best day trips bristol

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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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

Wild place 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 days out in beautiful countryside near Bristol? 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.

For extra excitement on your walk round, download the free Puzzlewood app (iPhone or Android) to take part in an interactive gold coin hunt! 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

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Angharad Paull

Posts by Angharad Paull

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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…

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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

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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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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THE 5 BEST Day Trips from Bristol

Day trips from bristol.

• Bristol to Amesbury
• Bristol to Oxford
• Bristol to Bath
• Bristol to Wells
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Full-day Tour from Bristol

2. Full Day Private Shore Tour in London from Bristol Cruise Port

3. Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Trip from Bristol

4. Oxford and Cotswold Small-Group Tour from Bristol

5. Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge - Private Day Trip from Bristol

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Stonehenge, Avebury, Cotswolds. Small guided day tour from Bath (Max 14 persons)

Cotswolds Experience - full day small group day tour from Bath ( Max 14 persons)

Stonehenge & the Cotswolds Including Admission from Bath

The Wandering Bard's Tour of South Wales

Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon

The Wandering Bard's Mythical West Wales Tour

Cotswolds Villages Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Oxford

Bespoke private tours of Stonehenge and Avebury by car with local guide

Cotswolds and Oxford Small-Group Tour from Bath

Half-Day Guided E-Bike Tour Portland with Lunch

Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door Mini-Coach Tour from Bournemouth

Full-Day Stonehenge and Avebury Tour from Glastonbury

Private Tour of Quintessential English Villages

Secret Cotswolds Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-upon-Avon

Classic Cotswolds Private Tour

The Cotswolds and Shakespeare Tour from Oxford

'Stonehenge & Secret England' from Bath for 2-8 curious adventurers

Cotswolds Private Day Tour

Cotswold Summer Explorer Tour

Andy's Amazing Six Brecon Beacons Waterfalls Hiking Tour

Cotswolds Day Tour From Stratford Upon Avon Moreton In Marsh

Full Day Jurassic Coast Mini-Coach Tour from Bournemouth

Cotswolds Summer Adventurer Tour

Enjoy Beaches, Dylan Thomas Home, Castles And Tenby From Cardiff

Full Day Cotswolds Tour; Where Opulence and Heritage Converge

• Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Full-day Tour from Bristol
• Oxford and Cotswold Small-Group Tour from Bristol
• Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge - Private Day Trip from Bristol
• Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Trip from Bristol
• Full Day Private Shore Tour in London from Bristol Cruise Port
• Bristol Tours
• Pandemic Tours - Bristol
• Go Quest Adventures - Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt
• Snikkit.com Bristol
• Rosotravel - Bristol Tours

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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14 Best Day Trips From Bristol You Must Take!

Last updated on March 5th, 2024 at 12:06 pm

Bristol is a fantastic city to explore; however, if you want to escape the city for a day, you may wonder what the best day trips from Bristol are. There is plenty of options! Then look no further in this post. I gathered all the top day trips you can take from Bristol, including what you should do there!

This is the perfect list for you to know all the best things to do near Bristol all year round and for all kinds of travellers!

14 Best Day Trips From Bristol

Bristol offers many transportation to and from the city, so it’s pretty easy to take the best day trips from Bristol even if you don’t have a car or cannot rent one. There are plenty of day trips from Bristol without a car that you can do! You have Temple Meads station if you need to catch a train or the coach station, which has several stops in the city to get you places.

So, let’s get right into those fun day trips around Bristol!

Day Trips To the Cotswolds From Bristol

If you’re in Bristol and looking for an incredible day trip or a weekend getaway, then the Cotswolds area is an easy pick, as it offers so many unique villages and spots to visit; you can even hike through them!

There are many amazing places to visit in this area; if you’d like to explore in-depth, I suggest you check out this Cotswolds itinerary.

Day Trip to Bath From Bristol

You probably already know about Bath, an easy day trip from Bristol as it is only an 8-minute train ride from Bristol and is a major city in the southwest of the UK as it is a UNESCO heritage city. Bath makes a great day trip from Bristol. Bath is one of the easiest day trips from Bristol by train! Bath is well known for its unique, elegant Georgian architecture, which you can see if you visit the Royal Crescent and The Circus. The main attractions of the city you cannot miss are The Roman Baths (you can even try the water at the end of the tour!) and Bath Abbey; you can get a fantastic view of the city if you climb the 212 steps of the Abbey! After this, you can taste the famous Sally Lunn’s Bath bun for afternoon tea! The Pulteney Bridge is an iconic landmark and a must-see in Bath; you can also get there and walk along the Avon River.

Another historic part of Bath is that it’s home to Jane Austen, the author of “Pride and Prejudice”; you can visit The Jane Austen Centre for £12.

If you’re visiting Bath during winter, you must plan your visit when the Christmas Market is there. I did in 2017, and I loved it!

Day Trip to Bourton-On-The-Water

The Cotswolds , one of the most picturesque areas of outstanding beauty in the United Kingdom, makes a fantastic day trip from Bristol. Reachable in just over an hour, a one-day Cotswolds itinerary starts early in Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the most famous villages. Because of its popularity, arriving there as early as possible is good.

There are so many things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water that you could spend the entire day without running out of places to see. Firstly, start your day with a cup of coffee and a delicious breakfast cooked with local ingredients at one of the cafes along the river.

For a village of only 3,200 inhabitants, Bourton-on-the-Water has a lot of tourist attractions. The Motor Museum hosts an impressive collection of old cars and motorcycles and a fantastic selection of antique toys that will bring back memories from childhood.

The Model Village replicates the village on a scale of 1:9, the same way it used to look in 1930. Birdland Park and gardens just outside the village, home to over 500 bird species.

If you like walking, a 40-minute trail leads to Lower Slaughter, another village of outstanding beauty with a working mill transformed into a museum.

Contributed by Joanna from The World In My Pocket

Day trip to Castle Combe from Bristol

One of the best day trips from Bristol is to the  beautiful Cotswolds village  of Castle Combe. Situated in Wiltshire and only half an hour’s drive from Bristol, it’s easy to see why this pretty chocolate box village is so popular amongst tourists. 

Visiting Castle Combe is like taking a trip back in time, as no new houses have been built since the 1600s. Made from locally sourced honey-coloured Cotswolds stone, the buildings are quaint and unique. 

As well as exploring all the beautiful nooks and crannies of the village, it is worth checking out St Andrew’s Church, which has one of the oldest working clocks in the country.

The other must-visit building in Castle Combe is the Manor House Hotel. It is a stunning ivy-covered luxury hotel with an 18-hole golf course, a Michelin-star restaurant, and the most perfectly manicured gardens. Suppose you get hungry and want to try a traditional afternoon tea; head to the Old Rectory Tearoom.

Or, if you fancy a supercar day, visit one of England’s fastest motor car racing circuits, just outside the village. This village might be small, but there is plenty to do on a day trip!

Contributed by Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

Day Trip to Cardiff, Wales

Cardiff or Caerdydd in Welsh is an excellent option for a day trip from Bristol. Easy of access with or without a car, there are a lot of amazing things to do in Cardiff ,

My favourite thing in Cardiff was visiting Cardiff Castle. I spent two hours there, and I think I could have spent a little more time.

It’s an excellent activity for everyone, including kids, as exploring the Castle and its surroundings feels like a true adventure! Bute Park is the next thing to do if you spend one day in Cardiff; you can also take a boat to Cardiff Bay there.

The city has a lot of arcades that are fun to explore or shop for souvenirs.

Of course, you can visit the inside market of Cardiff where you can try traditional Welsh biscuits, although be careful, they’re raisins inside, not chocolate chips!

Like Bristol, Cardiff is a harbourside city; you can walk along Cardiff Bay, check out Mermaid Quay and Pierhead Building, and spot the famous “People Like Us” sculpture.

Day Trip to Brecon Beacons, Wales

If you want a bit of a break from the city, a day trip from Bristol to the Brecon Beacons National Park will be perfect. Located a couple of hours from Bristol, the Brecon Beacons are one of the 3 national parks in Wales . They feature some of the most amazing views in the country and are a paradise for hikers. The most famous hike is Pen-Y-Fan.

Several routes go up to the summit, but the best is the horseshoe ridge walk. This 10-mile loop takes about 5 hours to complete. It’s not an easy hike, but once you get to the top, you will be mind-blown by the stunning views over the Cwm Llwch Valley. The Beacons are also a great place to go rafting! There are loads of rivers and waterfalls everywhere. Finally, you can visit some beautiful Welsh castles and towns if you love history.

Brecon, Crickhowell, and Hay on Wye are beautiful!

Please note that you will need a car to explore the Beacons. There aren’t any trains going from Bristol to the Brecon Beacons; even if there were, you would still need a car to get around. It’s only 1:45 by car and renting a car for a day should cost you less than £30.

Submitted by Pauline from Beelovedcity

Day trip To Coventry From Bristol

Although often overlooked by tourists, Coventry is an excellent option for a day trip from Bristol.

Because many of the city’s main tourist sites are close together in the city centre, nearly all can be seen in a day. Some of the most famous  Coventry attractions  are the two cathedrals.

