This week with the change of the clocks has come a distinct change in the weather and a wonderful feeling of spring in Bristol. As temperatures begin to rise and we can enjoy the beginnings of lighter evenings, what better time of year to make the most of the city’s fabulous outdoor spaces with a relaxing springtime walk?
Here in Bristol we are spoilt for choice really when it comes to walks but we have compiled a short list of our favourites for you…
Ashton Court
Once the home of the Smyth family and now host to the spectacular International Balloon Fiesta, Ashton Court is a historic park just 10 minutes from the city centre. With grounds spanning across 850 acres and plenty of things to see and do (including a deer park, café, miniature railway and a pitch and putt golf course) the estate has something for everybody and is just lovely for a picnic on a bright day.
Leigh Woods Nature Reserve
Just across the road from the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Leigh Woods is a two square kilometre woodland and is part of the National Trust. There are different walking trails throughout the woods and some outstanding views across the Avon Gorge. Veteran trees and wildlife galore, there are also family events held here throughout the year.
The Harbourside
The harbourside is just a lovely part of Bristol to wander around. Visit the Underfall Yard, see our historical ship The Matthew, take a tour on the SS Great Britain, enjoy a ride on a steam train with the Bristol Harbour Railway, learn all about the city at the M Shed museum…and that’s all just on one side of the water! With plenty of eateries along the way, the harbourside is a great loop to wander around on a sunny day. Not to be missed is the newly developed Gaol Ferry Steps which has some fab places for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink (cakes and sausage rolls in Mokoko have been tried and tested and come very highly recommended!)
The Downs
A 400 acre open area within a 5 minute walk of Clifton? Yes please! The Downs are popular with runners, cyclists and various sports clubs and are also a nice, easily accessible place for a stroll. The Downs represent a protected parkland and offer pretty views over the Suspension Bridge from the far end too. They are also home of the Clifton Observatory , Camera Obscura and cave which are well worth a visit if you are in the area.
Blaise Castle
Located near Henbury, Blaise Castle was built back in 1766 and its estate is a 650 acre Grade II registered parkland which includes a museum and has a child’s play area too. With numerous walking routes available throughout the grounds, it’s easy to spend a day wandering around the estate and there’s a café onsite too for tasty treats afterwards.
These are but a few of the places we are lucky enough to have here in Bristol and there are of course plenty of others if you are looking to go a little further afield (click here for the National Trust’s top walks to be found at different locations in the South West).
Spring is in the air and we couldn’t be happier! With walking shoes at the ready, Bristol here we come…