active pastime, hire a punt and drift down the river. Oxford also has some fantastic museums, as well as Harry Potter and Alice in Wonderland history for literature fans to explore.

Contributed by Katja from Globetotting

Distance from Bristol: 118 miles/ 190 km

One of the easiest day trips from Bristol is to London. Jump on the train from Bristol Temple Meads and 90 minutes later you’ve arrived in London Paddington. Although London is far too big to see in just one day, you can still get a good feel for the city.

An easy way to see the main sights in a short amount of time is on a hop-on-hop-off tour. There are a number to choose from and all come with commentary and planned stops at London’s most popular sights including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and the Royal Albert Hall.

If you don’t feel like forking out on an organised bus tour then hop on a regular double decker bus instead. Fun routes include the No 11, which takes in Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral, and No. 9, which runs past Hyde Park Corner and Knightsbridge.

Another way to get a feel for the city is to take a trip on the London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel that sits on the South Bank of the River Thames. Glass pods take visitors for a slow spin offering them some of the best views in London .

5. Nottingham 

Submitted by Steph & Lewis from Book It Let’s Go!

Distance from Bristol: 140 miles/ 225 km

Nottingham is a vivacious city in the Midlands, with lots of culture and history. Nottingham is 140 miles from Bristol and can be reached in 2 hours and 20 minutes by car making it an easy day trip from Bristol. There are so many exciting things to do in Nottingham that a day trip may not be enough.

Nottingham castle is worth a visit for anyone interested in history. Another historical site is Wollaton Hall, situated on the outskirts of the city, you may recognise Wollaton Hall as the setting of Wayne Manor in the 2012 Batman movie The Dark Knight Rises. Wollaton Hall is also the home to Nottingham’s natural history museum and industrial museum. Inside you can find taxidermy wildlife, learn about the flora and fauna of the local area and discover the 5 main industries that Nottingham is famous for.

Under the whole city there are a network of hand carved caves which can be seen on a caves tour or in one of the oldest pubs in the city. Wander the cobbled streets of the Lace Market and visit the National Justice museum and witness a trial re-enactment in one of the most haunted places in England.

6. Worcester

Contributed by Richard from RJ On Tour

Distance from Bristol: 62 miles/ 100 km

The city of Worcester is a 1.5-hour train journey from Bristol Temple Meads Railway station or just over an hour’s drive. Worcester is a fantastic place to visit for a day trip, as it is a city brimming with history.

Firstly, the centrepiece of the city is its cathedral on the riverside, which has 1000 years of history within its walls. There are many museums covering the Tudor era, the English civil war and more recent history. The Commandery Museum is the former base of Charles II during the English Civil War, two of the early USA presidents visited here to celebrate the birth of modern democracy.

Worcester is also a great place for a walk, the banks of the River Severn are very picturesque. The horse racing course is alongside the river, as are many superb views of the Cathedral. There are many nice eateries where you can enjoy refreshments while visiting. One such pub is the King Charles House, which is said to be where Charles II escaped via after losing the final battle of the English Civil War in the city.

To summarise, Worcester is a great day trip for anyone that enjoys history.

7. Hay on Wye, Wales

Contributed by Laura from What’s Hot?

Distance from Bristol: 75 miles/ 120 km

Hay on Wye is a tiny town across the border into Wales that is around 1.5 hours away from Bristol. It’s known as a “book town” as the predominant thing to do there is go shopping in its bookshops (of which there are over 20!). Given how small the town is, you can’t walk far without stumbling upon another quaint bookshop. Some are inside, some are outside, all are brilliant and beautiful with pretty decent book bargains.

Some of the best Hay on Wye bookshops to visit include Addyman Books, known for its collection of old Penguin classics, Richard Booth’s, a large new bookshop with a beautiful facade (and a cinema!), and Hay Cinema Bookshop, which is simply enormous. An absolute must-visit is the bookshelves lining the walls of the old Hay castle. These books are outside and exposed to the elements and it’s such a unique and beautiful sight.

After a day of book shopping, your arms will no doubt be tired from carrying lots of heavy books. Weary travellers can enjoy some ice cream and a big mug of hot chocolate at Shepherds Ice Cream or a pint at The Old Black Lion. The Granary is a nice spot for a simple lunch and Chapters is great for a fancy dinner too.

8. Glastonbury 

Contributed by Stephanie from The World As I See It

Distance from Bristol: 27 miles/ 43 km

One of the best day trips from Bristol is to Glastonbury. This charming small town is an hour south of Bristol by car but you can also take the bus which takes approximately an hour and a half. You can easily spend the whole day exploring as there is a bunch of great things to do in Glastonbury. The town is steeped in legends and full of historic sites and along with that comes some quirky cafes and interesting shops.

One of the top things to do in Glastonbury is visit the Glastonbury Abbey. This 7th-century abbey is home to the ancient ruins of the once prosperous abbey, a museum showcasing the abbey’s history, and stunning grounds to wander around. But don’t forget to stop by the alleged site of where King Arthur was buried.

Another must-stop is Glastonbury Tor. Standing high above the town, and approximately a 15 minute walk from the Abbey, this is all that remains of an old church. But the climb up is worth it for sweeping 360-degree views of the area. And before you leave make one last stop at the Chalice Well! Glastonbury is a must-stop on any England itinerary .

9. Abergavenny, Wales

Contributed by Larch from The Silver Nomad

Distance from Bristol: 49 miles/ 79 km

If you travel west along the M4 from Bristol across the Severn Bridge into Wales, you will come to Abergavenny. The journey takes just over an hour through the picturesque countryside.

Due to its proximity to the English Border, Abergavenny is called the ‘Gateway to Wales’. The town is nestled between three mountains, the Skirrid, the Blorenge and the Sugar Loaf, which are excellent for climbing.

In the centre of town, visit Abergavenny Castle and Museum. Trace the history of the town back through the ages to its Roman roots with the exhibits on show. After wander through the grounds and the ruins of the Norman castle.

Close to the Castle are The Linda Vista Gardens and Castle Meadows are beautiful to walk around and full of wildlife and flowers.

If you are visiting in September, enjoy the fabulous Abergavenny Food Festival.

Just outside Abergavenny is White Castle, another normal castle ruin to see with part of the Offas Dyke Trail running past it. Also nearby is Goytre Wharf for a walk along the Monmouth and Brecon Canal.

Day Trips from Bristol in Nature:

10. cheddar gorge.

Contributed by Suzanne from Meandering Wild

Distance from Bristol: 20 miles/ 32 km

Cheddar Gorge is the deepest gorge in England with the road following the curves and turns of the gorge all the way to the top of the hills.  Cheddar village is small with a few tourist shops and restaurants.  However the cliffs of the gorge are the main attraction.  Under the hills are a series of deep caves that were once open to the public but are now closed.  If you want to explore the caves then you need to go on a caving expedition which run from the village.

After driving up through the gorge looking out for the wild goats and sheep and stopping to look up at the sheer height of the cliffs there are a number of walks from the village up into the surrounding hills with views across the Somerset Levels and down into the gorge.

Cheddar Gorge is located 35miles south from Bristol on the edge of the Mendip Hills.  The journey takes about 45minutes following the main A38 from Bristol city centre towards Taunton before turning onto the A370 towards Wells.  It is possible to get to Cheddar by public transport but it involves multiple trains or buses and takes nearly two hours.

11. Gower Peninsula, South Wales

Contributed by Ben Holbrook from DriftwoodJournals.com

Distance from Bristol: 94 miles/ 150 km

Located a little under two hours from Bristol, South Wales’ glorious Gower peninsula was the UK’s first ever official AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).

Its craggy cliffs overlook a seemingly endless stretch of unspoiled coastline, where surfers, seals, dolphins and sailors play among the waves.

Hike with wild ponies out to the emblematic Worm’s Head island at Rhossili Bay, frequently cited as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Explore the cosy country pubs – the King’s Head, the King Arthur, the Welcome – or traverse the sprawling common to seek out castles, cute cafes and fish & chips in the colourful seaside village of Mumbles.

Lounge on a sun terrace with a coffee or cocktail at Langland Bay, or take to the famous Wales Coastal Path to explore even more of the Gower peninsula’s best beaches , including the fabled Brandy Cove, where smugglers used to bring their illicit contraband ashore. Croeso i Gymru! It really is a different world entirely! 