The German Luftwaffe horrifically bombed the city of Coventry during WWII, and large portions of the town were destroyed.  Because of its height and size, the first site bombed during the Blitz was the Old Coventry Cathedral in the city centre. Today, you can visit the ruins, learn about the war, and even head up to the top for great views over the city.

Afterwards, head to the New Coventry Cathedral, which was built right next to the ruins, in favour of tearing them down. The New Coventry Cathedral is worth checking out for beautiful stained glass windows.

Coventry was also voted the UK City of Culture in 2021, a title this underrated gem deserves. If you want to learn more about the fascinating history of Coventry, consider stopping at some of the city’s museums, such as the Herbert Gallery or the Coventry Transport Museum. Head to Taste Vietnam or pop into Sprinkles Gelato shop for a delicious meal.

Contributed by Dagney from Cultura Obscura

Day trip to Cheddar Gorges and Caves

Cheddar Gorge  is located 30 miles south of Bristol on the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills. 

Getting there is most accessible by road, following the main A38 from Bristol towards Taunton before following the hills along to the village.  Public transport options exist, but a 45-minute journey will turn into 2 hours with several changes.

Cheddar Gorge is the deepest gorge in England, and as you walk up the gorge or take the open-top bus, the cliffs tower above you.  These limestone cliffs follow the path of the ancient rivers that flowed, and the road has tight bends and narrow spaces. 

At the bottom of the gorge are the caves.  These are some of the deepest in England; two are open to the public.  If you like adventure, you can take a caving lesson and explore beyond the pathways in the public area.

Cheddar village has many small shops away from the caves and gorge, including Cheddar cheese and local cider, both of which need tasting while you are in the area.  There are many places to eat in Cheddar, but our favourite is Frank’s, a small restaurant tucked away by the mill pond at the bottom of the gorge.

After exploring the caves and shops, this small village and gorge can fill an entire day with stunning walks along the cliffs.

Contributed by Suzanne from Meandering Wild

Day Trip to Gloucester from Bristol

Besides being a great city near Bristol, Gloucester is one of the places you must visit if you’re a Harry Potter fan! Gloucester Cathedral is one of the locations in the UK that was used to film some bits of the Movies we all love.

Gloucester is easy to access, only an hour away by train, and most of the spots of interest in the city are within walking distance.

Gloucester Cathedral is free to visit; however, if you want to take photos of the inside of the Cathedral, you have to buy a photo permit for only £3, which helps keep the cathedral in good condition, so play fair and buy it!

For more historical buildings, you can check out the remains of Greyfriars and the Small Anglican Church of St Mary De Crypt.

If you’re into beer, you must tour Gloucester Brewery for beer and gin around Gloucester Docks. The Brewery tour costs £25; they only tour twice a month, so make sure to book in advance!

Day trip to Oxford

Oxford is a city with a worldwide reputation as it is the home of many prestigious colleges, and people from all over the world come to study there every year.

Some of the top things to do in Oxford if you only have one day to spend there are, of course, some of the many colleges you will find there (for example, the University of Church of St Mary and more), Christ Church Cathedral from where you can admire Radcliffe Camera or the Bridge of Sighs and the Bodleian Library.

Those activities are a great starter if you only have one day in Oxford. Check out Oxford Covered Market for treats during your day trip.

Another great activity in Oxford, if you visit on a warm day or feel brave enough in the winter cold, is to take a Punt Tour to have a different view of the city!

Those things make Oxford one of the best day trips from Bristol!

Just as Gloucester, Oxford is a destination to check for Harry Potter fans as you can find several places where parts of the movies were shot (Bodleian Library, Divinity Room…).

Day Trip to Salisbury & Stonehenge

The  Wiltshire town of Salisbury is about an hour and a half by road from Bristol.

It is famed for its medieval gothic cathedral and half-timbered houses in the town centre.  The cathedral houses the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta, which is the model of the American Declaration of Independence, and you should also visit the cloisters. 

I recommend the cathedral refectory (snack bar), which gives the best views of the cathedral spire, the tallest in England, and serves a good range of cakes and sandwiches. The former British Prime minister, Edward Heath, lived close to the cathedral and enjoyed playing and conducting the organ. His house, Arundels in the close, is open to visitors.

You can easily combine a visit to Salisbury with a trip to Stonehenge. The world-famous neolithic stone circle is just eight miles away on Salisbury Plain. The visitor centre has a cafe, toilets, a gift shop, and an exhibition explaining the history of the stones and the broader landscape. It is only a short walk from the visitor centre to the stones, but there is a shuttle bus for the less able.

At present, visits have to be pre-booked. Walking in the wider landscape is free, and you can get a good site view without paying.

Ann, The Platinium Line

Day Trip To Dunster Castle

Bristol makes a great day trip from London , but there are some great day trips to take from Bristol!

On a day trip from Bristol to Dunster Castle, you can take the coast, countryside, villages, and historical heritage sites. Driving time is under 2 hours each way, but there are so many incredible sights along the route you’ll definitely need to plan on a full day and maybe even extend to an overnight stay. 

Dunster Castle is a Heritage Trust site near the coastal town of Minehead in beautiful Somerset. The castle sits dramatically high on a hill, offering stunning views, beautiful gardens, and gorgeous interior detail. The original castle dates back to the 11th century, but the 13th-century gatehouse remains.

Today, we see the result of many years of work by generations of the Luttrell family, who have owned the site for more than 600 years.

Below the castle is the picture-postcard-perfect medieval village of Dunster, with tea rooms, cafes, pubs, and shops to explore. If you prefer a traditional English seaside town, Minehead on the edge of Exmoor has a sandy beach and all the usual trappings you’d expect.

If you have time to or from the castle or decide to spend more than one day, walk in the Quantock Hills, the first Area of Natural Beauty (AONB) established in 1957. Kilve Beach is also worth a stop for fossil hunting and cliff walks.

Contributed by Sarah from Live Dream Discover.

Day Trip to Frome

Frome is another Somerset town with nice streets similar to the Cotswolds. The town is not big, and it is always good to plan the trip together with Bath, which is only half an hour away.

But it is also a relatively easy 40-minute drive from Bristol to enjoy one day in Frome without worrying or planning extra accommodation.

Frome is filled with tiny nice cafes and restaurants, but everything closes by 5 pm, so planning your visit in the first half of the day is always good.

Frome is extremely relaxing and gorgeous to walk around. However, the best thing to do in Frome is to visit the famous Frome market. Be careful; the Frome market is open only on the first Sunday of every month from 10 am to 3 pm. So, plan well.

Alternatively, visiting Frome while on your famous Longleat Safari Park tour is fantastic. It is England’s #1 Safari Park and the first drive-through safari park outside Africa, built-in 1966.

There is much to tell about this park; check out more on their official website. Seeing lions, tigers, cheetahs, and wild rhinos walking in the wild is amazing.

Apart from safari, there are lots to do at the main square, including walking into the maze, adventure castles and monkey temples, and visiting gorillas, giant crocodiles, and jungle creatures. This activity should be planned for a day, and maybe for two. It was one of the best day trips from north London to us.

Contributed by Ana from Parenthood4ever

Day Trip to Wells From Bristol

Only a short min drive away from Bristol (or a 45 min bus ride from Bristol Temple Meads), Wells’s quaint village is a great day trip from Bristol for those who want to escape the city and see some stunning architecture. One of Wells’s main landmarks is the impressive Wells Cathedrale (49m high), also known as Saint-Andre Cathedral; the exterior and inside of the Cathedral are equally mesmerizing. The visit to the cathedral is free; however, it is recommended that £5 be donated to help with the maintenance, which I think is pretty cheap to visit such a beautiful building. Opening hours: 10 AM-4 PM Monday – Saturday; 12 PM-4 PM Sunday Close to the Cathedral, you can visit the Bishop’s Palace, where you can enjoy a peaceful garden with water fountains and a lovely coffee shop to enjoy your surroundings. Another famous spot to check in Wells – probably one of the most captured in photos – is the Vicars’ Close, which will make you travel back to the mid-14th Century.

Also, if you visit on a Wednesday or Saturday morning, you can check out Wells Market, which offers many unique foods and goods.

Day Trip To Weston-Super-Mare

Weston-Super-Mare is the perfect day trip from Bristol if you’re looking for a chill day near the sea; even in the middle of Autumn, I visited with my brother, and we had a lovely day out. Walk along the Grand Pier on Weston-Super-Mare beach and enjoy some indoor theme park fun for everyone. You can also find excellent fish and chips at the Waterfront Fish Bar.

For a great sunset experience at the end of the beach, you find Marine Lake Beach and its path between the lake and the sand, which is the perfect spot to take photos.

That’s a wrap on the best day trips from Bristol if you ever fancy going out of the city and want to know the best places to visit around Bristol!

Have you ever been to one of those great destinations near Bristol? Or do you have a recommendation of your own? If you do, let me know in the comment 🙂

Also, follow me on Instagram to check out my travel adventures around Europe and more lifestyle content @cpt_lyne!

