Best Outdoor Activities in Bristol | 2021 Activities Guide
Welcome to the Bookado guide of the best outdoor activities in and around Bristol.
Our free time is precious and over the last year, it’s been difficult to spend it wisely. With optimism over restrictions lifting in the Spring/Summer of 2021, now is a great time to organise some outdoor activities in Bristol. Looking for things to do, one is spoilt for choice which makes it hard to filter through the long list of activities. We at Bookado are experts in finding and booking experiences and we put together this handy guide to outdoor activities in and around Bristol. Browse through this detailed list to find your next adventure in one click, whether you’re flying solo, going out with your friends or trying to organise a team event. You’re in the right place.
As our activity partners long for your return, we’ve also highlighted some unmissable offers in Bristol.
BEST ACTIVITIES FOR ONE
Life can sometimes get a bit overwhelming, which is why we need to carve out some me-time and tune back in with our feelings. Whether you want to expand your horizons with a new experience or relax outdoors, there are lots of solo activities in Bristol available. And since it’s just you doing it, you have free choice without having to consider anyone else’s wishes.
1. Bungee Jumping – UK Bungee Club
Take the plunge as you jump off a 160ft platform overlooking Bristol city centre. Bungee Jumping is the ultimate must-do activity for every adrenaline junkie. The experienced staff will calm your nerves and ensure your jump runs smoothly. This is conveniently located at Lloyds Amphitheatre, giving you great views of the city.
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2. Avon Gorge Climbing – Dave Talbot Adventures
The Avon Gorge is a 1.5-mile long gorge on the River Avon in Bristol, England. The gorge runs south to north through a limestone ridge 1.5 miles west of Bristol city centre. It is a great place to put your climbing skills to the test, there are over 750 routes to choose from.
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3. Flying Experience – Air Experiences
Channel your inner pilot with thrilling flying experiences. You will find yourself sitting in the cockpit, navigating the plane and listening to the instructions of the seasoned pilot next to you. Being in charge is the perfect challenge for those looking to try something new and discover Bristol from a different perspective.
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4. Sailing – Baltic Wharf Sailing Club
Experience ultimate freedom as you sail on the Baltic Wharf at Bristol Harbour. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or would like to try your hand on this, there are boats and offers for all abilities. Learn how to sail in a supportive and relaxed environment and join a sailing club to get access to regular member’s events.
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5. Paragliding – Cloudbase
The ultimate adventure sports for thrill-seekers and flying enthusiasts! Enjoy scenic views and conquer your fears with an unforgettable paraglide. There are solo paraglides available, however, beginners are advised to start off with a tandem paraglide with an experienced pilot. You can’t actually paraglide in the city, so this departs from Membury Airfield to the South East.
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6. Off-Road Driving – Whitecliff 4×4
The ultimate adventure sports for thrill-seekers and flying enthusiasts! Enjoy scenic views and conquer your fears with an unforgettable paraglide. There are solo paraglides available, however, beginners are advised to start off with a tandem paraglide with an experienced pilot. You can’t actually paraglide in the city, so this departs from Membury Airfield to the South East.
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BEST ACTIVITIES FOR TWO OR MORE
Whether you’re looking for date ideas or spend quality time your best mate, Bristol has lots of exciting activities for two. From adventurous night canoeing watching the city lights to scenic hot air balloon rides, there are things to do for all occasions and budgets.
7. Zipwire – Zipworld
It doesn’t take a lush rainforest to enjoy a fun session of zip wiring! this flooded quarry just to the north of Bristol is a great spot for a zipline. Head up to the launch spot at the top of a high 70m cliff and you’ll zip across an exhilarating 700m. Also great for: Couples & Small Groups.
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8. Helicopter Ride – Adventure 001
Take your loved ones for a very special flying experience as you spot iconic sights such as Avon Gorge, Brunel’s Suspension Bridge and Cabot Tower from above. This departs from Gloucester airport, you can either experience a short flight or arrange the ultimate Bristol tour.