12. Forest of Dean

Contributed by Annabel from Smudged Postcard

Distance from Bristol: 47 miles/ 75 km

If you want to escape the city, the Forest of Dean is a great destination for a rural day trip from Bristol. The Forest of Dean is approximately an hour’s drive from Bristol (35 miles), close to the Welsh border, best accessed via the Severn Bridge.

The Forest of Dean is a huge swathe of woodland with attractions for everyone. If you’re visiting the Forest of Dean with kids , you should head for the delightfully magical Puzzlewood – filming location for a range of TV shows and movies including Doctor Who and Merlin.

If you’re after a more cultural experience, the beautiful Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail is well worth investigating – it features interesting art installations hidden among the trees. For a more active day out, take to the water – the River Wye cuts through the forest and kayaking is extremely popular – the scenery is fantastic.

For refreshments, ensure you book a table at the Saracen’s Head Inn on the banks of the River Wye, the food there is excellent. If you decide to stay overnight, the pub offers bed and breakfast.

13. Malvern Hills

Contributed by Paul from Anywhere We Roam

Distance from Bristol: 64 miles/ 103 km

The Malvern Hills are an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty located near the market village of Ledbury. The sweeping countryside views and series of small mountains make it an ideal day trip from Bristol to get outside and enjoy nature.

Eastnor Castle is a 19th century folly in a beautiful location at the foothills of the mountains. Tour the extravagant state rooms and richly decorated halls for an insight into the lifestyle of the elite in the 1820s. Also at the foothills of the mountain is the market town of Ledbury. With romantic black and white timber buildings and cobbled laneways, the town is full of charm.

The best way to enjoy the area is on one of the many easy walks in the Malvern Hills . Hike from the castle back down to Ledbury to see beautiful country views.

Ledbury is 65 miles from Bristol. There are a few train services, however several changes are required, so the best way to get to the Malvern Hills is by car which takes around 1 hour 15 minutes.

14. Stonehenge

Contributed by Anisa from Two Traveling Texans

Distance from Bristol: 45 miles/ 72 km

Stonehenge is one of the most famous ancient sites in the world. It’s one of those places you need to visit in person to fully appreciate.  See the size of the stones and imagine how it was built 4000 years ago.

Start your visit to Stonehenge with a stop at the Visitor’s Center to learn more about the history of the monument.  There is also a the model village and an interactive exhibit where you can try moving a sarsen stone.

From there, you can take a bus or walk the mile to the stone circle.  There is an audio tour of the stone circle that is full of interesting information.  Before visiting, I did realize that the circle is aligned with the summer solstice sunrise and winter solstice sunset.

As it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in England, you need to book Stonehenge tickets advance.  English Heritage and National Trust members can visit for free but still must get tickets online.  If you are not a member, it is £19.50 for adults and £11.70 for kids.  There are also family and VIP tour tickets available.

Unfortunately, you can’t take a train to Stonehenge as there is no train station.  You can take a bus from Bristol to Salisbury and change to another bus to Stonehenge.  It’s easiest to drive (via the A36) which takes a little more than an hour.

15. Brecon Beacons National Park

Contributed by Shobha from Just Go Places

Distance from Bristol: 76 miles/ 122 km

With nearly 350,000 acres of wild and dramatic landscape, the Brecon Beacons National Park is one of three national parks in Wales . The highest mountain in Southern Britain, Pen Y Fan is located in the Brecon Beacons. Local boy, George Everest, after whom Mt. Everest is named, discovered his love of the great outdoors clambering around this national park.

The Brecon Beacons is an outdoor lovers’ paradise. There are lots of hiking and biking trails. Blenaevon is an example of a discontinued ironworks and a UNESCO world heritage site due to its relevance in the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century. There is also the National Botanical Garden of Wales to visit. Family visitors will like the Brecon Mountain Railway and the British Birds of Prey Centre.

The Brecon Beacons have had settlements for thousands of years from the early Celts to the Romans. Brecon, the main town in the national park has a population of about 20,000. It’s a charming town full of inns and pubs catering to the many visitors who come through the park.

About 75 miles from Bristol, the Brecon Beacons National Park is a little less than a 2 hour drive.

Day trips from Bristol to beautiful areas

16. cotswolds.

Contributed by Jessie from Pocket Wanderings

Distance from Bristol: 55 miles/ 88 km

The Cotswolds is a beautiful pocket of rural England and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With its rolling green hills, honey-coloured villages, and grand stately homes, it’s easy to see why the Cotswolds should be top of your UK travel bucket list .

Easily accessible from Bristol, the Cotswolds is only a 50 minute drive away. There is no direct train link, but you can get a train to Cheltenham Spa and then a taxi to the Cotswolds.

There are plenty of pretty villages dotted around the Cotswolds, all ready to be explored. Some of the most well-known include Bourton-on-Water, Burford, and Chedworth. Another enticing pull of the area is its fresh local produce and exceptional restaurants, making it a perfect day trip for foodies. If you’re after something more adrenaline fuelled, then the Cotswolds is also home to the largest privately owned mountain bike facility in the country.

A particularly notable annual event is on spring bank holiday, when the locals chase a wheel of double Glousester down a steep hill in the Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake. It’s dangerous and bonkers, but it attracts a lot of international media attention.

Contributed by Kathryn from Wandering Bird

Distance from Bristol: 84 miles/ 135 km

If you’re looking for somewhere fun to visit on a day trip from Bristol, head south and spend some time exploring the magnificent Devon coastline.

North Devon is an unexpected treat. There are some wonderful bays and beaches to explore, as well as cute harbours. The north side has the best waves- perfect for surfing and confident swimmers, but there are some quieter beaches with golden sand and shallower play areas for kids.

The best way to explore this area is with your own vehicle, especially coming from Bristol. You can get a train from Bristol to Devon, but getting to the coast afterwards will be a pain, so you’re much better planning a Devon road trip for the day. It takes about 2 hours (105 miles) to drive from Bristol to Saunton Sands, one of the most popular beaches in Devon. Nearby, there is also Braunton, Ilfracombe and Barnstaple to explore. If you get time, don’t forget to have fish and chips from Squires in Braunton- it’s an institution (and delicious!)

18. West Bay

Contributed by Emma from Travel on a time budget

Distance from Bristol: 61 miles/ 98 km

At just over 50 miles from Bristol, West Bay on the Dorset coast is a lovely day out for all the family.  A traditional coastal town, it has a small pier and compact harbour, with huts where you can buy ice cream, seafood, and fish and chips.  There is also a long seafront promenade to wander along.  Just off this, kids will love the noisy amusement arcade and the chance for some fun if you’re visiting on a wet and windy day.

Without doubt however, is the stunning coastline here.  Part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site that runs through Devon and Dorset, West Bay is perfect for hiking or cliff top walks.

The main place to do this is from the town’s East Beach. Here there is a steep craggy cliff that rises almost vertically up. The climb up the cliff is steep, but it’s fairly short, and definitely worth it for the incredible views you get out to sea and back over the town.

The beach itself is a place to search for fossils or in summer, a place for a picnic.  Or you could day trip to other nearby places.  Lyme Regis in particular is worth the effort, with its 14th century Cobb wall, Victorian promenade, and teashops galore where you can sample a traditional west country cream tea.

You can reach West Bay by car in under two hours.  You can also get there by train and bus via Weymouth.

I hope you found something for yourself and decided on your next day trip from Bristol. All of these places are beautiful and I wish you to be able to visit each one of them at some point. Make sure to save the post if you found it useful.

You might also enjoy:

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Lyubomira is the creator and author behind Bulgarian On The Go. With a background in journalism and experience in the field of tourism and marketing, her mission is to show travellers many beautiful places they might have never thought of visiting or even knew existed.

Find me on: Instagram

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You’ve got me in the mood for another trip back to Bristol Lyubomira. Lots of suggestions here I’ve yet to get to. Was fantastic to be part of this collab. Thank you.

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The Perfect Bristol Day Trip Itinerary: Attractions, Food and Sightseeing

From taking in the views of Clifton Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain, to great food and colourful street art, this is the perfect Bristol day trip itinerary!

When it comes to choosing a day trip from London, there are so many great options. Just hop on a train and within an hour or two you can be exploring the vintage stores in Brighton , wandering the historic Shambles in York , seeing Roman history in Bath or punting in Cambridge. It’s a relaxing way to travel, and if you plan a little in advance then you’ll be able to bag some cheap train tickets too.

For our latest trip we were looking for a destination that had a little bit of everything! We liked the idea of being by the water, especially as the weather forecast promised warm sunny days. We also wanted to find a place with a cool food scene and a few attractions.

