Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, beach lover or adrenaline seeker, this guide to the top day trips from Bristol’s got you covered. Join us on a journey to uncover the best day trip ideas, scenic destinations, mouth-watering food spots and family-friendly attractions. With these recommendations, your Bristol adventures are bound to be extraordinary. So, let’s dive in and start planning your next escape from the vibrant city, whether by car, or train.
A day trip to visit Cardiff from Bristol
Cardiff, the vibrant capital city of Wales, awaits just a short distance from Bristol. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast or simply seeking a change of scenery, Cardiff offers attractions and experiences to make your day trip unforgettable. So, let’s embark on this adventure and discover the best of Cardiff.
Cardiff Castle: a majestic journey through time
Distance from Bristol: Approximately 1 hour by car or 1h 30min by train and bus.
Price: Adult, around £14.50; Child · £10.00
What to wear and bring: Comfortable walking shoes and a camera
Expert tip: Plan your visit to coincide with the Castle Apartments tour to explore the opulent interiors. Don’t miss the climb to the top of the Norman Keep for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a stroll through the beautiful surrounding parkland and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
Cardiff Bay: where culture and entertainment meet the waterfront
Distance from Bristol: Approximately 1 hour by car or 1h 30min by train and bus.
Price: Around £10 to £15 per person for lunch
What to wear and bring: Sturdy shoes and an appetite
Expert tip: Take a boat trip around the bay to fully appreciate its charm and learn about its history. Indulge in a delicious meal at one of the waterfront restaurants, offering picturesque views.
St Fagans National Museum of History
Distance from Bristol: Approximately 1 hour by car and 1h 40min by train and bus.
Price: Entry is free
What to wear and bring: Modest clothing and comfortable shoes
Expert tip: Explore over 40 historic buildings, including traditional farmhouses and a medieval church.
Make sure you check the museum’s calendar for special events, such as traditional craft demonstrations and festivals.
Pack a picnic to enjoy within the beautiful grounds surrounding the museum.
The best castles to visit from Bristol
Step into a world of medieval grandeur and architectural marvels by exploring the magnificent castles near Bristol. These impressive fortifications offer glimpses into history, taking you on a captivating journey through time.
Castle Combe: a picturesque medieval delight
Distance from Bristol: Approximately 1 hour by car and 1h 40min by train and bus.
Price: Around £15 to £25 per person for lunch
What to wear and bring: Raincoat in case the weather changes and comfortable footwear
Expert tip: Take a leisurely walk along Bybrook River.
Castle Combe, hailed as one of England’s prettiest villages, offers a fairy-tale-like experience. With its medieval charm, narrow streets and honey-coloured cottages, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Explore the enchanting Castle Combe Circuit for thrilling motorsport events and leisurely walks through the surrounding countryside with breathtaking views. Don’t forget to capture the beauty of this idyllic destination, as every corner offers picture-perfect moments.
Berkeley Castle: a living heritage
Distance from Bristol: Approximately 30 minutes by car and 1h 50min by train and bus.
Price: Around Adult: £14.50; Children (age 3 – 16): £7.50
What to wear and bring: Extra layers, comfortable shoes, and a camera
Expert tip: Take a guided tour to fully immerse yourself in the castle’s rich history
Berkeley Castle, a magnificent medieval fortress, invites visitors to delve into centuries of history. Step inside the ancient walls and immerse yourself in the tales of knights and noble families. Marvel at the grand architecture, splendid gardens and impressive collections of art and artefacts. Take a guided tour to uncover the castle’s secrets and legends, including the infamous Edward II story. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and picturesque views from the castle grounds.
Tintern Abbey: a serene ruin in a breathtaking setting
Distance from Bristol: Approximately 35 minutes by car and 1h 40min by bus.
Price: Around Adult, £5.50; Child £4.10
What to wear and bring: Sturdy shoes and extra layers in case of weather changes
Expert tip: Take a moment to sit quietly and reflect on the abbey’s rich history
Tintern Abbey, nestled in the scenic Wye Valley, is a captivating ancient ruin that will transport you to a bygone era. Wander through the towering Gothic arches and explore the hauntingly beautiful remains of this Cistercian monastery. Admire the intricate stone carvings and marvel at the architectural grandeur. Take a moment of reflection in the serene surroundings and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views of the abbey against the river backdrop.
Ideal beach day trips from Bristol
When it comes to enjoying a perfect beach day, Bristol has some excellent options within easy reach. Whether you’re seeking sandy shores, refreshing dips in the sea or scenic coastal walks, these beach day trips are sure to delight you.
Weston-super-Mare
Distance from Bristol: Approximately 45 minutes by car and 35 minutes by train.
Price: Around £15 per person for lunch
What to wear and bring: Comfortable shoes, warm clothes, and sunscreen
Expert tip: Check the tide times before visiting to ensure you get the best experience of the beach.
Parking: There are several pay-and-display car parks available near the beachfront.