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9. Stand Up Paddleboarding – Adventure SUP
The perfect refreshing activity for a hot summer day. Bristol’s two rivers Avone and Frome are great spots to try out this water sport. You will work on your balance whilst also strengthening and toning your body from head to toe. Sunset SUP sessions are particularly enjoyable allowing you to float on the calm waters and end your day peacefully.
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10. Night Canoeing – Adventurous Activity Company
Up for a night-time adventure? Canoeing in the dark is a thrilling, unique outdoor activity to enjoy with a partner or friends group. Admire the city lights as you paddle across the water and explore Bristol’s Harbour. There are several tours operating in Bristol providing all the equipment you need for this canoeing experience.
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11. City Bike Hire – Bristol Cycle Shack
In our opinion, this is one of the greatest ways to explore the city and great outdoors! Take the family for a cycling tour around Bristol, bring your own bikes or hire some. Cycling is not only a great physical activity but an activity that allows you to chat and take in your surroundings. Popular routes include the Route 33, Brean Down Way and Ashton Pill-Loop for those looking for a challenge!
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12. Clifton Rockslide
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13. Hot Air Ballooning – Bristol Balloons
One of Bristol’s most iconic activities! Time to see things with a different perspective and reach out to new heights with a scenic hot air balloon ride over Bristol. They usually take off before sunrise, allowing you to witness the sky being painted in vibrant colours. Hot air ballooning is the perfect gift for your partner or a beloved family member to surprise them with a memorable experience for a special occasion.
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BEST ACTIVITIES FOR STAG AND HEN DOS
Want to make your stag or hen do unforgettable? Picking the right experience can be hard when different interests are clashing. However, getting active and trying something new can really bring a group together and give them a chance to get to know each other. Whether you’re planning a whole weekend or just one afternoon, our activities for stags and hens in Bristol are perfect to prepare you for the big day.
14. Go Karting – West Country Karting
An all-time favorite outdoor activity for petrolheads of all ages is go-karting. The outdoor combat track is open at all weather conditions making it the ideal place to practice your drifting skills. Choose from different racing styles, depending on time and group size. For larger groups, we recommend the Grand Prix race where you split into teams and complete 180 laps, switching driver after every 10 laps. For those short on time, opt for a 30-minute experience of two short but sweet 15 minute sessions.
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15. Clay Pigeon Shooting – Safe and Sound
Venture out to Bristol’s beautiful countryside and get some Clay Pigeon shooting in. The skilled instructors will equip you and give valuable tips throughout the session so you can make the most of this clay pigeon shooting experience. There are different targets onsite to constantly challenge you and leave no time for boredom to creep up. Whether it’s your first time or you want to improve your shot, this experience is for all.
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16. Segways – Segway Events
Embark on amazing off-road segway tour in stunning woodland surrounding Kings Weston House, just outside Bristol city centre. The Segway tour takes you in and around the woodland next to the impressive 18th-century house, provides a rugged, natural and picturesque backdrop to your experience and you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities. This experience takes around 2 hours.
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17. Zorb Football – Mojo Active
Football with a twist! Rules are the same, expect all players are wrapped in a zorb suit to make this a bit more challenging. Clashing with your rivals as you make your way to the ball might not be as painful, but will set you back as you bounce off and fly across the field. Prepare for lots of laughter.
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BEST ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS
Is it half term or just a boring weekend that needs to be spiced up? Get in some much needed family time and check out the best activities in Bristol with kids. We have some great child-friendly things to do, from foot golf to adventure parks to make sure no boredom creeps up.
18. High Ropes – Mojo Active
Reach new heights at the High Ropes course featuring 15 exciting challenges, from traverse nets and zip lines to rickety bridges and high drops. Overcoming fears and testing your coordination skills, this treetop experience is perfect for a family or team building day out.
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19. Footgolf – Mojo Active
Like golf? Like football? Combining two of the most popular sports, footgolf is a fun activity to improve your aiming and strength. Explore the footgolf course in Almondsbury and complete all 9 holes. This versatile sport can suit most people, whether you choose to have a chilled afternoon activity with friends or a serious round with your colleagues, it’s totally up to you. Also great for: Small Groups.