So, where came out on top? Bristol! We’ve both always loved Bristol. It’s got such a creative spirit, which comes through not only in the vibrant murals you see splashed around the city, but also in its shops and restaurants. It’s one of those cities that feels full of life!

We set off on a day trip from London to Bristol and spent a couple of days cramming lots of sightseeing and food experiences. We hopped on boats, explored ancient monuments, climbed towers, ate a range of cuisines and even found a few speakeasies… all in the name of research of course!

Whether you’ve only got one day in Bristol, or you want to spread my recommendations out over a weekend, this Bristol itinerary has lots of travel tips to make the most of your visit.

How To Get To Bristol

We travelled from London to Bristol by train. The journey takes just over an hour and a half from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads Station. It’s such an easy way to travel and happens to be a good hour or so faster than driving!

As with many UK cities, once you’re in Bristol you’re unlikely to want a car, so the train is a much better option. It’s also a lot more sustainable, which is something we should all be considering right now.

To make things cheaper, Macca and I have a National Rail Two Together Railcard . This is 100% worth buying if you travel with the same person regularly. It saves up to 1/3 on train travel and only costs £30 for a whole year. There are eight other Railcards available if this doesn’t suit you, including one for friends and family and others if you’re aged 16-25 or 26-30.

As an example, for this journey, our tickets were reduced by over £50 with our Two Together Railcard. It’s quite likely you’ll make your money back on one trip (as we did on our recent weekend break in York ), meaning any future journeys will be filled with savings!

Once you arrive at Bristol Temple Meads Station, it’s a short walk to the city’s main sights and attractions.

The Perfect Bristol Day Trip

Coming up are lots of recommendations for places to visit on your Bristol day trip. If you want to take things at a leisurely pace, I’d just pick a few of your favourites, or stay an extra day so you can tick everything off the list.

Take in the views of Clifton Suspension Bridge

One of Bristol’s most iconic spots, everyone should visit this majestic bridge. It’s one of Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s most famous designs, and is an impressive feat of engineering.

Brunel was just 24 when he won a competition to head up the project. It took 33 years to complete and today is one of the oldest surviving iron suspension bridges in the world. It connects two sides of the Avon Gorge, over the River Avon.

For the best views of the bridge, I’d recommend visiting the park by Clifton Observatory. There are plenty of benches here where you can look out and admire the bridge.

For a quirkier view of the structure, how about heading down into the Giant’s Cave? This is a natural cave within the limestone of the gorge. Access is via 100+ steps, and once you emerge, you’ll see the bridge from a whole new angle!

One of the prettiest scenes you’ll see of this bridge is during the Bristol Balloon Fiesta which takes place every August. If you can time your Bristol day trip for one of the days it’s on, you’ll see beautiful hot air balloons dotted throughout the skies. It’s a very special time to be in the city!  

Explore Clifton Village

Clifton is one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in Bristol. With bunting criss-crossing the streets and a range of chic boutiques and brunch spots, it’s a lovely area to mooch around.

Key places to visit are The Mall, Princess Victoria Street and the stunning Royal York Crescent. If you’re a lover of all things colourful, you simply have to visit Sky Bristol on Waterloo Street. With vibrant prints, fun greetings cards and quirky gifts, this is a shop that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face!

Pod is great for homewares and gardening items while Portobella is a fun fashion store with a focus on multicoloured prints.

Clifton Village has a great food scene too. There’s The Mall Deli for tasty meats and cheeses, plus Chandos Deli and Spicer and Cole are ideal for brunching, lunching and caffeine fixes. For a quirky meal, visit The Clifton Sausage, where you can pick from a special menu of homemade sausages. Over 100,000 sausages are consumed every year here, so you know they’ll be good! This guide will point you in the direction of Bristol’s best brunch spots .

Catch the Bristol water taxi or go on a boat trip

Bristol is a city where you’re never far from the water, so it makes sense that some of the best views are from a boat! There are two easy options if you’re visiting for planning a Bristol day trip: catch the Bristol Ferry waterbus or go on a Bristol Packet boat trip .

The waterbus is a really great way to get around the city as it connects places like Castle Park, Wapping Wharf and the SS Great Britain. A short hop will only set you back £2.

Meanwhile, the Bristol Packet boat tours are great if you’re looking for a guided tour. The City Dock Tour takes 45 minutes and has a live commentary.

Visit CARGO in Wapping Wharf

When you see the stack of shipping containers in Wapping Wharf you might wonder what you’re approaching. This is actually a super-cool part of Bristol’s harbourside complex, and inside each container you’ll find something different.

The key reason to visit is for the food! There are so many cuisines with small eateries here including:

• Loki Poké – Poké bowls
• Cargo Cantina – Mexican food
• Bakers & Co – Bread and pastries
• Dog Town – Hot dogs
• Gambas – Tapas
• Pizzarova – Sourdough pizza

If you’re looking for a budget lunch in Bristol, Cargo is a really great option with street food vibes all around. I opted for a poké bowl this time which was delicious and fresh – perfect for a sunny day!

While you’re in the area, I’d recommend squeezing in a bit of shopping too. There are some cool independent stores located in the containers. My favourite was Frankly – a shop filled with pretty jewellery, colourful accessories and ethical gifts.  

Moments away you’ll also find Bookhaus – an independent bookstore where you’ll see notes dotted around the store with recommendations from the staff. This offers a really lovely personal style of shopping experience.

Learn the history of the SS Great Britain

I’ve been to Bristol a few times before but this was my first time checking out one of the city’s main attractions, the SS Great Britain .

This impressive ship (another creation by Brunel) was a leader in her day! She was the largest passenger ship in the world in the 1840s. 750 people could travel on board, across three different classes. The ship was famed for transporting passengers from England to Australia which took a whopping 120 days! How amazing is that?

There is so much to see and do, you could easily spend half a day here. It’s ideal for kids too, as so many of the elements are interactive! You can wander along the edge of the base of the boat in the dry dock, take photos on the deck, learn lots in the museum area and take a look at Brunel’s life at a dedicated museum to the brains behind the ship! If you’re feeling brave, you could even book in for a ‘climb the rigging’ experience!

Enjoy a gourmet lunch at Adelina Yard

I’ve suggested Cargo as a great budget lunch option in Bristol, but now it’s time to reach a little deeper into your pockets! If you’re looking for a restaurant in the city centre for a special meal, book a table at Adelina Yard .

This casual restaurant serves gourmet dishes with a modern European theme. The décor is minimalist, with distressed walls, dried flowers and rugged chopped branches as cutlery stands.

We went for the 4-course set lunch at £38 per person. Over a couple of hours, we tucked into dainty plates of tomato and watermelon salad with goat’s curd, a smoky eel dish with beetroot stars and burnt apple, and a tasty Iberico pork dish with a pungent black garlic ketchup.

The food was presented in a smart manner, and there was a relaxed but professional approach to the service too. All in all, a lovely place for a memorable meal in Bristol.

Stop for ice cream at Swoon Gelato or a doughnut at Pinkmans Bakery

Whenever I’ve asked for recommendations of places to visit in Bristol, these two spots have cropped up over and over! If you have a sweet tooth, definitely add these to your Bristol day trip itinerary!

Swoon Gelato specialises in artisan gelato. They offer 11 standard flavours including salted caramel, mango, pistachio and chocolate, plus a few specials. As it was so warm, I ordered a scoop of the raspberry sorbetti which was refreshing, tart and utterly delicious – as if someone had smashed a load of fresh raspberries up and frozen them!

Meanwhile, a short stroll up Park Street is Pinkmans Bakery, which specialises in sourdough doughnuts. They’re light and fluffy, and very well-filled. Again, you’ll find some standard flavours along with specials such as lemon meringue and pineapple and coconut.

Check out Bristol’s street art scene

Bristol is a really creative city and one of the biggest expressions of that is through the street art. It’s a city to walk around with your eyes wide open. Scan the sides of buildings and look for colourful motifs – they’re everywhere!

The most famous of all the graffiti artists is of course Banksy. You might spot a few works as you wander around on foot, but to gain a bit more insight I’d recommend booking a Where The Wall self-guided street art tour. The tour and map load on your phone and take you on a 3-mile walking tour to see Banksy’s most famous works, alongside some other notable artworks. At each one there’s a short video presentation with information about the piece.