Weston-super-Mare is a popular seaside town known for its expansive sandy beach, Grand Pier and traditional seaside attractions. Take a stroll along the promenade, indulge in some delicious fish and chips or have fun at the amusement arcades. With its lively atmosphere and family-friendly amenities, Weston-super-Mare is the ideal destination for a beach day trip.
Clevedon Beach
Distance from Bristol: Approximately 35 minutes by car and 1h 15min by bus.
Price: Around £10 per person for lunch
What to wear and bring: Sunscreen, bathing suit, and a change of clothes
Expert tip: Visit during low tide to explore the tidal pools and search for marine life.
Clevedon Beach offers a more tranquil and picturesque setting, with its charming Victorian pier and stunning views across the Bristol Channel. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, explore the rock pools at low tide or simply relax on the pebble beach. Clevedon’s elegant coastal town atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a great choice for a peaceful beach excursion.
Adrenaline-Boosting Activities Nearby
For adventure seekers and thrill enthusiasts, Bristol and its surrounding areas offer an array of exhilarating activities to get your adrenaline pumping. Get ready for an action-packed day with these exciting options.
Go Ape, Forest of Dean
Distance from Bristol: Approximately 55 minutes by car and 2h 30min by bus.
Price: Around £20.00
What to wear and bring: Sturdy shoes, and loose-fitting, comfortable clothes
Expert tip: Eat beforehand so you have strength for the activities
Embrace your inner Tarzan and swing through the treetops at Go Ape in the stunning Forest of Dean. This high-rope course features zip lines, suspended bridges and challenging obstacles, providing an exhilarating experience amidst the beautiful woodland setting. Test your agility, conquer your fears and enjoy breathtaking views from the tree canopy.
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
Distance from Bristol: Located in Bristol.
Price: Around £25.00
What to wear and bring: Picnic blankets and comfortable clothes
Expert Tip: Get the early bird tickets online to save some cash
Experience the thrill of hot air ballooning at the annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, one of the largest ballooning events in Europe. Witness the sky filled with a vibrant display of colourful balloons as they take flight. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even book a ride to soar above the city and enjoy panoramic views. The festival also offers various entertainment, food stalls and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
The best day trips from Bristol for nature enthusiasts
Bristol and its surrounding areas are a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering breathtaking landscapes, stunning natural wonders and diverse wildlife. Embark on a day trip to these remarkable destinations and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Cheddar Gorge and Caves
Distance from Bristol: Around 45 minutes by car
Price: Around £23.00
What to wear and bring: Shoes with good grip and a jacket in case it gets cold
Expert Tip: Try the Black Cat Freefall
Discover the dramatic limestone cliffs and ancient caves of Cheddar Gorge. Marvel at the towering rock formations, explore the underground caves and take in the panoramic views from the cliff-top walks. Learn about the area’s rich history, spot wildlife and indulge in some local cheddar cheese while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Distance from Bristol: Around 2h 15min by car
Price: Free entry
What to wear and bring: Sturdy shoes, water, and extra layers
Expert Tip: Take the Storey Arms route to the highest peak in the park
Escape to the breathtaking landscapes of Brecon Beacons National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through scenic trails, scale stunning peaks and discover enchanting waterfalls. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature, spot wildlife and enjoy breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe.
Slimbridge Wetland Centre
Distance from Bristol: Around 45 minutes by car and 1h 30min by train and bus
Price: Around £14.50
What to wear and bring: Raincoat, comfortable footwear, and water.
Expert Tip: Grab a paddle and do the canoe safari
Head to Slimbridge Wetland Centre, a haven for birdwatching and wetland wildlife. Explore the extensive network of trails, discover a variety of bird species and observe the resident otters and water voles. Enjoy interactive exhibits, educational talks and immerse yourself in the beauty of wetland habitats.
Uncover rich History and Culture by going on day trips from Bristol
Delve into the fascinating historical and cultural heritage surrounding Bristol, with these captivating day trips. Explore ancient landmarks, immerse yourself in local traditions and gain insight into the region’s past.
Bath
Distance from Bristol: Around 40 minutes by car and 15 minutes by train
Price: Around £10.50 for lunch per person
What to wear and bring: Comfortable footwear, a raincoat, and a camera
Expert Tip: Take advantage of the Bath Visitor Card, which offers discounts on various attractions and activities in the city.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath, renowned for its Roman-built baths and stunning Georgian architecture. Immerse yourself in the history of the Roman Baths, admire the grandeur of Bath Abbey and stroll along the picturesque streets lined with honey-coloured buildings. Don’t miss the chance to relax in the natural thermal waters at Thermae Bath Spa.
Stonehenge
Distance from Bristol: Around 1h 20min by car
Price: Around Adult, £29.00; Child (5-17 years), £18.00
What to wear and bring: Comfortable shoes, extra layers, and a camera
Expert Tip: Respect the site’s rules and regulations, including staying on designated paths and not touching the stones.