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✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip If you need help planning your next trip, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered! Here are my favourite websites and apps to plan a trip! ✈ How To Find Flights? My favourite website for booking flights is Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights. Google Flight is also a good help when it comes to comparing flights. ✈ Where To Book Accommodations? The best sites to book accommodations are Booking.com or Expedia. They both allow you to collect points for a discount; it’s worth comparing the two as they often have different pricing for the same hotels. Another perk about Booking.com and Expedia is that you can get bundle deals for flights and accommodations, which can sometimes help you save a lot of money. And don’t worry; you can also select to add accommodation for only a specific part of the trip if you’re not only staying in one place. ✈ Best Sites To Book Activities My go-to website when I need to book an activity is GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them. I always check if the price is the same, though, as the whole point is for it to be easier but not more expensive. If I don’t find the activity I want on GetYourGuide, I like to check Viator for more options! You can also check out Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…). ✈ Other helpful travel resources – Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them. It was a great help when we needed a place to keep our luggage safely while we left the city for a few days. – TheTrainline: If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe. It is very reliant and easy to use. ————————————————————————————————————- Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!

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Boletworldwide says

19/09/2020 at 18:17

Amazing how many day trips you can do from there. Castle Combe looks totally beautiful

josypheen says

19/09/2020 at 20:53

Great post Lyne!

I already love Bristol, but you are right, there are sooo many good options for day trips nearby. I especially love the brecon beacons and cheddar gorge. This makes me miss how easy it can be to explore in England. 🙂

Krista says

20/09/2020 at 17:16

I haven’t explored as much as this area of England as I would have liked to, so I’ve added most of these places to my list!

Anne Fraser @theplatinumline.blog says

20/09/2020 at 23:28

Thank you for accepting my contribution. I am lucky enough to live in Bristol and have enjoyed most of the suggested day trips.

shelbylambmcw says

22/09/2020 at 16:44

You photography is stunning! Loving the sunset shots!

Tami Wilcox says

22/09/2020 at 21:41

Your article makes me wish I could return to England now, especially to see more of the Cotswolds!

musacreativamag says

23/09/2020 at 12:31

Wow!! Bristol looks amazing!! I love everything about it now ♥️

periodicadventures says

26/09/2020 at 17:23

Looks like some fabulous ideas! I’m dying to visit the Cotswolds and Castle Combe is so cute!

natpackertravel says

26/09/2020 at 17:55

I keep meaning to go to Bristol for a weekend, but haven’t made it yet. Now I’m thinking it might make a great base for exploring nearby too! I didn’t realise how close it was to other areas, such as the Brecon Beacons (another place I keep meaning to explore but haven’t yet). Did you go to the museum in Weston-Super-Mare? It’s tiny, but I was shocked at how awesome it is!

Debbie says

26/09/2020 at 23:42

Hi Lyne, I’ve come over from Anne at the Platinum Line blog who recommended this post for my #ShoutoutSatuday on my blog! I really enjoyed the variety of trips featured here and as I am a regular traveller to this area there were many I nodded along in agreement.

Many years ago my family and I lived in Cheddar for a year, moving from Australia for a year long Teacher Exchange experience and my husband taught in Bath. We swapped houses, cars, friends, lives with an English family who came out to live in our small rural town of Tumbarumba in NSW – such a great experience for us all!

The funny thing is my eldest daughter now lives in Cheddar with her family and we visit as often as we can, but not at the moment due to the pandemic sadly! We know most of the trips you mention and I loved reliving some of the memories. Thanks 🙂

Jamie Sharpe says

06/10/2020 at 00:38

Would totally love to explore here!

06/10/2020 at 01:17

Such great day trips. I have been to Bath and Stonehenge but none of the others. I really need to check out the Cotswolds, those villages at so lovely looking. I would love to just spend a weekend there in a nice cottage

5suitcasesblog says

06/10/2020 at 01:52

These towns look so incredibly charming! I regret not spending more time in the English countryside. On my only trip to England we spent a few days in London and took a day trip out to Bath and Stonehenge. Both were lovely but I feel like I missed out after seeing some of these places.

01/11/2020 at 04:50

There are soooo many fun options near Bristol!

I always love Bath for decent high tea (and a bit of shopping…) I’d quite like to go back to Castle Combe – it is looks like it belongs on a postcard!

But I really really love hiking in the area around Cheddar gorge and the Brecon beacons.

01/11/2020 at 13:21

I still need to cross some of these places off of my bucket list! Great list.

Holiaysfromhels says

19/12/2020 at 11:28

Some of my favourite places! Frome is gorgeous and I just love the model village at Bourton on the Water. Despite living in Bristol, I have yet to make it to Dunster so thanks for the tip!

ANUKRATI DOSI says

26/06/2021 at 11:47

Great list! Amazing post.

26/06/2021 at 13:55

Unfortunately I haven’t had the chance to explore the south of England much, apart from Bath. These are all great day trip ideas from Bristol and I’m adding a few to my list for the next time I’m down there!

holidaysfromhels says

26/06/2021 at 14:31

Love all these places. We live in Bristol so have visited most of these over the years, although have yet to make it to Dunster castle, which will now be popped on the list. I think Cheddar Gorge might be my favourite with is great walks and fabulous views.

Rachel - Rays of Adventure says

26/06/2021 at 23:36

So many great ideas! I think Bristol is a really fun city, and I love the places around Bristol too. I love Bath and the Cotswolds, but I’ve never been to Cheddar Gorge. I’ll definitely have to check it out, thanks for the recommendation!

Lekha C says

27/06/2021 at 00:56

Bath has always been on top of my bucket list! But Gloucester cathedral looks breathtaking. Never heard of it before. Thank you for sharing!

31/10/2021 at 06:53

Love all 14 of these day trips from Bristol! They are all so charming!

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Best Day Trips from Bristol

• May 18, 2022
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While it may be hard to believe, there are, in fact, some rather decent places to visit outside of Bristol. With the city offering so much to locals and visitors, venturing further afield is often forgotten about. But this would be a terrible mistake given Bristol is the neighbour of some absolutely fantastic historic and cultural must-visits.

Surrounded by spectacular British countryside, quaint villages, seaside towns, and sites of cultural significance, Bristol is a great base for exploring further afield.

Of course, you’re going to need to get there too. From Bristol, this is best achieved by car, coach, or train. With great network links, Bristol makes this a breeze.

With that said, here are the best day trips from Bristol. Get exploring !

Beautiful Georgian city just a short journey from Bristol

Just a short train ride east from Bristol Temple Meads is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bath. Being so close to Bristol the two cities are considered cousins to locals of both with each bringing a different flavour to the area, connected by the River Avon.

Taking a day trip to Bath means you’re in for a day of sightseeing, shopping, and great food. A beautiful Georgian city, Bath is rich in history and fantastic architecture, including the Royal Crescent, a sweeping row of terraced houses built in 1774 and designed by the renowned architect John Wood.

Of course, no visit to Bath would be complete without a trip to the famous Roman Baths either. Here you can see for yourself what put this location on the map, with the Romans finding a place to worship Gods, relax, and socialise.

As well as the multitude of historic buildings, museums, and places to visit, Bath is home to some of the country’s very best restaurants and independent shops. One of the most interesting here is Sotto Sotto, near the Medieval Bath Abbey. This Italian restaurant is well worth a look in relying on quality, fresh ingredients and has been regularly voted amongst the best restaurants in the city.

Getting to Bath from Bristol is easy. It is within cycling distance using the Bristol to Bath cycle path, by car using the A4, or by train from Bristol Temple Meads.

Caves and caverns with plenty of history

Often overlooked as a day trip destination is the fabulous Cheddar Gorge. Offering a day full of history, education, fun, and a bit of whimsy, the Gorge is one of the UK’s most underrated attractions. And, for Bristolians, is right on your doorstep.

Cheddar Gorge is most easily reached by a car being just a 30-45 minute drive away via the A38.  You’ll want to set off early as there is plenty to do here, with clifftop walks, caves, family-adventure quests, and more. The area itself is a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, occupied for thousands of years.

Iconic to the region are Cheddar’s two massive caves: Cox’s Cave and Gough’s Cave. Cox’s Cave is now used as an adventure explaining the plight of early humankind. You’ll get the chance to follow in the footsteps of our ancestors as you work your way through the cavernous spaces, discovering the tools and ingenuity they needed to survive the harsh prehistoric landscape. Using projectors, sound, and lighting, Cox’s cave brings things to life.

Gough’s Cave is one for the geology fans out there. Home to the UK’s most impressive collection of hanging stalactites, the cave’s natural formation is explained as you proceed with plenty of interesting info. You’ll also come face to face with the UK’s oldest skeleton, known as the Cheddar Man which was discovered right here in Gough’s Cave.

With tonnes more on offer here, including food and drink you’ll need a full day to get the most out of this destination.

Wildlife sanctuary and exhibits with house and gardens

With a host of well-cared-for and rescued animals, Longleat Safari and Adventure Park make for a fantastic day trip from Bristol. Just 30 miles from the city centre, Longleat can be easily be reached within an hour.

Just like a real safari, you’ll be driving through the habitats of some of the world’s most interesting, dangerous, and cutest animals. You can use your own vehicle (convertibles not recommended) or purchase a ticket for one of the on-site bus tours. Either way, you’re going to find yourself face to face with monkeys, zebras, lions, hippos, cute koalas, and elephants.