If street art is a big reason for your day trip to Bristol, you simply have to visit Stokes Croft. This neighbourhood is grittier and edgier than many parts of the city, but it’s also covered heat-to-toe in murals. I loved walking the streets around here, taking photos as I went. If you’re a fan of vintage shopping, you’ll love this neighbourhood too!

Alternatively, pop by the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery where there’s always lots of interesting artworks to admire. When I visited there were two works by Banksy inside. This museum is free to enter too! 

Take in the views of Bristol from the top of Cabot Tower

If you’re looking for one of the best viewpoints over Bristol, you’re going to need to use your legs a little! Cabot Tower is a short walk from Park Street. The building itself is 32 metres tall, but as it’s perched on top of Brandon Hill it offers really incredible panoramas of Bristol.

From the top you’ll see all the famous sights including Clifton Suspension Bridge, the colourful houses in Clifton Village, the River Avon, Bristol Harbour and the SS Great Britain. This is another attraction that won’t cost you a penny. It’s definitely one of the best free things to do in Bristol too.

Brandon Hill Park is a really serene and peaceful park, so I’d recommend having a little meander through the gardens before you leave.

Go for cocktails at a speakeasy bar

Are you a cocktail connoisseur? You’ll be happy to hear Bristol has an exciting bar scene! As a Londoner I’ve been to several ‘speakeasy’ style bars, but I didn’t know that this scene was thriving in Bristol too.

The Milk Thistle is one of the coolest and comes with quite the accolade – being named one of the UK’s Top 50 Bars! It’s the kind of place you could walk by without realising that inside is a very cool cocktail bar split across four storeys, with its own hidden vault!

The main bar on the ground floor is filled with unique and unusual items, rather like an old-fashioned house of curiosities. The expert mixologists are happy to work off the fun cocktail menu of intriguing drinks, or they can shake up your favourite classic.

The Scarlet Lantern is another secret bar in Bristol. Located just around the corner from Banksy’s famous ‘Well Hung Lover’, this bar is only identifiable from the red lantern that hangs above the door. Follow the steps down to an underground lair with 4-poster beds, a well-stocked bar and no doubt plenty of debauchery!

Feast on Sri Lankan cuisine The Coconut Tree

We went on our honeymoon to Sri Lanka so I was already a huge fan of Sri Lankan food. I adore the delicate balance of spices, chilli and coconut you find in this part of the world. Crispy hoppers, spicy coconut sambal, fragrant curries, moreish kotthu and rotis – I mean, what’s not to love?!

When I heard there was a top-rated Sri Lankan restaurant called The Coconut Tree in Bristol, I couldn’t wait to try it. With pumping tunes and cocktails served in novelty elephants, I wasn’t sure it was going to be the most authentic meal… but I was wrong!

Over two hours we feasted on crispy hoppers topped with hot sambals, an indulgent salmon curry that was rich with coconut milk, a pork curry that had a smoky sauce, and delightfully moreish spiced potatoes.

I liked that all the dishes were designed for sharing (with dishes priced between £4 and £9), so we could try lots of different things. There are a few branches of this restaurant across the south west of England, including in Bath and Cheltenham. I’d definitely recommend trying one if you’d like to find out why everyone raves about Sri Lankan food!  

Where To Stay In Bristol

If a day trip to Bristol feels a little rushed, you could book a hotel in the centre. I’d recommend staying at The Clayton Hotel which is in an ideal location, walking distance from many of the key sights and moments from St Nicholas Market (where you’ll also find plenty of great street food!)

We stayed in a comfortable superior room on the 8 th floor, which was large with several windows. The lobby area was smart with cool lighting and a vibrant mural by the main entrance. There’s a large selection of items available at the breakfast buffet here too, from fried savoury items to gooey chocolate croissants. It was perfect for a short break in the city centre.

I hope you’ve found my Bristol day trip itinerary helpful. Have a great time in the city – it’s easily one of my favourites in Britain!

A big thanks to National Rail for inviting me to share my thoughts on visiting the city. Don’t forget to buy a Railcard before you travel. It could save you up to 1/3 on train travel.

If you’re looking for more great ideas for days out, check out my guide to the best UK weekend breaks .

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

1 thought on “The Perfect Bristol Day Trip Itinerary: Attractions, Food and Sightseeing”

Thank you this was super helpful ! I love my two together railcard as well, just trying to decide between Bath or Bristol for the day…

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One Day in Bristol Itinerary: A Day Trip from London

Last Updated on January 25, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a one day in Bristol itinerary is a great way to explore one of England’s most dynamic and interesting cities in a short period of time.

So many visitors to the UK capital concentrate only on the city itself or on the more conventional day trips to places like Cambridge , Oxford , Seven Sisters , York , Stonehenge and more. However, cool and edgy Bristol has a lot to offer travellers and it’s well worth visiting.

You can even organise a Bristol day trip from London to get a great feel for the city and to get to know one of England’s most underrated tourist destinations. From a fantastic street art scene to a fascinating maritime history, Bristol has so much to explore and lots to see and do!

Table of Contents

How to Get to Bristol from London

Before I jump into the ideal 1-day Bristol itinerary, we need to discuss how to get to Bristol from London. Being a major metropolitan area in England, Bristol is very well connected to the capital and there are numerous options to get to this Western English city.

The easiest, quickest and most comfortable way to get from London to Bristol is by train. There are numerous trains to Bristol per day and it is one of the easiest ways to get to the city.

Trains to Bristol leave from Paddington Station in Northwest London and, as I mentioned earlier, there are numerous departures per day.

The train to Bristol takes about 2-3 hours depending on the type of train you take. Keep in mind that the central station in Bristol is called Bristol Temple Meads and not Bristol Parkway — the names can be confusing for visitors!

Another thing to consider is that it is almost always far more affordable to take the train if you book your tickets as far in advance as possible. Fares tend to get more expensive the closer to your date of travel.

A far more affordable but less comfortable way to get to Bristol from London is by bus. Like the train, there are lots of buses that leave daily from the capital to Bristol and it is quite a convenient way to get to the city.

Coaches leave from Victoria Sation frequently and can be far more affordable than the train, especially if you book in advance.

Like the train, the coach is much more affordable if booked in advance of travel, but even if you don’t, you’re still going to find that it’s generally cheaper than the train. Click here to view the latest timetables.

Finally, if you would rather drive than take a coach or train, it is fairly straightforward to reach Bristol from London by car. The drive from London to Bristol takes about two and a half hours along the M4 motorway if you don’t make any stops, however, if you do have your own vehicle, it can be a great opportunity to do some sightseeing along the way.

If you go to Bristol from London by car, it’s only a slight detour from the road to visit some of West England’s most famous attractions, including Stonehenge, Salisbury and the beautiful, historic spa town of Bath (though the latter really deserves more time than just a couple of hours to be dedicated to exploring it).

If you need to hire a car for your Bristol day trip or just for your trip to England in general, we recommend browsing Rentalcars.com to find great prices on a rental car across many major companies. If you want to know more about this platform, make sure to check out our RentalCars.com review .

One Day in Bristol Itinerary

If you want to learn more about the history of the city, then consider taking a walking tour with a guide to explore some of these attractions.

Bristol Cathedral

Begin your time in Bristol at one of the city centre’s top attractions, the Bristol Cathedral. This beautiful Gothic Cathedral is one of the most stunning in the entirety of England and is filled with interesting history. Originally constructed in the 13th century, it has been reconstructed and added to many times in its lifetime, the last being in 1877.

Not only does the cathedral boast beautiful Norman, Gothic and Neo-Gothic architecture, but the interior is also donned with gorgeous vaulted ceilings and lovely stained glass windows.

There is no admission fee to the Bristol Cathedral, making it also a great tourist site to see if you’re trying to visit Bristol on a tight budget. There is no denying, even if you’re visiting Bristol for more than just a day, you cannot miss this beautiful building.

Cabot Tower

About a 10-minute walk from the Bristol Cathedral and located in the middle of the lovely Brandon Hill park lies Cabot Tower, a major Bristol landmark and an unmissable sight in the city.

The tower, built in the late 19th century, was erected to commemorate the 400th anniversary first sailing of John Cabot from Bristol to what was later to be known as Canada. Due to its location at the top of Brandon Hill, the Cabot Tower can provide fantastic views of the city.

Entry into the tower is free and it is open daily. It is very much worth taking the time to climb to the top of the tower and enjoy the incredible views over Bristol.

Next to Cabot Tower, you’ll also find the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery which is free to enter and a great way to learn more about the history of the city.