Embark on a journey to the iconic Stonehenge, an ancient and enigmatic stone circle. Marvel at the awe-inspiring structure and ponder its mysteries. Explore the visitor centre to learn about the site’s significance and archaeological findings. Immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of this historical marvel.
Indulge in culinary delights near Bristol
Bristol is not only known for its vibrant city life but also for its proximity to beautiful destinations offering culinary delights. Explore the outskirts of Bristol and discover these hidden culinary gems that will leave your taste buds satisfied and craving for more.
The Pig
Distance from Bristol: Around 30min by car and 1h 15min by train
Price: Around £20 per person
What to wear and bring: Dress comfortably and bring a jacket
Expert Tip: Indulge in their “25-mile menu.”
Located near Bath, The Pig is a charming countryside restaurant that prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients. Their “25-mile menu” ensures a fresh and seasonal dining experience, while the beautiful kitchen garden provides a glimpse into their commitment to sustainability and farm-to-table dining.
The Pony Chew Valley
Distance from Bristol: Around 30 minutes by car and 1h 15min by train and bus
Price: Around £21 per person
What to wear and bring: Smart-casual attire is recommended
Expert Tip: Experience their seasonal tasting menu
Nestled in the picturesque Chew Valley, The Pony Chew Valley offers a delightful combination of modern British cuisine and stunning countryside views. Their seasonal tasting menu showcases the best local ingredients, while their extensive wine and cider selection perfectly complements the flavours.
Unforgettable family adventures: A day trip to Westonbirt Arboretum
Looking to immerse yourself in nature and discover a world of vibrant colors and serene beauty? Westonbirt Arboretum, located just a short distance from Bristol, is the perfect destination for a family day trip. Get ready to explore magnificent tree collections, enjoy peaceful walks, and engage in outdoor activities amidst stunning landscapes.
Distance from Bristol: Around 30min by car
Price: Around £15 per person
What to wear and bring: Wear boots or sturdy shoes and pack layers of clothing
Expert Tip: Take time to explore the tree canopy walkway for a unique perspective of the arboretum.
Westonbirt Arboretum is a botanical paradise featuring an extensive collection of trees and plants from around the world. Wander through picturesque pathways lined with vibrant foliage and blossoms, and discover rare and exotic tree species. Enjoy family-friendly trails, play areas, and natural play spaces for children.
The perfect day trip from Bristol, by Douglas
Start Time: Depart from Bristol at 8:00 am.
Travel Time: The journey to the Cotswolds takes approximately 1h 30min by car or train.
Explore Bourton-on-the-Water: Arrive at 9:30 am and wander through the charming village, known as “Venice of the Cotswolds”.
Enjoy a riverside stroll, visit the Model Village and explore the Cotswold Motoring Museum.
Have lunch at a traditional English pub like The Mousetrap Inn, or have a picnic along the idyllic River Windrush.
Visit the historic Sudeley Castle: Arrive at Sudeley Castle by 2:00 pm and discover its rich history and stunning gardens. Explore the magnificent rooms, visit the chapel and take a leisurely walk through the award-winning gardens.
Afternoon: Indulge in a delightful cream tea in the Castle’s café and soak in the tranquil ambience.
End Time: Depart from Sudeley Castle at 5:00 pm.
Return Time: Arrive back in Bristol by 6:30 pm.
Transportation: Drive by car or hire a car for the day. Alternatively, take a train from Bristol to Cheltenham Spa and then use local transportation to explore Bourton-on-the-Water and Sudeley Castle.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, a water bottle and some cash for admissions and meals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you want hidden gems, famous bridges, a weekend trip or a long holiday, there are an array of activities and things to do for everyone in the surrounding area of Bristol. Take this guide along with our other articles and start planning your ideal holiday.
Frequent questions about Day Trips from Bristol
What is Bristol famous for?
Bristol is famous for its maritime heritage, iconic landmarks like the Clifton Suspension Bridge, vibrant street art scene and music culture. It is also known for its annual festivals and events, such as the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta and the Harbour Festival, which showcase the city’s vibrant spirit and cultural diversity.
Can you do a day trip from Bristol to London?
A day trip from Bristol to London is possible. The journey takes approximately 1h 45 min by train, allowing you to explore the capital city’s famous attractions, including Buckingham Palace, the British Museum and the Tower of London. It’s a great opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich history of London in a single day.
What are the best beaches near Bristol?
While Bristol is not directly on the coast, there are lovely beaches nearby. Weston-super-Mare, with its long sandy beach and pier, is a popular choice. Another option is Brean Beach, known for its vast stretches of sand and beautiful dunes. For a more secluded experience, head to Sand Bay, a tranquil beach with stunning views. These beaches offer a relaxing getaway within easy reach of Bristol.
Where can you travel to by train from Bristol?
Bristol’s central location provides excellent train connections to various destinations. You can easily travel to cities like Bath, Cardiff and London. Other notable day trips from Bristol by train include Oxford, Salisbury and Birmingham. With efficient rail links, Bristol serves as a gateway to exploring diverse destinations throughout the UK.