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£7.50 per person
20. Minigolf – Jungle Rumble
This all-time weekend facourite is the perfect family activity that engages all member, from the little ones to grandpa and grandma. Make your way through this 18 holes course in your own time. If you have an hour or two to spare, mini golfing is a fun way to pass time and test your putting skills. And of course you can make the round as competitive as you want.
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21. Avon Valley Adventure Park
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22. Cattle Country Adventure Park
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BEST ACTIVITIES FOR CORPORATE TEAM BUILDING
Planning an office social and need inspiration? There are plenty of alternatives to the old boozy pub crawl, that will truly bring the team closer together. Outdoor activities will give your team a chance to get to know each other outside the office walls and show different sides of themselves. Learning how to wield a bow or forming teams for a paintball match, these days out give you a nice break from the daily grind.
23. Archery – Mojo Active
*20% off as a Bookado Member* – Get your membership card to claim offer
Archery is an often overlooked traditional sport that gets you outside and improves your aiming skills. Learn how to wield a bow properly with an archery experience just outside Bristol. You will get a demonstration before trying your hand at shooting – and potentially hitting the bull’s eye! This makes for a great activity for corporate and family events as many exciting games are incorporated into the activity. Also great for: Stag & Hen Parties.
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24. Kayaking – All-Aboard Watersports
*20% off as a Bookado Member* – Get your membership card to claim offer
Whether on one of Bristol’s rivers, the nearby sea or a small lake, kayaking is an exciting water sport both suitable for beginners and advanced. Book a tour or hire a kayak and plan your own experience to spend an unforgettable day out. Kayaking is great for bigger groups, such as team-building events. Also great for: Families.
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25. Paintballing – Delta Force
*20% off as a Bookado Member* – Get your membership card to claim offer
The ultimate corporate activity! The large outdoors turn into your battleground as soon as you start the game. Hiding behind bushes before opening the fire at your enemies (or colleagues), Paintballing is not for the light-hearted. Test your abilities as a marksman with a thrilling, action-packed session of paintball. If bad weather conditions occur, opt for an indoor paintball experience or try airsoft, a more gentle alternative suitable for younger kids. You will be able to customise your experience on the day by adding more paintballs or going for some smoke grenades! Also great for: Stag & Hen Parties.
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26. Mountain Biking – Pedal Progression
West of England is home to some of the best mountain bike trails across the country and they are all within 2 hours of Bristol! Ashton Court, Leigh Woods and 50 Acre Woods are three most popular trails where you’ll enjoy the stunning views and woodland scenes. From expert riders to beginners these trails are suitable for all levels of experience. A great family day out where you’ll be able to rock up and hire mountain bikes on-site.
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HOW TO GET TO BRISTOL AND WHERE IS IT?
Bristol is the largest city in the South-West of England, situated 180 miles west from London. Nearby cities are Bath, which is about 12 miles east and Cardiff in Wales, which is 45 miles away across the Bristol Channel. Bristol has excellent transport links and can be reached by train, bus, and car. International visitors can also opt for ferries or planes.
Travelling to Bristol
Driving
Bristol is conveniently located at the intersection of the M4 and M5 motorways and easily accessible from all parts of the UK.
| From | Time to Drive | Route |
| London | 2.5 hours | M4 |
| Cardiff | 1.5 hours | M4 |
| Birmingham | 2 hours | M5 |
| Manchester | 4 hours | M6 & M5 |
Public Transport: Bus to Bristol
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There are a number of Coach services to Bristol available running from Bath & North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
The National Express also offers many direct connections from London, Wales and the North of England.
| From | Time to Bristol Centre |
| London (Victoria) | 2.5 Hours |
| Cardiff (Sophia Gardens) | 1 hour |
| Birmingham Coach Station | 2.5 hours |
| Manchester Coach Station | 5.5 hours |
Bristol via Train
Bristol has lots of direct connections from large cities in the UK including Manchester, London and Birmingham.
