places to visit in bristol for free
We all want to get away, whether it's a weekend staycation or days out with the kids in Bristol. To help you keep your money in the bank, here are all the fun and cheap things to do in Bristol.
The city is famous for being the trendiest city in the UK, and luckily, there are many exciting free and cheap things to do in Bristol. Whether you are looking for days out in Bristol for adults or days out in Bristol for families, here are the things to do in Bristol on a budget.
Free Things To Do in Bristol
Bristol is such a vibrant and exciting place that there's no doubt you will have fun, whether you are on a budget or not. There are so many free and cheap fun things to do in Bristol.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
The suspension bridge in Bristol and Clifton Observatory is an iconic landmark of the city and makes for an excellent photo backdrop. Even better, there are free guided walking tours of the bridge each Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday between Easter and October. You can also learn all about the bridge in their visitor centre.
Leigh Woods
Close to Clifton Suspension Bridge is Leigh Woods, a National Trust protected area of woodland that is free to enter without membership. Depending on how far you want to walk, there are various colour-coded pathways to explore.
Ashton Court Estate
Ashton Court Estate is a whopping 800 acres of woodland and green open space, just a hop across Clifton Suspension Bridge. The estate is a pretty scenic picnic spot, with views gazing back over the city. Mountain bikers, horse riders, golfers and families flock here for countryside ventures close to Bristol. Fallow deer are easy to spot wandering in fenced-off areas, and there are immense redwood trees to admire.
Windmill Hill City Farm
The city farm is 4.5 acres of space just 20 minutes from the city centre. It's one of the best free things to do in Bristol for families, and they have plenty of farm animals for you to see and a picnic area. They also have a community and kitchen garden, a farm shop, and a football pitch.
Georgian House Museum
This 18th-century, six-storey townhouse has been restored to its former glory. It was originally owned by John Pinney – a wealthy slave plantation owner and sugar merchant. It's one of the best places to visit in Bristol for free for couples. The Georgian House Museum offers a fascinating insight into the life and times of Georgian Bristol.
Blaise Castle House
Blaise Castle Estate encompasses vast open areas; dreamy forested gorge walks with babbling streams, pretty ponds and a folly castle sitting atop a hill. It's said Bristol's giants left their mark here, and if you look closely, you'll find Goram's Chair and footprint stomped into the rocks. There is a small parking charge; £1 for 1 hour, £2 for 2 hours and £3 for 5 hours.
Kings Weston Estate
Close to Blaise Castle is Kings Weston, another mighty green estate. There are lovely views across the Severn Bridge and Bristol Channel, plus lots of wooded trails, open green space and a water fountain.
Stoke Park
Stoke Park is a vast open space. Walk through woodland, near lakes and across fields, gazing at the bright yellow Dower House and the futuristic-looking Purdown Transmitter Tower above the estate. The estate has a history that dates back to 1066.
Arnos Vale Cemetery
It might seem an odd recommendation to take your kids to a cemetery in Bristol, but this Victorian heritage site, set among 45 acres of woodland, is a beautiful place for a walk. Hunt among the trees to find the fairy doors or stroll all the way to Arnos Park and its playground next door.
Red Lodge Museum
Behind an unremarkable red door on Park Row sits an Elizabethan house with an intriguing history, Red Lodge Museum. Once a 16th-century 'royal party house', it's home to three of the oldest rooms in Bristol and the last complete Tudor room in the UK. There's also an Elizabethan-style knot garden, where guests would have entered the garden over 400 years ago. The lodge is open from April until the end of December.
St Werburghs City Farm
Just because you're in the city doesn't mean you can't see farmyard animals, such as pigs, goats, sheep and chickens. St Werburghs City Farm is a thriving community and an award-winning cafe next to the children's playground that serves fairtrade, organic and locally grown food wherever possible. It's one of the top free things to do in Bristol with toddlers.
George Müller Museum
Discover the extraordinary story of George Müller and his 10,000 orphans. Here you can discover a typical day in the life of an orphan, what school was like, where they moved to after leaving home and more about the man himself. The Victorian Museum is open on weekdays.
Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
The Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is free entry every day of the year. The building itself is quite beautiful and filled to the rafters with interesting exhibits. Kids will especially love the wildlife displays, dinosaurs and small children's play area where they can dress up, construct an ancient vase and get hands-on with various puzzles. It's one of the most popular free things to do in Bristol City Centre.
Cabot Tower and Brandon Hill
Cabot Tower is in Brandon Hill's parkland, the oldest park in Bristol. The tower was re-opened to the public in 2011 after being closed for maintenance but offers panoramic views across the city. When it is open, it's free to climb up the steep, twisting steps of the tower.
M Shed
If you want to know more about Bristol, M Shed is the place to go. See amazing film and photographs, listen to moving personal stories, encounter rare and quirky objects and add your own memories of Bristol through the interactive displays. From prehistoric times to the present day. It's open Tuesday to Sunday all year round.
Bristol Cathedral and College Green
Bristol Cathedral is free to visit and open to the public 365 days a year. As well as exploring the building, there are gardens at the back, free exhibitions and free lunchtime concerts to enjoy. College Green is a favourite with lunchtime picnickers, and there are often free events and art exhibitions.