SS Great Britain

One of the top attractions in the city, no visit would be complete without exploring the incredible SS Great Britain in Bristol Harbour.

This historic passenger steamship designed by the famed Isambard Kingdom Brunel (who also built the Great Western Railway — which is the railway you would have taken to Bristol if you travelled by train), and had her maiden voyage in 1845.

At the time of launch, the SS Great Britain was the largest passenger ship in the world, was the first iron steamship to cross the Atlantic, and spent the majority of her career sailing from England to Melbourne, Australia during the Australian Gold Rush of the mid 19th century.

At the end of the 19th Century, the ship was abandoned in the Falkland Islands before she was recovered and brought back to Britain in 1970.

After much restoration, the ship now resides in Bristol Dry Dock, where she was originally built, and operates as a museum where you can learn all about the SS Great Britain herself, along with Bristol’s vast maritime history.

Ticket prices for the SS Great Britain are £22 for adult passengers, with discounts available for students, children and seniors.

Discover Bristol’s Street Art

If you’re visiting Bristol because of its hip arts and culture scene rather than for its historic sites (or you’re just interested in both), you would be remiss if you didn’t spend a good portion of your Bristol day trip checking out the city’s incredible street art scene.

As the hometown of the legendary and elusive artist, Banksy, few cities in the world boast a better street art scene than Bristol.

You can’t walk anywhere in the city without being confronted with countless beautiful murals and smaller pieces of artwork, but if you want to learn more about street art in Bristol, including its history and the culture, then it is worth going on a street art tour . These are run by local artists who take you to some of the most interesting pieces of art and explain the historical context.

If you would rather take your time and explore the street art scene on your own, this map is a great way to check out some of the top murals and pieces of art in the city.

St Nicholas Market

You’ve likely worked up quite the appetite with all that sightseeing and now would be a great time to find a bite to eat for lunch. One of the best places to do this in Bristol would be at St Nicholas Market.

Located about a 20-minute walk from, this market has countless food stalls and fantastic cuisine from all over the world, making it the perfect place for an affordable bite to eat.

It’s also a great place to really appreciate how wonderfully multicultural the city of Bristol is.

Wapping Wharf

If you’re looking for something a bit closer to the SS Great Britain Museum to find a place to eat and you want to experience some the trendy nature that Bristol oozes, then make sure to head to Wapping Wharf.

This area, located about ten minutes from the ship museum, is a relatively new area of renovated shipping containers that is home to countless hip and trendy restaurants and cool shops and artists’ spaces.

There are lots of restaurant opportunities here and you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes. It is worth mentioning that Wapping Wharf is a better choice for lunch if you’re looking for a sit-down restaurant and St Nicholas Market is a better choice if you’re looking for cheap, street food eats. You really can’t go wrong with either one and if you choose to spend 2 days in Bristol, you can visit both!

After you’ve filled yourself up at lunch, it’s time to head to another museum and learn more about Bristol as a city. And there is no better place to do this than at the M Shed, one of the best museums in the city. Located adjacent to Wapping Wharf, this museum is situated in a refurbished dockside shed.

M Shed is probably the best museum to visit if you want to have a holistic view of life in Bristol, both historically and in the present day.

Across several floors, there are numerous exhibits that compile countless artefacts and personal items from Bristolians throughout time and it gives visitors incredible insight into the history of this city and also what makes it so special.

M Shed is also a free museum, meaning that there is no entry fee. You should plan to spend at least a couple of hours here as there really is a lot to see and learn.

Enjoy Bristol’s Craft Beer Scene

After enjoying all there is at the M Shed, it’s likely that you could use a pint to take the edge off such a busy day. Luckily for you, Bristol has a hopping (mind the pun) craft beer scene that is sure to impress.

There are countless brewpubs and craft breweries scattered throughout the city and close to the M Shed with fantastic and delicious experimental beers and a lot of seasonal favourites.

Wander Around Stokes Croft

If you’re interested in experiencing a cool, hip neighbourhood that is away from the typical tourist trail in Bristol, then consider heading up north to the edgy Stokes Croft neighbourhood of the city.

This area is known to be a haven for local artists and creative types, has a lot of cool street art to explore and a number of hip cafes and bars to enjoy a beverage at.

Stokes Croft is perhaps most famous for being home to one of Banky’s first and most famous murals, the “Mild Mild West,” which features a bear throwing a Molotov cocktail at riot police and is indicative of the political art that the artist later became so famous for.

Stokes Croft has a lot more to offer than just that one mural, however, and it’s worth wandering up in this area if you like exploring some “alternative” neighbourhoods when you travel.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

If you’re only spending 1 day in Bristol, then you may have to choose between visiting the Stokes Croft neighbourhood or heading to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge as they are both located quite far from each other. However, both are also worth visiting so it just depends on your preferences.

One of the best ways to end your one day in Bristol is by watching the sunset behind the Clifton Suspension Bridge, which is arguably the landmark that jumps to most people’s minds when they imagine this western city.

This massive bridge that spans the Avon Gorge over the river Avon was opened in 1864 and is based off a design from Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Considered to be the symbol of Bristol, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is the perfect place to end your active and exciting day.

Where to Stay in Bristol

The Bristol Hotel — If you’re searching for a luxury stay in Bristol, you can’t go wrong with this centrally-located hotel. Situated within easy walking distance of almost all of the city’s top attractions. They have countless plush rooms available and a great restaurant and bar on site.

Victoria Square Hotel Clifton Village — If you’re looking for a tranquil, sedate stay in Bristol, then consider this boutique hotel. Located in the lovely Clifton neighbourhood of the city, it is within easy reach of all of Bristol’s attractions, they have comfortable rooms available and a great breakfast included in the room rate.

YHA Bristol — If you’re travelling solo or on a budget (or just want the social atmosphere that hostels provide!) then this is a great choice for you! Centrally located, they have a range of both dorm and private rooms available, great common areas, and lots of opportunities for meeting other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bristol hotels!

Planning the perfect day trip is not hard to do, in fact, the hardest part is trying to pack all the best things to do in Bristol into just one day! Bristol has so much to offer travellers that it’s always worth visiting, no matter how long you have to spend.

Are you thinking of visiting Bristol from London? Have you visited the city before? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect Weekend in Liverpool Itinerary

Richmond Park Walks: A Perfect London Day Hike

Visit Oxford or Cambridge: Choosing a London Day Trip

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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Adventures of Alice

A Day Trip to Bristol: The Perfect One Day in Bristol Itinerary

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Planning a day trip to Bristol and aren’t sure where to start? Here are my honest thoughts on spending a day in Bristol, what to do, where to stay, and what to expect!

Bristol is one of those cities that often falls under the radar. People who visit the UK tend to visit London. But there are so many other destinations including cool, quirky cities, like this. I recently went on a day trip to Bristol and I can confirm that this city should definitely be on your list!

Located in the West of England, Bristol is pretty unique. There’s a lot of maritime history here as well as funky street art (it’s the home of Banksy, after all), a great food scene, lots of outdoor attractions, and several large manor houses that are surprisingly close to the city. 

I’ve always been a little captivated by Bristol. We used to visit quite a lot when I was younger to see family who live nearby. I have great memories of walking the Clifton Suspension Bridge, finding all the street art, and visiting the Zoo. But, it felt great to return now and discover a side of the city that hadn’t really interested me as a child!

My Favourite Travel Resources for Bristol

✅ Here’s the hotel we stayed at during our time here ✅ Don’t miss: Wake the Tiger and the SS Great Britain

Here’s The Perfect Itinerary For A Day Trip to Bristol

I’ve mapped out all of my favourite spots to visit during a Bristol day trip on this itinerary. You’ll probably want to see some of Bristol’s most popular attractions , but I’ve also thrown in a few hidden gems and more unusual sights that you may want to add to your list.

9:30 – Visit Clifton Suspension Bridge and Observatory

I’ve started this itinerary at 9:30am because, depending on where you’re coming from, you may have a pretty long drive before you get to the city. It took us around 2.5 hours to get to Bristol and I figured you may not want to leave your house at 6am (or earlier)! 

Don’t worry though – this will still give you plenty of time to see lots of cool stuff in Bristol. 

Anyway, I’ve digressed – Clifton Suspension Bridge. 

This is possibly one of the most famous sights in the city. It spans the picturesque Avon Gorge and connects Bristol to Leigh Woods in North Somerset . The bridge was created by Isambard Kingdom Brunel (whom you’ll hear quite a lot of in this Bristol itinerary) in 1864. 