One of the stars of the show here is Anne, a circus elephant that was rescued by Longleat and now enjoys her very own luxurious environment. While Anne’s former mistreatment means she is a bit timid, especially around other elephants, she is always welcome for a wave from visitors. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, there’s even the opportunity to hand feed the giraffes!

After you’ve finished your tour of the animal habitats, Longleat has plenty more up its sleeve. Around the park you’ll find mazes to get lost in, a boat cruise to enjoy, the house and gardens that are there for exploring, as well as a kid’s adventure zone to tire them out before the journey back.

Iconic hill and Grade 1 listed structure with spectacular views

If you’re looking for a day out surrounded by rolling countryside and breathtaking views then you’ll want to head for Glastonbury Tor. Just 26 miles from Bristol, the Tor can easily be reached by car in under an hour.

Steeped in myth and legend, this 158m high iconic hill has drawn people towards it for centuries. Most outlandish amongst these stories is that beneath the hill is a secret cave which allows those who pass through it to enter the realm of fairies, Annwn, and the Celtic netherworld Gwyn ab Nudd. There, the cauldron of rebirth is said to be, with the promise of everlasting life.

More likely is that you’ll take a Tor Walk. These circular routes are all around 2 miles long. They all involve a trek up the relatively steep hill to the tower that adorns it. This tower is all that remains from the 15th Century church that once stood there, St Michael’s and still bears some of the decoration from that period.

From the top, you’ll be greeted with fantastic views of the surrounding countryside, towns and villages, including Glastonbury and Yeovil. Some routes even take you down into Glastonbury itself, perfect for a spot of lunch while you’re there.

Various walks can be found online (http://www.gps-routes.co.uk/routes/home.nsf/RoutesLinksWalks/glastonbury-tor-walking-route) or by hiking apps (https://www.alltrails.com/).

Epic aviation museum celebrating the Royal Navy’s flight history

About an hour’s drive from Bristol is Fleet Air Arm Museum, which is home to Europe’s largest naval aviation collection. Located in Yeovilton, the museum is one of the most impressive you’ll ever visit. Describing itself as a place where “museum meets theatre,” this massive indoor space offers visitors the chance to explore the flying arm of the Royal Navy through exhibits and the planes themselves.

The museum is home to four enormous exhibit halls with over 2 million records, and 30 thousand pieces of history on display. Within the four halls, you can see fighter jets, helicopters, commercial planes, historic planes, and even the British Concorde, which you can board and see inside first-hand.

Making this a must-visit is the Aircraft Carrier Experience, an award-winning display where you get to experience a helicopter fly-by in a simulated flight. Using enormous projections you’ll experience landing on the WW2 aircraft carrier the HMS Ark Royal and go within its island control rooms and bridge.

With the location still a hotbed of flight activity, you’re also more than likely to encounter some real-life planes coming and going!

While it can be hard to drag yourself away from Bristol, with plenty on the doorstep waiting to be explored there’s no reason not to venture out now and then and see what else is out there!

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THE 5 BEST Day Trips from Bristol

Day trips from bristol.

• Bristol to Amesbury
• Bristol to Oxford
• Bristol to Bath
• Bristol to Wells
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Full-day Tour from Bristol

2. Full Day Private Shore Tour in London from Bristol Cruise Port

3. Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Trip from Bristol

4. Oxford and Cotswold Small-Group Tour from Bristol

5. Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge - Private Day Trip from Bristol

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Stonehenge, Avebury, Cotswolds. Small guided day tour from Bath (Max 14 persons)

Cotswolds Experience - full day small group day tour from Bath ( Max 14 persons)

Stonehenge & the Cotswolds Including Admission from Bath

The Wandering Bard's Tour of South Wales

Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon

The Wandering Bard's Mythical West Wales Tour

Cotswolds Villages Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Oxford

Bespoke private tours of Stonehenge and Avebury by car with local guide

Cotswolds and Oxford Small-Group Tour from Bath

Half-Day Guided E-Bike Tour Portland with Lunch

Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door Mini-Coach Tour from Bournemouth

Full-Day Stonehenge and Avebury Tour from Glastonbury

Private Tour of Quintessential English Villages

Secret Cotswolds Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-upon-Avon

Classic Cotswolds Private Tour

The Cotswolds and Shakespeare Tour from Oxford

'Stonehenge & Secret England' from Bath for 2-8 curious adventurers

Cotswolds Private Day Tour

Cotswold Summer Explorer Tour

Andy's Amazing Six Brecon Beacons Waterfalls Hiking Tour

Cotswolds Day Tour From Stratford Upon Avon Moreton In Marsh

Full Day Jurassic Coast Mini-Coach Tour from Bournemouth

Cotswolds Summer Adventurer Tour

Enjoy Beaches, Dylan Thomas Home, Castles And Tenby From Cardiff

Full Day Cotswolds Tour; Where Opulence and Heritage Converge

• Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Full-day Tour from Bristol
• Oxford and Cotswold Small-Group Tour from Bristol
• Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge - Private Day Trip from Bristol
• Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Trip from Bristol
• Full Day Private Shore Tour in London from Bristol Cruise Port
• Bristol Tours
• Pandemic Tours - Bristol
• Go Quest Adventures - Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt
• Snikkit.com Bristol
• Rosotravel - Bristol Tours

Best Day Trips from Bristol

Bristol is an innovative and vibrant city in England near South Wales, voted as one of the best places to live in 2021. This town is diverse and full of potential with lots of interesting things to do both during the day and at night. Did you know that this city is the biggest manufacturer of hot air balloons in the entire world? Or that it is where the notorious pirate Blackbeard was born? There are so many interesting facts to discover about the town and if you want to learn something new, check out the best museums in Bristol while you are here.

Although you are sure to love Bristol you should take advantage of your time in England to discover other nearby cities. After all, you will be just a 15 minute train ride away from Bath and it would take you only 90 minutes to reach London! Your opportunities for Bristol day trips are endless, especially with the public transport provided by the city. Consider visiting one of these places if you have the chance. Before leaving the city, drop your belongings at a Bristol luggage storage center, your things will be right where you left them when you come back.

How to get out of Bristol

Navigating your way around the city shouldn't be too difficult, especially thanks to the public transportation services that are offered. If you are going to be staying in Bristol you can rent a car, take a taxi or just walk around at your own pace. There are also e-scooters available for getting to places nearby!

When it comes to getting in and out of Bristol there are so many ways to travel. The city is home to an international airport, an entire system of bus routes, a network of train stations, and even a ferry landing. All of these methods can be used to get you out of the city and on your way to a day trip from Bristol. Learn more about how to get around Bristol by reading our guide here .

From Bristol to Stonehenge

Everyone has heard of the mysterious and grand stone circle which, over the last 5,000 years, has both impressed and confused people from all over the globe. You definitely won't want to miss seeing this ancient wonder of the world in person, and since you will be close by in Bristol you can take advantage of the opportunity! Legend says that the stones that were used to build Stonehenge were brought from Wales, but of course, nobody actually knows how this massive structure was built.

This is the perfect day trip from Bristol for anyone who has an interest in the past and is an appropriate activity for the whole family. Make sure that you stop by the visitors center first to get a bit of a lesson on the history of the ancient ruins, or follow along to a guided or audio tour. Keep in mind that this is an extremely popular attraction and tickets will need to be booked in advance. Start planning now!

How to get to Stonehenge:

The easiest way to get from Bristol to Stonehenge is by car. The drive is not too long and should only take about an hour. If you need to take public transport you can hop on the train from the Bristol Temple Meads station and then take the bus to the Stonehenge visitors center. However, this will take much longer and you should expect to be commuting for about two hours.

From Bristol to Cheddar Gorge

Whether you are a foodie with a particular love for cheddar cheese or someone who enjoys hiking in nature, this spot on the edge of the Mendip Hills is a fantastic day trip from Bristol. This is the biggest gorge in all of England and very impressive to see in person. If you are visiting to admire the landscape you might want to try exploring the cliff-top walking trails which will also bring you past some incredible caves. You will want to bring a camera to capture shots of outstanding natural beauty!

Fun fact; did you know that Cheddar Gorge is also home to the oldest human skeleton ever found? He was aptly named Cheddar Man and is estimated to be around 9,000 years old! After exploring the trails and admiring the scenery of the stunning grounds, go learn about cheese on a cheese making tour in the nearby city. The town of Cheddar also has great cider, so stop for lunch or dinner before heading back into Bristol.

How to get to Cheddar Gorge:

Unfortunately, driving is the only way to get from Bristol to Cheddar Gorge. The good thing is that the drive isn't too long! You will only be on the road for about 40 minutes, and if you don't have a vehicle of your own you could either rent one, grab a taxi or try out some ride-sharing apps. The drive will bring you through some gorgeous areas and nature lovers will definitely enjoy the journey.

From Bristol to Bath

If you aren't going to be staying in Bristol for your entire trip then you just have to spend a day in Bath. This town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (the only one in the United Kingdom!) and is home to some very beautiful Georgian architecture from the 18th century. There is lots to see here and you will have a very rewarding experience from just walking around the city. Don't know where to start? The Roman Baths are one of the most popular attractions and absolutely should be on your itinerary!

