Bristol In The Sun: Our Favourite Outdoor Spaces

Getting outside to enjoy the warm weather is one of life’s true pleasures and as a city that has something for everyone, if you enjoy strolling through beautifully manicured gardens or spending a hazy summer’s day lounging in a park, Bristol is arguably one of the best cities to be in.
So, with so much to cover, let’s dive straight into an overview of some of Bristol’s best parks and gardens, including where they are located and the specific features and attractions that make each space truly unique.
Leigh Woods National Nature Reserve
Maintained by the National Trust, Leigh Woods National Nature Reserve invites visitors to explore a diverse and beautiful broadleaf woodland positioned on the plateau just above the Avon Gorge. The area has been delighting both locals and visitors alike for centuries, with pathways offering relaxing walks that allow you to take in an array of features including majestic oak trees and bluebell woods.
An accessible pathway takes you to the base of the gorge itself, which really highlights the vast scale of this incredible part of Bristol. Here, you can observe the Clifton Suspension Bridge from below, as well as open grassy glades, and much more.
Brandon Hill Park
Offering some spectacular views over the city and the Harbourside, Brandon Hill Park is one of the city’s oldest parks and continues to attract locals and visitors alike. Situated in the West End of the city just off Park Street, there is plenty to enjoy at Brandon Hill Park, including charming paths, a kid’s play area, and even a nature conservation area.
You’ll also find Cabot Tower in Brandon Hill Park, which stands 105 ft tall and was constructed to mark John Cabot’s voyage from the city to North America some four centuries earlier. The tower itself is free to climb, with those making it to the top being rewarded with some incredible panoramic views across Bristol.
Blaise Castle House Museum and Estate
Set in more than 600 acres of parkland, Blaise Castle House Museum and Estate is home to an 18th-century mansion and an impressive social history collection. Spend a few hours exploring objects from centuries gone by or explore the vast woodlands and parkland, as well as some of the iconic features within it.
The Folly Castle is a popular draw because it features in Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen. The folly is open on certain Sundays during the summer months, so if you notice that there’s a flag flying on top, you can go in and soak in the panoramic views from the roof.
The Downs
Consisting of Durdham Down and Clifton Down, the Downs is located on the borders of Clifton, Clifton Village, and Redlands. This vast 44 acre expanse of protected parkland on the edge of Bristol is within walking distance of a number of the city’s main attractions, including the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
A variety of major events take place on the Downs throughout the year, including funfairs, circuses and charity runs, but it’s also an excellent place to enjoy leisurely walks or sit and enjoy a picnic on a warm day. Or on a chilly day, extend your stroll to nearby Clifton Village and enjoy a warm drink and something sweet from one of the area’s numerous cafes and eateries.
Some of the most notable features and facilities include a cafe, dedicated picnic areas and benches, a kid’s play area on Sion Hill, football pitches, and the Ladies Mile BBQ area. The Downs is also home to the Clifton Observatory, which has been part of the Bristol skyline since 1766 and offers unforgettable views across the city, Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Avon Gorge.
Ashton Court Estate
On the other side of the Clifton Suspension Bridge sits Ashton Court Estate, which is an impressive stretch of countryside covering some 850 acres. With both green space and woodlands to explore, there are trails and paths for walkers, mountain bikers, and horse riders to enjoy. There are also plenty of pushchair and wheelchair-accessible paths, too.
Ashton Court Estate is known for hosting the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta and its deer population, who you will find wandering around certain areas of this impressive estate. It’s also a popular winter destination for sledging when there’s been a healthy amount of snowfall, so it’s a popular place to visit all year round.
Greville Smyth Park
Once part of the Ashton Court Estate, Greville Smyth Park is now one of the most popular community parks in south Bristol. Formerly known as ‘The People’s Park Bedminster’, this part of the city is renowned for its selection of more than 46 different tree species, fun kid’s play area, and gorgeous views.
In addition to football pitches, ping pong tables, a bowling green and tennis courts, there is also a brilliant community-driven activity programme that offers something for everyone to enjoy. This part of the city is popular for outdoor exercise and fitness sessions, walking groups, and more.
Bristol Offers the Best of City and Countryside Life
We hope you enjoyed this tour of what we believe to be some of Bristol’s best outdoor spaces, but this really is only a small selection of the amazing gardens, estates and nature reserves that the city has to offer.
If you’re moving to Bristol and want to live near one of the city’s best outdoor spaces, On The Dot Removals has a selection of services that can help make your move seamless and sustainable. The whole team has a commitment to sustainability, which reflects the eco-friendly initiatives that are present throughout the city of Bristol and the collective desire to protect the city’s open spaces.