With two large Gothic towers and dramatic iron chains, it’s a pretty impressive sight. The best way to view the bridge is from the Clifton Observatory which is conveniently positioned on the hill above the bridge on the Bristol side. 

The observatory is an interesting place to visit on its own. Inside, you’ll find one of the oldest working camera obscuras in the UK. Plus, it’s a great place to get a unique view of Bristol’s skyline. 

10:00 – Climb into Giant’s Cave

Also located at the Clifton Observatory site is Giant’s Cave. This tunnelling cavern dates back to 305 AD when it was a very unusual chapel. Since then, it’s opened up to the public and now provides a unique way to experience Avon Gorge. 

The cave snakes its way into the side of the gorge and you can climb down inside it. It’s pretty steep and can be slippery in places, so I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. It’s a very unique experience. 

From the bottom, you’ll reach a small metal platform where you can view the bridge. The netting that covers the platform makes it pretty tricky to get a good photo, but it’s still worth the £3 entrance fee. 

I had no idea that there was a cave here either, so loved the experience.

Top Tip : To get to both of these places, parking can be a little tricky. There’s no specific parking for the Observatory, so you’ll have to use the on-road parking nearby and walk up to the bridge. To get to the parking, drive up the road from the bridge’s toll booth and take the first two lefts – there’s on-road parking there and it’s just a few minutes to walk to the observatory. I’ve also linked the spot on maps here .

10:30 – Explore the SS Great Britain

After you’ve snapped all the photos of the majestic Clifton Suspension Bridge, head into the city of Bristol to see another of the most popular attractions. 

You can’t miss the SS Great Britain on a day trip to Bristol. Also created by Brunel (I told you that you’d be hearing a lot about this guy!), it’s one of the city’s most famous icons and it is so much fun to explore. 

Back in her heyday (the 1840s), the SS Great Britain was one of the largest passenger ships in the world. It could carry up to 750 passengers. While that doesn’t seem like a lot these days, when you consider the ship was making epic voyages from England to Australia, it still seems pretty impressive to me!

There’s a lot of history to see here and you can almost spend an entire half a day exploring the ship alone. There are interactive exhibits, a dedicated museum, and recreations of how things would’ve looked on the ship back in the day.

Even the docks before you actually go on the ship have been made to look like the past. 

✅ Book tickets to the SS Great Britain here

Top Tip : If you’ve travelled to Bristol by car, the easiest thing to do when you reach the city is to pay for parking and walk between attractions. We parked at The Galleries car park and got around the city mostly on foot, with a few buses. Parking wasn’t cheap at £18 per day, but we got a discount with our hotel. 

13:00 – Lunch

After you’ve explored the SS Great Britain, you’re probably feeling a little peckish. Well, don’t worry because there are lots of cool places to eat in Bristol. 

If you want to stay on the side of the river you’re already on, I recommend heading to Cargo in Wapping Wharf , a super cool shipping container complex with lots of different street food options. 

Alternatively, you can cross the river via the ferry and you’ll also find lots of great eateries as soon as you step off it. 

13:30 – Explore Bristol’s Street Art Scene

Bristol is famous for its street art. Being the home of Banksy, this is really no surprise, but there’s so much incredible graffiti and murals on the streets of Bristol. 

You could easily spend hours wandering around and discovering all of the call works of art you can find. However, if you only have one day in Bristol, I suggest spending around an hour exploring the street art. 

You could go on a self-guided street art walking tour, like this one from Where the Wall . They’ll take you to lots of cool spots and hidden gems in the city that you might not have otherwise seen. 

14:30 – Climb up to Cabot Tower

After exploring the artwork in Bristol, I recommend visiting Cabot Tower. 

This was a little bit of a spontaneous addition to our itinerary. We were on the ferry (which I’ll explain about soon!) and saw the tower on the horizon. I decided I wanted to check it out and off we went!

I’ll be perfectly honest, you’re in for a bit of an uphill climb here. But it’ll only take around 15-20 minutes, so it’s not too bad. 

Located on top of Brandon Hill, the tower is a tribute to the maritime explorer John Cabot. Built in 1897, it honours the 400th anniversary of his voyage to America. 

The views from the top of this hill are spectacular. You can climb the spiral staircase inside the tower to see all over Bristol, from the Clifton Suspension Bridge to the SS Great Britain. 

The park itself is also a lovely spot. With the flowers in bloom, it’s really pretty and you can relax on the benches and watch the world go by. The park and the tower are also completely free to visit, which is a bonus!

15:15 – Visit Bristol Cathedral

Just a short walk downhill from Cabot Tower and you’ll find Bristol Cathedral. This work of art and masterpiece of Gothic architecture dates back over 900 years.

Originally created as St. Augustine’s Abbey in the 12th century, this building is incredibly detailed. It’s located in the heart of the city too, surrounded by restaurants and cafes.  you’ll also be able to see the City Hall with its pretty fountains beside the Cathedral. 

Once you’ve explored the outside, be sure to head inside to see the elaborate decoration, large columns, and beautiful stained glass windows. 

16:00 – Visit Wake the Tiger

This was easily one of the coolest things we did on our day trip to Bristol and I highly recommend Wake the Tiger if you love immersive attractions. 

The experience takes you through a maze of colours and lights. It tells the story of an alternate world that sprouted out of an abandoned factory. You can walk through rooms of floating dandelions, see cracks in dimensions, see lots of mushrooms, and find doors that don’t look like doors at all! 

Seriously, we were in one room working out a puzzle and there was an innocent-looking filing cabinet in the corner. The next second, people were coming out of the filing cabinet and I realised that it was a door to another room. I don’t think I’ve jumped so much in a long time!

As well as lights, colours, and suspicious doors, there are puzzles that you have to work out and riddles that you solve. There is a VR headset in one section, a fake fire, and two swirly slides that you can go down to reach other levels!

The entire complex has had a complete revamp and they’ve added a whole new level, so I highly recommend checking this place out – it’s literally out of this world!

✅ This is one of the coolest things you can do in Bristol!

Top Tip : Getting from the cathedral to Wake the Tiger is quite a long walk – around 40 minutes in total. If you don’t fancy this, I recommend getting the bus. It only costs £2 per person, and you can be there in 10 minutes. 

18:30 – Go for Dinner

By this time, you’re probably a little peckish again. We took the bus back to Bristol city centre and grabbed a delicious Vietnamese dinner at one of my favourite restaurants – Pho . 

They also have one of these in Cambridge which I love, I was craving noodles, so thought why not? 

However, if you want something original, there are lots of great restaurants in Bristol including. Caribbean Croft is a quirky Jamaican joint, The Barley Mow is a great place for some scrummy pub food, and Souk Kitchen serves delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

Where To Stay in Bristol

I absolutely loved where we stayed in Bristol. It was called Brooks Guesthouse and it was the cutest little place, tucked away near St Nicholas Market. The location was central, the rooms were gorgeous, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. 

We had a double room and it was very spacious and comfortable. The bed was huge and you just sunk into the mattress. The bathroom was modern and well-designed, and they provided plenty of amenities. 

We took full advantage of the little sachets of hot chocolate they provided – they were the perfect way to relax after walking around Bristol all day!

The breakfast at Brooks Guesthouse Bristol

Also, the breakfast the next morning was on another level. I’m used to breakfast buffets at hotels, but at Brooks , they provided both a continental buffet and a hot menu that was cooked to order. 

The continental had a selection of cereals, pastries, yoghurt, and fresh fruit. From the hot menu, there was a range of options including scrambled eggs and smoked salmon, eggs benedict, a full English, and avocado on toast. 

We went for the eggs benedict and the avocado on toast and they were both delicious. Plus, you could see the chefs cooking it behind us in the open kitchen – that’s how fresh it was!

The only slight downside was that their central location meant that had no on-site parking and parking in Bristol is quite expensive. However, the nearby Galleries parking is only a 5-minute walk away, and if you hand in your parking ticket at reception, they offer you a £3 discount on your parking. 

However, overall, my experience with Brooks Guesthouse was fantastic and I would 100% stay there again.

✅ Check prices and book a room at Brooks Guesthouse Bristol

How to Get Around For a Day in Bristol

For the most part, we were able to walk around the city. Bristol is very walkable and most of the attractions are within a short distance of one another. 

We only had to use public transport twice. The first time, to get to Wake the Tiger, we took a bus to save a 38-minute walk from the city centre. The second time, we used the foot ferry to get across the river – for obvious reasons!