Of course, there are so many more places to stop by while you are in Bath, which is why reserving a full day to wander around the town is important. Stop by Queen Square or the Bath Abbey which, in 973 A.D., was the location of the crowning of England's first king. Places like Circus or the Royal Crescent are great for admiring architecture and will be a favorite among history lovers. Feeling tired at the end of your day trip from Bristol? Soak in the relaxing Thermae Spa.

How to get to Bath:

This is one of the best day trips from Bristol because it is so close by! Bath distance is only about 13 miles away and you can get there in no time. You won't need a car for this one; lots of people say that the train is the best way to get here and, since it only takes 20 minutes, we tend to agree! It is also the more economic option since the trains are very affordable and you won't have to pay to keep your car at a car park.

From Bristol to Weston Super Mare

If you want to get a real traditional feel of Bristol then Weston Super Mare is where you should go. Don't worry, although this small seaside town has lots of history it also boasts some great modern attractions that all the family will enjoy, from amusement parks and donkey rides to arcades! There are also some stunning beaches where you can lay down your towel and suntan or go swimming in the water.

This city becomes a real tourist hotspot in the summertime so expect bigger crowds. That is still the best time to visit since the weather will be nice enough for swimming and more outdoor attractions will be available. While you are here you should take a stroll through the Bishop's Palace and Gardens and stop to enjoy views of the water from the Grand Pier . If you have some extra time to spend, consider visiting the two museums in town; the Weston Museum and the Helicopter Museum .

How to get to Weston Super Mare:

Ready to take off from Bristol and head to Weston Super Mare? Getting to this coastal town is an easy drive that should take about half an hour. If you are confined to public transportation we suggest making it a train trip. You can depart from the Bristol Temple Meads station and it is a direct journey all the way to the city which will take about the same amount of time as driving.

From Bristol to Cotswold

Are you ready to take a journey back in time to a quaint town with cobbled streets and thatched-roof houses? The Cotswolds are a collection of villages that will make you feel as though you have just stepped into a storybook. The villages are beautiful and surrounded by glorious countryside dotted with castles as well as parks and nature reserves. If you are looking for a place for a romantic date or just somewhere to take it easy in a peaceful setting this will be one of your favorite day trips from Bristol for sure.

When it comes to places like the Cotswolds towns each one will be worth visiting. However, if you don't know where to begin there are a few villages that are more popular than the rest. Take a trip to Bourton-on-the-Water which has plenty of spots to try cream teas as well as shopping areas. Castle Comb is another great choice and is home to some nice English bars. Stow-on-the-Wold should be your next stop for seeing museums, grabbing afternoon tea in the tea rooms and admiring unique manors! Are you a fan of Harry Potter? You might be interested in stopping by the Lacock Village which was used for filming locations in the movies.

How to get to Cotswold:

The best way to get to Cotswold is definitely by driving in your own car. The villages are a little spread apart and if you want to stop by more than one then driving between them is the easiest way to do it. It is about an hour's drive from Bristol city centre. However, two of the villages called Cheltenham and Gloucester can be reached by train and are under an hour away by railway. Admire the stunning countryside as you pass by!

From Bristol to Brecon Beacons National Park

Are you ready for one of the most epic day trips from Bristol? The Brecon Beacons Mountain Range and National Park beckon you! The rolling hills and dramatic mountains are a true paradise for all who love nature and you definitely won't regret taking a day away from Bristol to see it in person. To give you an idea of how incredible this place is you should know that George Everest (the man Mt. Everest was named after) trekked around this park and it inspired his love for the great outdoors!

Although there is no Mt. Everest here, Brecon Beacons National Park is home to Pen Y Fan which is the highest peak in all of Southern Britain, so get ready for some truly breathtaking views of the rolling countryside if you make the journey to the top. Are you brave enough to climb it? Aside from many walking trails and an endless amount of hiking paths in this 350,000 acre park you can find things like the Brecon Mountain Railway attraction, the British Birds of Prey Centre or the National Botanical Garden of Wales. They are all perfect activities for the whole family.

How to get to Brecon Beacons National Park:

The Brecon Beacons National Park distance from Bristol is about 75 miles and should take just over an hour and a half to get to by car. Making the journey using your own vehicle as opposed to public transportation is recommended; there are train stations that can get you here but the trip is about 3 hours away.

Discovering the Beautiful West Country

There are so many day trips from Bristol that are worth visiting, so we hope you are staying for a while! The great thing about this city is that you will never be very far from a picturesque village or a historic city filled with stories and character that you can visit. Bristol Temple Meads can get you to London, Edinburgh, and Cardiff if you'd like to explore there.

Still feel the need to explore more of South West England? Consider visiting Glastonbury which is home to the Somerset Rural Life Museum or travel along the South West Coast Path in the beautiful Exmoor National Park.

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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:

Weekend in Bath – England’s UNESCO Hidden Gem

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Did you find this post useful? Save it for later!

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 5 BEST Day Trips from Bristol

Day trips from bristol.

• Bristol to Amesbury
• Bristol to Oxford
• Bristol to Bath
• Bristol to Wells
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Full-day Tour from Bristol

2. Full Day Private Shore Tour in London from Bristol Cruise Port

3. Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Trip from Bristol

4. Oxford and Cotswold Small-Group Tour from Bristol

5. Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge - Private Day Trip from Bristol

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Stonehenge, Avebury, Cotswolds. Small guided day tour from Bath (Max 14 persons)

Cotswolds Experience - full day small group day tour from Bath ( Max 14 persons)

Stonehenge & the Cotswolds Including Admission from Bath

The Wandering Bard's Tour of South Wales

Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon

The Wandering Bard's Mythical West Wales Tour

Cotswolds Villages Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Oxford

Bespoke private tours of Stonehenge and Avebury by car with local guide

Cotswolds and Oxford Small-Group Tour from Bath

Half-Day Guided E-Bike Tour Portland with Lunch

Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door Mini-Coach Tour from Bournemouth

Full-Day Stonehenge and Avebury Tour from Glastonbury

Private Tour of Quintessential English Villages

Secret Cotswolds Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-upon-Avon

Classic Cotswolds Private Tour

The Cotswolds and Shakespeare Tour from Oxford

'Stonehenge & Secret England' from Bath for 2-8 curious adventurers

Cotswolds Private Day Tour

Cotswold Summer Explorer Tour

Andy's Amazing Six Brecon Beacons Waterfalls Hiking Tour

Cotswolds Day Tour From Stratford Upon Avon Moreton In Marsh

Full Day Jurassic Coast Mini-Coach Tour from Bournemouth

Cotswolds Summer Adventurer Tour

Enjoy Beaches, Dylan Thomas Home, Castles And Tenby From Cardiff

Full Day Cotswolds Tour; Where Opulence and Heritage Converge

• Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Full-day Tour from Bristol
• Oxford and Cotswold Small-Group Tour from Bristol
• Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge - Private Day Trip from Bristol
• Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Trip from Bristol
• Full Day Private Shore Tour in London from Bristol Cruise Port
• Bristol Tours
• Pandemic Tours - Bristol
• Go Quest Adventures - Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt
• Snikkit.com Bristol
• Rosotravel - Bristol Tours

Bristol Travel Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2022

O ur  Bristol Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, best day trips, accommodation options, tips and more for this English city. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Bristol.

Plan your visit to Bristol

Located in England’s south west the city of Bristol is associated with 2 very famous (but very different individuals) namely Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Banksy! (And I shouldn’t forget it is also the birthplace of Wallace & Grommit as Nick Park the creator of Aardman Animations is also from Bristol)

Whether you plan to visit Bristol to enjoy the engineering genius of Brunel or the creative genius of Banksy there is plenty to do and see in the city to keep you busy.

Popular attractions include the SS Great Britain, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, M Shed, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Known for its excellent cafes and craft beer Bristol is the perfect destination for foodies too.

What you will find in this complete Bristol Travel Guide

Map of Bristol

When is the best time of year to visit bristol, how many days do you need in bristol, what is the best way to explore bristol, 🚆 by train from london – bristol, 🚙 by car, ⭐️ attractions, things to do in bristol & surrounding areas, the bristol hotel, avon gorge by hotel du vin, 3 berkeley square guesthouse, 🎟 tickets, tours & attractions in bristol, best day trips and tours from bristol, books set in bristol, 💛 enjoy your visit to bristol.

📖 Bristol travel guide – Visiting Bristol FAQ’s

As with anywhere in the UK the summer months are a popular time to visit. This makes it more crowded and pushes up prices. This is also the time of year when many festivals and events are held in Bristol.

If you can visit at any time of year perhaps the best time to go is during the spring or autumn. The temperatures may be a tad cooler but the city will be quieter and less busy.

• Read more about the best time to visit the UK in my detailed guide.

There are a number of festivals and events held in and around Bristol during the year including one of the most famous music festivals in the world – Glastonbury (hopefully returning in 2022)

• Bristol Shakespeare Festiva l – TBA
• Beats and Eats Bristol – TBA
• Love Saves The Day – 27 May to 28 May 2023
• Foodies Festival – 12 May to 14 May 2023

We recommend a couple of days to explore Bristol (the perfect weekend staycation ) and to properly enjoy the culture, history, art and good food and drink Bristol has in abundance.

Bristol is a great city to explore on foot. There is a Metrobus which runs between the train station and city centre. There are also 4 Park and Ride locations available if you prefer to avoid driving into Bristol.

