The Best Dog Walking Parks in Bristol

May 13, 2025 | By David Puttock | Posted in Guide to Living in Bristol | With comments are closed

Person in Track Pants Walking A Black And White Border Collie Outdoor

Whether you’ve just moved to the area or you’re a lifelong Bristolian, one of the best ways to get to know your city is by exploring it on foot — with your four-legged friend in tow. Thankfully, Bristol is bursting with green spaces, woodlands and riverside trails that make walkies feel less like a chore and more like a daily mini-adventure.

So, pop your pup on the lead, grab a few treats, and let’s take a stroll through some of Bristol’s best dog-walking parks.

Ashton Court Estate

We’re kicking off with a classic. Ashton Court Estate is a vast, 850-acre green space that feels more like the countryside than a city park. With woodlands, deer parks and open meadows, there’s loads of room for dogs to burn off some energy. It’s also a popular spot with local dog walkers, which means there are always a few new pals to meet along the way.

One of the best things about Ashton Court is the variety of terrain. You can take a gentle stroll through the woods or let your dog roam freely across the open grassland areas. And if you’re after a longer walk, there are trails that loop around the estate and even connect to nearby Leigh Woods via the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

There’s also a café by the mansion house, which is perfect for a post-walk coffee — or a sneaky sausage roll for the dog if they’ve been especially well-behaved.

Leigh Woods

Speaking of Leigh Woods, this spot is a favourite among dog owners who like their walks a little wilder. Just a hop across the Clifton Suspension Bridge, this National Trust site offers a tranquil escape from the city, with tall trees, shaded trails and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it easy to forget you’re still in Bristol.

The Paradise Bottom section is especially scenic and perfect for dogs who love to sniff their way through nature. It’s a brilliant spot for weekend walks or early morning wanders before the rest of the world has woken up.

Just make sure your pup has a good recall if you’re letting them off-lead — there are plenty of tempting smells and woodland critters to distract even the most obedient dog!

Blaise Castle Estate

History lovers and adventurous dogs will both love Blaise Castle Estate. With wooded valleys, wide-open parkland and a real-life castle folly to explore, it’s a magical place to walk your dog.

The wooded areas are especially popular during the warmer months when they offer cool shade and interesting terrain to keep tails wagging. There are also riverside spots and rolling hills, making it a great destination no matter what kind of walk you’re after.

Plus, if your dog is the type who prefers a quiet corner to sniff about in peace, there’s more than enough space here to avoid the crowds.

Oldbury Court Estate (Vassals Park)

If you fancy mixing it up with some riverside trails, Oldbury Court is a top choice. This park blends beautifully maintained parkland with wilder, woodland areas and lovely pathways that run alongside the River Frome.

It’s a versatile walking spot — ideal whether you’ve got an older dog who prefers a slow saunter or a bouncy pup who wants to run, paddle and explore. There’s also a café nearby, picnic spots for sunny days, and play areas if you’ve got children in tow as well.

It’s well-connected with nearby parks like Snuff Mills too, so you can easily turn a short stroll into a whole morning adventure.

The Downs

For those who like open space and a bit of a view, The Downs — made up of Clifton Down and Durdham Down — offer some of the best dog-walking views in the city. Perched above the Avon Gorge, this huge green space is ideal for letting your dog run freely across wide-open grassland.

It’s also one of the few places in the city where you can enjoy a proper sense of space. Despite being close to the city centre, it rarely feels crowded. You’ll spot dogs of all shapes and sizes here, from excitable cockapoos to majestic greyhounds all loving life on the lead (or off it!).

Top tip: time your visit for sunset and you’ll be treated to some of the best skyline views in Bristol.

Victoria Park

Located in Bedminster, Victoria Park is a brilliant all-rounder. It’s got open spaces for off-lead zoomies, wooded nooks for more relaxed strolls, and even a dog-friendly café where you can grab a cuppa.

What sets it apart is its community feel. There’s a real mix of people and pooches here — whether it’s parents pushing prams, teenagers playing football, or dog walkers chatting over coffee. It’s a proper neighbourhood park, and the friendly atmosphere makes it a lovely place to start your day.

Stoke Park Estate

If you’ve ever spotted the bright yellow Dower House perched above the M32, you’ve seen Stoke Park Estate. But did you know it’s also one of the city’s best dog-walking spots?

This park offers a stunning mix of meadows, rolling hills, and woodland. The wide-open spaces are ideal for off-lead play, and the trails through the woods offer a bit of shade and mystery—perfect for curious noses.

Because it’s a little less well-known than some other spots, it’s often a bit quieter, which is ideal if your dog prefers to avoid too much hustle and bustle.

Eastville Park

Eastville Park is one of those hidden gems. Tucked away in East Bristol, it has a little bit of everything: open fields, shady woodland, and a beautiful lake that adds a lovely calm vibe to your walk.

Dogs love the variety here. One minute they’re sniffing their way around the trees, the next they’re watching ducks paddle about on the lake. There are even spots along the River Frome where water-loving dogs can take a dip.

Snuff Mills

Right next to Oldbury Court, Snuff Mills is a peaceful, leafy spot that follows the River Frome through a charming little valley. The riverside path is perfect for gentle strolls and there are lots of places where dogs can splash in the water — especially refreshing on a hot day.

It’s also home to some interesting old stonework and mill ruins, adding a bit of character to your walk. The paths are mostly flat and accessible, making it a great option for dogs and humans of all ages.

Kings Weston Estate

Last but not least, Kings Weston Estate is a bit of a local secret. With sweeping lawns, woodland paths and the beautiful Kings Weston House in the background, it’s a peaceful retreat away from the busier city parks.

There’s plenty of space for your dog to run and explore, and the historic setting adds a bit of grandeur to your morning walk. You’ll often find a mix of locals here enjoying the fresh air and dogs trotting happily along beside them.

Making Bristol Feel Like Home – for You and Your Dog

If you’ve just moved to Bristol, finding the right green spaces for your daily walks is one of the easiest ways to settle in. At On The Dot Removals, we know that a move is about more than just boxes and furniture — it’s about helping every member of your household (including the furry ones!) feel at home.

Whether you’re heading to the Downs for some off-lead freedom or exploring the trails of Ashton Court, Bristol is full of fantastic spots for dogs and their humans alike. If you’re planning a move, we’d love to help make it as smooth and stress-free as possible—for everyone.