The public transport is really easy to use. For the buses, you can just tap your debit card on the reader at the front of the bus to buy a ticket. You then have to tap off again once you leave the bus and it’ll charge you correctly. Each ride costs £2. 

The ferry is also easy. We simply walked up to the docks and were able to board the boat. The journey across the river took minutes and the ride only cost £1.20 per person. 

For everything else, however, we got around on foot.

How To Get To Bristol

To get to Bristol, the easiest way (in my opinion) is to drive, however, there are a few caveats to this. Bristol has a clean air zone which means you usually have to pay a daily rate to drive in the city centre. 

This cost us £9 per day and, coupled with the rather expensive parking in Bristol (£15 for 24 hours, even with the hotel discount from Brooks), means it’s not the cheapest to drive in the city.

However, there are lots of park-and-ride services around Bristol meaning you can drive to the city but use public transport to get into the centre. Next time I visit Bristol, I will definitely be using this method to save a few pennies.

Alternatively, if you don’t fancy driving, you can always catch the train from a lot of destinations around the UK. There is a direct train from London to Bristol which takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes and costs £75 for an off-peak return.

✅ Book your train travel to Bristol here

Is a Day Trip to Bristol Enough?

To be perfectly honest, no, a day trip to Bristol isn’t enough to see everything the city has to offer. We could’ve easily spent 3 days in Bristol and probably longer if we’d also explored many of the wonderful attractions around the city. 

We had about a day and a half in the city because we were also spending a day in Bath afterwards. This was just enough time to see everything on this itinerary,  but we would’ve loved more time to really see the city in depth. 

There were a few things we missed like MShed, having a proper look around the street markets, and exploring the street art in depth. So, if you’re planning to visit Bristol, I recommend spending 2 days at a minimum here.

Final Thoughts on a Day Trip to Bristol

Overall, Bristol is a wonderful city to visit in the UK . It’s quirky, it’s different and it has a great range of original attractions, funky street art, and fascinating maritime history. 

I hope you’ve found this itinerary useful and have a wonderful time in Bristol when you visit. It’s without doubt one of the best cities to visit in the UK and I cannot wait to go back. 

If you’re looking for more UK breaks, check out my guide on romantic escapes in the UK and these stunning destinations in the UK countryside .

*This article was sponsored by Visit Bristol. All opinions are my own.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Some of the links above may be affiliate links that earn me a commission at no extra cost to you. If you purchase through my links – thank you so much! I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a travel blogger, content creator, and founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy, she embraced her passions and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

Based in the UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and going off-the-beaten-path, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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The Heritage Open Day attractions you can visit in Bristol from this weekend

Historic venues across Bristol will be opening their doors to the public for sneak peeks of areas not usually seen

• 05:00, 4 SEP 2024

FIND OUT WHAT'S ON NEAR YOU WITH OUR NEWSLETTER

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Heritage Open Days, dubbed 'England's largest festival of history and culture' is an annual celebration of the country's history and culture that enables visitors free access to a range of heritage sites and community events. These are either not normally open to the public, would normally charge an entrance fee, or are hosting something particularly for the festival.

Every September Heritage Open Days see a plethora of venues in Bristol and the surrounding areas welcome visitors through their gates, doors or other historical means of entrance. We've compiled a list below of some of these places taking part in this year's event, as well as some of the activities you can take part in.

This year's Heritage Open Days festival takes place between Friday, September 6 and Sunday, September 15. You can find out more about the event as a whole by clicking here .

Read more: Bristol spot tops list of most visited free South West attractions - and it's not Clifton Suspension Bridge

Read more: Seven National Trust sites near Bristol ideal for a family day out

Ashton Gatehouse

Address: Blackmoors Lane, Bristol, BS3 2JL

Tour dates and times available: Saturday, September 7 and Sunday, September 8 (10am-3pm)

The original entrance to Ashton Court Estate , Ashton Gatehouse was also once the gateway to the Smyth family home, and will be open this Heritage Open Days festival for all to enjoy. You can book here before September 6.

Bedminster Bygones

Address: Philip Street, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 4EA

Dates and times available: Tuesday, September 10 (2-3.30pm)

This event invites guests to drop in and discuss your recollections of Bedminster's history in maps, photographs and other media. You'll get to relax in the historic Philip Street Chapel with free refreshments, too. No booking necessary - simply drop in.

Bristol Beacon venue tour

Address: Bristol Beacon, Trenchard Street, Bristol, BS1 5AR

Dates and times available: Monday, September 9 and Tuesday, September 10 (11am-12pm)

On this guided tour, you'll be able to discover the social and architectural history of the Bristol Beacon , following its reopening in 2023. During its renovation, a number of stories and artefacts were uncovered - these will be the first set of guided tours. Click here to book your spot .

Bristol Central Library tour

Address: Bristol Central Library, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TL

Dates and times available: Saturday, September 14 (10.30am & 2.30pm)

This tour of the library will teach you about the architect behind it, Charles Holden. You'll also hear about the history of Bristol Central Library both past and present, and have the opportunity to take a peak behind the scenes. Pre-book your spot by September 13, here .

Bristol Temple Church guided tours

Address: Temple Church, Victoria Street, Bristol, BS1 6HS

Dates and times available: Monday, September 9 and Tuesday, September 10 (11am & 1pm)

Knowledgeable volunteers will be providing tours of Bristol Temple Church. The leaning tower and walls of this large late medieval church in Bristol survived bombing during the Second World War. Temple Church is so called because the original church here was built by the Knights Templar, the medieval military order founded to protect pilgrims to the Holy Land. Their round church was later replaced with a more spacious rectangular one, and the shape of the first church is marked out in the ground. Book your spot by September 6, here .

Arnos Vale Cemetery chapels, lodges and crypt open days

Address: West Lodge, Bath Road, Arnos Vale, Bristol, BS4 3EW

Dates and times available: Friday, September 6 - Thursday, September 12 (10am-4pm)

You can take a peak inside the chapels of Arnos Vale, check out an exhibition in the crypt and visit the exhibition in the Spielman basement and lodge. Pre-booking is not required - find out more here .

Church of St Luke the Evangelist, Brislington - open church and tower tours

Address: Church Parade, Brislington, Bristol, BS4 5AZ

Dates and times available: Friday, September 13 (2-5pm), Saturday, September 14 (10am-5pm) and Sunday, September 16 (11.30am-4pm)

These tours will allow you to visit the 15th Century Grade II* listed church set in the centre of the Brislington Conservation Area. You'll also be able to visit the tower and see the bells in action. Pre-booking for this event is not required - find out more here .

Circomedia open doors event

Address: Circomedia, St Paul's Church, Portland Square, Bristol, BS2 8SJ

Dates and times available: Saturday, September 14 (10am-4pm)

This family-friendly drop-in event allows visitors to try out a range of circus skills such as aerial hoop, juggling and tightwire. You'll also be able to enjoy group African drumming workshops and take guided tours of the iconic Bristol city centre venue, St Paul's Church. Pre-booking is not required - you can find out more here .

Electric Dreams 2024 - Electrical Networks Then and Now - a talk by Fiona Gleed

Address: Central Library, Deanery Road, City Centre, Bristol, BS1 5TL

Dates and times available: Thursday, September 12 (12.30 & 1.30pm)

Join the Women's Engineering Society in their 'Electric Dreams' series of talks, as they celebrate the formation of the Electrical Association for Women 100 years ago. This talk is in conjunction with the Open University and Bristol Library Service. Pre-booking is not required - find out more here .

Follow in Queen Elizabeth's footsteps at St John on the Wall

Address: Church of St John the Baptist, Broad Street, Bristol, BS1 2EZ

Dates and times available: Saturday, September 14 (11am-5pm)

This tour will allow visitors to explore the unique church, with its upper church and crypt, against a backdrop of organ music. You'll learn about Queen Elizabeth's journey in 1574, where she passed through the arch to enter the city of Bristol - a moment celebrating its 570th anniversary this year. Pre-booking is not required for this event - find out more here .

Horton Court

Address: Horton Court, Horton, Bristol, BS37 6QR

Dates and times available: Saturday, September 14 and Sunday, September 15 (10am-4pm)

This event will allow you to explore more than 1,000 years of history at Horton Court - the oldest inhabited roofed structure cared for by the National Trust. This Grade I listed manor house and now holiday cottage sits on the edge of the rolling Cotswolds countryside. Used as a filming location for both Wolf Hall and Poldark, see if you can recognise which parts of the building made it onto TV. Pre-booking is not required for this venue - find out more here .