The Downs
Durdham Downs (or just 'The Downs' if you're a local) is a 400-acre flat green space between Clifton and Henleaze. It's great for walking, cycling and generally running wild and free. One end, Sea Walls, has some pretty views of Clifton Suspension Bridge and Avon Gorge. Many local events and festivals take place here throughout the year.
Troopers Hill Nature Reserve
Troopers Hill has some of the most stunning views over Bristol. Paths run over the hillside, up to the tower, down into the woods and out onto a green, where there is a playground and football goals.
St Mary Redcliffe
St Mary Redcliffe is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and is 800 years old. Inside you'll find a superb collection of carved bosses, elegant 18th-century ironwork, beautiful stained glass and a world-famous organ.
Oldbury Court Estate
One of the best free things to do in Bristol is exploring Oldbury Court Estate, a beautiful park known for having excellent views. It is very popular with families because of the children's playground (with a pirate ship) and large spaces to picnic and enjoy each other's company in a peaceful environment. You can discover historic parkland and walk on beautiful riverside and woodland trails.
Walks in Bristol
Is the great outdoors calling your name? Bristol is surrounded by rolling countryside, woodland trails, coastal paths, majestic estates, and magnificent views. There are so many walks in Bristol to choose from, including discovering all of the street art - which you can start from our venue.
Bristol and Bath Cycle Path
Travel between the two cities on The Bristol and Bath Railway Path. A 13-mile off-road route which is open to walkers and cyclists. Discover some fascinating history, spot wildlife and visit intriguing places just off the path, such as the Frome Valley Walkway, Willsbridge Mill and the River Avon Trail.
Bristol Open Doors
As part of nationwide Heritage Open Days, Bristol Open Doors lets you peek behind the city's normally-closed doors to discover fascinating buildings and spaces. The events take place over selected September dates and offer visitors unique behind-the-scenes access and one-off experiences at landmarks across the city.
Haunted Places to Visit in Bristol
If you are looking to be spooked or are just interested in the darker history of Bristol, then seek out the most haunted spots in the city. There are goosebump-inducing tales of the supernatural and mystical goings-on at some of the most haunted places in Bristol. It's one of the best free things to do in Bristol evening.
Cheap Days Out Bristol
A visit to Bristol doesn't have to be an expensive one. We've got so many great activities that won't break the bank.
Treasure Island Trail
This mile-long trail around Bristol Harbourside highlights the city's connections with Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island. The route takes you to eight 'Black Spots' that tell the story in sequence, from King Street to M Shed. Find the spots yourself or download the app for £1.99.
Head to the Seaside
There is more to Bristol than a city break. One of the plus points about visiting Bristol is that there are beaches nearby. Whether building sandcastles in the summer or winter walks, you can enjoy the seaside when visiting Bristol.
Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park
With tickets from £5.50 for children and £5 for adults, the Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park is great value. Meet Highland cattle, Shetland ponies, pigs, goats, donkeys and more. Don't miss the Riverside Walk, the outside play areas, trains, tractor rides and indoor play barn.
Glenside Hospital Museum
The Glenside Hospital Museum is located on the grounds of an old psychiatric hospital in a Grade II listed church. It is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The thought-provoking collections showcase the history of mental health care, people with learning disabilities and when the asylum became a hospital during World War One. Entrance is £5 for two adults, and children are free.
National Trust in Bristol
There are 9 National Trust estates that are within 30 minutes of Future Inn Bristol. From Tyntesfield House and Gardens to Clevedon Court or Dyrham Park. They all have a small entrance fee or are free to National Trust members.
Free Events in Bristol
Bristol is home to fantastic free annual events that bring the city to life. The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is a must-see, filling the skies with vibrant hot air balloons every summer. Other free events include the Harbour Festival, celebrating Bristol’s maritime heritage with live music and entertainment, and the St Pauls Carnival, a lively celebration of Caribbean culture. With street performances, art trails, and community gatherings, Bristol’s free events throughout the year offer something for everyone.
Stay at Future Inn Bristol
Future Inn Bristol is a modern and comfortable hotel in Bristol city centre. It offers easy access to key attractions and vibrant areas. Alongside its excellent location, the hotel boasts spacious and airy bedrooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a desk and workspace, and a laptop safe. Guests can also enjoy added comforts such as complimentary robes and slippers, tea and coffee-making facilities and bottled water, enhancing the overall experience. The biggest perk of staying at our Bristol hotel is the free parking at Cabot Circus, directly across the road from Future Inns.
Book a RoomFuture Club Rewards
For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program. Alongside a member's discount rate, for every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point. You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine. Plus, you get double points when you eat in the restaurant. Points collected can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. It's also completely free to join!
Bristol Restaurant
Chophouse Restaurant offers a modern twist on classic dishes showcasing the best of the region's produce.
From hearty breakfasts to indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike.
Whether you enjoy a succulent steak, a hearty burger, or a fresh fish dish, every meal delivers bold flavours and satisfying portions.
Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink.
A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands Buttcombe, Bristol Harvey Cream and Bristol Rum.
Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.
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