Take the ferry which runs two routes including stops at popular destinations such as the M Shed museum, SS Great Britain and Temple Meads.

What is the best way to travel to Bristol from London?

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline . Take the train to Bristol for a short break or incorporate it into your UK train travel itinerary.

• Distance from London: 170 km
• Time taken by train: Just under 1 hour 30 mins
• Leave from: London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

If using the motorways Bristol is a 2 hour drive from London on the M4. If you are thinking of parking in the city you will be pleased to hear there are over 11,000 parking spaces including many around the popular attractions such as the Harbourside and Bristol Shopping Quarter .

If you prefer to avoid the hassle of driving into a large city like Bristol there are 4 Park and Ride locations in Bristol where you can leave your car and catch a bus. Click here for more information about Bristol Park & Ride

Read – UK transportation guide

Click the links for more information about the best places to visit in Bristol and surrounding areas and counties.

THINGS TO DO IN BRISTOL

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

BATH TRAVEL GUIDE

DORSET & JURASSIC COAST TRAVEL GUIDE

CORNWALL TRAVEL GUIDE

DEVON TRAVEL GUIDE

COTSWOLDS TRAVEL GUIDE

CARDIFF TRAVEL GUIDE

🏩 Bristol Accommodation

Accommodation quick picks for bristol.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superb location for marina, bars, restaurants and city centre.

Best beer garden view in the UK! Luxury hotel with fabulous decor.

Beautiful property with fabulous breakfast. 

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

⭐️ CLICK FOR MORE INFO ABOUT OUR TRAVEL ITINERARY PLANNERS

As well as the many great things to do in Bristol itself the city is also a great location from which to explore the nearby cities of Bath or Cardiff.

Why not book a tour to Stonehenge or the Cotswolds?

We use Get Your Guide when choosing tours – they have a huge selection plus one of the best cancellation policies in the business (so no stressing if your plans change at the last minute)

Viator is another company we have used around the world. I have listed the best tours available from both companies to give you a lot of choices!

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Bristol. These posts will also provide practical advice for travelling around the UK:

• UK train travel guide
• Salisbury Travel Guide
• Britain by train – top 10 UK rail journeys (+ map & tips)
• 17 Things to do in the Cotswolds
• Oxford Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• 25 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall (+ map & tips)

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

16+ Best Day Trips from Bristol with Kids (2024)

Looking for the best day trips from Bristol with kids? Although it’s possible to spend weeks exploring Bristol, and not run out of things to do, you may be looking to explore more of the UK. Bristol is located in a lovely area surrounded by natural environments, historic monuments, fantastic places to try traditional British food, and amazing cities just waiting to be explored.

This post will take you through some of the very best day trips around Bristol when visiting Bristol with kids, including the best day trips from Bristol by train, best day tours from Bristol, best family days out near Bristol, and things to do near Bristol with kids.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my full disclosure for further information.

Table of Contents

One day trip from Bristol to a nearby city

Submitted by Chrysoula, Historic European Castles

If you’re travelling to England or, more specifically Bristol, as a family, you may be wondering what other day trips from Bristol there are to keep the kids entertained. One such idea is a day trip from Bristol to the nearby historic city of Bath with kids . Bath is a destination that can easily be reached from Bristol. Bath is one of the best day trips from Bristol by car. Bath lies around half an hour from Bristol by car (simply following the Bath Road and then the Bristol Road) and can be even quicker by train, so there’s no reason not to pop this extra city into your itinerary.

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in England with royal architecture, stunning parks and world-famous Roman Baths. The UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath features some great family-friendly activities to get the kids learning about everything from Roman history and the Royal Mint to glass blowing and rural Somerset life!

As the city centre is quite compact, even little legs shouldn’t get too tired and it means you can discover a variety of destinations in a short space of time.

Exploring the Roman Baths & Museum, the Royal Crescent, Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum and Royal Victoria Park are all musts. If you have more time, you can also try to squeeze in visits to the Bath City Farm, the Bath Boating Station and the stunning Bath Abbey.

Bath also features some decent high-street shopping (ideal for the older kids), some wonderful family-friendly restaurants and loads of outside spaces where you can relax with a picnic.

2. Plymouth

Our Recommendation

Plymouth is a spectacular maritime city, located just 2 hours South of Bristol . The city features a wide range of outdoor sights, large open spaces and plenty of things to do for kids.

Plymouth Hoe is a good starting point for any trip to Plymouth. It has a vast lighthouse as well as excellent views out towards Plymouth Sound and Drake’s Island, a scenic island located just off the coast.

The Barbican is an excellent place to visit for a walk and a yummy lunch by the water. Either get a takeaway and find a scenic coastal spot or eat in at one of the many restaurants. The Barbican is also the starting point of some excellent boat trips around Plymouth and the nearby beaches in North Cornwall.

If you’re looking for inside (or rainy day) activities, Drake Circus shopping centre is a huge complex where you can shop till you drop. The next-door Plymouth barcode features a 4D cinema and plenty of eateries.

Plymouth’s star indoor attraction is the National Marine Aquarium, a charity-run marine centre that’s home to a huge variety of marine life. Make sure you try out the cafe, it’s got excellent views out onto the Barbican.

How to get to Plymouth from Bristol

The best way to reach Plymouth from Bristol is by train. The journey has some lovely sea views between Plymouth and Exeter when the train passes the Exmouth area.

Plymouth is also easy to reach by car. It is possible to travel by coach on Stagecoach or National express. However, you would need to provide a car seat for younger kids.

The new fast train link between Bristol and London has made it even easier to take a day trip to the capital.

For a day of sightseeing, the best way to see London in a day with kids is on the hop-on-hop-off bus. A variety of routes take you all over the major sights of London with minimal walking. Kids will love to see the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace and walking next door to St Jame’s park for a play.

For an educational trip, head to the London science museum where you can see the spacecraft that travelled to the moon in 1969. The natural history museum is also packed with things kids will love, including loads of information about dinosaurs. A trip to Kidzania lets the kids try out over 60 professions in role-play adventures. There are also many free things to do in London, so a day trip doesn’t have to be as expensive as it seems.

How to get to London from Bristol

The train from Bristol Temple Meads to London will get you to the capital in just 1 hour, 36 minutes. If you want to drive, it will take significantly longer at 2 hours, 18 minutes, and possibly longer with delays and parking. Many coach services also run from Bristol to London.

A day trip from Bristol to a nearby town or village

4. glastonbury.

Submitted by Helen, Holidays from Hels

Glastonbury, situated just less than an hour’s drive south of Bristol, is famous as much for its spiritual history as its music festival and makes for a perfect day trip from  Bristol with kids .

Folklore holds variously that the town is sited on ley lines, is the entrance to the land of the fairies and may even by the burial place of the holy grail itself.

Children will love exploring the fabulously bohemian shops displaying crystals, witches’ cloaks and unusual looking musical instruments. You will probably encounter a druid or a goddess on your visit.

Take the time to explore the Abbey and discover Glastonbury’s history from Saxon times to Henry VIII.

There are plenty of cafes and olde inns for an afternoon snack. Don’t miss the Blue Note café with its lovely courtyard tables strung with flowers. Their hot chocolates loaded with cream and Maltesers are legendary.

On a sunny day, take the 25-minute walk from the High Street to Glastonbury Tor, with its 800-year-old tower and views over the countryside, sheep and Avalon itself.

Cost:  Glastonbury Abbey  costs £25.25 for a family ticket for 2 adults and up to 3 children

How to get to Glastonbury from Bristol

The most direct route by car is to take the A39 south. The Journey takes about 50 minutes, and the A39 takes you right into the town. You can also take the Mendip Explorer bus 376 from the Broadweir bus stop by Castle Park in Bristol town centre which takes 1hour 10 minutes.

5. Leamington Spa

Submitted by Melissa, High Heels & a Backpack

Lovely Leamington Spa is a scenic upscale spa town in the heart of Warwickshire . It is situated just 90 minutes away from Bristol.

Start your day in Leamington by taking a stroll through the Jephson Gardens . Once upon a time, these gardens were a Victorian park. Many of the statues and buildings here have been preserved in the Victorian style in a way that makes visitors feel that they are journeying back in time. 

Kids will love the opportunity to rent boats with their parents and row back and forth on the picturesque boating lake. Adults will admire the park’s fragrant flower gardens and interesting contemporary sculptures. Stop for a hot coffee and cocoa at the park’s Aviary cafe – a charming Victorian tea Pavillion that has been designed like a birdhouse. 

The Leamington Spa Spy Mission is a fun family tour that parents can do with their kids. This is a smart way of sightseeing and exploring all of the top attractions in the town while keeping the kids entertained! To complete the spy mission, families download a PDF and hunt around Leamington Spa for the clues. The journey takes you from the narrow cobbled streets to the grand Royal Pump Rooms. 

Leamington Spa boasts an excellent selection of dining options for when lunchtime rolls around. Arguably one of the best ways to enjoy a light lunch here is to order a traditional British afternoon tea at the Bandstand tearooms. 

How to get to Leamington Spa from Bristol

Driving from Bristol to Leamington Spa takes approximately 90 minutes. If you do not have your own transport, you can also take the train. There is no direct service between Bristol and Leamington so you should transfer at Birmingham.