Kings Weston House

Address: The Gate House, Kings Weston House, Kings Weston Lane, Bristol, BS11 0UR

Dates and times available: Saturday, September 14 (10am-4.30pm)

You'll be able to visit Bristol's Grade I listed Baroque mansion and explore the Georgian interiors of the home of the Lords de Clifford. You'll be able to enjoy the Sir John Vanbrugh-designed house and garden buildings, and take in the 300 acres of landscaped parkland. What's more, you can enjoy the new Sir John Vanbrugh cafe, which will be open throughout the day for refreshments. You don't need to pre-book - find out more about the day here .

Address: Princes Wharf, Bristol, BS1 4RN

Dates and times available: Saturday, September 7 and Sunday, September 8 (10.30am, 11.30am, 2.30pm and 3.30pm)

This free tour of M Shed's collection stores will give visitors the chance to encounter treasures from Bristol's industrial and maritime past. Visitors can expect to see huge machinery, delicate models and intriguing objects of all shapes and sizes, including carriages, wagons, ship models, motorbikes, bicycles, signs, tools and much more. You don't need to pre-book - all you need to know can be found here .

Clifton Suspension Bridge - Meet the Engineers

Address: Bridge Road, Leigh Woods, Bristol, BS8 3PA

Dates and times available: Saturday, September 14 and Sunday, September 15 - 11am-4pm (talks at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm)

As Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust is working on a landmark project to protect the bridge's 180-year-old suspension chains, you'll get the chance to meet the time 'walking the chains' to hand paint the bridge's 4,200 individual links. Pre-book your spot by 5pm on September 12, here .

Special Collections Sunday: Picturesque Bristol

Dates and times available: Sunday, September 15 (2-4pm)

This event gives attendees the chance to view a display of books from Bristol Libraries Special Collections depicting Bristol and its surroundings from years gone by. You'll be able to visit the historic Bristol Room for a chance to look through some old and rare books from the collections. Pre-booking is not required for this event - find out more about it here .

Strongroom tours at Bristol Archives

Address: Bristol Archives, B Bond Warehouse, Smeaton Road, Bristol, BS1 6XN

Dates and times available: Saturday, September 7 (10am-3.30pm)

On the 30th anniversary of Heritage Open Days, you'll be able to explore Bristol Archives and also celebrate its 100th birthday as it opens for its annual look behind the scenes. Pre-booking is not required - find out more about what else is on on the day, here .

The Chapel of the Three Kings at Fosters Almshouses

Address: Fosters Almshouses, Colston Street, Bristol, BS1 5AY

Dates and times available: Saturday, September 7 and Sunday, September 8 (10am-12pm, 1-3pm) and Saturday, September 14 and Sunday September 15 (10am-1pm)

The Almshouses and Chapel are Grade II* listed buildings on Colston Street, founded by John Foster - a wealthy 15th-Century merchant - to provide accommodation for Bristol's poor and elderly. You'll be able to visit and see, in particular, the stained glass window of the nativity and 'ring the most disappointing church bell' according to the event synopsis. Pre-booking is not necessary - find out more here .

Thornbury Town Hall

Address: Town Hall, Old Police Station, 35 High Street, Bristol, BS35 2AR

Dates and times available: Saturday, September 14 (10am-12pm)

This guided tour will take you around the building, parts of which are not usually open to the public. Your guide will take you through its previous uses - from a tavern, to a courtroom and even a police station. You'll experience being locked in a dark police cell, and view some local, historical artefacts. The building is over three floors, including a large cellar, and has kept a lot of its original features. Pre-booking isn't required - find out more here .

• Most Recent

Great Day Trips from London

Great Day Trips from London Getty

Take the train to visit a nearby corner of England.

There is much to see and do in London but day trips outside of the city give a broader picture of England and lets you experience the countryside, scenic towns, castles, and stately homes that are just an hour or two’s train journey from the capital.

Here are 10 individual day trips that are easy to reach from central London and take no more than two hours of travel time each way. While each of these destinations can be reached by car or bus, each is most accessible as a day trip by train. “Same day return” tickets for travel outside of rush hours are usually just slightly more expensive than a one-way ticket. Before traveling, we always check train schedules here.

A Historic Castle: Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle

Samuel Pepys, the 17th-century diarist, called Windsor Castle “the most romantic castle that is in the world.” One of the largest and oldest occupied castles anywhere, it is also the favorite official residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

The magnificent State Apartments are furnished with some of the finest works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Canaletto and Gainsborough. St. George’s Chapel, the burial place of 10 monarchs including Henry VIII and the Queen Mother Elizabeth, who died in 2002, is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture.

Beyond the castle walls, the charming town of Windsor offers quaint streets lined with tea rooms and small shops. I like taking late morning or afternoon tea at the Castle Hotel on High Street. Aside from a delicious cream tea, its wide windows offer views of Windsor Castle just across the road. Walk around to the back of Windsor Castle and stroll along part of the Long Walk, which spans Windsor Great Park where Prince Charles used to play polo in his younger days.

Train service from London’s Paddington Station to Slough; then change for the Windsor Central to Windsor. The entire journey takes about 45 minutes.

A Seaside Town: Brighton

Designed by John Nash, the Royal Pavilion is ornate and exotic and seems to belong more in the Far East with its domed tops than in England. But it is the sea that draws visitors here. Brighton Pier has the usual seafront arcades and shops while the beach, covered with pebbles, is a haven for sun and sea worshippers. Stroll along the magnificent boardwalk and then wander off the beaten path to the Mock Turtle Tea Shop at 4 Pool Valley, a wonderful place for tea and scones and freshly made strawberry preserves and clotted cream.

Train service from London’s Victoria or London Bridge stations. The journey takes just under an hour.

A Countryside Town: Moreton-in-Marsh 

Moreton-in-Marsh 

For the most part, this charming town allows you to just enjoy its lovely streets, shops and restaurants, though there are a few sights that will catch your eye. The Market Hall on the High Street was built in the Victorian Tudor style in 1887. On Oxford Street, the Curfew Tower still stands; dating to the Norman Conquest, this is one of the last remaining such towers in Britain. Tuesday is an especially good day to visit because that is Moreton-in-Marsh’s market day, a tradition dating as far back as 1227. With its bright turquoise tablecloths and colorful flowers, the Marshmallow Restaurant & Tea Room on High Street offers a perfect setting for tasty refreshments.

Train service from London’s Paddington Station. The journey takes about an hour and a half with most trains.

A University Town: Cambridge

While Oxford combines a bustling city with a world-renowned university, Cambridge is strictly a world of academia. Cambridge is dominated by the college buildings that make up the famous university. Wander through random iron gates, walk along the River Cam and stroll along the “backs,” the sprawling meadows behind many of the colleges. Pass through the oldest gatehouse in Cambridge to visit Pembroke College, the third oldest school in town. When it’s time for lunch, pop into Michael’s Brasserie located in a quaint 18th-century building on Northampton Street for an inexpensive but tasty meal.

Train service is direct from London’s King’s Cross or Liverpool Stations; the journey takes between 50 minutes to just over an hour depending on the time of day.

A Majestic House: Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace

Built in the early 18th century, Blenheim was given to the first duke of Marlborough by Queen Anne. Its exterior is stunningly adorned with huge columns and grand obelisks. The lavishness continues within. Among the extravagant furniture, elaborate carpets and great works of art, the small, simple room with a low ceiling where Winston Churchill was born in 1874 is in stark contrast to the grandeur of Blenheim. Be sure to walk around the palace’s gardens. After visiting Blenheim Palace, explore the village of Woodstock with its fine 17th-century buildings. 

Train service from London’s Paddington Station to Oxford takes about an hour. There are frequent local buses from outside the Oxford train station to Woodstock, or you can easily get a taxi for the brief eight-mile ride to the palace.

A Quintessential English Town: Bath

Visit the steamy Roman Baths, which are very well preserved from that historic period. Walk along the Royal Crescent, one of the loveliest streets in England, with its grand white houses curving from end to end and dating from the 18th century. Take part of the raised six-mile circular walk that starts near Bath University and look down on the city’s spires and Georgian terraces.

Trains run from London’s Paddington Station to Bath Spa. The journey takes about 90 minutes.

• All the white horses - the history of Britain's chalk hillsides
• The Scottish Borders - five days in paradise
• Kirkwall: the bustling capital of the Orkneys

Related: Bath , Cambridge , London , travel , windsor castle

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