
Most Scenic Road Trips in Bristol, Bristol, City of, United Kingdom
1. Clifton Suspension Bridge
Iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Avon Gorge and the city below.
- Historical Significance: Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel in the 19th century.
- Panoramic Views: Offers a breathtaking viewpoint of Bristol from the bridge's towers.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable by car, bus or bike.
2. Chew Valley Lake
A picturesque reservoir surrounded by rolling hills and farmland.
- Wildlife Spotting: An opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including otters and birds of prey.
- Peaceful Environment: A tranquil location for a relaxing drive or picnic.
- Scenic Walks: Plenty of walking trails around the lake to explore.
3. Walcot Valley
A picturesque valley with charming cottages and historic mills.
- Historic Buildings: Features several well-preserved historic buildings.
- River Avon Views: Offers beautiful views of the River Avon as it flows through the valley.
- Artisan Shops: Home to numerous artisan shops and cafes.
4. Portishead to Clevedon Coastal Drive
A scenic coastal drive with stunning views of the Severn Estuary.
- Natural Beauty: Features dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and coastal marshes.
- Maritime History: Passes by several historic lighthouses and ships.
- Seasonal Appeal: Beautiful in all seasons, with different charms depending on the time of year.
5. Mendip Hills
A scenic area of outstanding natural beauty with rolling hills and limestone caves.
- Walking and Cycling: Ideal for hiking, cycling, or horse riding.
- Cave Exploration: Offers the opportunity to explore the famous Cheddar Gorge and its caves.
- Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, badgers, and deer.
6. Temple Wood and Blackdown Hills
A peaceful woodland drive with panoramic views over the Blackdown Hills.
- Peaceful Retreat: Ideal for a quiet, relaxing drive or picnic.
- Wildlife Spotting: An opportunity to spot deer, badgers, and a variety of birds.
- Historic Monuments: Passes by several historic monuments, including Stogursey Camp.
7. Durslade Farm to Hauser & Wirth Gallery
A scenic drive through Somerset's countryside leading to a contemporary art gallery.
- Art and Culture: Visit the Hauser & Wirth Gallery, which hosts rotating contemporary exhibitions.
- Natural Beauty: Passes through rolling hills and picturesque villages.
- Gourmet Dining: The Durslade Farm Café serves seasonal, locally-sourced food.
8. Bath to Bristol via the A367
A scenic route connecting Bath and Bristol with views of the Mendip Hills.
- Historic Cities: Connects two of England's most historic cities.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning views of the Mendip Hills and Chew Valley Lake.
- Cultural Attractions: Passes by several cultural attractions, including the Roman Baths in Bath.
9. Bristol to Weston-super-Mare Promenade
A coastal drive along Bristol's seafront and into Weston-super-Mare.
- Seafront Atmosphere: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bristol's seaside.
- Beach Activities: Stop at Weston-super-Mare's sandy beaches for swimming, sunbathing or building sandcastles.
- Historic Buildings: Passes by several historic buildings, including the Pier Hotel and Winter Gardens.
10. Bristol Balloon Fiesta Route
A scenic route showcasing Bristol's famous hot air balloon fiesta.
- Unique Event: Experience the annual Bristol Balloon Fiesta, one of the largest in the world.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of hundreds of hot air balloons against the city skyline.
- Family-friendly: Ideal for a family day out with live music, food stalls and activities.
11. Bristol Harbourside to Clifton
A scenic drive along Bristol's waterfront with views of the city and the Suspension Bridge.
- Historic Buildings: Passes by several historic buildings, including the M Shed Museum.
- Cultural Attractions: Includes attractions like the Brunel's SS Great Britain and the Amphitheatre.
- City Views: Offers stunning views of Bristol from Clifton's hilltop locations.
12. Bristol to Bradford-on-Avon
A scenic route through the Avon Valley with picturesque villages and historic sites.
- Historic Villages: Passes through charming, historic villages like Dundry and Chew Magna.
- Natural Beauty: Offers beautiful views of the Avon Valley and its rolling hills.
- Cultural Attractions: Includes the historic town of Bradford-on-Avon with its medieval bridge and tithe barn.
13. Chew Valley Lake Loop
A scenic loop drive around Chew Valley Lake with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Wildlife Spotting: An opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including otters and birds of prey.
- Peaceful Environment: A tranquil location for a relaxing drive or picnic.
- Scenic Walks: Plenty of walking trails around the lake to explore.
14. Bristol to Wells via Cheddar Gorge
A scenic route through the Mendip Hills with stunning views of Cheddar Gorge.
- Historic Sites: Passes by several historic sites, including Cheddar Gorge and Glastonbury Tor.
- Natural Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Mendip Hills and Cheddar Gorge.
- Cultural Attractions: Includes the historic town of Wells with its medieval cathedral and boutique shops.
15. Bristol to Portishead via the Avon Gorge
A scenic route along the River Avon with stunning views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge.
- Historical Significance: Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is a historical landmark.
- Natural Beauty: Offers beautiful views of the Avon Gorge and its dramatic cliffs.
- Scenic Walks: Includes walking trails along the Avon Gorge, offering panoramic views of the city below.