6. Weston Super Mare

Submitted by Bradley, Dream Big Travel Far

Located just 45 minutes from Bristol, Weston-super-Mare is probably the best local seaside destination to visit with kids . It’s one of the oldest seaside resorts in England and there are tonnes to do for people of all ages! Most notably taking time to relax or play on the 2-mile long beach that is almost all sand and large enough to hold tens of thousands of people on a hot summer’s day.

But the best site in Weston for kids is definitely the Grand Pier, home to a whole host of rides and arcade attractions. Including a 4D cinema, go-karts and even a ghost train. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants around the pier, perfect for enjoying a family meal. If you visit at the right time of the year, you may even get to discover the famous Weston Sand Sculpture Festival.

How to get to Weston Super Mare from Bristol

It’s easy enough to drive there from Bristol, and there is lots of parking on the front. There’s also a train service that runs from Bristol, which is a lot handier and takes just over 30 minutes.

7. Hay-on-Wye

Submitted by Shireen from The Happy Days Travels

Hay-on-Wye is a small town found in the Brecon Beacons National Park and on the border of England and Wales (you can have one foot in Wales and the other in England)! The place was made famous as the world’s first book town because of the huge ratio of bookshops to people – 1 to every 100 people. There are genre-specific shops like the Children’s Bookshop, Murder and Mayhem, and The Poetry Bookshop (the only Poetry-only shop in the UK) as well as a 24 hour, open-air honesty bookshop.  See here  for a self-guided tour of the Hay bookshops which is the best way to experience the town. 

As well as the book shopping, Hay-on-Wye has an abundance of activities for families such as Wye River walks to spot the wooden-carved animals, kayaking and canoeing, horse riding, arts and crafts, learning some history at Hay Castle and the town centre market with lots of street food options. 

How to get to Hay-on-Wye from Bristol

The best way to get to Hay-on-Wye from Bristol is by car. If you drive through Wales you can take the scenic route through the Brecon Beacons for mountains and lakes which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The closest train station to Hay is Hereford so if you get the train there, you can take a taxi or a bus into Hay-on-Wye which takes about an hour.

Outdoor Exploration day trips from Bristol

8. cheddar gorge and caves.

Submitted by Suzanne, Meandering Wild

Cheddar Gorge and Caves are located in Somerset, south of Bristol.  The gorge is the deepest in England and at its highest reaches 137 metres deep.  The road winds up through the gorge which can be viewed on an open-top bus from the caves.  This is the best way to see the gorge and not have the worries of driving.   The caves at Cheddar are great for experiencing the underground world . The audio guide and have a few surprises that kids will love.  There are also a number of walks from the bottom of the gorge which take you to the top of the gorge cliffs. 

Cheddar Caves is also a great place to try caving and climbing. Kids can also try our out their Escape Room with a caving twist.

Admission | The Caves Explorer ticket costs about £20 for adults and £15 for children. It includes the caves, gorge bus, entry to Jacobs Ladder and the museum.  Without paying, there is still a lot of family exploring that can be done in the Gorge and around Cheddar.

How to get to Cheddar Gorge from Bristol

Cheddar Gorge and Caves are located 40 minutes drive south of Bristol on the A38.  It is possible to get there by public transport but this involves two buses from Bristol to Wells and then a second from Wells to Cheddar. This takes a couple of hours.  Cheddar village has lots of small shops and cafes for lunches and ice creams.

9. The Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire  

Submitted by Cathy, Mummy Travels

Less than an hour from Bristol lies one of the most ancient stretches of forest in the UK. The Forest of Dean, on the border of England and Wales, is fantastic for a day out with kids, whether you’re looking to get outdoors or to visit some of the area’s family-friendly attractions.  

Don’t miss Puzzlewood, on the edges of the forest itself, where the twisting paths, mossy boulders and tangled boughs make it feel like you’ve stepped into another world. It’s so convincing that Puzzlewood has appeared in various films and TV shows, including doubling for an alien landscape in Star Wars.  

Or follow the Forest of Dean sculpture trail from nearby Beechenhurst, including a huge stained glass window hanging in the trees. For younger kids, there’s often a Forestry England trail to follow too, themed around Julia Donaldson or Aardman Animations characters.  

There are plenty of other  things to do in the Forest of Dean with kids , including the Wye Valley butterfly farm, next to the Jubilee Maze and mini golf, or the ruins of Goodrich Castle, with views across into Wales.  

This is one day out from Bristol where you do need a car – public transport is limited. 

Admission | Entry to Puzzlewood costs £7 for adults, a combined ticket to the butterfly farm, mini golf and jubilee maze costs £5.50, and Goodrich Castle costs £9 for adults (free for English Heritage members). Walking in the Forest of Dean is free, although parking costs from £3.  

10. Stonehenge day trip from Bristol

Submitted by Anisa, Two Traveling Texans

Stonehenge is one of the most famous ancient sites in the world. Kids will be amazed that it was built over 4000 years ago without modern technology.

Your visit to Stonehenge begins with a stop at the Visitor’s Center where there is a family-friendly exhibit to help explain the history of the monument.  Kids can explore the model village and even 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 kids will find interesting.

There are about 20 different ones that make up the UNESCO World Heritage site known as Stonehenge, Avebury, and Associated Sites.  If you want to explore the other neolithic sites, it is best to drive. 

Admission | As one of the most popular tourist attractions in England, Stonehenge tickets need to be booked in 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 tickets available.

How to get to Stonehenge from Bristol

Stonehenge is not well-connected by public transportation. 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.

11. Visit Chepstow and Raglan Castles in South Wales

Submitted by Cath, Passports and Adventures

A great day trip to take with kids from Bristol is a trip to visit some of the castles of South Wales. Castles are in abundance in Wales and two which are reachable from Bristol are Chepstow and Raglan Castle.

Raglan Castle  is a lovely ruined castle with a hexagonal tower which was built more for decorative than defensive purposes. There are several areas to explore with young kids and much of it is flat, apart from the climb up the tower. Throughout the year there are events, particularly during the summer, and sometimes there are also medieval re-enactments. While there are toilets at the castle, there is no café.

Chepstow Castle  is a much larger castle with four baileys (courtyards), incredible views across the River Wye and lots of nooks and crannies to explore. There is lots of open, green areas for kids to run around in. Chepstow Castle does not have a café or toilets, but there are public toilets in the car park and lots of cafes in the town. Both castles are payable and the car park at Chepstow is a public pay-and-display.

A visit to Raglan and Chepstow Castles makes for a great day trip from Bristol with kids

How to get to Chepstow/Raglan castles

Chepstow Castle is located along the River Wye in the town with the same name and is approximately 30 minutes from Bristol via the M32 and M48. Raglan Castle is located closer to Abergavenny and is approximately 45 minutes from Bristol via the M32, M4 and A449. The two castles are approximately 30 minutes apart along the B4293 road. Although both can be reached by public transport (bus), if you are using public transport, Chepstow is easier as there is a direct bus route from Bristol to Chepstow which takes around 50 minutes. Raglan is harder to reach via public transport (taking around two hours and twenty minutes).

12. Slimbridge Wetland Centre

Submitted by Becki, Meet Me In Departures   

Slimbridge Wetland Centre is located just north of Bristol, in a village called Durlsey and makes for an amazing family day out and is only a short distance from Bristol. I remember my parents taking me here as a child as well as school trips and more recently I visited with my friend with toddlers in tow.

You can visit all year round. If you want to see the adorable fluffy ducklings, goslings and cygnets , then visit in the late spring or early summer, by June you’ll get to see the beautiful dragonflies flitting about. Some of the birds here are migratory, so depending on the species, they visit Slimbridge as their summer home or winter home. Some even use it as a stopover mid-transit. 

For the majority of the site, it’s easily accessible for buggy users. You can buy bags of food to feed the birds with too which our little troupe loved. Dotted around the site are playgrounds and interactive information boards as well as a lovely indoor soft play area. There are also plenty of facilities for those essential toilet stops too. 

How to get to Slimbridge Wetland Centre

The easiest way to get to Slimbridge is by car. From Bristol, take the M5 north and get off at junction 14 (it’s signposted) and then continue following the A38 north. In total, the journey should take less than 30 minutes. 

Admission | Slimbridge is open all year round, prices for adults are £15.95, children £9.25 and under 4s go for free. Various concessions and discounts are available.

13. Dyrham Park

Submitted by Deborah , Grand Adventure Story

The National Trust’s Dyrham Park is an ancient deer park with a grand 17th-century house at its heart.

There is a wealth of family-friendly things to do on a day out at Dyrham Park . Join a volunteer-led nature walk which includes bug-hunting, learning about the resident deer and even pond-dipping, or entertain yourselves for hours playing hide and seek in the formal gardens before enjoying an ice cream or scone in the café. Little ones who enjoy role-play will want to head straight to the farm-themed Old Lodge Play Area where they can ride tractors and play in a ‘pig pen’. Helpfully there are toilets nearby and covered picnic tables. If all of this hasn’t tired the kids out already let them run off excess energy in the vast deer park and marvel at the spectacular views over the Bristol Channel.