| From | Time | Cost |
| London | 1 Hours 45 Minutes | Adult = £61 off – peak |
| Birmingham | 1 Hour 20 Minutes | Adult = £59 off – peak |
| Cardiff | 48 Minutes | Adult = £14 off – peak |
| Manchester | 3 Hours | Adult = £91 off – peak |
Air: Bristol via plane
Bristol International Airport is located in North Somerset and has over 130 destinations. Transport systems to the city centre include buses and the Airport Flyer Express which is 7£ and takes less than 30mins.
Travel tip: Great West Way
Make your trip to Bristol a mini-break by embarking on the Great West Way, a 125-mile touring route between London and Bristol. Starting in the capital, this route invites you to explore its rich culture with charming villages and outdoor activities. Book stays and experiences along the way to create your bespoke tour.
You can do the Great West Way either by train or car, or even by narrowboat, depending on your time and budget and where you’re traveling from.
Bristol’s culture:
Known for its contemporary art and culture, from street art to museums, theatres and music gigs, Bristol is a vibrant, buzzing hub for culture-lovers and trend-seekers alike. It’s home to lots of international and UK students that gives the city a young, fresh vibe.
Bristol’s famous for…
- It is one of the greenest cities in Europe with a large number of parks and gardens whilst also priding itself with being the UK’s first cycling city.
- Nominated the World Vegan Capital, it’s a haven for veggies offering tasty plant-based foods, snacks and drinks.
- It’s also a haven for vegans as it has been nominated Vegan World Capital, there are lots of cafes, street food and restaurants offering tasty plant-based food.
- It has two universities with a diverse set of international and UK students that give Bristol its young, trendy vibe.
Bristol is a city in the southwest of England and has been among the country’s largest and most economically and culturally important cities for eight centuries. It was granted city status in 1542 and benefited greatly from the industrial revolution and transatlantic trade. Bristol’s strong links with the ocean, and its key role in the profitable trade of slavery and tobacco, inevitably lead to the city’s involvement with piracy. Laws at the time stated that piracy was illegal – however, the practice of privateering was not. Privateers were meant to have a ‘letter of Marque’ from their government allowing them to attack and steal from merchant ships of certain countries.
FAQ’s
How to book experiences in Bristol?
Bookado has a range of fantastic activities on offer in Bristol for both Winter and Summer. Many of our activities are available for instant bookings, but if you have some more bespoke requirements or can’t find activities you want, then get in touch. Our activity coordinators are online and available 24/7. Next time you’re trying to organise a day out, a birthday party, a stag/hen or even an office social. Bookado can help you with easy bookings, knowledgeable activity coordinators and great deals!
What are the best experiences in Bristol?
We think the experiences in this blog are the best in Bristol. But if you’re looking to find out more about Bristol’s history and culture, checkout Bristols SS Great Britain ship.
Where can I take a date in Bristol?
In our opinion, the best date is when you combine food & fun. Taking part in an activity is the perfect balance on a date. It gives you enough time to woo your date with your smooth chat up lines, but it also can be an entertainment lifeline if things get stale. Our top recommendations for a first date include minigolf or SUP, for those a bit further on maybe a helicopter ride or archery session.
What can you do in Bristol for free?
Bristol has many great free activities such as the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the Clifton Rock Slide or see the Deer at Ashton Court. Bristol is a very vibrant city so simply walking around it should give you plenty of entertainment.
What are the effects on doing activities with Covid-19?
Covid-19 has affected the leisure industry and the way we would ‘normally’ do things. Nonetheless, getting out and about with friend, family or colleagues after being cooped up with over the past couple months is a great idea! There is still so much going on that not many of us know it – or perhaps we fear it. Please note, all activities stated have been certified with being ‘Covid Secure’ and have precautions in place. As long as we all respect each other and follow the guidance given we can somewhat live a ‘normal life’!
