Top 10 Outdoor Activities in Bristol

Summer has officially arrived, so we thought we’d create a list of the best outdoor activities that you could try! We know your eager to enjoy our glorious British summer weather and with that in mind, this guide will give you great ideas of new things to try to keep you busy and out in the lovely sun!

1. Hot air-balloon ride

Bristol plays host to the annual Balloon Festival, so why wouldn't you try out a hot air balloon? It's a brilliant way to see your city from a different perspective and enjoy the fresh air from up above. The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta will return to Ashton Court this year on 12th - 15th August. The spectacular free event sees over 100 hot air balloons taking off at dawn and dusk as well as the famous Night Glows when the balloons light up the sky in time to the music.

2. Ride some waves

If you love a spot of surfing but can't get to the beach, Bristol can bring that to you! The Wave is the first inland-surfing destination of its kind, where people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities can experience the joy of surfing and its many physical and mental health benefits. But it’s not just about surfing. It’s about getting back to nature, improving health and well-being, connecting with other people, enjoying great food and drink, and having a load of fun in the process!

3. Try a spot of golf

A nice relaxing day out whacking golf balls, sign me up! This is a great way to spend time outdoors with family and friends and can be tremendously relaxing and fun! From driving ranges to 18 hole golf courses to footgolf, there are plenty of places for golf in Bristol where you can practice your putt, streamline your swing and improve your golf game! Take a look at the best places to play golf in Bristol here!

4. Hire out some bikes

Known as the UK's first cycling city, Bristol is home to many fantastic cycling routes. This is great for getting round the city and still taking in all sights just by a different mode of transports! Whether you're a pro cyclist, commuter or just enjoy a brisk cycle here and there, there are so many fantastic routes for you to visit when in the city to take in every aspect of it! Check out our top 6 routes here!

5. Go for a swim

Bristol is luckily home to a few outdoor pools and nearby to a fair few wild swimming spots! It’s a great skill and a great way to spend a hot, sticky day in the city. If you're also looking for an amazing low impact workout that builds strength and endurance, swimming is definitely the one! Check out all the open air pools in and around Bristol here!

6. Go for a walk

Maybe just go for a walk somewhere you haven’t been before. Try hiking and explore new places near you! You’ll be surprised to see how many things there are around you and how many beautiful, open spaces and walking routes Bristol is home to! Whether you're aiming to improve your fitness or just looking for a different place to walk in the great outdoors, here's our list of 10 walks in Bristol we believe are worth doing!

7. Have a picnic

One of the best outdoor activities is definitely to have a picnic! A great way to enjoy the sun and the company of friends and family, why not head out to a park that you either haven’t been to before, or visit an old favourite to relish in the great outdoors accompanied by delicious foods! Check out our list of the best picnic spots in Bristol here!

8. Camping!

Have you been camping before? See the stars at night, wake to the sound of birds and connect with nature a bit more! This is a truly amazing thing to do and it will consume your weekend and give you time to get away from normal life for a bit! Check out our guide to Camping here!

Don't worry if you're not a rough and ready camper, we have some great alternatives like the best glamping spots in and around Bristol! 

9. Visit the Zoo!

On a warm, sunny day the best outdoor activity to uptake it a visit to the local zoo and immerse yourself in the amazing world of animals at Bristol Zoo! The award winning attraction is one of the best days out in Bristol whatever the weather. You can discover over 400 species of exotic and endangered animals from across the globe at Bristol Zoo Gardens, all set within award-winning gardens spanning over 12 acres. 

10. Fruit picking

While the warm weather is here, you want to make the most of it, so why not try your own fruit picking. Near Bristol there are a few pick your own fruit farms that host a range of fruits from strawberries to raspberries, some with playgrounds and farms to which make a great day out for the whole family. Check out our list of all the best PYO Locations in and around Bristol!