It’s possible to spend your whole visit outdoors but, when it’s possible to do so, it’s worth planning in a visit to the house where children’s trails and quizzes are provided.

Admission | Entrance and parking are free for National Trust members. If you don’t have a membership, a visit costs £8 per adult and £4 per child with family and other discounts available.

How to get to Dyrham Park from Bristol

Dyrham Park is only 2 miles from Junction 18 of the M4, so easily accessible by car from Bristol for a day out. Entrance and parking are free for National Trust members. If you don’t have membership a visit costs £8 per adult and £4 per child with family and other discounts available.

The car park is at the top of a steep hill. A small bus is provided for visitors to take them straight to the house and formal gardens and back to the car park at the end of the day if necessary. If you’re bringing a buggy an off-road model would be recommended.

14. A trip around Dean Forest Railway, RSPB Nagshead & Clearwell Caves – A steam train day trip from Bristol

Submitted by Anuradha, Country Hopping Couple

Dean Forest Railway

Start your day by visiting Dean Forest Railway located at Norchard Station .  There is a free car parking site available here.  Buy your tickets, and you use them all day getting on and off from any of these stations – Parkend, Whitecroft, Lydney Town and Lydney Junction . 

There is also a small museum dedicated to steam engines and their history, which children will enjoy.  This station is also equipped with a cafeteria, gift shop and toilet facilities. Grab a snack from the cafeteria and hop into the train to enjoy the magical time into the woods. This 8.5-mile-long train journey on the heritage steam train runs through the medieval forest. The greeneries you see, the smell of the steam, and the traditional choo-choo sound together make the entire journey magical. 

Website | deanforestrailway.co.uk

RSPB Nagshead

I recommend getting down at Parkend Station and visit RSPB Nagshead, which is a short 15-20 minute walk from the station. Located at the heart of forest dean, this RSPB is home to mature oak trees and is a perfect place to spot birds all year round. Needless to say, kids will enjoy their time experiencing the train journey and spotting birds.  

Website | rspb.org.uk

Clearwell Caves

Finish the train journey, and a 15- minute drive will take you to Clearwell Caves. 9 beautiful caverns and 4500+ years of history , this attraction is suitable for all ages. Kids will love outdoor wildlife spotting, cave and exploring.

Website | clearwellcaves.com

How to get to Dean Forest Railway & Clearwell Caves from Bristol

While driving is the best option, there are train services from Chepstow to Lydney Station.  Chepstow can be reached from Bristol by train & bus journey, which takes roughly 1.5 hours. 

Attractions nearby Bristol to visit with kids

15. swindon steam museum.

Submitted by Larch, The Silver Nomad

For an interesting day out, the STEAM Museum in Swindon is an ideal choice for children and adults alike. There are many interactive sections to play with the chance to drive a steam train with the simulator or work the signal boxes.

Many of the locomotives are in the museum. You can walk through the carriages and step up on to engine plates. There are reconstructed areas of offices, the foundry, stores and workshops.

The museum follows the history of the Great Western Railway, the men and women who worked at it. It also shows the amazing locomotives that were built and the passengers who used the trains. The museum is housed in the restored Swindon Railway Works buildings.

Like Bristol, Swindon’s history is linked to Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who was the visionary that brought the Great Western Railway to life.

There is a Museum Café, or you can visit the food outlets in the Swindon Designer Outlet Centre next door.

Admission | Entrance tickets are £9.35 for an adult and £6.95 for a child. There is a range of combination tickets available at the STEAM ticket office.

How to get to Swindon STEAM Museum from Bristol

The STEAM Museum  is forty-five minutes’ drive from Bristol along the M4 to Junction 16. Alternatively, you can take a train to Swindon’s main station then a 10-minute walk. There is plenty of parking and if free on showing your admission ticket at the Designer Outlet Information Desk next door.

16. Cotsworld Farm Park

Submitted by Lucy, Explore the Cotsworlds

Set among beautiful Cotswold scenery, the  Cotswold Farm Park  is the base of  Countryfile  farmer Adam Henson – along with plenty of his animal friends. If you’re thinking of visiting The Cotswolds, the farm park is a great addition to the perfect Cotsworlds itinerary . The farm was set up by Henson’s father in 1971 to protect rare breed animals, and you can still see over 50 different breeds at the park, including sheep, cattle and goats.

A visit is a great chance for kids to learn about life on the farm. You can board a tractor-trailer for a farm safari, stroke baby chicks and rabbits in the touch barn or follow a two-mile wildlife walking trail. There’s also an Adventure Barn with a host of fun-filled play facilities, including a zip-wire, sandpits and a climbing wall.

There’s something different at whatever time of year you visit, including lambing, sheep shearing, milking and bottle-feeding. And in winter, the park is open after hours for the festive Enchanted Light Trail, with light displays inspired by different animals and magical, illuminated woodland, fire pits, and hot chocolates to keep everyone warm.

The Cotswold Farm Park is located close to Guiting Power, north of pretty Bourton-on-the-Water. It’s around 55 miles from Bristol and takes just over an hour by car.  Public transport in the Cotswolds  is limited, but you can catch the 801/802 bus from train stations at Kingham, Moreton-in-Marsh or Cheltenham as far as Bourton or Stow-in-the-Wold and then catch a taxi to the park. Entry costs £15 adults, £14.50 for children aged 4-15 and £10 for toddlers.

If you’re thinking of making it a weekend trip, make sure you read about the best places to stay in the Cotswolds .

Discover more of Western Europe >>>

Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ 55 Inspirational Cruise Quotes
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• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The 9 Best Switzerland Cities to Visit in 2024 [The Family Edition]
• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The BEST Water Parks in Poland to Visit with Kids (2024)

Boise tavern sells 2 winning tickets on same day

If you’re looking for a quick payday, a trip to Suds Tavern in Boise may be your best move.

Earlier this week, two winning scratch tickets were purchased from Suds Tavern on Broadway Avenue — one for $1 million and the other for $131,634.

What’s even more surprising? Suds only began selling Idaho Lottery scratch tickets at the start of February, and the two winning tickets were claimed by people who know each other.

“We had been trying for a long time to get Idaho Lottery Scratch Games in our establishment,” Scott Burney, co-owner of Suds, said in an Idaho Lottery news release . “We were thrilled we got the opportunity to offer Lottery products to our patrons. But now, with two big wins in two days, this is incredible.”

The first ticket was claimed by Travis Wilson on Tuesday, according to Idaho Lottery. Wilson was celebrating his birthday when he purchased a Big Money ticket from a vending machine at Suds and quickly realized he’d be celebrating his birthday with a surprise $1 million.

Wilson returned to Suds Tavern with his friend Julie Chislock and her husband later that evening to celebrate his newfound wealth. Chislock decided to test her own luck and purchased some Ultimate Diamond Jackpot tickets, winning $131,634. She claimed her prize Wednesday.

Suds Tavern will also receive a $33,186 commission from the Idaho Lottery for selling the two winning tickets.

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

THE 5 BEST Day Trips from Bristol

Day trips from bristol.

• Bristol to Amesbury
• Bristol to Oxford
• Bristol to Bath
• Bristol to Wells
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Full-day Tour from Bristol

2. Full Day Private Shore Tour in London from Bristol Cruise Port

3. Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Trip from Bristol

4. Oxford and Cotswold Small-Group Tour from Bristol

5. Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge - Private Day Trip from Bristol

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Stonehenge, Avebury, Cotswolds. Small guided day tour from Bath (Max 14 persons)

Cotswolds Experience - full day small group day tour from Bath ( Max 14 persons)

Stonehenge & the Cotswolds Including Admission from Bath

The Wandering Bard's Tour of South Wales

Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon

The Wandering Bard's Mythical West Wales Tour

Cotswolds Villages Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Oxford

Bespoke private tours of Stonehenge and Avebury by car with local guide

Cotswolds and Oxford Small-Group Tour from Bath

Half-Day Guided E-Bike Tour Portland with Lunch

Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door Mini-Coach Tour from Bournemouth

Full-Day Stonehenge and Avebury Tour from Glastonbury

Private Tour of Quintessential English Villages

Secret Cotswolds Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-upon-Avon

Classic Cotswolds Private Tour

The Cotswolds and Shakespeare Tour from Oxford

'Stonehenge & Secret England' from Bath for 2-8 curious adventurers

Cotswolds Private Day Tour

Cotswold Summer Explorer Tour

Andy's Amazing Six Brecon Beacons Waterfalls Hiking Tour

Cotswolds Day Tour From Stratford Upon Avon Moreton In Marsh

Full Day Jurassic Coast Mini-Coach Tour from Bournemouth

Cotswolds Summer Adventurer Tour

Enjoy Beaches, Dylan Thomas Home, Castles And Tenby From Cardiff

Full Day Cotswolds Tour; Where Opulence and Heritage Converge

• Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Full-day Tour from Bristol
• Oxford and Cotswold Small-Group Tour from Bristol
• Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge - Private Day Trip from Bristol
• Bath City Tour & Fly a Hawk Experience - Day Trip from Bristol
• Full Day Private Shore Tour in London from Bristol Cruise Port
• Bristol Tours
• Pandemic Tours - Bristol
• Go Quest Adventures - Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt
• Snikkit.com Bristol
• Rosotravel - Bristol Tours